I AM really worried and upset about the prospect of up to half of children centres in Swindon closing.

I have spent my life and raised my family in Swindon and I am now a proud great-grandmother of four.

Most of my great-grandchildren are now at school and doing well, and when they were younger they all benefited hugely from their local children’s centre.

I believe very strongly that this opportunity put them in a stronger position when they started school, and that many ordinary and disadvantaged families have had similar experiences.

For families that can’t easily afford nursery and other activities for young children, children’s centres are highly valued and not something to be pushed aside lightly.

I wish they had been around when me and my children were raising our families.

I am looking forward to the prospect of more great-grandchildren in the future and I am extremely anxious at the thought that they may not get the same opportunities as their siblings.

Also I think the fact that the public consultation on this opens in the middle of the summer holidays is both unfortunate and inconsiderate.

Carol Heavens, Frobisher Drive, Swindon