FURIOUS lobbying is under way to protect Teignbridge youth services from threatened cuts.

Local authorities have been told they can expect budget cuts of around 25 per cent. Youth service budgets have had their ring fencing removed, leading to fears that they could become a target for cash-strapped local councils.

Mike Stevens, head of youth services in Teignbridge, said there was a crisis in youth services.

'I am deeply concerned that youth services could become an easy target. No decisions have been made locally or nationally but we are putting our point of view across at an early stage,' he said.

Newton Abbot MP Anne-Marie Morris told the Advertiser that it was 'crucial' to maintain funding and that she would be lobbying the county council.<

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