Disabled users of Shopmobility centre in West Bromwich told it 'will close after funding cut'

However, funding for the scheme is set to be cut in the next week's budget leaving local disabled people distraught.

Rob White, 73, relies on the service do to his shopping.

He said: "Shopmobility gives me freedom. The centre is also like a community centre for the disabled, I enjoy meeting people there.

"I do not get out the house much as it is so I am dreaing when it closes."

He added: "We have been told funding is being cut and the service will be axed.

"It is a lifeline service, and this council is supposed to be disabled friendly, well this could not be more unfriendly to disabled people."

Shopmobility used to be open six days a week but has already been cut to four to save money.

Businesses in West Bromwich will also be hit by the closure as they will lose disabled shoppers' custom overnight.

Former Sandwell Council Conservative leader Ray Nock, who is now standing for the Reform Party, is campaigning to keep Shopmobility open.

He said: "This is a lifeline service which in the big scheme of things costs nothing but makes a massive difference to the most vulnerable people in Sandwell."

Councillors are set to approve the new budget, which includes the axing of Shopmobility, on Tuesday.

Ray said: "We will be there on Tuesday demanding Shopmobility is saved. We are not giving up this fight."

He added: "This is a case of the Tory Government cutting funding to Sandwell Council and them just picking on the easiest target they can find. It stinks."

Sandwell Council has been approached for a comment.

Hire costs vary at each local Shopmobility Centre however typically they are very low or sometimes free.