SUPPORT for Alton in Bloom is being withdrawn by the district council.
Members of Alton Promotion and Marketing Forum expressed their disappointment at their recent meeting that East Hampshire District Council won't be providing contractors to carry out the service.
"This is extremely disappointing," said Peter Whitmarsh. "They say they are eager to support local towns but this is the height of hypocrisy and shows a lack of support for rural towns," he said.
David Gay thinks the whole situation is a "disaster". "I'm staggered they have such little regard for our town," he said. "They encourage us to make improvements then they pull the rug out."
"It's outrageous," said Chris Glanfield. "They take take take and don't give back."
Acting town clerk Greg Burt felt very saddened at the response. "We have worked hard to make the town extra nice to live in. I feel very despondent," he said.
Members agreed that they need to go back to the district council to discuss the matter further and will protest about the decision. "We need to get them back on our side," said Pam Bradford.
The need to act quickly was felt by members because something will need to be in place in a month's time. "We are going to need urgent clarification," said David Willoughby. "Alton in Bloom is a visible sign that this forum helps to facilitate and I think we should continue."