CHARITY Challengers has been forced to close five of its play schemes after its funding was cut by Surrey County Council - but its Farnham centre will remain open.

Challengers provides a vital lifeline to families across the county, offering highly specialised play opportunities for disabled children and respite for their parents and carers.

However, after a tendering process, Surrey council has withdrawn support for two of the charity’s schemes in Epsom and one each in Leatherhead, Bookham and Godstone.

Instead, the funding has been awarded to another service, YMCA East Surrey.

A Challengers spokesman said the charity is “devastated” by the council’s decision, but reassured families that its remaining schemes, including in Farnham, are unaffected.

For more information see Challengers’ website disability-challengers.org.