LOCAL MPs are backing a campaign to keep a rehabilitation centre open.

Two semi-detached houses in Crewe's Gainsborough Road have been offering shelter and support for psychiatric patients at Leighton Hospital for a decade.

Now users claim there are clear signs that the centre is closing shortly, despite assurances from the hospital trust that there are no plans to do so in the foreseeable future.

"I understand that staff who have moved elsewhere recently have gone at their own request, said spokesman Ian Lewsey.

"The unit is still operational, although at the moment is not in full use because there have been few referrals," he added.

But, as reported in the Guardian earlier this month, the patients fear that closure is imminent.

"The lack of referrals and the fact that some staff have moved on proves it is being wound down. The centre has recently been closed at weekends and on two days a week," said campaigner 'Tara'.

She lives in Crewe and has found the centre a 'life-saver', that has provided care and support after her periods of instability and depression.

The homely semi's have helped scores of Leighton patients rehabilitate and cope with life outside the hospital.

She and fellow campaigners have raised a petition and met with MPs Gwyneth Dunwoody and Stephen O'Brien.

"Mrs Dunwoody was very supportive and had promised to speak to other local MPs and to raise the matter in the House of Commons," said 'Tara'.

Users and patients met with Eddisbury MP Stephen O'Brien on Friday to express their concerns.

Mr O'Brien stated they have his support and he is to call on the health authority to clarify the situation.

Stephen O'Brien said: "The health authority needs to give its categorical assurance that the unit is to remain open.

"However the rumours started that it may close, it has certainly brought out the most unified and palpable support for the facility from users, their families and the in and outpatients, which demonstrates its enormous value."

Pictured outside the centre are campaigners Pauline Evans, Josie Gohil, Ewan Phillips, Joanne Park and Linda Blakeman.