Closing a Whitehaven adult day care centre will be devastating according to Cleator Moor man Patrick O’Kane.

Mr O’Kane, 72, has appealed to Cumbria County Council to reverse plans to close the Cross Keys, a Senhouse Street adult day care centre which specialises in care for those suffering with dementia.

He has also asked Whitehaven Town Council to voice its opposition and is appealing to other service users to protest against the plans.

Service users were informed just before Christmas that the future of Brackenthwaite Care Home, which includes Cross Keys, was under review.

“We heard nothing else until earlier this month when it was announced that the home would close this spring when the new Copeland Care Home opens.”

But he said while the new £6 million facility, which also replaces Dentholme, Castle Mount and Pow Beck care homes, will have the most up-to-date equipment and resources for dementia care there is no day service.

“My wife attends the Cross Keys three times a week. The staff there are wonderful. They are so knowledgeable about dementia and know how to deal with people.

“They are kind. They give them time.

“They run quizzes and games and keep people stimulated. It would be difficult to find anywhere else like it in the area.”

The county has announced that it is investigating the creation of an extra care housing development on the Brackenthwaite site.

“The Cross Keys is the size of a small bungalow. If the proposed development went ahead, I don’t see why the Cross Keys could not be incorporated into it.

“I do believe that the county is making these changes solely to save money and it is most distressing for those of us who use the services,” he said.

“We are so happy with Cross Keys and it is a difficult time for service users and families,” he said.

A county spokesman said support would be ongoing for the people of Copeland including day services and support in the home.

He added: “The council will support the ageing population and specifically those with dementia through provision of a range of services available in Copeland which will include day services, support at home and supporting people to maximise their independence and remain as active members of their communities.” People will continue to have access to provision of services that will meet their needs as determined by their assessments,” he said.