THE launch meeting for the fledgling Save Our Barbican campaign showed enormous support. What became most apparent at the meeting was how much the Barbican means to large and such varied groups of people.

People spoke out on behalf of local residents, elderly people, gym users, swimmers of all ages, disabled people, children at schools, special health programmes, occasional attendees at classes, teenagers, bowlers, badminton and squash players and other users.

It also became clear that the Barbican is far more than just a centre for many people - it is an inexpensive, safe and healthy place for recreation and enjoyment.

That is why so many are up in arms over the council's plans to sell off parts of the Barbican and to renovate the space beyond recognition. It was generally felt that this is counter to our welfare and outside the bounds of what a council should have license to do.

With obesity on the rise and the NHS facing a crisis, places such as the Barbican are vital for health, fitness and well being.

The issue of cost is also central to many of us - other facilities around York are far more expensive than the Barbican.

Many people will not be able to afford other arrangements, thus leaving some of the most vulnerable groups unable to keep healthy and in touch with the community.

In short, many people see the Barbican as integral to their lives - we cannot let it go without a fight.

We hope that others will join our campaign which meets again tonight at 7.30 at the Barbican Centre.

Beth Schwartzman,

Beckside Gardens,

York.

Updated: 10:15 Tuesday, February 24, 2004