USERS of a disabled centre in Dartford will gather outside the Houses of Parliament today to protest against its closure.

More than 70 Queen Elizabeth Foundation centre users were expected to take part in the protest.

Kent County Council proposes to replace the centre with venues in Dartford, Gravesend and Swanley, open for one day a week each.

The remaining two days will be used for activities across north Kent.

The centre in Brent Way, Dartford, is due to close in October.

This afternoon, at 1pm, the protesters are due to present a 5,000 signature petition to the MP for Chatham and Aylesford, Jonathan Shaw.

Speaking before the demonstration, Mr Shaw said: “I feel that a petition with over 5,000 signatures sends a clear message that people are not satisfied with the process and the decision taken by the Kent County Council.”