VETERAN soldiers have blasted plans to cut back on a scheme allowing past and serving members of the Armed Forces free access to council-run leisure facilities.

Wirral Council’s ruling cabinet approved proposals set to save in excess of £2 million by transforming its leisure services when they met in July.

One of the changes agreed is to alter the discount given to current and former members of the Armed Forces.

But those who use the scheme have blasted the move, claiming it takes “discrimination of veterans to a new level” and targets those who have served to protect our freedom.

An e-petition, set up by a group of Wirral veterans, calls on the authority to change their minds.

It says: “This decision will mean that veterans currently accessing the free passes will no longer be able to do so.

“This cut in the service being provided by Wirral Council to veterans of HM Armed Services it not within the spirit of the Military Covenant and is a misconceived attempt at saving money by targeting people who have served to protect the freedoms we all enjoy.”

At present, all current serving and former armed service personnel receive free use of facilities at all leisure facilities at all times.

The decision to approve the controversial scheme change has been “called-in” by Wallasey Conservative Cllr Paul Hayes and will be discussed by the council’s co-ordinating committee on September 23.

If upheld, only serving members of the Armed Forces – including Territorial Army Reservists – who are Wirral residents will have free use of the centres.

Former personnel who have suffered a disabling injuring when in service – and are in receipt of disability – continue not to have to pay.

Wallasey man Simon Johnston - who retired from the Army in 2004 after tours of Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan - said: "It is a disgrace. It has taken discrimination to a new level which is quite sick. It is a low blow to be honest.”

Cllr Hayes – who has described the plans as a “cynical attempt at penny pinching on the backs of the brave” – added: “The plan by Wirral Council to cut back on the free leisure passes it issues to veterans has been met with disbelief by many who have so bravely served our country in the Armed Forces.

“I would encourage all Wirral residents who share a commitment to showing that this borough is ever-grateful for the sacrifices made on our  behalf by servicemen and women to sign the online petition.”

While the proposals have received harsh criticism, Cllr Chris Meaden - cabinet member for leisure, sport and culture - has defended the move.

She said: "Serving armed forces personnel from Wirral will still be able to access our leisure facilities free of charge, as will any former serving officers living locally who have suffered a disabling injury or receive disability benefits.

"Indeed, the plan is to improve our offer in this area by offering them one-to-one gym instruction and, working with other departments, a wider package of support.”

To sign the petition, click here.