TOWN hall bosses have responded to “unfounded rumours” that the future of a popular urban farm has been placed in jeopardy because of council cash cuts.

The rumours have been circulating on social media, claiming Tam O’Shanter Urban Farm in Birkenhead is to close on Saturdays after losing a ranger.

The “Keep Tam O’Shanter Farm Open” Facebook page has attracted more than 8,000 likes.

In a message posted by page administrators, it says the loss of one ranger will lead to “cuts” including closing on Saturdays starting from next week.

The post adds: “Not just the farm being closed at a weekend, also local school groups which all of your children attend will not be able to visit the farm for programmes which give them an opportunity to spend time in a different environment, learning amazing things what a book couldn’t give them.”

The page also suggests that parties, kids activites, Beavers and Rainbows will no longer be held at the farm.

The author writes: “This page is to try and make the council realise how important it is for the community and future generations especially our visitors.”

But Wirral Council today denied having any involvement in changes to how the farm runs.

It said that the farm is managed and maintained by a charitable trust, not by the local authority, and so any operational decision concerning Tam O’Shanter is a matter for the board of trustees.

While Wirral Council rangers do support activities on the farm, the authority says the day-to-day running of the farm is “not dependent” on ranger support.

Councillor Chris Meaden, cabinet member for leisure, sport and culture – and a member of the board of trustees for the farm – said: “Tam O’Shanter is a fantastic and much-loved place, enjoyed by thousands of people every year.

“It is upsetting to read these unfounded rumours suggesting the future of the farm is under threat – upsetting for everyone that loves it and also upsetting for those willing volunteers who give up their own time to run it.”

Cllr Meaden urged people to ignore the social media campaign to save the farm and instead, “channel their energies and affection for the place into positive support.”

She added: “The trust is a charity and is reliant on donations and time from volunteers to look after the animals and land.

“While we have that at Tam O’Shanter, it will always remain open.”

The council is looking at ways it can continue to provide support to the farm on those occasions when the senior ranger for the Bidston Hill area is not on duty.