COMPLAINTS over the end of cooked meals at a Bishopstoke day centre for disabled people is being investigated by the leader of Hampshire County Council.

Councillor Ken Thornber promised to look into the decision after a campaign by families using the centre.

The meals were provided at Bishopstoke Day Services - a Hampshire County Council centre which provides care and activities for disabled adults.

The hot meal service was cut at the beginning of this month. Parents and carers have now been told to supply packed lunches.

It has led to an angry backlash from parents.

As reported by the Daily Echo, a campaign to bring back the meals has been launched by the day centre's parents' group, which is chaired by Roy Stokes.

His son Keith suffered brain damage after a whooping cough jab in the 1960s. Keith has attended the centre for the past 24 years.

Mr Stokes, of Leigh Road, Eastleigh, says that having to provide packed lunches is adding to the burden for parents who already provide round-the-clock care for their children.

He has fired off protest letters to Prime Minister Tony Blair, local MPs, and Cllr Thornber. In a reply, the county council chief states: "I can assure you that I am looking into this issue as a matter of urgency and will respond to you in full as soon as possible."

Mr Stokes hopes it will lead to positive action.

He added: "Our hopes for fair play for the welfare of our children is in his hands."

The county council says that hot meals will be provided through the local meals on wheels service for those who have difficulties.

But Mr Stokes says that their children need a choice and fresh nutritious cooked food.