A STAFFING crisis is threatening the future of a vital lifeline service used by thousands of people in the New Forest's biggest town.

The Totton branch of the Citizens' Advice Bureau will be forced to close unless it can recruit a large number of new staff.

Some of its most experienced problem-solvers have been hit by bad health, leaving the office facing an emergency of its own.

The branch now has just nine volunteers - less than a third of the number needed to provide an adequate service in a town with a population of almost 30,000.

Opening hours have already been reduced to three mornings a week and the branch could close altogether unless more volunteers step forward.

News of its threatened demise was greeted with dismay by Steve Shepherd, one of Totton and Eling Town Council's two representatives on the CAB.

He said: "Totton is the largest town in the New Forest. For it not to have a Citizens' Advice Bureau would be unthinkable."

Totton CAB helps at least 3,000 people a year.

Many of those who turn to the organisation are struggling to cope with debt and other problems that can cause high levels of stress and anxiety.

They will have to travel to CAB branches in Southampton or Lymington if the Totton office closes.

Sheila Greenfield, recruitment and development co-ordinator, said: "It's easier to recruit in some areas than others and for some reason Totton is among the hardest.

"People need us desperately - but no one in the local community is willing to become a trained adviser.

"We're open only three mornings a week, which is nowhere near adequate, and now face the threat of having to reduce our hours once again."

"Should things get any worse we may be forced to close, and the local community would feel a great loss if we shut.

"Many of the people we help are on benefit or don't have their own transport.

"For them especially the CAB in central Southampton would be a long way to go."

Miss Greenfield said suitable recruits could include disabled men and women, single mothers and people who needed a stepping stone to paid employment.

She stressed that the CAB could help with childminding fees, travel costs and other expenses.

Branch manager John Chambers said: "The community are happy to come to us for help, but they must show support for us as well as using us."

Anyone who can help should ring 07786 851 454.