THERE will doubtless be a large number of pensioners across the county angered by the cut in subsidy for their education. With some justification, they will feel victimised and disenchanted that their cut-price classes will be lost.

But there were some tough choices to be made at County Hall this week. Budgets across the council have been under severe scrutiny, with government funding cut to the bone.

Although the news is bad for the elderly, there is actually some good news within it.

For the first time in four years, the county has managed to safeguard the schools' budget. It has kept the youngsters' money intact.

In a world of tough choices, the council has taken the correct one.

Education is the number one priority for young people. The children of this county are entitled to the best teaching that we can afford.

By protecting education, the council has done the right thing. Unfortunately, something had to suffer.

Some pensioners will not be able to afford courses after the subsidy has gone, some will.

Children, however, do not have that opportunity and we must stand by the decision made this week.

The focus of anger must surely be put towards the source of funding - the Government.

As the reality bites, Tony Blair's promises are starting to drop like ninepins. Perhaps our local MP, Claire Ward, would like to defend him?

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.