LORD Mayor John Tanner has received a protest letter from campaigners trying to stop the closure of Peers Sports Centre in Littlemore.

Oxford City Council, which runs the county council-owned site, has taken steps to close the centre ahead of the Oxford Academy opening next year.

Mr Tanner said: "It seems crazy to close this popular centre. It helps people stay fit, is essential for teaching at Peers and closing it will not save the money the council claims."