Campaigners are stepping up their fight to save the music and drama blocks at the former St Mary's School site from the bulldozers with a public meeting in the town on Friday.

Among the speakers will be the town's MP Ed Vaizey.

Berkeley Homes submitted a planning application to the Vale of White Horse District Council to redevelop the site with 232 houses and flats.

Classrooms and the arts centre buildings would be demolished.

The Save Wantage Arts Centre wants the music and drama block retained but Berkeley Homes says it must go.

Tomorrow's meeting starts at 8pm in Wantage Civic Hall.

Campaign member Georgina Hicks said: "Public consultation is now under way and we hope to drum up support and enable everyone to have their say.

"It's also crucial for us to to make sure our message is understood.

"We don't have any issue with the development itself, but as this development will raise the housing levels in Wantage by a significant amount, the amenities must also be developed to match this increase.

"Many local arts and drama groups are still struggling to find affordable meeting points that suit their needs."