A PENSIONERS’ group has lambasted County Hall bosses after it was revealed its meals on wheels service would be axed across most of the Tendring district.

Essex County Council has decided to freeze prices, but changes to the service will see rounds covering Harwich, Clacton, Frinton, Walton and St Osyth cut.

But the service will continue in Manningtree. Sodexo, the firm running the service, had told the council it was not prepared to extend the contract for another year on the existing terms.

The changes will see Sodexo close its Colchester depot, saving the county council £278,000 a year.

The county council said it would now need to find “alternative provision” for 120 people in areas where the rounds were being axed.

Michael Le Cornu, chairman of Tendring Pensioners’ Action Group, said: “It’s disgraceful, but it seems to be taking place across the country.

“They come up with the excuse that not enough people want to use the service, but they don’t promote it.

“I’m outraged at their behaviour – this is attacking the most vulnerable people. It really is shocking.”

County Hall said it would work with local voluntary and health groups to identify suitable alternative services, such as lunch and casserole clubs.

Anyone who is concerned should call their social worker or Social Care Direct on 08456037630.