Separate protests over Sheffield council spending cuts

Other cost-cutting measures include cuts to libraries and the closure of the Don Valley Stadium

Hundreds of people have joined two separate protests in Sheffield over planned cuts by the council in a bid to save £50m.

Campaigners united in the city centre over proposals to reorganise 36 Sure Start children's centres.

The council said the decision would not lead to centres closing, but could lead to the loss of up to 50 jobs.

Around 500 people joined a protest in Stocksbridge against plans to close the town's leisure centre.

Stocksbridge councillor Alison Berlsford said: "We're given the argument that it's not well used.

"People use the sports centre regularly for swimming, for indoor bowls, I've been to children's parties here.

"This is the heart of our community. This is where young people come to participate in sports."

Earlier this month the authority announced its 2013-2014 budget.

Cuts to children's centres and the closure of Stocksbridge Leisure Centre were part of a number of cost-cutting measures announced.

Other proposals include the closure of the Don Valley Stadium and a review of library services.