Southend's mayor is to march on Downing Street demanding Government action to stop services being slashed because of drastic budget cuts.
Roger Weaver sounded a battle cry urging people to join him and other councillors in their Valentine's Day protest to stop the Government "ripping the heart out of Southend".
A lower than expected Government grant for the 2005/6 year has plunged Southend into a cash crisis which could lead to the closure of the Palace Theatre, seven community centres and 40 council redundancies.
Mr Weaver will lead the protest to 10 Downing Street and hopes to hand Prime Minister Tony Blair a scroll outlining the situation and pleading for a better financial settlement.
Mr Weaver said: "I feel it is my duty to lead a delegation which I hope will be fully representative of the views of all groups and organisations throughout the borough.
"To do nothing would result in the destruction of the fabric of our community which I know past and present mayors hold in high regard.
"I have seen at close hand colleagues from all parties battle privately and publicly to resolve this crisis which is being forced upon us all."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article