THREE Chingford mothers are petitioning to save an award-winning public toilet from closure.

The facility in Albert Crescent, Chingford Mount, has been earmarked for closure by the council.

But three mums have been gathering signatures outside the facility in the hope that they can force a re-think.

Doreen Woods, Patricia Brannagan, and Josephine O'Brien managed to gather up to 1,700 signatures in two days and will continue their fight on Friday, August 20.

They describe the toilets as a “major landmark” in Chingford Mount, which has provided a well-needed service to the public, including bus drivers and also disabled people who may not be able access other toilet facilities.

In 2000 the toilets won the top prize in the national annual Loo of the Year awards because they were cleaned to such a high standard.

Mrs Brannagan, of Mayhew Close, Chingford, said: “(The petition) has gone very well. We have had a very positive reaction from people passing by.

“A lot of people didn't know the toilets were closing. But now we've created a sense of awareness.

“We've been telling them to call their councillors to protest further.”

Mrs Woods, of Warwick Road, Chingford, said: “It would mean so much if we could help save the toilets.

“Everyone has been so appalled that they are planned for closure that they have all signed over straight away.

“Where are people going to go to use a toilet that is accessible for everyone? I wouldn't want to have to go to a toilet in a pub.”

Josephine O'Brien, of Hampton Road, Chingford, said: “We are going to do whatever it takes. We are going to be really relentless.

“It's a shame because I think these things are planned way in advance. But we're going to fight hard to keep them open.”

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