PRIMARY school children have become some of the youngest campaigners against impending council cuts.

Pupils at Cockerton Primary School have launched a protest to save their local branch library.

The children are worried that Cockerton Library may close as part of Darlington Borough Council's review to save £250,000 from its budget.

They have made posters which are being displayed in their village library and written letters to relevant people to highlight their cause and try persuade those making the decision to keep it open.

The council announced its intention to cut the library budget by a quarter as part of its spending cuts. In total, the council said it must save £19.5m over four years.

Individual classes at Cockerton Primary School visit the library every three weeks, with some pupils taking out up to ten books at the time.

They also go with their parents, as well as use the computer facilities and different groups at the library.

Pat Timmins, literacy co-ordinator at the school, said: "For the children, it is a familiar and comfortable place for them which they feel is under threat. As a school we want to do everything we can to help."

Abigail Gould, eight, from Cockerton, said: "I come here to learn about the world and different languages. There are interesting books here about everything.

"I would be upset if it closes down. We can always come here and read any book we want."

Maisie Beckwith, seven, from Hummersknott, said: "They always get new books in. When you see a book you like you can come here.

"I know there are other libraries but this is like a corner shop to us. I like this library.

"We have been making posters to show our support for the library. We also took some forms home for our parents to fill in."

About 4,000 people in Darlington have answered questionnaires as part of the council's review.

Nine-year-old Liam Talman, from Branksome, said his mother also used the library to use the computers.

He added: "Libraries are part of everyones life not just children.

"I think the library should stay open because books are expensive and libraries are part of everyday life.

"If books and libraries weren't around we wouldn't be able to get as good jobs."

A council spokeswoman said: "In line with a number of services, our current library service is under review. This is likely to conclude at the end of 2011."