CAMPAIGNERS fighting to save 11 libraries in Somerset from closure - including two in West Somerset - have won a stay of execution for the threatened facilities.

Lord Justice Beatson granted an injunction at a hearing in Birmingham last week, forcing Somerset County Council to postpone its planned cuts until the outcome of a judicial review at the end of September.

The first tranche of libraries, which include Watchet and Porlock, were due to close by the beginning of October 1 but are now likely to remain open until early January, no matter what the outcome of the judicial review.

The injunction was won on behalf of Watchet library user Rebecca Hird who is acting as a test case for the whole of Somerset.

Friends of Somerset Libraries, set up to fight the closures, said it was "extremely pleased" that an injunction had been granted.

The group has also been co-ordinating fundraising efforts to cover the cost of the legal action, which is being brought by Public Interest Lawyers.

Pledges totalling £5,000 have already been secured but the Legal Services Commission, which handles legal aid, is demanding £9,000 as a community contribution towards the costs.

Friends of Somerset Libraries (FOSL) has described the amount as unfair as it exceeds the level specified by an appeal panel which ruled on the contribution level.

However, the group said it had to accept the LSC figure in order not to delay any legal action - including the injunction hearing.

John Irven, treasurer of Watchet Library Friends, who is leading the fundraising for the Friends of Somerset Libraries, said he was amazed at the level of support shown by the people who had pledged cash so far.

"I want to thank all the people of Somerset who have stepped forward to meet this initial demand," he said.

"We have received pledges from more than 100 individuals, together with many Somerset libraries' friends groups, as well as support from our near neighbours in Dorset."

Friends of Somerset Libraries chairman Kay Hoskins from Wiveliscombe said pledges were still coming in and she was confident that more people would show their support so that the additional money needed could be raised to allow the case to be heard in court.

Under the terms of the injunction, the county council cannot close any library, transfer or agree to transfer any library building or assets to any person or group or give notice of termination on any lease of a library building.

It can, however, press ahead with plans to cut its mobile library fleet from six to two - with changes coming into force on August 15.

It can also continue implementing proposals for reduced opening hours from October 1 and continue negotiations for libraries being considered for community transfer.

Earlier this month Porlock Parish Council agreed to give its financial backing to a move to have a community-run library if the closure plans come to fruition.

Anyone wanting to pledge money towards the ongoing legal challenge can do so by email to [email protected]">[email protected] or by post to 3 St Decuman's Heights, Watchet TA23 OFL.