WATCH: Protests over 'absurd and insulting' cuts to Walsall alarm service

The cash-strapped authority rubber-stamped the decision to cut funding for the £1.29 million service in November, as the council looks to balance its books.

But the decision sparked a storm of protest from users, their families and opposition councillors.

More than 1,500 people signed petitions and around 50 protestors stood with placards ahead of a council meeting on Monday.

WATCH: Anger over alarm service axe

Carer and mother-of-two Amy Jarvis addressed councillors at the meeting and told them one service user would have to choose between heating and food to fund the alarm.

She said: "This service serves 7,413 users of which 2,294 responded to the consultation, 53 per cent of people said they wanted it to stay for free.

"This is an essentially life-saving service, these people have got trust in all of you to deliver this service.

"Every single person described it as essential, these people have a life worth living.

"One service user told me she would have to choose between food or heating to save the service and cabinet are taking this service away from them, a service which saves their lives.

"It's both absurd and insulting that we can expect them to do this.

"All of you have the option to take a stand for your constituents.

"A life-saving service is not somewhere a cut should be made, what if it were your mother, your father or your children?"

'Life saved'

Labour Councillor Ann Young said her elderly mother's life was saved by the alarm a number of times.

She said: "My mother is 97 and bedridden now and she has been for about 18 months.

"Prior to this she was able to live in her own home with her own independence for 12 years with her family having the knowledge that she was safe.

"With a press of a button I have no doubt my mother's life was saved a number of times.

"We can't let the most vulnerable people down because of cuts from the Tory Government.

"I find both this and the cuts to transport for the disabled children the most despicable cuts."

'No other option'

Conservative Councillor Rose Martin said: "When it first started it was set up as a good and manageable service, even though there was no statutory requirement to provide it.

"However it has grown into something that is not sustainable, it's no longer fit for purpose without significant investment which the council does not have.

"I understand this is a difficult decision to make but we have no other option."

Council leader Councillor Mike Bird said the decision had already been made and put in place.