THE first public debate on council spending cuts in South Bucks was poorly attended because most people did not know it was happening, a poll suggests.

The Marlow meeting, one of a series of 'roadshows' organised by Buckinghamshire County Council, was labelled a 'nonsense' due to the 'ludicrous turnout' of just 22 on Friday.

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The majority of those who voted in an online poll conducted by the Free Press – 68 per cent or 458 votes– said they were not aware about it.

This was despite 10,000 leaflets being sent out and put in doctor's surgeries, libraries and other public places and coverage in the Free Press.

Nearly a quarter, 163, or 24 per cent, said they felt their opinion would not make a difference, while 23 people, three per cent, said they are intending to go to one closer to home.

Twenty one said the time and day were inconvenient, while two per cent (11 votes) said they will contribute through the council's website instead.

Cuts of more than £90m are in the offing as the council faces up to around a 25 per cent reduction in its funding.

Taxpayers can voice their views on where the axe should fall in High Wycombe on Monday at the library in Eden shopping centre from 10am.

Other meeting dates and how to contribute online can be seen on the links below.