Can Wills and Kate save doomed centre?

Councillor Pat Healy said: "This is a vital resource for older people, including many with dementia, who live in North Kensington.

"As more than 700 people use it every month, the suggested alternative facilities cannot possibly cope with the additional demand and the suggestion of bussing the elderly to New Horizons and the Miranda Barry Centre in Chelsea is just not on.

"Many are far too frail to endure such a journey. They will just stop using any facility and will end up isolated and unhappy in their own homes.

"We very much hope that the young couple will be able to visit and see for themselves the excellent services provided here."

The Labour Group wrote to the newly-engaged royal couple last week to invite them to the centre.

But users of the centre believe it is too little, too late.

One, who did not want to be named, said: "Most of the people who use this centre do so because it's local. We wouldn't go anywhere else as it wouldn't be worth it.

"And I don't think Wills and Kate would come along here. They've got more important things to worry about, like wedding planning.

"Even if they did pay us a visit, there's nothing anyone can do. Our centre is doomed to close."

Alternative centres for the pensioners to use are the Pepperpot Club, which does not provide services for people with dementia, Open Age which is a long walk away, New Horizons and the Miranda Barry Day Centre, both of which are in Chelsea, or the Quest luncheon club.