MEALS on Wheels are set to stay for Newport's most vulnerable citizens.

In a shock U-turn councillors today recommended that the WRVS-run scheme should continue, with meal deliveries increased from twice a week to five times a week.

The move is a victory for the Argus' campaign to save the service, which was backed by volunteers and city residents. It followed an outcry in March when the authority announced it was to axe Meals on Wheels and replace it with a private frozen meals provider to save £114,000.

Following pressure from service clients and Argus readers, councillors decided to review the position.

Commenting on the decision, Councillor Cliff Suller said: "In the manner by which we wish to service our people out there, it is the best option for me."

Following an in-depth review of the situation, the scrutiny forum for Adult Services was today given four options.

They were told they could:

Keep the service in its present state.

Replace it with a private frozen meals provider.

Introduce a Good Neighbour Scheme, as well as a frozen meals provider.

Keep the service only for those identified as being in need of it.

In the end, the majority of councillors decided that the WRVS-run scheme should continue, but only for those 109 people identified as being in need of it.

The review's assessment process had flagged up 59 people deemed to no longer need Meals on Wheels, and they will now be informed their meals are to stop.

The total cost of the service is estimated at £64,000. The council subsidy per meal will be £2.45.

But social services boss Ellis Thomas warned that his department would be asking the cabinet for an extra £33,000 to cover the cost of the move.

The recommendation to keep the meals will now go to the council's member for adult and housing services, Councillor Paul Cockeram, who will make the final decision.

WRVS volunteers said they were delighted by the decision.

A spokesman said: "We are very grateful for all the help and assistance we have received from the Argus."