SWINDON Council has backed down on its threat to stop funding for Age Concern effectively admitting that it made a mistake.

Last month Swindon Council released a report stating that Age Concern Swindon did not deserve an education department grant of £30,000 because it had reserves of £203,000.

The charity receives a grant because it performs certain services which would otherwise have to be carried out by the council.

Last night the council cabinet admitted that it had got its sums wrong and voted that Age Concern could have its grant albeit, now six months late.

The council overestimated Age Concern's cash reserves because it failed to take into consideration the cost of the charity's planned move this year to new premises.

But according to director of Age Concern Swindon, Jo Osorio, the damage has already been done to his organisation's reputation.

He said: "This whole performance from the council has damaged our reputation.

"Ever since last February they have suggested we didn't need the grant that had been requested.

"It's just that their system is hopeless.

"Fortunately they are looking at this and hopefully longer term arrangements are going to be put in place so this does not happen again."