Controversial plans for a children's care home have been abandoned after fierce opposition from concerned residents.

Precision Care has ditched proposals for the unit for problem youngsters in De Vere Road, Colchester, after a heated meeting with residents last month.

The company last night launched an astonishing attack on protesters who had objected to the home.

It accused them of "demonising" the children in its care and threatening youngsters' safety if the unit went ahead.

The firm claimed campaigners were aggressive, with some warning: "If they move in, they'll be unsafe."

A spokesman said: "Sadly, once the meeting began it became clear that some of the people present did not wish to hear of our work but rather were intent of demonising the vulnerable young people who find themselves in the care of local authorities and engaging in personal insult."

He said the meeting showed Prettygate was not the sort of place that was "suitable for vulnerable young people".

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