THOUSANDS of Wirral people have now had their say in the council’s "What Really Matters" budget consultation.

The exercise gives people the opportunity to air their views on a range of money-saving options as the authority looks to bridge a funding gap of £27.5m in 2014-15.

Since its launch three weeks ago, around 4,500 have responded to the survey.

Council staff are also out and about seeking residents' views by visiting supermarkets, community groups and local events until the consultation ends on December 6.

Chief executive Graham Burgess said: “The council once again is faced with having to make some extremely difficult decisions due to funding cutbacks. Engaging residents, community groups, partners and staff in informing those decisions is vital.

“There is choice within the budget options so there is a real opportunity for Wirral residents to play a part in influencing how the budget is set, despite the huge financial challenge we are facing.

"I would urge anyone who hasn’t yet completed a questionnaire to do it soon.”

This is the second time the council has undertaken the “What Really Matters” exercise, which last year contributed to savings of almost £50m.

Readers can find out more about the options here and clicking “What Really Matters”.

If you would like the consultation team to visit your group or organisation, get in touch with them via email at engage@wirral.gov.uk – or telephone 0151 606 2030 - to organise a date.

Staff are out consulting with members of the public at Wallasey Village from 1pm, on Monday, October 14; at Morrison’s in West Kirby, also on Monday, between 11am and 1pm, and at the Wirral Cultural Diversity Day at Aldo’s suite at Tranmere Rovers FC on Sunday, October 20, between 11.30am and 4pm.