THE CLOCK is ticking at Watermans, where supporters have just four days left to rally opposition against a devastating funding cut.

The Brentford arts centre could face closure in months if the Arts Council follows through on its threat to axe nearly £500,000 of funding from the April budget.

But since the shock announcement last week community groups, councillors and both the borough's MPs have pledged their support to the much-loved facility, which only has until Monday to enter its appeal.

MP for Brentford and Isleworth Ann Keen - also speaking on behalf of her husband, Feltham and Heston MP Alan Keen - said this week: "We are both wholly committed in our attempts to reverse this decision of the Arts Council. Watermans must be able to continue to function.

"It has an excellent pedigree in hosting superb events. It would be a huge loss for all members of our community."

The couple have both signed the 'I support Watermans 100 per cent' petition and are now seeking a meeting with the chief executive of the Arts Council.

Over at Hounslow Civic Centre, leading councillors described the Arts Council's decision as 'extremely shocking and disappointing'.

"We were particularly shocked to receive a letter from the Arts Council that told us it planned to cut funding from Watermans without any explanation for its reason for doing so," said council leader Peter Thompson.

"This behind-closed-doors, cloak-and-dagger decision-making and lack of consultation is very hard to swallow and we will be making our feelings very clear about its methods, as well as its decision."

Since the news broke more than 2,000 residents have rushed to show their support for Watermans, which runs dozens of projects for vulnerable people in the community.

Groups include Asian women's scheme Trinjan and the Moon River club, for adults with learning difficulties.

Brentford councillor Andrew Dakers said time was running out to change the Arts Council's decision.

"If people want to let it know how they feel they really must write to Watermans or sign the petition by Monday," he said.