CAMPAIGNERS against an asylum seekers' centre in a Worcestershire village say they will not back down until their battle is won.

Around 1,000 people from Throckmorton, near Pershore, and the surrounding villages held a rally opposite the airfield yesterday.

They are furious that the Government is going against local and professional opinion to build a hostel for 750 refugees.

Former 80s pop star Toyah Wilcox joined the rally to lend her support, along with MP Peter Luff, Euro MPs Philip Bushill-Matthews and Liz Lynne, and Worcestershire county councillor Liz Tucker.

"I want to support the community I've known all my life," said Toyah, who lives in Pershore.

"In the last year they've seen truckloads of animal carcases being buried behind them 24-hours a day, the threat of the largest incinerator being built and now this. It's been over-loaded unfairly."

The Protest at the Asylum Centre at Throckmorton group (PACT) organised the rally after the Government confirmed it wanted the asylum centre built on the former RAF base.

Mid-Worcestershire MP Peter Luff addressed the crowd, that included young families and the elderly, and was met with rapturous applause.

"We're going to get our message across," he said. "We're right and we can win. The UK already owes the people of Throckmorton and surrounding village for what they've done during the foot-and-mouth crisis.

"You did your bit. How dare Lord Rooker say it is time to take responsibility.

"Everyone is on your side. The only people that disagree are the Government. This is an argument we can and we will win."

PACT plans to launch a legal bid to prevent the hostel being built.

Malcolm Argyle, a Wychavon District Councillor and chairman of the Bishampton and Throckmorton Parish Council, said the group needs £15,000 in legal fees.

"The district council can only argue on planning grounds but PACT will able to argue on human rights and other issues," said Coun Argyle.

"This rally makes you realise that we've got the support to do the job."