A PETITION to save Red Cross House has amassed more than 1,300 signatures.

The online crusade to save the Options for Independence centre in Tarryholme Drive has gained support from 1,342 people - proving hundreds of people are desperate for a way to save the vital facility.

The Times exclusively revealed two weeks ago that Red Cross House will close its doors in April - unless a buyer for the centre is found.

Charity bosses confirmed that as of April 15, will stop providing residential and respite services.

The news has come as a bitter blow to both users and staff who have been hoping a buyer would step in quickly and take over the popular facility.

However all is not lost as Jack McVey, Red Cross operations director for Options for Independence, said that the charity had merely pinned down a date in order to prevent “prolonging the uncertainty” and said positive talks were ongoing in the effort to find a buyer.

He told the Times: “We are continuing our strenuous efforts to find an alternative to closure.

“Talks with parties who may be interested in taking over the complex are in progress. Obviously, we are not in a position at this stage to identify them or give any further details of the discussions.

“As I have said before, the Red Cross is very conscious of the uncertainty and upset the difficult decision to cease our residential and respite services at Irvine has caused and we will continue to keep all those affected fully informed of any developments."

In November the Times revealed the charity’s intention cease providing residential and respite care at the unit - leaving 21 vulnerable residents effectively homeless and 77 staff out of a job.

Since then we have lead a campaign to save the centre in a bid to continue this vital lifeline.

Options for Independence works with adults who are adjusting to an illness, health condition or disability, providing immediate, skilled support and opportunities so people can live more independently.

Some users actually live within the facility and are facing uncertain futures with the announcement.

To sign the petition visit www.change.org/p/british-red-cross-save-options-for-independence