by Nisha Chopra and Martin Jefferies

Campaigners fighting "devastating" cuts to public spending in
Kent have begun a walk across the county today.

A group of protesters set off from Dartford earlier,
highlighting the effect they claim the cuts will have on local
services, as well as the millions of people employed in the public
sector.

Kent Save Our Services (KSOS) - a coalition of 10 trade unions -
hope to finish the walk in Dover on July 9.

Zoe Van Dyke, who helped organise the event, said: "This isn't a
publicity stunt for the unions; it's about highlighting the value
of our public services and highlighting the fact that they're under
attack.

"I'm not sure people are quite aware of the extent of these cuts
and how they are going to affect everyone in one way or
another."

The Public and Commercial Services Union, part of the KSOS
campaign, says that instead of cutbacks, the government should
address an enormous 'tax gap' caused by those who avoid paying
tax.

The union estimates that around £120 billion is lost every
year.

It also said the economy would be boosted by creating more jobs
and investing in housing, renewable energy and public
transport.