A concerned carer has said the loss of a unique service for elderly people would be a "tragedy" as bosses raise questions over its viability.

Portland Connect, formerly known as Fairfield Day Centre in Fortuneswell, is one of a number of services being reviewed by Dorset County Council.

The centre provides older residents with mental and physical needs the opportunity to take part in activities such as cooking and art classes, and provides support for daily living skills.

It is the only day centre for elderly people on the isle.

Portland Connect is run by council-owned company Tricuro, and the centre's future is now uncertain with claims that the company is facing "ongoing financial pressure."

Joanna Pearce, chairman of the Portland Carers Support Group, said closure of the service would be "heartbreaking."

She said: "It's so upsetting.

"I'm still in touch with the girls down there and they get referrals, but then struggle to get people to come back. It's like they're hitting their head against a brick wall.

"I always tell everybody about the place. It would be a tragedy if something like this is lost.

"Respite care is one of the main things. It was a nightmare to find respite care with my late husband, and if it wasn't for the Fairfield Day Centre I wouldn't be here now, it was so important.

"I lost my husband five years ago and it doesn't make me any less passionate about people who need these facilities."

In a report put before the county council cabinet last week,Tricuro is said to be facing financial pressure and is required to make cashable savings of £3.1million in the year 2018/19.

Managing Director of Tricuro, Alison Waller said: "We have been reviewing our current day service provision across Tricuro and have consulted with clients, their families and carers, staff, key partners and the wider community to help determine what services people need."

Ms Waller said Tricuro's review included the Portland day service which is currently used by a very small number of people which 'raised the question of viability of the service going forward.'

She added: "Tricuro currently provide three separate day services in Weymouth and we are looking at how we can sustain a service to our clients and offer a greater choice."

The county council says it is committed to giving vulnerable adults access to activities, suggesting that there are 'alternative centres' close by.

Dorset County Council cabinet member for health and care Jill Haynes said: "This is not about removing someone’s entitlement to care and support, but to increase their choices and give them control over when and how they access services."