HEARTBROKEN grandparents battling to win custody of their baby granddaughter - snatched by social workers last week - have been overwhelmed by support from the local community. Thousands of people have signed a petition urging Prime Minister Tony Blair to overturn a judge's decision, declaring the grandparents were too old and not healthy enough to look after her.

Liverpool Social Services has refused to let them continue fostering the baby and now plan to have her adopted.

This week, the grandparents' bid to take the case to the European Court of Human Rights, came a step closer when they were granted legal aid.

It means the 66-year-old granddad and his 63-year-old wife from Windmill Hill don't have to worry about legal fees.

Campaigner Chris Beardsmore said: "It means they can go ahead and get an appeal.

"They have been talking to their solicitor and are now waiting for further advice.

"The support we have received from local people and businesses has been fantastic. We've even received faxes from Australia! We would like to thank everyone who has helped us.

"We are not giving up hope. We are determined to get their granddaughter back."

The devoted grandparents have been looking after their 16-month-old granddaughter since she was three-weeks-old because their son and daughter-in-law were unable to care for her.

Campaigners this week urged people to continue signing petitions and writing letters.

They are appealing for a coach firm to donate a vehicle to ferry campaigners to London in October to present the petition.

"We need a coach firm to help us out by providing a coach and we will pay for the petrol," said Chris.

Coach firms can phone Chris on 01928-714812.

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