Devon activists will occupy a youth centre this evening in protest against cuts to services for young people.

Around 20 campaigners will occupy Okehampton youth centre overnight to highlight the planned closure of 34 youth centres and the loss of 170 jobs.

The cuts are part of Devon County Council’s drive to slash spending by £110 million by 2017.

The Unite union said the cutbacks will affect more than 12,500 young people and make Devon’s youth services a post-code lottery.

Unite regional community coordinator Brett Sparkes said: “We hope this protest will help galvanise demonstrations and attendance at public consultation meetings this month on the county council’s plans.

“There is deep anger at the nature of these cuts to the youth service,” he said.

“Youth services are a vital, perhaps last, port of call for Devon’s young people who may be struggling with housing, employment and abuse issues.

“The campaign is continuing, with more demonstrations across the county being planned.

“Young people, including young Unite Community members, are attending the consultations and are asking searching questions of the councillors and officers.”

A council spokesman claimed that axed services would be picked up by “independent and voluntary groups.”

The council is currently in consultation with staff and are also holding public meetings. Its cabinet will make a final decision on the cuts this summer.