A group set up to drive forward a Neighbourhood Plan for Cockermouth is determined to win the support of the town council.

The lobby group was formed after the council voted last May not to draw up a plan. Councillors voted six against four not to develop a plan, with some concerned it would be a waste of time and money.

A group was consequently set up to campaign for a masterplan that would give Cockermouth greater control over future development.

The group is seeking to drive forward a plan, but needs town council backing to proceed.

Co-chairs Ros Earthy and Darren Ward, who are both members of the town's civic trust, spoke to town councillors last month in the hope of winning their backing but failed to do so. The councillors felt there was a lack of information and were concerned about the amount of work involved

The group met last week to consider what to do next.

"We hope to meet with the council again, give them some more information and emphasise that we cannot provide all the information needed unless we have the authority to ask for it," said Mr Ward.

"We were very disappointed with their lack of understanding and willingness to adopt something which can only benefit the town."