Workington Rambling Club has given its backing to a campaign to save West Cumbrian beauty spot Cogra Moss.

The group, which holds walks at the site, has joined the growing number of people concerned about proposals to drain the reservoir and return it to its natural state.

It has written to United Utilities, calling on the company to save the reservoir, which provides a picturesque setting for walking and recreation.

The water firm is considering draining the reservoir as it says work will be needed on its dam in the coming months.

The rambling club has about 50 members from across the Workington, Cockermouth and Maryport area and holds weekly walks.

Dorothy Parker, spokeswoman, said: "It's a recreational amenity. When people are talking about Cogra Moss they're not only talking about the beauty of the site.

"It's somewhere they have come for picnics, they have taken their children and walked their dogs there.

"It's a very nice afternoon or evening walk. It's always very well attended."

She will also write to Cockermouth Angling Association, which runs fishing at Cogra Moss, to unite in fighting for the reservoir.

Rambling group members have also signed a petition on the website change.org calling for the site to be saved.

Launched two weeks ago, the petition has gathered more than 400 signatures.

United Utilities said previously it was drawing up details of the work needed on the dam as well as considering other options including draining it and returning it to its natural state.

A spokesman said: “We are still assessing the options for making sure the dam at Cogra Moss meets the necessary safety requirements and we’ll know more later this autumn.

"Even if we opt to carry out refurbishment on the dam so that the reservoir can remain, we would need to lower the water level temporarily while this structural work is carried out.

"We have committed to keeping the angling groups and other interested parties informed as our plans develop.”

Cogra Moss has not been used for water supply since the 1970s.