A GROUP campaigning to keep Church Stretton Library in its current location is claiming overwhelming public support.

This is based upon a poll taken in the town market.

The ballot – which was run by voters placing screws in a choice of containers – showed 167 votes in favour of keeping the library where it is and no votes for moving it to the outskirts of town.

They intended to bring the library controversy to the attention of as many people as possible and to invite local people to vote for or against the proposal to move the library.

“We were not at all surprised by the overwhelming level of support for the library on its present site though we were surprised that many did not even know this had been proposed,” said Felicity Thomas, of the Church Stretton Library Support Group.

Church Stretton Library is currently based in the Mayfair Community Centre.

“The proposal from the school is a really good one,” said Lee Chapman, the member of Shropshire Council for Church Stretton and Craven Arms.

“But we are still keen to hear about any other ideas that save the money needed. So get in touch and tell us if you like the school proposal or if you have any other ideas. "We would love to hear from you.”

The consultation ends on Friday (October 19).