Town councillors agreed to look into minibuses being provided to support Cockermouth people cut off by the town centre bridge closure.

At a recent town hall meeting, the council discussed the many problems caused by the closure - to vehicles - of the Cocker Bridge.

It was shut in early October, following the partial collapse of the Old Courthouse. A pedestrian walkway was later installed.

Carol Jenkins had written to the council, highlighting the issues faced by her parents, who live at Lancaster Court, a retirement home off Isel Road.

"Since the bridge has been closed, many residents of Lancaster Court feel isolated.

"Many relied on the bus service to aid them in doing their shopping. They no longer can, losing them some independence.

"Those that have tried the walk struggle with the new walkway as the ramp is so steep and has no handrail.

"Their friends cannot visit them from across town, but more worryingly friends are putting off doctor's appointments as they can no longer get there."

Cllr Isabel Burns said: "I have every sympathy with this woman."

Cllr Marion Bowman said: " I think we should try and find a solution to this. These people are very isolated."

They noted that access to the surgery, hospital, secondary school, sports centre and housing estates was hampered by the bridge closure and discussed approaching Stagecoach and asking if buses could be rerouted.

Cllr David Malloy said: "We do need to get a bus up there, these people are cut off. But we also need to look at the lights on Kirkgate and issues there.

"Could we look into putting on some sort of minibus?

"We could approach some of the local taxi companies and see if they minibus could up there twice a day."

Councillors agreed to look into this.