Frodsham Labour MP Mike Amesbury is backing residents by insisting the town must have 'first class' leisure, community and library facilities.

Mike told a virtual public meeting the community needed reassurance given fears over the possible shutdown of Frodsham Leisure Centre, which also houses the town library.

Any form of closure could only be contemplated if there were plans for a top notch replacement.

Mike, himself a Frodsham resident, has been contacted by concerned friends, neighbours and other service users.

He said: "What my constituents are saying to me is they don't want to see any disinvestment in Frodsham. We want first class leisure and community facilities and that includes the library and gym facilities.

"I know there is some call for a swimming pool as well."

Mike, who uses the leisure centre himself in normal times, added: "I have been crystal clear— no to disinvestment.

"If there's any form of closure there's got to be a new first class facility and that's the bottom line."

The MP promised to work with all partners and use his influence in Parliament to support constructive plans.

Praising representatives in attendance from Helsby Sports and Social Club, Runcorn Rowing Club and Frodsham JFC, he said any new facilities must complement the 'brilliant work' already taking place.

Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaC) organised the meeting to establish a working group to help develop future provision of leisure, health and wellbeing and library services in Frodsham and Helsby.

A consultation document sparked concerns after describing Frodsham Leisure Centre as 'not fit for purpose' with talk of 'maximising the use of community facilities and external funding opportunities'.

Striking a conciliatory tone, CWaC Labour leader Cllr Louise Gittins, who chaired the meeting, told the 40-plus participants: "We have not got a pre-formed idea about what any new facilities may or may not look like in Frodsham and that's why we want to work with you really closely to try and understand what the community needs.

"It's great to see you all here tonight but it's the start of that conversation."