RESIDENTS who flocked to a public meeting on giving common status to land at Lowercroft dug deep into their pockets to swell a legal fighting fund.

Nearly 150 people filled the hall at Elton Vale Sports Club, where the Friends of Cockey Moor, Whitehead's and Parker's Lodges outlined efforts to secure village green classification for land to the south of Gisburn Drive.

A collection among those present on Sunday morning (June 8) raised around £1,500 towards legal fees ahead of an expected public inquiry into the bid.

Together with previous donations, the amount brings the Friends more than half-way towards their target of £6,000.

A public inquiry is expected in the next few months after Bury Council received an objection from landowners Walshaw Estates to the village green application.

The 15-acre site is a former army training camp, which campaigners say has been used by members of the public for the last 40 years.

If granted, the status would be the first of its type to be awarded in Bury.

Present at the meeting were ward councillors and representatives of the national Open Spaces Society.

Friends chairman Mrs Elaine Shirt, who addressed the meeting, said: "We are looking at a very highly reputable firm to make sure that we get the best representation.

"To get so many local people out to a meeting at 11am on Sunday is amazing and judging by the volume of cash this is something that individuals feel strongly about.

"People are united in the support that they have given us, and we are now well on out way towards achieving our aim."