TALKS are taking place in a bid to save Christchurch's registry office from closure.

A decision was made at Dorset County Council's cabinet last month to close the Civic Office-based service, with the facility provided at other locations in the county.

This meant the nearest office would be Ferndown, with outreach at Gillingham, Sherborne and Swanage.

Shaftesbury was also due to close.

But now, following concerns from councillors and community leaders, discussions are taking place to save the service in some form.

Cllr Colin Jamieson, who is both a Christchurch and Dorset councillor said an "administrative malfunction" in the consultation meant the borough council's response had not been received.

"They called for a consultation and Christchurch responded but our response seems to have disappeared somewhere.

"I have always said I would resist the removal of a registration service because of our elderly people who would have to travel to Ferndown to register a death which happens in Christchurch.

"For an elderly person that does not have transport it is a £40 taxi journey; that is unacceptable."

Following talks with Dorset County Council he said it had been agreed there is still time to sort the registration service in Christchurch.

Sue Bungey, chairman of Christchurch Citizens Association said the issue was discussed by members at their meeting on Monday.

"It is unacceptable for people to have to go Ferndown. We need to keep some sort of service in Christchurch", she added.

Cllr Claire Bath, deputy leader at Christchurch, said the council had responded to the consultation saying they "wholly disagreed due to the significant impact this would have on local residents."

She added: "Following concerns raised last year by county councillors in other areas across Dorset impacted by these proposals, agreements were reached to continue the service if district or borough councils agreed to fund travel costs and room hire.

"We have now been informed by the county council of these agreements and we are able to contribute towards the continuation of this valuable service to ensure it is maintained for our residents. We are pleased to be in discussions with the county council to make an arrangement for the future."