CASH-strapped councillors took their case to Westminster to stress their need for more cash for North Dorset.

Bob Walter, MP for North Dorset, arranged the meeting and introduced the delegation from North Dorset District Council to Local Government Minister John Healey.

The lobbying group - made up of Peter Webb, leader of North Dorset District Council, opposition leader councillor David Milsted, chief executive Liz Goodall and general manager Janet Rees - stressed the strict financial constraints they are under because of the low levels of funding they get.

Mr Healey heard that a successful organics recycling pilot scheme in Gillingham cannot be expanded because of lack of funding.

The leisure centre is being transferred to the community partnership and the public conveniences are being transferred to the town council partially because of the current capping regime on council tax.

North Dorset District Council is the sixth lowest taxing council in the country. Its current council tax for a Band D property is £92.40 compared to the national average of £156.

Mr Healey was also asked to consider flexibility within the capping rules for council.

Liz Goodall said the government's stance on restricting council tax meant real problems as the area's small population means that an increase of 1 percent on council tax raises only £25,000.

Cllr Peter Webb said: "The real problem of being trapped in this very low council tax means that we have had to remove a quarter of our budget. We cannot afford any discretionary services whatsoever and are very challenged to deliver even statutory services."

Cllr David Milsted said: "Wages in North Dorset are well below the national average and there is a growing list for affordable housing.

"At a time when the district council is reducing its services through lack of funding caused by capping, exactly the opposite should be taking place."

Despite the funding problems the group emphasised that the council is performing well.

Cllr Peter Webb said after the meeting: "I certainly felt we were carefully and sympathetically listened to.

"We will have to wait and see whether any changes are forthcoming."