Campaigners working to save Lowestoft's record office are urging members of the public to make sure their voices are heard at an upcoming public consultation.

The call to arms was issued during the Save Our Record Office Campaign's (SORO) public meeting at Stella Maris Hall, in Gordon Road, last night.

The group was formed after proposals from Suffolk County Council (SCC) emerged to shut the record office and move the existing archives to a new centre in Ipswich called The Hold.

Following a campaign by SORO, SCC subsequently agreed to stage a public consultation on the future of the community asset.

During the meeting SORO chairman Bob Collis said: 'Tonight is all about where we are now and where we are going.

'We are still here fighting for what we need – the record office is a valuable resource.

'I feel sure with your help we can still get this thing overturned.'

Secretary Andy Pearce provided a detailed summation of the campaign so far and said: 'We need a motion to go into the local consultation.'

SORO is keen for as many individuals, businesses and groups from across Lowestoft to speak out about the potential closure when the consultation takes place.

Mr Pearce added: 'Anyone can submit objections.'

Around 30 people attended the meeting; each receiving a leaflet entitled 'Ten Points for the Consultation'.

The leaflet outlines possible issues the public may want to consider when responding to the consultation.

These include the accessibility of the current site; which SORO say is easy to reach by public transport and has nearby parking and cycle racks.

It also states: 'Much of the content of Lowestoft Record Office is unique and distinctive to Waveney and represent the heritage of local communities'.

Treasurer Wendy Brooks said: 'When I first read about the plans to close the record office I just thought this is wrong, yet another thing Lowestoft is about to lose.

'I've always felt there is something very special about Lowestoft. The town has an amazing history and it resides in the record office.'

She added: 'Everyday I get more determined we are going to win.'

A date for the launch of the consultation is yet to be determined by the county council.