AN appeal to reopen a footpath is to be discussed by Sowerby Parish Council.

After more than five years of work, the campaign to get a footpath through the Three Tuns Hotel yard officially recognised fell at the final hurdle when it was thrown out at a meeting of North Yorkshire County Council.

People in favour of the move said the path should be made public because it has been used for nearly 100 years.

The matter has raised strong support and objections, with councillors voting 6-2 that a case had not been proved for established use.

Thirsk council wanted the path, which leads to The Flatts and swimming pool, registered.

The new landlady of the Three Tuns, and residents of new houses behind the hotel, put up a strong case for the footpath to remain closed.

Sowerby Parish Council wants to know how county councillors voted on the subject.

Clerk Valerie Wells said councillors were upset at the delays over the application and said the council felt people who voted against the move should be held accountable.