A FORMAL survey seems likely in Middleham in the wake of a public meeting called to thrash out a strategy for the future.

An estimated 70 people were at the town's Key Centre when projects which could be funded under the Countryside Agency's Vital Villages were outlined.

However, the most likely outcome of the new partnership between the town council and the Middleham Community Forum is formal research into what the local population sees as the priority.

Affordable housing, a threat posed by flooding and facilities for young people were all among the issues raised.

However, forum spokesman Peter Hibbard said a Vital Villages grant could help cover the cost of proper consultation with the entire community.

"What I found most encouraging was how positive everyone was at Wednesday's meeting," he said.