THE market town of Helmsley needs a blueprint to more effectively plan its future, says the town council.

Members say that the issue of a Town Plan was imperative if Helmsley is to win funding from outside agencies and influence its future.

Lord Feversham, who has just stepped down as chairman, said he believed such a plan could be funded by the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

"It is a priority," he said.

He is to represent the council at the community investment prospectus meetings for the Helmsley area, and the Market Towns Initiative, being run by the Government's Countryside Agency.

Lord Feversham said it was also important Helmsley had its own Internet website.

He hoped Helmsley Chamber of Trade could be revived because of the importance of the blueprint to the town's economy.

Councillor Peter Silk said the drawing up of a Town Plan would focus on Helmsley's road, transport and housing requirements, and needs of the community. It would also be useful if companies were seeking to invest in the town, he added.

* Coun Ken Claridge was elected as the new chairman of the council, and Coun John Buffoni as the new vice-chairman.