TOWN councillors clashed over plans to hold religious opening words at public meetings.

The idea of holding an opening prayer was raised by councillor Linda Jones-Bulman.

Coun Charles Moores wanted to put the issue on the agenda as he felt it had not been properly discussed or voted on.

Coun Richard Wood said he felt religion should not be a part of local government and has previously stepped outside when the opening words have been said.

Coun Margaret Messenger said that in an inner-city area, the idea of inviting religious figures to a local council meeting could cause issues.

However, many councillors have backed the idea to hold prayers. Coun Thomas Taylor said: “We don’t live in an inner-city area and I think it’s a good idea.”

Chairwoman Joan Hully said Copeland Council had held religious opening words at various meetings for “donkey’s years”.

Coun Jones-Bulman said the idea of introducing religious opening words to the town council meetings was not about “bringing God into local politics”.

She added that the town council worked closely with local churches for the good of the community – and inviting community figures to public meetings was a good way to involve them.

Coun Moores said: “Before the meeting has started is fine. But once the meeting has started, it should be secular.

“Not everyone is religious or believes in God, so I don’t feel comfortable with it being part of the meeting.”

Councillors decided that speakers, of any religion, would be invited to say a few words before the public meetings – but they would not be part of the recorded proceedings.

At future meetings, opening words from local religious figures will be delivered before the meeting officially begins, at 6.25pm.