Ashby de la Zouch Town Council has turned down a request from St Helen's Church for more than £1,800 to refurbish its flagpole.

The church has requested funding from the Town Council so that steeplejacks can carry out the work.

But Monday's meeting of the Finance & Events committee rejected the request because it was felt the church had 'healthy' financial reserves to call on.

The church stated that: "Flying the flag above St Helen's is a way for the community to mark events of local and national significance.

"This contributes to our sense of place, of coming together, and pride in our local area.

"For many in the town, it is a symbol of unity."

Last year, the Town Council said it should be 'approached as a last resort' over a move to re-start the St Helen's Church clock.

But the council has contributed to both St Helen's and Holy Trinity buildings previously.

On Monday, councillors at first discussed whether the request went against local councils being unable to help churches.

But the committee heard there was no specific provision which prevents parish councils funding the upkeep and maintenance of churches.

It was later clarified that the ruling referred to 'religious groups', rather than the upkeep of a church building.

Cllr Dave Bigby said: "This definitely goes against our policy, this is a religious organisation."

But Cllr Damilola Ojuri added: "It's a religious organisation, but the church does support local events and charities - they also welcome non-Christians."

Cllr Alison Morley said she did not agree with the policy excluding religious organisations.

But she added: "I'm struggling to see how a flagpole meets the criteria, and with reserves of £32,000 - which is what I read - I would also find it difficult.

"I would also question whether it's needed in the community.

"It doesn't feel right from a business perspective."

Cllr Murrae Blair-Park took a different stance and said: "From a cosmetic point of view, it's probably one of the most photographed areas in our town - in terms of a landmark spot.

"You might think of what impact a flagpole would have - but it does play a big part, not just for wellbeing, but also the promotion of the town.

"I agree that £1,850 seems like a large amount when we have a limited budget.

"But I do think that we should be making some contribution towards this.

"That's because we'll get the visual return ten-fold over time."

Cllr John Coxon asked how much money there was in the council's budget and was told £5,000.

But Cllr Chris Smith suggested the money could come from a different budget.

Cllr Kenny Horn added: "This organisation looks fairly healthy, in regards of what other means has it exhausted to try and fund this."