Peter launches petition to save Newton Rigg

11.20.00pm GMT Wed 10th Feb 2010

Peter Thornton and Penrith and The Border Liberal Democrats are launching a petition to the University of Cumbria.

"We the undersigned, call upon the University of Cumbria to recognise the unique contribution that Newton Rigg has made to Cumbrian rural life and industry.

We support the campaign to preserve and further develop Newton Rigg for the benefit of the students, the university and the Cumbrian economy"

Peter Thornton, prospective Parliamentary candidate said:

"We understand that the University has financial issues but if it retreats to Carlisle then it will lose the unique character of our Cumbrian University and will become the University of Carlisle, with little to distinguish it from other Northern city based universities. Cumbria's economic future is based around its use of the land and involvement in the energy producing industry. Newton Rigg offers real opportunities for Cumbria to take a lead in both these areas and we call upon the university managers to recognise this."

Copies of the petition can be obtained from:

Peter Thornton

Brougham Hall

Penrith

Cumbria

CA10 2DA

They will also be distributed around Penrith shops and businesses.

The petition can be signed online at http://campaigns.libdems.org.uk/page1562