Yet another round has just been concluded in the fight to curb criminal activity along a Yeovil footpath - and at least one more is expected as local authorities wrangle over money.

The footpath in question leads from Stiby Road, through Thatcham Close, to Ilchester Road.

A member of the public alerted a town council ward member in March this year, alleging that crime is rife in and around the badly-lit footpath .

An investigation as to who actually owns the land proved inconclusive, but town councillors felt improved lighting along the path would be a good idea.

In order to speed things up, a quotation was sought and the district and the county council were briefed and asked if they were willing to share the cost with the town council.

In May, the town council's buildings and civic matters committee was informed the cost would be £8,333.

Town clerk Alan Tawse said at the time: "The county council has indicated that they are not in a position to contribute. They have pointed out that underfunding in the highway network over recent years has left the authority with weaker roads, and all budgets for maintenance are being diverted into the network to improve the condition of roads.

"The district council has indicated that, as the path is surfaced and is a public right of way, the county council is legally responsible for its maintenance and should accept responsibility for lighting provision."

Members decided to earmark £1,000 towards the total cost and apply pressure on the county council to provide the rest.

Last week committee members heard that the county council has identified a fund that could carry 40% of the total cost - leaving a shortfall of around £4,000. Town council committee members welcomed the news and decided to make a final attempt trying to persuade the district council to make a contribution.

Once the district council's reply has arrived, town councillors will again look at the situation and decide how to proceed.

Town clerk Alan Tawse stressed it was important to speed things up as the offer of county council funding wouldn't be there forever.