TOWN Tories have welcomed a copy of the Conservative Party's manifesto -- Believing in Britain -- which they feel relates to Bromsgrove.

The draft document has been circulated throughout Bromsgrove's Conservative Association and members are set to meet with the town's MP Julie Kirkbride this month.

Bromsgrove District Council leader Cllr Nick Psirides (Con, Norton) claims the manifesto 'could almost have been written for Bromsgrove.'

He complimented the issues which dealt with abolishing housing targets and welcomed moves to give district authorities the freedom to decide on green belt issues.

The paper also considers the greater use of brownfield sites, dealing with bad neighbours and simplifying the planning system.

Cllr Psirides said: "Believing in Britain is a thorough and worthwhile document worth studying by those who are looking for a real alternative to the current shambles of a government."

Bromsgrove Conservative Association chairman Peter Jarrett said: "It is the first time any major party has allowed members to have their say in future policy."

The council's leader of the opposition, Cllr Peter McDonald, said: "The only beliefs this party has are higher interest rates, inflation and unemployment with low investment in education."