Shrewsbury Town Council could take over the running of a major showground in a bid to keep events such as the West Mid Show in the town.

The move is to be discussed early in the new year after revelations of financial turmoil at the West Midlands Agricultural Society, which runs the annual event.

The society narrowly escaped liquidation last month despite owing nearly 80 creditors about £260,000.

Town councillor Peter Nutting said it had not contacted the owners of the West Mid Showground, The Berwick Estate, but said it was a possibility that the council could take over the lease from the society.

He said: “If the society get themselves in order and up and running again we don’t necessarily need to get involved but if there is any danger that the society disappears and there is any need for somebody to control the showground or take on the lease, the town council will be able to discuss it to see if there is anything that can be done.

“There are lots of events that go on all year round at the showground and we are very keen that they are not lost to the town.”

Mr Nutting said it was also possible the council may assist the society with the show but said it had received no request for help.

Society council member Roy Dodd put forward a financial plan last month to save it from liquidation, which includes a proposal for a new show and a proposed deal to repay creditors over the next five years, known as a company voluntary arrangement.

If three-quarters of the 2,000 members of the show do not vote to put the society, a charity and a limited company, into liquidation on January 7, they will be asked to support Mr Dodd’s plan.