An ongoing social media campaign to persuade the government to release funds for a third crossing for Great Yarmouth has been hailed a success.

On Friday Norfolk County Council launched its #GY3RC campaign urging people to send in comments on Twitter and Facebook about why they support the need for a bridge.

There is speculation that £121m plans could be included in this month's budget and people are being urged to keep supporting the #GY3RC campaign to keep pressure on the government.

Martin Wilby, Chairman of Norfolk County Council's environment, development and transport committee, said: 'We've had an amazing response so far, with hundreds of people liking, sharing and posting their support on Facebook and Twitter. We've had people who live and work in Yarmouth getting involved, local businesses backing the campaign and even support from across Norfolk, because they can see how important it is to get a third river crossing for the town and its economy.

'It goes to show how strongly people feel about this and how many lives will be improved as a result.

MORE: Support third crossing campaign'This groundswell of public support can only help our cause to convince the government to award us funding towards the third river crossing. There's still time to get involved on social media if you haven't already.

Every like, retweet, share and positive comment gives us more evidence to put before ministers so if you support reducing traffic congestion in Yarmouth and making it easier to get around the town, please support our campaign and help us get this bridge built as soon as possible.'

One Twitter comment said: 'Gt Yarmouth is a town of great maritime and commercial heritage that just needs a boost to help it thrive and proper in the 21st C

If Yarmouth prospers we all prosper. Build the 3rd bridge! Please!'

It is hoped the bridge will be open to traffic in 2023 and a public consultation showed people were in favour of a bascule bridge instead of an alternative plan of a swing bridge.