Norfolk County Council will prepare a business case to support its bid to retain control of the fire service.

All but three members of the full council voted in favour of preparing the case, responding to the police and crime commissioner exploring the possibility of taking on responsibilities for the service.

Labour councillor Chrissie Rumsby had motioned to launch an information campaign around the matter, however this was amended to instead create a business case. Ms Rumsby said: 'Everyone has concerns over what will happen if the PCC takes over. We need to send out a strong message.'

At a meeting of the police and crime panel last week, it was revealed a business case is being prepared to see whether or not there is a case for the responsibilities for the service to change.

Lorne Green, Norfolk's police and crime commissioner, said: 'I have no personal bias and i will be guided by the evidence.'

Council leader Cliff Jordan initially said he could not support the motion, but changed his mind following intensive discussions, in which councillors from all parties expressed their desire to keep Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service with the council.

He said: 'I think unless we do this we will miss the boat.'