The New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership is setting up a group aimed at safeguarding jobs and investment at sports car maker Group Lotus.

The Lotus Coordination Group includes New Anglia LEP chairman Andy Wood, Norfolk County Council leader Derrick Murphy and South Norfolk Council leader John Fuller, who are both New Anglia board members.

The group, which will include other members as necessary, will make the case for DRB-Hicom to continue its investment in the iconic company. It will also liaise with the Government to ensure it is doing all it can to support the car company and continue efforts through the Hethel Engineering Centre to support Lotus and the advanced engineering sector as a whole.

Last year Group Lotus was awarded almost �10m in funding by the Regional Growth Fund towards the development of new cars and the creation of new jobs following strong support from New Anglia.

Andy Wood said: 'Group Lotus is a key employer in our region and this group will help us speak with one voice to ensure that its new owners understand the benefits to their business of maintaining the experienced and skilled workforce at Hethel.'

Derrick Murphy said: 'Lotus is an iconic Norfolk business and we need to work together to ensure that its new owner continues to invest in the business.

'It is important that we keep up the pressure and continue to press the case for the company as so many livelihoods depend on Lotus being based here in Norfolk.'

John Fuller said New Anglia had a 'pivotal supporting role in keeping Lotus here'.