A COUNCIL leader was presented with cookies to encourage him to support local communities' rights to decide on fracking developments.

Last week Eastbourne Borough Council leader David Tutt was presented with "frack-free cupcakes" by Greenpeace campaigners.

They called on Councillor Tutt to write to communities’ secretary Greg Clark, to ask him to respect the decisions of local planning authorities on fracking licences.

Coun Tutt said he was happy to meet the campaigners and accept the cupcakes, adding: "I believe the potential consequences of fracking are too great to risk.

"Eastbourne Borough Council recognise these risks and have voted to oppose fracking. I wish Greenpeace success in their campaign."

Evie Sier, from Eastbourne, who delivered the cakes, said: “This government wants to strip councils of their powers to decide on fracking so they can push through their controversial plans.

"Whether you’re for or against it, there’s no doubt the shale industry would have a significant impact on communities like ours. This is why the government should respect the fracking decisions taken by our council."