Debates about funding cuts to education have taken place at a public meeting.

Only 11 people turned out to the meeting at West Lakes Academy in Egremont.

It is the latest of three public meetings hosted by the Cumbria branch of the National Association of Head Teachers union.

Rob Kelsall, senior officer for the NAHT said it was "small but perfectly formed, in terms of audience".

Parents, governors, head teachers and teachers heard how schools around the country will be affected by funding cuts to education.

Mr Kelsall said between 2016 and 2020 there is set to be funding cuts of £3bn to education.

He said: "The National Audit Office estimates that additional cost pressures adds up to an 8.7 per cent increase in the cost of running the average school.

"Funding from government is remaining static over the same period, resulting in real term cuts."

The NAHT said although with the schools funding formula, Cumbria will benefit, it doesn't take into account the 8.7 per cent increase of the running costs of schools.

The audience was told that schools are being asked to do more with less money in the system.

Mr Kelsall said the NAHT and other bodies are "holding the government to account to ensure our schools are funded properly".

One member of the public said: "Whoever gets in on June 8 - it needs to be addressed. It's not about politics, it's about ensuring children get what they need."

But, another member of the public raised concerns that NAHT's presentation had been "totally one-sided".

Tonight's meeting also comes days after county union representatives made national headlines, taking centre stage at the NAHT's conference to speak out.

Their call for headteachers to be able to consider all options - including a shorter school week - to protect education was backed by colleagues. Parents, teachers and schools are also invited to join a rally in Penrith on Saturday. It will start at the Cornmarket at 2pm.