ILKLEY has come a step closer to having a lengthsman after councillors agreed to take someone on for the role.

A town lengthsman would help keep the streets tidy and in good order, as Bradford Council reduces its services amid ongoing austerity cuts.

Ilkley Parish Council has already approved giving the role to a contractor, but after just one response came in, it has now also approved employing its own lengthsman, if necessary.

Parish council vice-chairman, Cllr Stephen Butler, told Monday's meeting there was initially no reply to adverts for a contractor and that the idea of employing a lengthsman directly had been considered at a committee meeting last week.

A contractor has now come forward, and members could be asked to approve a trial period in September.

Councillors agreed a recommendation to employ a member of staff, if needed, but to also to pursue the aim of using a contractor.