Otley has been named as one of the most desirable locations in the UK.

The market town is a fresh entry in The Sunday Times’ new Best Places to Live ‘top 101’ list.

The paper’s judges based their selection on a range of factors including the local environment, crime rates, community spirit, the performance of local schools and house prices.

Although Otley couldn’t match fellow market town Skipton - which actually topped the list - local politicians were still thrilled by its inclusion.

MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) said: “It is great to hear that Otley has been named as one of the best places to live in Britain.

“The town is a great place to live with excellent schools, shops, parks, pubs, cafes and other local amenities and surrounded by beautiful countryside, including Chevin Forest Park.

“Otley has an abundance of positive community spirit, as shown by the many active organisations who do so much to contribute to the town and its series of excellent festivals, while Otley Show and Otley Carnival are great for locals and visitors alike.

“So this recognition is really recognition of the hard work of local people who work hard to make Otley the great place it is.”

Otley Town Council leader Councillor John Eveleigh (Lab, Ashfield) said: “This is a great accolade for the town - and for those of us who are fortunate enough to live here we can confirm the Sunday Times’ findings.

“Otley has a great sense of community and we should certainly celebrate that, but also realise that building a community doesn’t happen by chance - we should take a moment to reflect on the great volunteers across a whole range of groups and organisations who give up their time, talents and energy to make Otley what it is. The recognition from the Sunday Times survey is very welcome.

“Quality of life is important, as are Otley’s excellent schools working well together, our low crime rates, and the high number of quality shops.

“Our great festivals and events, along with genuine community spirit, all demonstrate that the town deserves this recognition.”

Councillor Ryk Downes (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) added: “This is fantastic news for Otley, and confirms what many in the town already knew - it is a great place, not only to live, but to work and visit. There are so many annual events in Otley, every month there is at least one happening to draw people in and celebrate.

“It makes me very proud and humble to represent Otley as a councillor.”

Otley was one of 15 places in Yorkshire and the north east that made the list.