MOVES are afoot to create a pool of volunteers to support community events in Wharfedale and Aireborough.

Town Councillor Nigel Francis (Ind, Danefield), a veteran volunteer who runs many local events including the Otley Vintage Transport Extravaganza, is pushing the initiative.

Coun Francis says the organisers of shows and carnivals in places like Otley, Yeadon, Askwith and Arthington are finding it increasingly hard to get the help they need.

His proposed solution, working with Otley council Leader Councillor Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) is to set up a dedicated volunteer pool that various events can call upon.

Coun Francis said: "I know, as someone who has run various events and shows, that there are people out there who would help at community events don’t have the time to attend meetings - so they don’t put their name forward.

"What I hope to do, working with interested parties, is to set up a group that puts volunteers' names on record so when an event comes along we can contact them and ask if they would like to help.

"And I would like to get some T-shirts / sweat-shirts printed, along with some hi-vis jackets, for these community volunteers.

"Staging the Vintage Transport Extravaganza requires about fifty helpers and, without them, we would not be able to do it. We have hi-vis jackets for everyone at the show and we arrange for a packed lunch for all our helpers.

"We are also very lucky to have the local motor club helping out, who have the knowledge of how to handle parking at such an event.

"Other events though, including Yeadon Carnival - which this year is on Saturday, July 4 - are in desperate need of helpers."

Coun Francis is hoping to take to arrange a meeting with Otley BID (Business Improvement District) and Otley Town Partnership soon to discuss the idea further.

He is asking anyone interested in helping at Yeadon Carnival, meanwhile, or becoming a community volunteer, to contact him on (01943) 463467, e-mail nigelfrancis@btinternet.com .