THE NEW leader of Otley Town Council has reiterated his belief a 'new era' has begun for Otley politics.

Councillor Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) first used the phrase following his party's victory in the May elections, when it won 18 of the 20 available seats.

The Lib Dem-controlled body held its first full and policy and resources meeting on June 15, when it dealt mainly with the structure and membership of its committees.

Cllr Georgeson said: "We genuinely want to be more inclusive and collaborative and believe this is a new era.

"We've demonstrated that straight away by appointing Green councillor Mick Bradley to be vice-chairman of the environment and sustainability committee.

"And Cllr Nigel Francis – the council's only Independent member – will lead the civic events working party and sit on the audit committee.

"We're also setting up a new trade and tourism committee, chaired by Cllr Wendy Brown, because that's one of the key areas we said we'd focus on in our manifesto.

"This is a clear signal we will follow through on what we have committed to do."

The new trade and tourism group is a first for the council, and will seek to boost those areas through closer collaboration with Otley BID, Otley Town Partnership and the Chamber of Trade.

Cllr Georgeson added: "In demonstrating we are serious about adopting a new positive and collaborative approach, we have started as we mean to continue.

"Our priority is to work together with everyone in the town to support and promote Otley, and that work has started.

"The new trade and tourism committee is to focus on boosting business and visitors, including through the Tour de France legacy and a new Building Otley business conference.

"I welcome councillors Mick Bradley and Nigel Francis to their roles, and look forward to working constructively with them for the good of the town."

lWhat do you think? We welcome letters on this or any other subject. E-mail richard.parker@nqyne.co.uk or write to the Content Editor, Gazette and Observer, 38 High Street, Skipton BD23 1JU. Please include your full name, address and daytime telephone number.