A NEW decorative stone wall will be built outside Otley Fire Station this week.

The project is a collaboration between Otley in Bloom, Otley Town Council and the local branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association (DSWA).

The curved wall will be built from Yorkshire sandstone but will also include pieces of red roof tiles to represent 'flames'.

Otley in Bloom, meanwhile, will be creating a floral display around the structure which will feature two wicker cyclists.

The original idea behind the wall was to mark the retention of the fire station - which has a member of the Otley and Yorkshire Dales DSWA among its team - in the town.

Chairman of the local Dry Stone Walling Association, Nick Ferguson, said: "This latest project will create another feature in the centre of Otley marking the link between town and country.

"It is also a demonstration of our thanks and respect for the job that all firefighters do for their local communities."

The build will take place from Friday, April 7 to Sunday, April 9 and the public are welcome to watch so long as they stay clear of the fire station exit.

The Town Council, Otley in Bloom and the DSWA have all invested in the scheme with the latter two, as charities, giving their expertise and time for free.

The DSWA has a long association with Otley having completed a number of projects in the town including several 'gateway' walls, and on the Chevin.