OTLEY Show's organisers are facing an unwelcome extra bill for traffic management this year.

West Yorkshire Police have traditionally helped control traffic at the event, but have told Wharfedale Agricultural Society that will no longer be the case.

The Force blames the change on the "ongoing impact of budget cuts", which have left it having to focus on its core, crime-fighting duties.

Local councillors fear the decision could both land the show with a major expense and lead to problems on the day, and are urging police to reconsider.

Show secretary, Janet Raw, meanwhile, is confident suitable alternative arrangements will be in place before the event on May 21.

She said: "'We have been aware for a while now that the police wouldn't be able to perform traffic control at the showground exit.

"We are, however, exploring other avenues to assist traffic management on the day, and have been liaising with both the highways department and the police on this challenging matter, which may prove more expensive than in previous years."

Inspector Neil Hemingway, of West Yorkshire Police's force planning unit, said: "We are committed to working with event organisers and local authorities to ensure public events are managed effectively and efficiently.

"We have been liaising with the organisers of Otley Show well in advance of the event.

"They have been advised a traffic management company, with support from the local authority highways department, will be required to provide an appropriate, alternative solution to the historical use of personnel directing traffic.

"This advice is in keeping with the Force's existing policy for public events.

"Traffic management is not a core policing role, and we are unable to provide personnel for traffic management at events.

"The ongoing impact of budget cuts on police resources increasingly means we have to focus our efforts on our key priorities of reducing crime and keeping our communities safe."

But Cllr Colin Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley and Yeadon) said: "As long as I can remember, the police have provided what many saw as their traditional role of traffic management for this event.

"It is the oldest agricultural show in the county, and photos of the event always show the police helping out by managing the traffic associated with the thousands of people who flock to Otley to enjoy it."

Cllr Sandy Lay (Lib Dem, Otley and Yeadon) added: "I am sad to say it is another example of the police withdrawing from their traditional role supporting the community.

"I appreciate the Government has cut funding, but we believe helping control traffic is part of the police's core role.

"The decision to withdraw support will impact the show both on the day and financially, and I would urge them to look again at their decision."

Cllrs Campbell, Lay and Ryk Downes have written to the Police and Crime Commissioner expressing their concerns.

First held in 1796, Otley Show takes place on fields at Bridge End, off Billams Hill, every May and attracts an average of 15,000 visitors each year.