AN ILKLEY man is issuing a call to arms for help in improving the appearance of a main gateway into the town.

Roger Yaxley, a member of Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary Club, has lived in Ilkley for three years and says he loves the town, however, he is concerned at what he says is “the sorry state” of the flower beds near the Station Plaza.

He said: “I noticed that when coming out of the station one of the first things you see are the Ilkley Station Plaza flower beds that can, at times, look in a sorry state.

“If you sit outside the delightful little cafes along there you sometimes have to look at a bit of a mess. I must however, give credit to the charity Outside the Box who have had people with learning difficulties doing a brilliant job planting and watering the flowers there.

“But then dogs, people, and bicycles come along and wreck their efforts.

“I contacted Bradford Council and was told they have no funding for improvements, but have given me permission to go with some ambitious plans.

“I am planning to extend the length of the beds and raise the wooden planters to table height and then pave in between. The council have offered me a bicycle rack which may be useful

“I would plan to plant small evergreens and change the flowers with the seasons.

“But I need kind spirited, strong handymen, as well as help with painting and design etc. Ideally I would like to form a ‘Lets do it’ team which could meet and make this a reality.

“Before I put my hand in my pocket, I need help with begging for materials, eg: wood, paving (ideally Yorkshire stone flags), plants and shrubs.”

He added: “I am having a meeting with Ilkley in Bloom and it would be nice if I can get a team of people together who are enthusiastic to do this.”

Roger would like to hear from joiners, pavers, designers and anyone who can help with the supply of materials.

He added: “Please contact me if you feel as I do and would like to help.

Roger Yaxley 07734278136 roger.magic@hotmail.com”