Keighley Town Council’s drive to take over more public services was discussed at the latest meeting.

Councillor Judith Brooksbank reported back from a National Association of Local Councils conference, which had been addressed by senior Government minister Eric Pickles.

Coun Brooksbank said Mr Pickles, who is originally from Oakworth, had made some positive comments about devolving power.

“He said that if a parish council has a neighbourhood plan, then the amount of money it receives to put localism into practice is likely to be considerably more,” she added.

She said in response to a question about the town council’s wish to take on Keighley Market Hall, Mr Pickles said the council was entitled to bid for this.

Coun Graham Mitchell said the town council’s efforts to run more services should be discussed at the next parish liaison committee meeting.