A Christmas market is being called for as a compromise in the stalemate over a local produce market for Ilkley.

Bradford Council recently shelved a three-month trial of a local produce market in the town, fearing it could cause a harsh impact on small businesses already battling the recession.

Ward councillors, including Bradford Council executive member for the environment and culture, Councillor Anne Hawkesworth, played a role in making the decision.

Now parish council vice-chairman Councillor Brian Mann says Bradford Council’s stance has softened over an annual Christmas market. He said there had been talks about the possibility of a Christmas market to coincide with the lights switch-on.