A new woodland is set to be created in Otley to create a lasting legacy and celebrate the new Millennium.

Councillor Graham Kirkland (Lib Dem, Otley & Wharfedale) has given £3,000 from his ward-based initiative funding to set up a Millennium Woodland on the edge of Otley Chevin in the Chevin Forest Park.

Up to 2,000 trees, mainly beech, oak and a few conifers, will be planted early next year by Otley children.

Coun Kirkland said: "This woodland will provide a lasting reminder of the Millennium and I feel it is a worthwhile project which can involve all sections of the community. The site has a fine view of Wharfedale and is close to Yorkgate."

He said that he hoped every school in Otley would take part and added: "I am particularly pleased that children will take part in the planting.

"They will grow up alongside the trees and it will provide a link for them with the countryside.

"This will not be a 'there today and gone tomorrow' project, it will be an investment in our environment that will be enjoyed for many years. In 50 years' time children who have planted the trees will be able to take their grandchildren and say 'I did that'."

Coun Kirkland said it was a lasting legacy for the people of Otley and Wharfedale. "It was my idea and I thought it was a nice way to commemorate both my time as Leeds' Lord Mayor and the dawning of the Millennium.

"I've been involved in two sets of tree planting on the Chevin before - in 1973 and when I was chairman of the Otley Urban Council in 1986."

The parks and countryside division of Leeds City Council is ordering the necessary trees and materials.

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