THREE councillors are on a crusade to make sure Otley’s maypole is restored by Christmas.

The maypole was cut down after rot was found in its base a week before the start of the Tour de France. It has been missing ever since.

Now, councillors Sandy Lay, Ryk Downes and Colin Campbell have written to the leader of Leeds City Council asking him to intervene in the matter.

Cllr Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley and Yeadon) said: “The maypole was cut down in the height of summer.

“At the time we were promised that it would be restored as soon as possible.

“No-one expected it to take five months but the truth is that we are now fighting to have it back in its rightful place by Christmas.”