A BIKE sharing scheme that looked like it would be rolled out to Wharfedale has been withdrawn.

Ofo was set to introduce 1,000 hire bicycles (available via a smartphone app on an 'unlock, ride, lock' basis) in Leeds this summer.

A representative from the firm gave a presentation to Otley Town Councillors in June that was well received.

Now, however, the firm has announced it has pulled out.

Otley Town Council Chair Councillor Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) said: "We share the disappointment expressed by Leeds City Council at the news Ofo have withdrawn from their proposed scheme for Leeds.

"Only a few weeks ago they presented to the town council's Environment and Sustainability Committee and we were suitably impressed and enthused by the prospect of this bike-share scheme coming to Otley, as well as Leeds.

"Hopefully the city council can regroup and renew their search for a viable bike-share service provider, and we wish them well in doing this."