THE LEADER of Otley Town Council is stepping down after four and a half years in charge.

Councillor Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) announced the news while chairing a Policy and Resources Committee meeting this week.

The council’s controlling Liberal Democrat group is set to elect a new Chair at a meeting on Monday, September 30.

Cllr Georgeson, who was given a round of applause after making his announcement, said: “After four and a half years it makes sense to hand over to a colleague and share leadership with our great team.

“My business requires me to devote more time to it, especially with the destabilising effects of Brexit uncertainty which are undoubtedly affecting business.

“I have the support of my colleagues in concentrating my efforts on leading the StreetVision2030 project development, which is of strategic importance.

“And this is what I will be doing - as well as staying active on the Environment Committee.”

“It has been an enormous privilege to serve as Chair of the town council and I am grateful to my colleagues for the trust they put in me four years ago.

“Having the opportunity to contribute to our civic life and make a difference in our community is a great honour that I remain very appreciative of.

“I will continue to contribute, addressing local concerns in Danefield and focusing my energies on the work to tackle the Climate Emergency, which is critically important.”