THE only betting office in Ilkley - Betfred in Leeds Road - closed for the final time on Sunday, August 22.

It means those wishing to have a bet or small flutter on football or horse racing and for those with no on-line of mobile phone services face an hour round trip to the nearest betting shop.

Mike Ridgway, of Ilkley, who was a regular user said: "The betting office customer base in Ilkley has a strong community spirit associated with it within the town and together with the aged demographic profile this was a valued feature for those regularly using the facility.

"There has been a shop in Ilkley for well over 50 years under various ownerships including Jarvis, Peter Smith,Tote Bookmakers and latterly Betfred. This will be a major change for the town for those wishing to follow sporting activities involving and wishing to have a bet! When challenging the decision and seeking a review of the decision the reason for closure was described as being linked to lease renewal issues. Obviously the changing pattern of the High Street and growth of on-line trading have had a major influence on all retail businesses but this all comes home when leaving a town like Ilkley without such a traditional feature enjoyed by many over the years.

"I did write on behalf of colleagues to the Head of Customer Services at Betfred and received a very sympathetic reply to the request to review the decision in light of the special circumstances in Ilkley. However in expressing regret for the decision they did mention the lease issue which must be linked with financial viability of operating on the premises."

A Betfred spokesperson, said: “Unfortunately we have had to take the difficult decision to close our Ilkley shop but we would like to thank all the customers who have supported us over the years.”