A huge debate broke out last night over plans for a skateboard park in Cottingley.

Villagers at the neighbourhood forum meeting were divided over proposals for a multi-use games area on the reacreation ground, off Manor Drive.

About 1,000 people have signed a petition in favour of the project which was launched by youngsters in January.

And 13-year-old Karl Hellens was given a round of applause for his efforts at the packed meeting.

"I would like to thank everyone and the church in Cottingley for their support," he said.

The youngsters have the backing of the Cottingley Community Association which has submitted a planning application to Bradford Council for the scheme.

But residents living near the site fear they will be plagued by noise and vandalism.

They have asked planners to look at moving the park further away from nearby flats for elderly residents.