Otley'S new mayor is planning a special day to make up for the

cancellation of the town's major events - due to the foot and mouth crisis.

Councillor Philip Coyne says a family day featuring music and entertainment will be held in July.

The event, in the market place, will also feature stalls and will be a chance for local charities to fund raise.

Coun Coyne said: "It is a great pity that the two key summer events in Otley, the show and the carnival, have been cancelled this year due to foot and mouth.

"Accordingly, I have decided to hold a Mayor's Day in the Market Place on July 8. The main theme of the day will be to celebrate the town, with an emphasis on children and young people."

During his year in office Coun Coyne, who is also chairman of Otley and Wharfedale Community Involvement Team (CIT) and chairman of Otley Town Partnership, will raise money for young people's project Space to Grow and for the Chippendale Room at Otley Civic Centre.

He said: "Space to Grow is a local group which seeks to provide greater access to outdoor activities for youngsters.

"I also want to raise funds for a period cabinet for the Chippendale Room. It will contain information and educational materials about Chippendale and Otley in the 18th Century so that children of Otley can learn about, and hopefully be inspired by the apprentice joiner from Otley who became the world's greatest cabinet maker."

Coun Coyne, who will be joined during his year in office by his

consort, Penny Mares, added: "It is honour to be Mayor of Otley and to represent the town and its people and I thank my fellow councillors on the town council for electing me. As with previous mayors, I will seek to carry out my duties fairly and impartially."

Coun Coyne said he was looking forward to a successful year. "I am greatly looking forward to meeting the many individuals and organisations that Otley such a fine place to live in.