Flying saucers and beings from another world. Science fiction or science fact? Whether or not you believe in the existence of UFOs, there is no escaping the fact the subject generates enormous interest.

Ilkley has a rich history of unexplained sightings and eerie encounters on the moor, so should the town take advantage of this link to make some money?

Although some may scoff at the prospect of Ilkley becoming the focal point for Britain's UFO enthusiasts, others may see the pound signs lighting up before their eyes.

Why Ilkley? Why not?

The incredible sums of money needed to establish such a study centre and museum mean it is unlikely Russ Kellett's plans will come to fruition, but he should be applauded for such a novel idea.

While X-Files fans and serious ufologists alike may be delighted at the prospect, it seems the very thought of such a centre would send a chill down the spine of others.

After all, all UFO fans are crazed loonies aren't they? We don't want 'their sort' here, do we?

Wrong! The majority of enthusiasts detest such fringe elements but do concede they exist.

Should this centre ever be built, who knows, it may eclipse the millennium dome as Britain's premier

attraction. Well, perhaps not, but it could never be more unpopular.

The Gazette believes this is a refreshing proposal.

Diversification of attractions in the town can never be too bad a thing as long as they do not detract from the existing facilities and countryside that already bring tourists flocking to the area.

However, some might say Ilkley already boasts a number of people who are clearly from another planet and certainly all too often Bradford Council seems to treat Ilkley as if it was on another world.

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