A group's dream of breathing new life into a crumbling Ilkley chapel has been shattered by the prospect of a huge bill.

The Wharfedale Family History Group had hoped to take on the lease of one of the twin chapels in the town's cemetery to use it as a library and research centre.

However, the group would have to stump up an annual rent of £2,000 - money it does not have.

More than a year after expressing an interest, the group has finally given up hope.

A group spokesman said: "The Wharfedale Family History Group is a non-profit making society with limited funds and simply cannot afford it."

The news has also disappointed Ilkley parish councillor Lexa Robinson who has campaigned strongly to see the chapels back in use.

The 19th century buildings were acquired by the Bradford Building Preservation Trust last year.

Both chapels, of sandstone with gritstone settings, were built when the Leamington Terrace cemetery was established.

The Trust's aim was to refurbish the two chapels and one group hoping to benefit from restoration work was the Wharfedale Family History Group.

The group first announced its desire to make use of the Anglican chapel in October 1997. Members felt it would be ideal to store its vast range of information and records, gathered since its formation in 1980. Initial discussions with the previous chapel owners, Bradford Council, were on the understanding that the group would undertake some care of the old, untended graves in return for a peppercorn rent.

Both chapels have been closed for more than ten years but the group hoped the Trust's subsequent acquisition would mean they would have a suitable home at last.

Coun Robinson said: "I have spoken to one of the group members about the situation. Clearly it is very disappointing. I am very keen to see the chapels refurbished but I can understand the group not wanting to go in if it is going to cost so much."

The group would still like to set up a library and research centre and would welcome any suggestions or offers of premises.

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