A BEAUTY spot could be turned into a centre of excellence for water sports if a major cash bid is successful.

Councillor Moira Dunn (Lab, Aireborough) is leading moves to secure £100,000 for Yeadon Tarn to stop it silting up and provide top quality facilities.

With the backing of Leeds Euro MP Michael McGowan, Coun Dunn, with the council's leisure services department, has applied to the Henry Ford Foundation - which supports conservation projects - for the funds.

Coun Dunn said increasing silting in the Tarn was a real danger. "The consequences for wildlife and water sports are extremely grave," she said.

"If we can get this money we can then fund a feasibility study into exactly how much clearing out the Tarn will cost.

"I don't expect to receive the whole amount but if we can just get enough to apply for a Lottery grant, it will be a step in the right direction."

The ultimate aim, said Coun Dunn, was to make the Tarn part of a big programme in Leeds encouraging more youngsters to take part in water sports such as handling boats and developing skills.

"Young people are very, very keen on this and that is why we want to see if we can get funding towards it.

"Hopefully something will come of it - the Tarn is a very important feature of our community but it serves a much wider area as well.

"Anglers and sailing enthusiasts come from far and wide, as do schools and youth groups."

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