Otley'S most famous son, Thomas Chippendale, has been fenced in - and not everyone is happy about it. The statue of the world famous cabinet maker has stood in Clapgate, next to the old grammar school, since 1987.

But in recent months as part of the restoration of the former grammar school, iron railings have gone up - effectively putting the statue behind bars. So, should the statue (as some think) be moved out from behind his bars and placed somewhere else in the town?

As no one seems to be clear where exactly Mr Chippendale was born, and there is no direct link with the grammar school, why not move it somewhere else - to the Market Square perhaps, or outside the HSBC Bank?

Town councillors are divided on the subject. Some agree with the Otley Conservation Task Force that the statue should be more accessible, while others point out he might be safer where he is, protected from the fringe element that has in the past decorated him with 'inappropriate' hats. Of course, money might have something to do with the final decision. The cost of relocation has been estimated at anything up to £10,000.

A week ago Lia Martinucci and her young son were lucky to escape with their lives after almost becoming victims of Otley's boy racers. They had a terrifying near miss when a car was driven towards them at speed on the wrong side of the road.

But instead of just thanking her lucky stars for her escape she is determined to see something done about the problem before someone else is not so lucky. And she is right to do her best to bring the matter to the attention of the public. It is well known in some circles that these yobs are bringing their own brand of terror to the town - and it is essential that the community stands together and demands action.

None of us should stand by and see our towns turned into racetracks by irresponsible youths who are oblivious or unconcerned about the potential consequences of their actions.

Waitrose should be commended for the action it is taking in attempting to stop the youths congregating in their car park. It is to be hoped that the police will now rid the town of this menace before some poor unfortunate is killed.