A COUNCIL chairman recognised the efforts of Haworth and Stanbury's former village warden, who resigned due to family reasons.

Cllr David Mahon, chairman of Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council, singled out the work of Colin Evans who has stepped down from his post, where he was employed by the parish council.

Speaking at his parish council's November meeting, Cllr Mahon said: "We've lost a hard working village warden and it's sad that he's had to leave us. Many local traders knew and spoke to Colin and felt he did a good job for the villages. He really made a positive difference.

"I propose we formally thank Colin for his work and wish him well in his future employment."

The warden job involves duties such as litter picking, planting, looking after Haworth's public toilets and cutting back undergrowth.

Cllr Mahon said it was important to keep the area looking well maintained and attractive to help support the parish's tourist-based economy.

Commenting after the meeting, he added: "The warden post is still quite a new one, we've only had it for about six months.

"First impressions are important, so we want to keep the villages looking tidy."

He said the warden's role could expand to include taking care of the parish council's allotments sites, and noted a new person has now been appointed to replace Mr Evans.