A councillor has welcomed a decision by Kirklees Council to allow Birkenshaw Amateur Rugby League Club to locate portable changing facilities on playing fields in East Bierley.

Councillor Andrew Palfreeman (Con, Birstall and Birkenshaw) said the consent - which is subject to planning permission - would ensure the club retained its connections with the village.

He said it was essential the club, which was forced to relocate after Bradford Council allowed redevelopment in Cross Lane, was able to find facilities in the Birkenshaw area.

Coun Palfreeman said he hoped efforts which the club was making to move into the centre of Birkenshaw would prove fruitful and asked for council backing to ensure the club returned to the village.

"Birkenshaw Rugby League Club is an asset of which we should be proud," he said.

"Not only do its senior teams play the game to a high standard, it encourages young people to become involved in the game and it is a true asset as we seek to develop the community of Birkenshaw. It deserves the council's full support."