A former parish councillor has been fined for lopping down 35 trees - to improve the view of a golf course from his home over-looking the River Wharfe.

Luther Jackson, 52, of The Hollins, Skipton Road, Ilkley, pleaded guilty at Bingley Magistrates' Court to contravening the provisions of a Tree Preservation Order.

And in his defence, the court was told he regretted "pruning to preserve the view".

Richard Winter, prosecuting on behalf of Bradford Council, said 35 young and semi-mature trees including sycamores, beeches, willow and mountain ash had been cut down. The offence occurred on or about June 5 last year and was reported to the Council by a complainant.

Jackson was fined £500 and ordered to pay £969.50 costs.

Jackson, who has lived at The Hollins for 20 years with his wife, was formally interviewed on June 30. He said he had contracted the work to a landscape gardener which cost £400 because he could no longer do it himself.

Mr Winter told the court that, when interviewed, Jackson said the trees had grown to such a height they spoiled the view for regular visitors to the site and also obstructed the view of a golf course from his home.

Mr Winter added: "He didn't think to check with the Council or contractor if there was a Tree Preservation Order because he didn't think there would be."

John Hall, for Jackson, said: "He is a man of impeccable character and this has come as something of an embarrassment to him. He would never have dreamt of carrying out this work if he had known it was unlawful.

"Bordering the house is The Dalesway public footpath, a well-known walk.

"They were lopped down so they could have the view, it was no more sinister than that. There was no financial benefit. These trees are not dead, they will grow back."

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