Tributes to the work of retiring councillors were paid at the final meeting of Otley Town Council.

The current Labour-controlled body came to the end of its four-year term this week with elections being held next Thursday.

A number of councillors, including leader Sue Egan and town mayor Mike Evans, are standing down and there was a cross-party vote of thanks for the work they carried out for Otley.

Councillor Colin Campbell (LibDem, Prince Henry ward) said the contribution of Coun Egan had to be recognised.

"It would not be right for us to let your retirement go unnoticed. I would like to record our thanks to you for the amount of time and effort you have put in on our behalf.

"It's a well-known fact that we do not always see eye-to-eye but we do appreciate the work you have done."

Coun Campbell said he extended the message to other retiring councillors who also number Jennifer Clifton, Chris Speedy, Pam Gill and David Egan.

City and town councillor Phil Coyne (Lab, Otley and Wharfedale) said: "We certainly appreciate Coun Egan's solid leadership. She has done a superb job and I don't think we would have been able to achieve as much without that excellent and well-balanced leadership."

Coun Egan said she was confident a host of new candidates would continue the good work of the council.

"I have really enjoyed my time on the council and although I know my decision is right, I will have regrets."

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