DESPITE the looming cash problems for Burley-in-Wharfedale's village green extension, its creator is determined to press ahead.

In last week's edition, we revealed how the grand plans to double the size of the existing green may have to be scaled down unless more money is forthcoming.

However, Tom Sumner is adamant there will be no downing of tools while he is in charge of the project - cash or no cash.

He said: "Although only limited funds are available at present, work is progressing well."

"People keep asking when the bridge will be finished so that they will be able to use it.

"Although it looks like could be soon finished, due to current legislation, certain improvements which could be done in a private garden cannot be done if to be used by the public," said Mr Sumner.

Mr Sumner said the footpath along the main road is currently not wide enough to accommodate a safety railing alongside the roadside which would prevent people running straight from the bridge onto the road.

"To remedy this, walls will have to be built in the stream base to enable the footpath to be widened.

"New fences to the current legal requirements have also to be paid for and installed to prevent people falling into the stream," he said.

There is only £1,500 left in the Burley Community Council coffers for the project, with Mr Sumner estimating that £5,000 is needed to complete the scheme.

A considerable amount of work has already been carried out by Mr Sumner and numerous volunteers - but there is still a long way to go.

"The footpaths need to be edged with bricks and 20 tonnes of soil needs spreading to cover the recently planted bulbs; reseeding then needs to take place.

"Trees and shrubs should be planted within the next few weeks; some of these have been bought by people in memory of loved ones. There are still sites for benches available," said Mr Sumner.

Anyone wanting to buy a bench for the green, take over the maintenance of a shrub bed or simply volunteer their services (skilled or unskilled) should contact Mr Sumner on 01943 862940.

Alternatively, simply turn up at the village green site on a Saturday between 9am and 1.30pm.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.