THE man dubbed as Ilkley's most outspoken resident has fallen silent after a sustained 20 year campaign of letter writing.

Frazer Irwin, of Deaconess Court, has decided to put down his pen, tired of the apathy shown by Olicanians.

A stressed Mr Irwin has spent two decades fighting apathy and campaigning for Ilkley improvements but he has decided enough is enough.

He said: "These past few months have shown how much people in Ilkley really care for their surroundings. If their wish is for footpaths to become dangerous, overgrown or forgotten, ignore them at your peril."

"For trees to be cut down at will, river banks eroded, culverts blocked, or rubbish mounting in the woods, along river banks, on Ilkley Moor and elsewhere, so be it. But remember, moaning about this or that only gives rise to hot air. No More!" said Mr Irwin (pictured above).

Mr Irwin believes the power of the pen is mightier than the telephone. He also condemned the poor turnout for open meetings organised by Ilkley Parish Council.

"On average, the same three or four residents attend. It is your opportunity to tell the Parish Council how you feel. It is free. It doesn't cost you anything, apart from a little of your oh so precious time. There is much which could be done if more pulled together, instead of leaving it to the few. And the few are getting fewer," said Mr Irwin.

Mr Irwin has vowed not to retire from 'public life' and will continue to promote schemes he believes in and issues which need addressing.

He said: "I should like to take this opportunity to thank those residents who, in the past years have backed me up. Who have taken the trouble to pick up their pens and written to departments both over t'ill and elsewhere. And the long suffering staff of the Ilkley Gazette for their patience when reading or reporting those matters brought to their notice."

Mr Irwin's letters to the Gazette often contained phrases or sayings to encourage Olicanians to think.

He said: "Lastly, I am reminded of the words of a Navajo wind chant. Remember what you have seen, because everything forgotten returns to the circling winds."

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