THE power of the Press has given Tom Sumner a huge boost in his efforts to create Burley-in-Wharfedale's village green extension.

Since revealing his plans through Wharfedale Newspapers last week, Mr Sumner has received a helping hand from youngsters, adults and the village's more 'senior' residents.

Mr Sumner asked people to stay away while a mechanical digger cut the new footpaths, but once the dangerous machinery was off site, he found himself with a willing bunch of recruits.

"I have been delighted with the reponse in the first week. I have achieved a lot in quite a short time. About 240 metres of footpaths have been cut out, 120 tonnes of rubbish has been removed to the tip and about 200 tonnes of hard core has been put down," said Mr Sumner.

It will be some time before the village green extension is completed but Mr Sumner is already delighted with the number of people who want to play their part.

"One gentleman and his daughter are going to create and then maintain a fuchsia bed," he said.

Mr Sumner would like to hear from any other keen gardeners in the village interested in maintaining a 'bed' of their own.

Although the project will largely benefit Burley-in-Wharfedale residents Mr Sumner is keen not to exclude would-be volunteers from the Ilkley district - or beyond.

"I remember when I created the Pudding Tree Gardens, there was one chap who came over from Keighley. Anyone in Ilkley, Menston or anywhere else is quite welcome," he said.

Autumn will be a busy period for Mr Sumner as he starts a programme of tree planting on the village green extension. "There is always going to be something to do," he said.

Mr Sumner is keen to keep the momentum going on the project and he will be delighted to have some help on Saturday (August 1) between 9am and 2pm.

Mr Sumner's efforts have already been noted. Burley Community Council chairman, Dennis Warwick, said: "I was stopped by a lady the other day who said 'they really are making a lovely park of it."

Further information about the village green extension and how you can help, can be obtained from Mr Sumner on 01943 862940.

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