The vision for the future of Ilkley produced by Ilkley Future Group has come up with some very interesting ideas and suggestions.

Not surprisingly, many of the recommended local policies are around well-known issues and shortcomings with the local infrastructure.

Some of the initiatives being promoted, such as the redevelopment of Ilkley Pool, are already being processed by various organisations or individuals. Others, however, are not yet on the horizon.

A unified local policy could well be of great use in representing the best interests of the community when it comes to input into Bradford Council’s Local Plan, which will have great influence over housing and other development in the town.

Stating a clear local view when it comes to the redevelopment of the Coronation Hospital, and the need for extra capacity at Ilkley Grammar School, will not do any harm – although quite how much influence these local policies will be able to exert on higher authorities remains to be seen.

Tricycle gift means so much to Tom...

It is very often the simplest things which many people take for granted which can utterly change the lives of those who are less able.

The pleasure of riding a bicycle, for example, is something that most children will do without a second thought.

Perhaps, in this increasingly technological world, there are young people for whom cycling is a forgotten joy, their bikes gathering dust in a shed or garage.

But for Tom Newton, born with a rare condition, riding a conventional bike is something that has been denied him. Until the fantastic fundraising exploits of Ilkley Round Table, that is.

Thanks to a wonderful effort the Round Tablers have been able to provide six-year-old Tom with a specially adapted tricycle which gives him greater freedom and can also be attached to an adult bike so that Tom can participate in family rides.

Perhaps the most moving aspect of the whole story is the quote from Tom’s mum who says that her little boy doesn’t smile very often, but when he’s on his new trike he breaks out into a huge grin.

And that must be worth every single penny of the money raised by the good folk of Ilkley and Wharfedale.