THE SNOWY weather has forced Otley Town Council to close its offices and public toilets.

Council Chair Councillor Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) agreed to the move on Thursday, March 1 as Wharfedale, already covered in snow, faced sub-zero temperatures and strong winds.

The council-run Orchard Gate toilets and the nearby Otley Core office will be closed from the afternoon of Thursday, March 1 and will be reopened on Monday, March 5.

Cllr Georgeson said the decision had been taken due to safety concerns about staff travelling to and from work in the icy conditions.

Council staff will still be contactable during the closure, by sending an e-mail to: admin@otleytowncouncil.gov.uk .