Otley looks set to get its own food bank after it was agreed there was “evidence of need” in the town.

A public meeting which attracted about 30 people heard that the facility would be able to offer limited, but potentially vital, aid to residents in crisis.

A second meeting will now be held at the Otley Salvation Army Hall at 7.30pm on Tuesday, May 21, to set up a steering group to consult further before pushing the scheme forward.

It is envisaged that the Otley food bank would join others being set up in each quadrant of Leeds, working closely with the one for Leeds North.

Otley Vicar the Reverend Graham Buttanshaw said: “The number of families and individuals facing serious debt problems is rising while government funding of debt advice is cut. Cuts to welfare payments and housing benefit are taking their toll on the poorest, but it’s not only the poorest who can find themselves in sudden financial trouble. Any small business may be pushed into crisis.

“The meeting believed that an Otley food bank was needed and there was some evidence of need, but we agreed to consult more widely first.

“We will approach key people in the community – schools, doctors, the Children’s Centre, social workers, community groups, and so on.

“Lots of people need to become involved, which can make this a great community effort.

“We need a small team to consult and, if appropriate, get it up and running. Quite a large team of volunteers will be needed, and we have an encouraging number of people who have already volunteered.”

Representatives from Leeds Food Banks addressed the April meeting, which was organised by Churches Together in Otley, to explain how the system works.

Otley Town Council leader Councillor John Eveleigh (Lab, Ashfield) was among those who attended.

He said: “It is really encouraging that so many people came together to explore the concept of a food bank for the town. The town council will support, in whatever way it can, this initiative.

“It is frankly outrageous and morally repugnant so many people are having to rely on initiatives like this to feed themselves and their families.”

Food banks rely on people donating items of food at supermarkets on certain days and at collections held by local schools, churches and businesses.

Mr Buttanshaw added: “We would be glad to hear from the Otley community, in confidence, of any people who have had to go without food during the last six months who might have been helped by a food bank.

“We'd also like to hear from anyone who would like to help whether it be with transport, collecting, DIY, cleaning,recording/administration, serving at the food outlet or committing to the steering group.”

Anyone interested should contact him by e-mailing g.buttanshaw@ btinternet.com or calling (01943) 462240.

l The latest in a series of fundraising shows for local food banks or homeless charities takes place at Otley Labour Rooms this weekend. The Hall Brothers and John Carey will perform between 7.30pm and 10pm on Sunday. Admission £3, with further donations welcome.