It has become a sad fact of recent life that public services are being whittled down as local authorities try to balance the books and deliver the best services that they can for less money.

Inevitably, despite the best efforts of council bosses, some cuts will be seen as just too much by those affected, and the proposals to slash youth services is one of those issues.

The planned cuts caused large numbers of protesters to visit City Hall in Bradford this week, alongside a similar group of people protesting on a different issue – house-building on the district’s green spaces.

Peaceful protest is the right of every individual in this country and it is only right and proper that those who feel strongly about issues are allowed to make their point in great numbers and in a sensible manner.

Whether the plans to cut youth services go ahead, or building on the green belt is curtailed, remains to be seen.

But at least those opposed to these issues will have had their say and vehemently put across their point of view.

This is one of the most important rights available to people and as long as it is used in the proper manner then the voices of those who are affected by a wide range of issues will continue to be heard... and their battles may indeed be won.

Every success to rugby club on fundraising trail

The ability of the community of Ilkley to group together and raise money for all kinds of facilities has been demonstrated time and time again.

The Ilkley skate park was one such example of residents pulling together to make something happen – and the eventual fundraising push was completed in a matter of months.

Ilkley Rugby Club put in a major effort to raise a great amout of the funds for its new grandstand and clubhouse several years ago.

Now the club is back on the fundraising trail, this time to add new facilities to complement those build recently.

The fitness and rehabilitation suite will further the rugby club’s reputation as a club run to professional standards.

Given the success of its past fundraising, it is likely its recent appeal will be met with a similarly enthusiastic response from all those who support it locally.