A STUNNING looking stone cyclist has started greeting motorists as they enter Otley.

The figure is the centrepiece of a new dry stone wall gateway that has been installed beside the A660, near the turn-off for Wharfebank Business Centre.

Created by dry stone waller Gordon Simpson, the feature is the latest in a series of gateways that Otley in Bloom have been positioning on routes into town.

It was funded by Otley Town Council’s Voice Your Choice scheme, which last year asked the public to pick from some Tour de France legacy projects.

The cyclist gateway was unveiled by Town Mayor councillor Nigel Gill (Lab, Manor), joined by In Bloom members, Mr Simpson and council representatives, last Thursday.

Cllr Gill said: “In Otley we celebrated the Tour de France coming to town in many ways, from decking the place with flags and yellow bikes to holding events in the lead-up and on the day.

“And we also had legacy projects such as this wall, voted for by the residents of Otley through the Voice Your Choice initiative.

“I must acknowledge Otley in Bloom for their sponsorship of the wall and their commitment to maintain the area around it.

“I also thank Dave Robson from Otley Courthouse, who was involved in the development of many of the activities in the 100 day cultural festival that accompanied Le Tour.

“Finally, I must say a big thank you to master dry stone waller Gordon Simpson who worked on a number of designs.

“His completed wall will remain in situ for many generations as a true legacy.”

Mr Simpson, who has been a dry stone waller for some 30 years, said: “It’s a nod to the Tour de France, which came past this very spot, and Otley’s very long tradition of cycling.

“And having the wheels made out of millstones was a way of referencing Yorkshire.

“It took about three weeks to make. We actually built the wall at home in two pieces and then transported it.”

Otley in Bloom have further gateways planned for the town.

The group’s competition co-ordinator David Bellerby said: “This is our fourth gateway wall, with others already up on Pool Road, Leeds Road and Bradford Road, near Ellar Ghyll.”