THE MP for Skipton and Ripon, Julian Smith, has welcomed North Yorkshire County Council’s new proposals to retain library services in Bentham and Ingleton.

Mr Smith has worked with the council and campaigners since the initial announcement of changes was made and has spoken about the importance of the council working closely with communities to ensure library services have a strong and sustainable future.

Mr Smith said:“I am pleased that North Yorkshire County Council is now listening to the views of residents who said that library services were vital for their communities.

“In these challenging financial times, difficult choices have to be made but the overwhelming view of those I have spoken to is that libraries are valued as an integral part of where they live.

“Despite this announcement, there is still a need for towns and villages across North Yorkshire to help support their local libraries to make sure they have a strong future.

“In the coming weeks and months, I will continue to work with communities and the Council to try and make sure by working together there will be sustainable library services for the future.”