THE number of people who packed into Silsden Town Hall for a public meeting this week showed just how much the community values the facility.

Like several other similar buildings across the district, it is threatened with closure as Bradford Council seeks to slash £82 million from its budget.

Libraries and public loos are among services also in the firing line.

The council is facing tough challenges as it attempts to find means of saving or making money and unfortunately it's inevitable that people will suffer.

But, as Silsden residents have demonstrated, it's vital that communities make their views known and don't just sit back in acceptance.

Use the public consultation, which runs until February 12.