Silsden’s mayor has demanded Bradford Council directly consults residents about proposed changes to school transport subsidies.

Chris Atkinson insists a consultation meeting should be held in the town to assess the views of parents, who fear losing their children’s free bus passes.

He said: “Bradford would get a shock if they came to Silsden – there would be 300 parents there.

“Bradford wouldn’t like what they’d hear – parents are really passionate about schooling in Silsden.”

Bradford Council announced last month it wanted to reduce the number of children who qualify for assisted school transport as part of budget cuts.

Children who already receive free school transport will not be affected by the changes, only new applicants.

Consultation meetings were organised in locations including Keighley, and people could also register their views online. The consultation closes today.

Coun Atkinson added: “Bradford Council should have had a meeting in Silsden. I’ve got mums asking when the meeting is. It makes my blood boil.

“The changes don’t affect any child in Keighley. The children of Silsden are going to be affected more than anyone.”