A DAMAGED manhole in Riddlesden has been repaired after sparking safety fears for parents and children.

Workmen from telecoms giant BT replaced the manhole cover last Thursday after nearby resident Darren Shutt approached the Keighley News.

Mr Shutt, Granby Lane, had revealed that the damage had first been reported in September, and repair work had not been completed.

He claimed a temporary fence around the manhole was forcing people with pushchairs to venture into the road while on their way to an adjacent playground.

A BT spokesman said: “We received the report about the damaged manhole on September 26. On September 30 engineers went out and completed the bulk of the work.

“As a new frame was built it had to be left to settle before the ground could be fully reinstated hence the guard rails had to be left in place.”

Residents this week confirmed that the work had been completed and the pavement returned to normal. “It’s wonderful,” said one.