THE parish council representing Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury is up to full strength again after a new person was co-opted at the council's latest meeting.

Andy Longden was the only candidate for the vacant seat. He was chosen after Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council held a brief, closed session discussion at its meeting last week. (Jan 16)

Mr Longden, who has lived in Haworth for nine years, is a volunteer co-ordinator for Sue Ryder Manorlands and was previously a West Yorkshire Police officer for 29 years.

Commenting after the meeting, he said: "I was the community inspector in charge of policing for Haworth and other villages in the Worth Valley, so I've already worked with the parish council and other local organisations.

"I've also been involved with the steering group for Haworth's Neighbourhood Development Plan, which is when I became more interested in becoming active in the community.

"I want to help support local people and I think it's important that their voices are heard."

Speaking after the co-option, council chairman Cllr Gary Swallow said: "We welcome Andy Longden to the parish council.

"We now have a full complement of councillors for all wards for the first time in a while, and I hope we can work together and move forward."