MEET THE team of volunteers who have ensured Denholme had a library for the past seven years.

The women give up their time to develop Denholme Community Library after Bradford Council announced plans to close its branch library in the Mechanics Institute.

The facility – with ongoing support from the council – went from strength to strength with new equipment, continuous fundraising and regular events four villagers.

The volunteers came together for the picture in advance of the biggest change to the town’s library service since 2011, as management transfers to Denholme Town Council.

The move followed the decision of long-serving coordinator Annette Bell, pictured third from right, to retire last September, followed by the retirement of several existing volunteers.

The rest are continuing under the supervision of the council.

Annette this week praised the dedication of volunteers in keeping the library open for the past seven years.

She said: “During this time they have refurbished a dilapidated library with new shelving and equipment.

“The library is a focal point and a hub for the people in the village and it stands in good stead for the volunteers taking over.

“They are in a much better situation than we were in 2011. We wish them well.”

The library volunteers and trustees raised £300 for charities throughout last year with activities including book sales, raffles and coffee mornings.

They recently donated the money to the Sue Ryder Manorlands hospice in Oxenhope, and the Scoliosis Association UK which supports people with the serious spinal disorder.