HOUSEHOLDERS across the Keighley district are being asked if they would support an average £5 rise in their council tax precept to the fire service.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority says the increase would enable the service to "keep its current commitments".

Chair, Councillor Darren O’Donovan, says: "Over the past few years we have been able to invest in our staff and services through careful financial management and planning, despite the impact of austerity and the fact the authority has not received capital funding – to pay for assets like fire stations – from the Government since 2014.

"Our prudency has allowed us to maintain equipment, invest in new technology, improve training and modernise our buildings.

"However, the current global financial pressures and the real-time cuts to resources from the Government means we're now facing significant cost pressures. While I understand this is a difficult ask of local taxpayers, this increase would help us maintain our services and continue to provide the excellent fire and rescue service our community deserves."

The proposed rise would add £5 to the precept for a Band D property, taking it to £77.18.

People can give their views at bit.ly/3H7ouTL, until Tuesday, January 31.