Helmsley councillors have vowed to retain the town’s library which, along with several others in North Yorkshire, is out to consultation on its future.

The library, which was named Library of the Year a few weeks ago, is vital to the town’s quality of life said Coun Jane Barker, town council chairman. “It is well used and we must keep it,” she added.

Councillors suggested that should the library have to move from its present home in the town hall, it could be located in the arts centre.

“In a worst case scenario it could be run by volunteers,” said Coun John Buffoni.

Other items discussed at a recent town council meeting were:

* Car park attendants should not have issued parking notices in the recent winter weather, said councillors.

Coun Barker said: “If someone has come to shop in Helmsley in the dreadful we have had recently, they should be encouraged.”

She added that Ryedale District Council had said it would carry out an investigation after the town authority said signs and parking lines were covered in snow.

Coun Ken Claridge said parking restrictions in Helmsley car parks should not be policed in such severe weather.

* Councillors recommended approval of a scheme to alter the plans for The Old Stables in the town centre and revise CO2 emissions.

Councillors had no views on a scheme to demolish an outbilding, known as Hope Room, or to create a gated vehicle access at Canons Garth.