The idea of local churches to set up a foodbank in Ilkley, helping those who struggling in the ongoing economic gloom, has got off to a great start.

Churches Together in Ilkley has made a real effort in recent weeks to get the message out that everyday groceries are, sadly, something that many people are struggling to afford – not only in deprived areas, but also much closer to home, in an area traditionally considered to be wealthy.

The initiative started by the combined strength of the churches across the town has secured two food donation points at supermarkets in Ilkley, which already opened up a new channel to allow donations of essential foodstuff to get to those who need it most.

Those behind the scheme must be very heartened to see the acts of kindness already emerging, such as the anonymous donation of groceries at one of the collection points.

It is also good to see primary schools locally getting behind the foodbank scheme, by choosing to give their harvest collections to this cause.

Star restaurant such good news

We are very lucky in this area to have some excellent and successful restaurants – and surely one of the shining lights among them must be the Box Tree in Ilkley.

For the tenth year running the Box Tree has retained its prestigious Michelin star, marking it out as not only one of the best eateries in the district but the entire country.

The success of the Box Tree is not just good news for its owners – good restaurants gain word of mouth recognition and their reputation spreads far and wide.

This then creates yet another reason for people to visit the area and keep our local economy booming.

Michelin stars are not handed out lightly, and the fact the Box Tree has maintained its reputation and service for a decade is testimony to the hard work of every single person involved with the venture.

The restaurant has a long and illustrious history dating back more than half a century, and its success contributes to a wider gold-standard dining scene in Yorkshire, which boasts more Michelin stars than anywhere else outside London.

Long may its success continue to keep the restaurant at the top of this very competitive league and to keep bringing more people into the area to enjoy its fare.