A ROW has started over the decision to demolish public toilets in Sherburn in Elmet.

While local leaders say the toilets are an eyesore and need to be removed to give the village centre a facelift, campaigner Malcolm Dowson has said they are vitally needed for visitors and market traders.

He said: "I have a massive amount of support. We have a 7,000 population - we need a public toilet and they are going to knock it down."

However, local councillor Mike Jordan said the Sherburn in Elmet Community Association had developed the scheme to improve the centre of the village and had approached Selby District Council and secured local support.

He said: "The dated, ugly toilets put in jeopardy a complete revamp of the centre of the village."

The toilets are expected to be demolished on Thursday.