GIANT plantpots, new seating and a stage have appeared in Selby town centre.

The new street furniture has been created for Selby as part of a council scheme to brighten up the town, with the authority working with Selby Town Council - who already provide floral displays in the town - and local retailers through the Selby Town Enterprise Partnership to attract visitors to use local shops and services.

The installations were put in place this week and will remain in the town for about three months, with a range of plants and flowers and new spaces for people to sit.

Cllr Chris Metcalfe is the District Council’s executive member with responsibility for communities and economic development, and said the installations had already made a difference.

He said: "This is about us giving practical support to businesses to brighten up Selby town centre. It’s already got so much going for it – with fantastic floral displays and our magnificent Abbey overlooking the market place and main shopping street.

"It’s small touches - such as these new installations - that can really make a difference, helping to create a fun and lively atmosphere. These displays will add even more colour to Selby town centre and we hope people enjoy using them and seeing them."

New seating blocks are being installed in Finkle Street, a temporary stage and seating area will be at the Market Place outside Selby Abbey and a number of oversized plant pots will be placed along Gowthorpe in the town centre, with more new outside seating between the Abbey and the Town Hall.

Mark Wetherell, director of Wetherells Department Store and a member of the Selby Town Enterprise Partnership, said the installations were a positive talking point.

He said: "This is about creating a welcoming and fun atmosphere in the town centre, which ultimately encourages people to come into the town and use local shops and services. We want these splashes of colour to be a real talking point to help put Selby on the map."

Simon Hall is director of Yorkshire-based PWP Design, who designed the pieces.

He said: "Pop-up features like this can bring new activity, a splash of colour and change the way visitors use public spaces. It’s a fantastic way to test ideas, create interest and support local businesses. We hope visitors enjoy the planters, features and seating."