The York Minster Bells Appeal ran into fresh controversy today when a leading Selby councillor said the bells should be dedicated to North Yorkshire's forgotten army on the home front who "actually contributed" to the war effort.

Selby district councillors turned down a request for a contribution to the £250,000 appeal for six new quarter chime bells, launched to celebrate the Queen Mother's 100th birthday.

Coun John Duggan, Selby District Labour Group chairman, told the council's policy and finance committee: "Personally, I wouldn't give a penny towards it. I'm sure the lady concerned could fund the bells out of her back pocket.

"We should not be giving away council taxpayers' money towards this appeal when this authority is cash-strapped, and we have people in Selby area living very near to the breadline."

Coun Duggan's comments follow controversial remarks made by Selby coalfield chaplain, Dr John Roden, last month when he questioned the Queen Mother's links with the bells appeal.

Dr Roden said: "Not all of us agree that she has contributed a great deal to our national life. Apart from overseeing the rebuilding of a remote Scottish castle and being the grandmother of an incredibly dysfunctional family, I can't think of much else."

District councillors voted last night to reject the cash appeal after reading a letter from appeal director, Brigadier Peter Lyddon.

Brig Lyddon said: "This is a chance for everyone to be part of this wonderful tribute to the Queen Mother."

But Coun Duggan, who is also Selby District Council vice-chairman, told the Evening Press today: "Personally, I would sooner these bells be dedicated to people who have actually done something - preferably those North Yorkshire people who served on the home front in the Second World War.

"The Queen Mother tried to keep the nation's morale up and went round London occasionally when there was no danger, but an awful lot of people did an awful lot more."

Coun Duggan added: "I have respect for the work the Queen does, but the majority of the Royal family have done nothing to earn the nation's respect in the last few years.

"I also respect the Queen Mother as an elderly lady, but I can't support money going from this council to pay for bells to commemorate a woman for whom I have no affection."

Brig Lyddon said Coun Duggan was entitled to his opinion, and the decision not to contribute was entirely a matter for Selby District Council.

He said the money was slow in coming in - so far £75,000 has been raised - but he was confident they would get there in the end.

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