Access Selby in Market Cross opened its doors to members of the public on Tuesday and trained members of staff are already providing help and information on a range of council services, including housing and recycling.

Residents can also use the office to register for bus passes, discuss planning applications and pay their council tax, as well as seek advice about voluntary and North Yorkshire County Council services, such as highways and education.

SDC access to services champion Coun Ruth Sayner said: "This new way of working will enable people to get the information they need as easily as possible, as well as help back room council staff to work more efficiently.

"Achieving value for money and working as efficiently as possible is an important objective for us."

The branch complements existing offices in Sherburn, Tadcaster and Civic Centre on Portholme Road, which will remain in place until a relocation to the new shared Selby Hospital and Selby District Council development planned for Doncaster Road.

AT YOUR SERVICE: Customer service supervisor Amanda Holroyd welcomes early customer Sue Williams. (s3842a819) Picture: Andrew Bellis