"The day will be about using alternative means of transport to the car," said Jean, who spoke to members of Knaresborough Town Council at Monday night's meeting. "It's not compulsory, we would just like people to try and leave the car behind for one day."

The Harrogate Car Free Day has been set up by Malcolm Margolis, a Harrogate resident.

Joining Jean and Lib Dem parliamentary candidate Claire Kelly at the meeting, Malcolm said:"The idea was inspired by a Channel Four TV programme called 'The Woman Who Stops Traffic.' She tried doing car-free days in Marlow, Boston and Durham and met with great success in two of those towns. This is a fun day, and many local businesses, public bodies, schools, community groups and councils are supporting the Harrogate day."

Town councillors supported the idea.

Coun Kevin Hawkins said: "We welcome this idea. Although in a way it's sort of a gimmick, it helps get the right message across to people. It would probably make sense to have our day on the same day as Harrogate's, given the proximity of the two towns."

The Mayor of Knaresborough, Coun Pam Godsell, added: "This is a marvellous idea.

"The roads would be freer and it will be better for the bus timetables."

Harrogate & District Travel will be offering reduced ticket prices on the buses for the day.

If you're interested in supporting the initiative, Jean is holding a meeting at the Borough Bailiff pub on Knaresborough High Street on Monday, July 7 at 7.30pm.

l Tell us your views at www.knaresboroughpost.co.uk or email kna.news@ypn.co.uk or write to the Knaresborough Post, 90, High Street, Knaresborough HG5 0EA.

maggie.gell@ypn.co.uk