Knaresborough Town Council Celebrates First Year of Town Ranger Service

Published: 16 July 2026

Knaresborough Town Council Celebrates First Year of Town Ranger Service

Knaresborough Town Council (KTC) is celebrating more than a year since the introduction of its Town Ranger service, a role created to help maintain, repair, and enhance the appearance of the town. What began as an ambitious idea in early 2025 has now become a valued and successful part of community life.

Responding to Residents’ Calls for Action

The creation of the Town Ranger role marked an important first step in KTC’s response to continual calls from residents for the town to be better maintained and looked after. This initiative was launched as a trial, designed to deliver small but meaningful improvements within the existing Town Council budget.

KTC’s income comes from the precept, the small tax at the bottom of the council tax bill - paid by Knaresborough residents, and the Town Ranger service aims to deliver visible value for that investment. Many of the tasks undertaken by the Ranger team fill gaps in everyday maintenance - work that previously was carried out by the unitary authority, North Yorkshire Council.

A Vision to Improve the Town’s Everyday Environment

In March 2025, Knaresborough Town Council announced an opportunity for a self‑employed Town Ranger - someone who could take on the everyday jobs that often go unnoticed but make a big difference to residents and visitors.

At the time, Cllr James Pickard said: “We hope the appointment of a Town Ranger will be the first step towards tackling all the odd jobs that you often pass and think – ‘why does somebody not sort this?’ If you have a passion to see Knaresborough presented at its very best, then this job could be for you.”

OJW Services Appointed

In June 2025, OJW Services, led by Oliver and his team, began a six‑month contract to deliver the Town Ranger service. Their early work focused on preparing the town centre for the Great Knaresborough Bed Race and the busy summer season — weeding, sweeping, litter‑picking, and refreshing key public areas. Residents quickly noticed the difference. From The World’s End Pub up towards the Market Place, pavements were cleared, weeds removed, and public spaces made more welcoming.

Transforming Neglected Corners and Community Spaces

Over the following months, the Town Ranger team tackled a wide range of tasks that had long needed attention:

· Clearing ginnels — removing nettles, weeds, and overgrowth

· Restoring fingerpost signs — preserving traditional town features

· Removing graffiti — improving the look and feel of public spaces

· Sweeping leaves in autumn — keeping steps and pathways safe

· Installing new flags at the Castle — replacing worn flags with vibrant new ones funded by KTC

· Market Place cleaning — Regular power‑washing to maintain a clean, attractive and welcoming environment.

· Repairing fencing and railings — Carrying out repairs to ensure steps and public areas remain safe and accessible.

These improvements have helped brighten the town, enhance safety, and restore pride in shared spaces.

One resident summed up the impact commenting on social media: “Thank you Town Ranger team and Knaresborough Town Council! I can now walk freely without nettle stings to and from work.”

A Successful Trial — and Continued Commitment

Following overwhelmingly positive feedback and clear improvements across the town, Knaresborough Town Council extended the Town Ranger contract beyond the initial six‑month trial. The care, attention, and consistency shown by Oliver and his team have demonstrated the value of investing in everyday maintenance that benefits everyone.

Council Statement

Knaresborough Town Council said: “We are absolutely delighted by the outstanding success of the Town Ranger service over its first year, which has truly delivered on our promise to better maintain and beautify Knaresborough. Oliver and his team at OJW Services have done a fantastic job transforming neglected areas, proving that targeted local action makes a massive difference in our residents' daily lives. This initiative is a proud example of how we are translating our community's precept investment into visible, everyday improvements we can all enjoy.”

Looking Ahead

As the Town Ranger service moves into its second year, Knaresborough Town Council remains committed to keeping the town clean, welcoming, and well‑maintained. The past 12 months have shown how much residents appreciate seeing their town cared for, and how targeted local action can fill important gaps in wider service provision.

The Council looks forward to building on this success and continuing to work with Oliver and his team to ensure Knaresborough is presented at its very best.