YORKSHIRE'S first velodrome could be on its way to this area.

A local sports group would like to build the high-speed cycle track on grassland at Lepton.

Three Valleys Sports Trust spokesman Tony White said: "It would be an excellent way of fighting obesity among children."

If Kirklees Council gives permission for the velodrome and eight football pitches, the trust will apply for £1m from the lottery.

Farnley Estates, which owns the 30-acre site, has agreed to give a 25-year lease for the land off Rowley Lane.

If built, the 280-metre track would be the only one in the county.

Mr White said: "At the moment the nearest velodrome is in Scunthorpe, so this would be something for the whole of Yorkshire to use."

Last year the trust failed in a bid to build a running track, a full-sized football pitch and two junior pitches at Field Head, Golcar.

The trust has also previously put forward plans for sports complexes at Berry Brow and at Linthwaite.

None has come to fruition.