YORKSHIRE Water is halting its roadworks in Huddersfield town centre.

The water company is this week pulling its engineers out of Huddersfield for the Christmas period so as not to disrupt the merriment and trading in the centre.

The workmen will be returning to complete the project in early January.

The scheme, which began in February, has seen a £3m investment in the century-old water mains. Throughout the area pipes are either being replaced, re-lined or cleaned to improve water quality and reduce the risk of bursts.

David Lilley, Yorkshire Water project manager, said: "We are three-quarters of the way though this project, but wanted to move out of the town over Christmas.

"We are aware that our work can cause disruption and while Huddersfield is so busy, this disruption can be heightened.

"The local community have been very supportive and understanding of the work.

"We wanted to repay this kindness by steering clear during this time of year, the busiest for traders and shoppers alike."