Election candidates have hit out after a campaign banner was stolen and a sign on private land knocked down.

Police are asking anyone with information on the missing banner in Menston to come forward. Bradford Council electoral officers have been informed.

Wharfedale ward Independent candidate Steve Ellams put up the campaign banner on private land in Bradford Road on Saturday morning but says it was missing by noon.

Dr Ellams said: “I am standing as an independent councillor who is a resident of Menston fighting local issues and whoever has stolen this banner certainly has not got the welfare of our community or democracy at heart.”

Ilkley UKIP candidate Paul Latham raised concerns after an 8ft by 4ft campaign sign on farmland near the A65 in Addingham was knocked down.

He told police of the incident and asked for officers to keep an eye out for further incidents while patrolling the area.

Mr Latham said such behaviour did not reflect well on democracy.

He said: “I do hope that some sense prevails.”

Keighley area Inspector Sue Sanderson said: “We can confirm that we have received a report of an election banner being stolen from Bradford Road, Menston, between 9am and 12pm on Saturday, May 10.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”