COUNCILLORS are seeing red over Selby's business directory.

The latest edition of the district's Business and Commercial Directory has been slammed as "shoddy, inaccurate and a complete waste of money".

But Selby District Council leader Mark Crane said he was proud of the book, which would act as an advert for the area's growing economy.

The glossy document lists local businesses and organisations, and highlights the benefits of setting up shop in Selby.

But opposition Labour councillors point out the guide was printed and published by a firm from Lancaster and contains numerous omissions and errors.

Coun Steve Shaw-Wright said the guide was "so bad it's laughable".

He said: "The standard of the publication is what we have come to expect from the Tory-run council - shoddy, second-class, and with a lack of attention to detail which beggars belief.

"John Smiths, Sam Smiths and Coors breweries are all noticeable by their absence, Drax and Eggborough power stations are not included and the Londesborough Hotel is also omitted.

"I am sure the staff and students of Tadcaster Grammar School will be surprised to find out they are working in and attending a 'primary school' - but at least they get a mention. Other high schools don't even feature.

"One also has to question the geographical knowledge of the author, as it is stated that Selby is at the epicentre of York, Leeds and Sheffield. I would think a quick look at a map of Yorkshire would put paid to that mistake.

"Selby District Council has lived up to its reputation for wasting money on glossy publications full of inaccurate, misleading and incorrect information."

But Conservative council leader Mark Crane said the directory was an important tool for Selby businesses and residents.

He said: "Ideally, we would have been able to get the booklet designed and printed by a firm within the Selby district, however it was more cost effective to use a firm based elsewhere. We have to go for the most cost-effective quote in order to offer residents the best value for money.

"Indeed the directory was produced at no cost to the council, as the revenue needed was raised through advertising.

"In terms of some companies' details not being included - by law we have to have written permission from companies to be able to give out their contact details, therefore any firm that does not give us this permission cannot be included in the directory.

"Overall, I think the booklet is a great advert for Selby's growing economy and demonstrates the range of successful businesses we have in the area. Firms can enjoy great transport links, favourable property rates and a skilled workforce here in Selby."

Updated: 09:54 Thursday, October 20, 2005