Inscribed with the official Calder-dale logo, the six markers each show a picture of the council's so-called "equality champions."

They have been created to promote diversity among workers and each features a quote. "Our unique differences are what make us who we are," says one.

But the bookmarks have been slammed by councillors and staff as a waste of resources and time.

"Who the hell would want a bookmark with a councillor on it?" asked Diane Park (Ind, Elland).

"I can't think of anything that would put me off reading quicker.

"I don't know who came up with this but it's nothing short of scary that anyone could think it would be a good idea."

The bookmarks feature the Mayor, Arshad Mahmood, cabinet member Ian Cooper (Cons, Tod), Independent leader Colin Stout (Ind, Brighouse), Nader Fekri (Lib Dem, Calder), Helen Rivron (Lab, Ovenden) and Peter Wardhaugh (Lib Dem, Greetland and Stainland).

A member of council staff who did not want to be identified said: "I'd fold over the corner of a treasured book rather than have one of those guys looking back at me.

"The whole idea of having council-approved bookmarks is absolutely ridiculous.

"Fair enough, they didn't cost much but all the little expenditures on nonsense like this soon add up."

Even councillors featured on the bookmarks seemed dubious about their merits.

Coun Fekri said: "I'm not sure anyone would want me between the pages of their Tolstoy, but there you go."

Kersten England, former head of the council's safer and stronger communities department, defended the scheme, saying it cost just £50 and was worthwhile.

"We want Calderdale to be a place where we value everyone being different and through our actions we demonstrate that everyone matters.
"The council is continually trying to raise awareness of the importance of this issue through staff training and development courses.

"The bookmarks were created for such events to ensure officers know who our equality champions are," she said.

Which book would you put a councillor in? Write to Your say, Evening Courier, King Cross Street, Halifax.

Here are the messages on each councillor's bookmark.

• Peter Wardhaugh: "Our unique differences are what make us who we are. We need to drive the changes we want to see in society, understand each other and enrich all our lives."


• Nader Fekri: "It's my role to be a champion for all our diverse communities – to pay respect to and celebrate the achievements of everyone."


• Ian Cooper: "Communities are complex and diverse. This can cause separations and tensions. I am determined to show we can work together to bring people together."


• Arshad Mahmood: "I will work to help us all become closer, build our society and help our communities live in harmony."


• Helen Rivron: "It is about creating a society where everyone has the chance to achieve, contribute and go about their lives without fear."


• Colin Stout: This is about


• people – how they can be themselves, live their lives and enjoy all that they have to offer each other to make this a great place to live and work."

Comment