Councillors put the work of Keighley and District Volunteer Centre under the spotlight.

Keighley Area Committee heard about the wide range of activities provided by the centre, which is part-funded by Bradford Council.

Councillors heard that such activities significantly contributed to the committee’s own priorities for improving life in Keighley.

The centre encourages people from all walks of life to use their skills to help the local community.

The centre, based in North Street and managed by Gary Pedley, has 16 members of staff who oversee the work of at least 120 volunteers.

They provide a befriending service for lonely people, help adults with learning disabilities volunteer, and recruit volunteers for other organisations.

The centre also provides home repairs, gardening, day centre activities and “winter warmth” services for older people, and provides work training, leisure and social activities for people with learning disabilities.