THE Lord Mayor of Bradford has officially opened a new centre in Keighley designed to help young people.

Councillor Mike Gibbons launched the Keighley Connexions Centre & Information Shop in Keighley Town Hall.

The facility, which was previously located in the Royal Arcade on Low Street, offers information, advice and guidance to people aged 13 to 24.

Its staff offer support on topics such as employment, housing and homelessness, money and benefits, education, training, health and family planning, free time activities, and volunteering.

The centre is run by Bradford Youth Service's Information & Advice Team and Prospects Services.

Coun Gibbons said: "It’s a privilege to officially open such an important resource. The centre provides a valuable, free and confidential service that supports young people on a whole range of issues that can affect them. The new centre is easy for young people to recognise and access.”

Onkar Singh, information and advice co-ordinator, said: "It’s great that the Lord Mayor can be with us today to officially open the new building. We'll be holding further events during the coming year to encourage as many young people as possible to visit and see the the range of services we offer.”

Visit bradford.gov.uk/infoshopkeighley or contact Onkar Singh, Barry Cusack or Gofur Miah on 01535 618100 for more details.