Organisations and individuals, from solicitors to composers, are being invited to help make Bradford a more creative place.

A network for the arts and creative industries in Bradford has been set up, born out of the work of Bradford Arts Forum.

The network, called fabric, has recently been working with Bradford Council and Yorkshire Arts to develop a new way forward for the district's arts and creative industries.

Bradford people are being invited along to the launch of fabric next week, to pool ideas for improving Bradford's creativity.

Chairman of fabric, Tim Wheeler, said: "Too many young people leave Bradford once they've finished school or college because there just aren't the arts attractions or opportunities to keep them here.

"Bradford is an exporter of creative talent. People are lured away by the bright lights of other cities which have invested in the arts. Places like Bradford University provide fantastic arts and technology opportunities - but what do people do once they've finished their studies? We need to create the first stepping stones to keep people here."

He said; "Different organisations can work together. Theatres and drama groups already work with graphic artists and set designers. This kind of co-operation creates the kind of infrastructure needed to keep artists in the district.

"Things are really beginning to take shape in Bradford. The Capital of Culture bid is a chance for people to focus on how Bradford can work for its citizens.

"This is a good time to join forces, to celebrate the quality and diversity of the arts and creative industries in Bradford - creative work that is assisting in regeneration, in social inclusion, or that is just great art. We have much to celebrate and learn from each other."

The network is being launched at City Hall's banqueting suite on Saturday, November 17, from 10.30am to 3pm.

Events will include an ideas market, discussions, and speakers including Jane Glaister, Bradford Council's director of arts heritage and leisure, and Charles Landry, author of The Creative City.

Places must be booked by Monday. For a booking form ring Tim Wheeler on (01274) 544683.