Hami Patel doesn't come from Keighley.

He's not even from Yorkshire. He's from down south.

Yet he has spent £700,000 of his own money on getting Keighley Cougars back on the right track.

He has cleaned up the club's financial reputation and brought in sound business and monetary controls.

Mr Patel had great hopes that by setting an example and putting his money where his mouth is companies in Keighley would follow.

Some have injected money into the club and should be roundly thanked for that - but it isn't enough.

No matter what has been tried, time after time it has been Mr Patel's own wallet which has kept the club going.

He, like many people, especially the supporters, believe in Keighley Cougars.

But it is more than a rugby, football or cricket club. It is essential that every city, town and village has a sporting colour it can nail to its mast.

This area is blessed with a great sporting heritage and can currently boast national and international honours across a wide range of sports.

These sportsmen and women across all age groups are the finest role models and ambassadors this town could wish for. Bigger cities would envy the tally of triumphs this area has.

This plethora of talent should be harnessed and used to promote Keighley.

Many positive ideas have been thrown in the melting pot over the years. It is now time to start making them a reality - with others following Mr Patel's lead.

He has now said enough is enough. He is no longer prepared to keep putting his hand in his pocket.

He cannot be blamed for that.

No matter what the outcome of the current situation may be, this town owes a huge debt of gratitude to Mr Patel.