KEIGHLEY’S Airedale Shopping Centre celebrated its birthday in style.

Hundreds of people turned out to help the centre mark its 50th anniversary.

A series of activities was staged throughout the weekend.

The extravaganza included traditional party games such as pass the parcel, plus ‘spin the birthday cake’.

There was also a magician and balloon modeller, prizes were up for grabs and 2,000 cupcakes were handed out.

And a special birthday cake was provided.

Centre manager, Steve Seymour, said the event was a massive success.

“It was a memorable weekend for everyone,” he added.

“The community really came together and helped us celebrate this landmark birthday.

“The Airedale Shopping Centre is at the heart of Keighley and this was a great opportunity for generations of local families to embrace the town’s retail heritage.”

VIP guests at the event included Keighley’s newly-elected town mayor, Councillor Fulzar Ahmed, and the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Keighley councillor Zafar Ali.

Cllr Ali, who helped perform the cake-cutting ceremony, said he was “thrilled” to attend.

“I have lived in Keighley for 54 years and it has been great to see this town become what it is today,” he added.

“We have a beautiful community here and Airedale is a fantastic shopping centre, so it’s wonderful to see everyone come together and celebrate this milestone.”

The anniversary celebrations also included the launch of an exhibition charting the centre’s history.

It features photos from across the years, collated by Keighley Local History Society, members of the public and the centre team.

The exhibition will remain in place at the centre for the remainder of the year.

Mr Seymour added: “The display is a chance for customers to not only take a step back in time, but also appreciate the centre’s journey as we look ahead to an exciting future.

“Thank-you to everyone who made this event very special – it will certainly be one to remember!”

For more details of the centre’s celebrations. visit airedaleshoppingcentre.co.uk.