CAMPAIGNERS seeking to overturn a Council decision to approve plans for a waste to energy incinerator in Keighley are celebrating a breakthrough.

Aire Valley Against Incineration (AVAI) yesterday confirmed it had passed its target to raise £25,000 to fund its Judicial Review bid.

Posting on the group's campaign page on Facebook, a spokesman said: "We've now surpassed our target of £25,000, which is the minimum we need to cover our costs if we lose the Judicial Review. The total is now £27,377."

The spokesman urged supporters of the campaign to keep up the fundraising momentum, saying that the more cash was donated, the stronger the challenge that could be mounted against the waste-to-energy plant.

Simon Shimbles, one of the leaders of AVAI, said the fundraising milestone was "brilliant news", adding that he felt elated the sum had been achieved.

"It has buoyed us up and and give us the impetus to carry the fight forward," he said.

"I never doubted we'd manage it because I know we've got a fantastic bunch of supporters and I knew they'd rise to the occasion.

"A massive 'thank you' to everyone who has campaigned, donated or helped us in any other way."