KEY figures met in Bradford today for the People's Powerhouse Convention.

Held at Valley Parade, the event's aim was to look at how decision-making across the North can be widened to include a more diverse range of people and experiences.

The movement launched a charter to transform the fortunes of the North and its people.

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority chair, was among those who signed the charter.

Young people, businesses, MPs, community groups and charities also lent their support.

Cllr Hinchcliffe said: "The Northern Powerhouse can only be successful if people are at its heart.

"It's not about logos and marketing it's about people helping shape the future of the North. It's a great place to live and work and we all need to proudly promote it.

"Bradford is right at the heart of the North and I want us to play our full part in the opportunity to create a more people-powered North."

The charter outlines a series of goals to help create meaningful change and address challenges currently faced by the North, such as a low wage economy, mental health and skills gaps.

It's hoped this will create a North where more people's voices are heard, for example those of younger people, people with disabilities and those experiencing poverty.

More than 200 people attended the event, which included speakers such as Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Nicola Headlam, Head of Northern Powerhouse, Syima Aslam, Director of the Bradford Literature Festival, poet Tony Walsh and others.

The People’s Powerhouse was founded in February 2017.