"BRADFORD has a lot to be proud of - we must be positive about what we have to offer."

That was the rousing message at the launch of this year's Bradford Manufacturing Weeks.

The two week-long initiative began on Monday and is led by the Bradford Chamber of Commerce. Organisers believe it will provide almost 6,000 manufacturing experiences to pupils at 45 of secondary schools and colleges in the Bradford district.

Speaking at the launch, at Low Moor-based Solenis, Roger Marsh, Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership Chair, said: “Bradford has a lot to be proud of – we must be positive about what we have to offer. Through engaging young people manufacturers are thinking not only of their employees of today, but also considering their employees of tomorrow.”

Nick Garthwaite, founder of Bradford Manufacturing Weeks and managing director of international chemicals and detergents manufacturer Christeyns, added: “It was fantastic to kick start the weeks at one of Bradford’s many magnificent manufacturing sites.

"It is thanks to employers like Solenis that we are on target to hit 6,000 experiences for young people this year, which is more than double what we achieved last year.”

Parkside School student Albert Lawler said: “I didn’t know what to expect and I have really enjoyed exploring Solenis.

"This experience has changed my outlook on manufacturing massively in a positive way.”