A LONG-serving Keighley councillor – and former Lord Mayor of Bradford – has announced he will not be seeking re-election in May.

Khadim Hussain has represented Keighley Central ward on Bradford Council since 2004.

But he says the time is now right to “step back” and make way for younger blood.

He admits he was hit hard by the death of his close friend and fellow Keighley Central councillor Abid Hussain on Christmas Eve and the more recent passing of another good friend, Ghulam Rabani, a mainstay of the town’s Sangat Centre.

“I’ve given the matter a great deal of thought and decided to pass on the mantle to younger people,” said Khadim, of Drake Street in Keighley.

“I brought Abid into the Labour Party and worked closely with him – and with Councillor Zafar Ali – for a common cause, the community.

“Abid’s son, Mohsin, is standing in the May elections and I will be giving him my full support.

“I have enjoyed my time as a councillor.

“My term as Lord Mayor, in 2013-14, was undoubtedly a highlight.

“I never said ‘no’ to invitations and attended over 1,500 engagements in the role! It was a great honour.”

During his year in office, he raised funds for Bradford Disability Sport & Leisure.

In 2016, Khadim left the Labour Party following a row over anti-semitism and became an independent councillor.

“I would like to thank the people of Keighley for putting their trust in me during that period,” he said.

“The anti-semitism issue was a red herring. I have very good friends in the Jewish community and I have never been anti-Jewish.”

Khadim says that whilst his decision to depart from the council is tinged with some sadness, he will not be disappearing from community life.

“There’s always an element of sadness in these situations but you have to step back at some point – and I’d rather do it on a high,” he said.

“I’ll be continuing with community and charity work and will help the Sangat Centre if needed.

“My goals have always been to work for the people of Keighley – that will remain unchanged. I’ll still be available if people want support.

“My time in active politics stretches back to before joining the council. I’ve made a lot of good friends, of all political persuasions.

“I have no regrets. I look back with satisfaction and hope that I’ve contributed to improvements in the community and the town. I’ve also been a magistrate for over 25 years and I will be continuing with that.”