The Lord Mayor has issued a rallying call to the people of Keighley.

Speaking exclusively to the Keighley News, Councillor Irene Ellison-Wood urged everyone in the town to get behind her civic appeal.

She is asking individuals, groups, businesses and schools to hold fundraising events.

All proceeds will be split between the Manorlands Sue Ryder Care Centre, at Oxenhope, and the Arthritis Research Campaign.

"Most people have been -- or will be -- touched in some way by cancer or arthritis during their lives and this is a chance to do something to help two worthy causes," said Cllr Ellison-Wood. "My father, youngest brother, eldest brother and two aunts all died from cancer.

"Although they died in Manchester, the suffering is no different from that felt wherever you are and the Manorlands hospice is such a wonderful place. It needs your help."

She added: "Arthritis is a crippling condition and many people wrongly believe it is something which affects only older people.

"In fact, like cancer, it can affect anyone -- it is no respecter of age, creed or background.

"The Arthritis Research Campaign works away with little publicity but it also relies on people's generosity to keep going."

Cllr Ellison-Wood, who has represented Keighley West on Bradford Council since 1990, said that if everyone in the district gave just 10p it would make a huge difference.

She added: "We do not as such have a target, we just want to raise as much as possible.

"Last year the Lord Mayor's appeal raised £100,000 but because of this year's elections we have just ten months to do what we can.

"Some people have put a lot of time and effort into organising this appeal and it is for the whole of the Bradford district -- of which Keighley is an essential part -- and not just the city itself. It is an opportunity for everybody -- from schools and community groups to businesses -- to have some fun and at the same time raise money.

"Whatever event you are planning you can give us a call and we will give help and support, and I will try my very best to come and pick up cheques in person."

Her rallying call is backed by Eileen McNally, chairman of the appeal committee.

She said a programme of events was lined up but more activities were being sought.

"People of all ages can get involved, and whatever you manage to raise it will all be appreciated," she said.

Forthcoming events include a sponsored bike ride by a police team along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal towpath, street collections at Myrtle Park, in Bingley, on September 4, and at Saltaire Festival, on September 26, and a heritage open day, at City Hall, on September 11.

A Keighley Civic Dinner -- possibly at East Riddlesden Hall -- is provisionally planned for October.

Other activities in Keighley could include a musical evening and a golf day.

Anyone interested in supporting the appeal -- by organising an event or making a donation -- can contact the Lord Mayor's Appeal Office, City Hall, Bradford BD1 1HY (phone 01274 434965).