A Keighley councillor with a long-standing commitment to disability issues has become a director on a mental health care trust.

Councillor Barry Thorne has been appointed as a non-executive director with Bradford District Care Trust for one year.

The 55-year-old, from Nashville Terrace, who has served on Bradford Council for 28 years, has been an active fundraiser and supporter for the Bradford Sports and Recreation Association for People with Disabilities. As father to an autistic son, Stephen, 32, the provision of care for people with mental health and learning disabilities is also a subject close to his heart.

He said: "I've always wanted to be on the board but couldn't before as I was on Bradford Council's executive and it would have been a clash of interests.

"The fact that I work for a disabled charity and have a son with autism means I have got a feeling for how parents and people with disabilities feel.

"I think that because of my experience in this area I have got something to contribute and I am excited about joining the board.

"I think the move to a care trust has been good and in its first year I think there have already been improvements for patients."

The care trust -- formed last April -- provides mental health and learning disability services for patients in Keighley and mental health services for people in Craven.

Chairman Linda Pollard said: "Each of our new directors brings with them a wide range of experience and knowledge, as well as an understanding of the needs of the community. During our first year we have striven to create a trust which is both a good employer and which can lead the modernisation of health and social care to meet the needs of the people of our diverse district. We believe our new directors can deliver this."

Conservative councillor for Clayton David Servant has also become a non-executive director for a year, while Polly English, representing Craven District Council, has been re-appointed for four years.

They will all receive £5,426 a year.