International Women's Day celebrations triumphed in Keighley and succeeded in uniting women of all backgrounds.

Chairman of Powerful Whispers Christine Grayson says: "The event at the Sangat Centre went very well and was steadily busy. About 120 people signed in but there were about 150 altogether that came.

"People really seemed to enjoy it, particularly the performance element, and we had a really exciting line-up of things to do.

"It was fantastic to see a good mix of people from different cultures and, especially in the light of the race review, to see people working together in a really positive way.

"There was a mix of Asian and English food which was well appreciated.

"The Kala Sangam arts group danced and also let people participate in workshops. We had Morris dancers there too, and it was lovely to see some of the Asian children joining in with it.

"It was the first time the day has been held at the Sangat Centre and it was a real success - we made a video of it too, and a banner as a momento."

The Oxenhope Women's Group held their celebration on Sunday and united women from over 20 countries.

Thirty women and girls of all ages came from the Keighley Asian Women and Children Centre, and there were about 40 refugees and their children from the Bradford Immigration and Asylum Support and Advice Network.

"Despite speaking around 15 languages between us, we managed to find a lot in common, and a lot to talk about," said Julie Akhurst, Oxenhope Women's Group treasurer.

"Hopefully this event will be the first of many now some strong friendships have been formed."

A massive wall-map marked the birthplaces of women celebrating the day from many places including Siberia, the Ukraine, Georgia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia and Iran.

With them they brought food from their home countries to share.

The children present enjoyed drama, dancing, dressing up and games from many cultures.

For the adults there was Asian dancing, mendi hand-painting with henna, circle dancing, singing songs and simply enjoying each other's company.

Noreen Akhtar, ethnic minorities project manager at Keighley Voluntary Services, said: "The Oxenhope Women's Group has only recently started up but members organised an excellent day.

"It was good to see so many communities mixing and making an effort to get involved with each other. It was a very simple idea, which worked really well. It was a great day and no one had any preconceptions."