If anyone doubted the community spirit of Keighley then those concerns should be dispelled.

Last year hundreds of people in this area suffered the results of the awesome power of mother nature. They lost their homes and possessions as floodwaters raged through the streets.

Within hours offers of help poured in to offer comfort, shelter and other forms of practical help as they were evacuated.

For many, such devastation had only been seen in news reports in other parts of the world.

Last week, as reports of the earthquake in India came through, the kindhearts of Keighley galvanised themselves into action once again.

The number of families from India in Keighley is quite small - but that was irrelevant. People from all backgrounds banded together - setting aside differences - to raise much-needed funds to help the victims of the disaster. Within a matter of hours £1,200 had been raised.

In the midst of the devastated cities of Ahmedabad and Bhuj two people from Keighley were working to help the victims. Stefan Hopkins, a former pupil of Greenhead, was part of a rescue team. He has returned with stories of joy and heartache. Nicola Sutherland, a former Oakbank pupil, was working with Oxfam as a press officer. She called from Bhuj, the epicentre of the earthquake, to tell her story. For both of them it was their first mission into a disaster area. Both tell of how they were inspired by the people of India, who despite their losses carried themselves with dignity and generosity.

What great ambassadors for Keighley they both are, and we salute them.

Meanwhile, much needed resources are pouring into the coffers to help provide warmth and comfort for the victims. We were delighted to take a leading role in launching an appeal and have been overwhelmed - but not surprised - by your generosity.