A £500,000 appeal has been launched to extend the internationally acclaimed Keighley Disabled People's Centre.

New state-of-the-art facilities are planned which will keep the town at the global forefront of provision for the disabled.

A one-stop-shop will give visitors access to a range of services, including aids and adaptations, chiropody, additional training and a counselling room.

The two-storey extension -- to be built above the car park at the rear of the Temple Row Centre -- will also include office accommodation, which will be made available to local organisations.

The new centre, which will about double the size of the existing building, will include a purpose-built lift for direct wheelchair access.

A major player in the project is Help the Aged, and the scheme -- which has already received planning approval -- has won widespread support.

Keith Bell, the disability development and advice officer at Keighley Disabled People's Centre (KDPC), says: "We know from an extensive feasibility study and from our consultations with other organisations that there is a demand and a real need for the new facilities.

"Over 1,000 people now use our centre every week and we are running out of space. We need to extend to offer extra provision.

"The new centre will be second to none. We have been working closely with other organisations to ensure the extension will meet everybody's needs.

"It will cater for people with all disabilities and will provide facilities not currently available anywhere else in the district.

"We will be working closely with local businesses which will benefit from the skills training provided. Also, charities which do not have funding for their own decent modern office space -- and community groups seeking meeting rooms -- will benefit from the project. With other developments, such as the appointment of outreach workers, this is an exciting time for Keighley Disabled People's Centre."

A lottery grant is being sought to cover almost £300,000 of the cost, and KDPC is appealing to the public and businesses for their support in raising the remainder.

David Samuels, chairman of the fundraising committee, urges the community to rally around.

He says: "The work of KDPC is recognised throughout the world -- we have been approached by foreign governments looking for a model to set up similar schemes in their own countries -- and this extension will further enhance its provision.

"The whole community will benefit, and we hope people will look kindly at the scheme and offer help in whatever way they can."

Supporters can stage their own fundraising events. Also donations can be made by individuals or companies, or through legacies or payroll giving.

Anyone wanting further information about the appeal, or who is interested in becoming involved in the fundraising, should contact KDPC at 23 Temple Row (phone 01535 606700).