A POEM penned by a Keighley man is being used to promote a district-wide Christmas campaign.

Andy Warriner’s work was performed and recorded by school students, and the video is appearing on big screens and being shared across social media.

The Sparkling Bradford initiative is highlighting festive events and attractions across the district, with the aim of marketing the area as a ‘Christmas destination’ for people from throughout the north.

A special brochure has been produced, which will be distributed regionally.

It includes details of events ranging from Alpaca treks in Oxenhope to a Victorian Christmas market at Bradford Industrial Museum and Saltaire’s Living Advent calendar.

Information is also online.

In addition, there is an opportunity to win £1,000 worth of holiday vouchers, with a treasure hunt in search of 12 Christmas baubles.

Bradford Council and Visit Bradford are among those involved in the venture.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, the council’s executive member for healthy people and places, said: “Sparkling Bradford is exactly what the district needs – it brings together all of the events that people love into one big Bradford Christmas.

“The launch took place at The Broadway in Bradford and is being followed by annual highlights such as Illuminate Bradford, Ilkley Christmas Teepees, the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway Santa specials and the pantomime at the Alhambra as well as events at Bradford Council-run theatres, museums and in our parks and so much more

“It’s all in the brochure and online in one digestible package, making it easy for people to see what’s on offer.”

Jessica Braddy, 11, was among the pupils who performed the Sparkling Bradford poem.

She said: “I loved reading the poem – it made me feel so festive and excited about everything we do in Bradford.

“It’s such a special time of the year and Bradford is such a special place.

“I really hope that everyone loves what we’ve done and it makes even more people excited about visiting our district this Christmas!”

For further information about the campaign and a list of events, follow #SparklingBradford or go to visitbradford.com/SparklingBradford.

* Andy’s Sparkling Bradford poem:

From candles and crackers,

to clinking of glasses,

the cocktails and curries,

of partying masses.

From worship to wishes,

and mistletoe kisses,

the singing of carols,

to feasting on dishes.

From chocolate to chestnuts,

and pantos with laughter,

the goodwill of giving,

with pudding for afters.

From ribbons for wrapping,

to resting and napping,

the echo and memories,

of families chatting.

Distinctive, delightful,

diverse and delicious,

make Sparkling Bradford,

your choice, this Christmas.