WHEN opposition to the planned Aire Valley incinerator first began to show its face, it initially drew very little attention.

One or two lone voices from people living close to the site, next to the trunk road at Marley, battled to be heard.

It is quite incredible how far the campaign has progressed.

As well as gaining momentum and members, the movement against the proposed waste-to-energy plant has gelled into an organised, determined and clearly-defined body.

There are of course people living in the town and its surrounds who feel that that the complex would bring benefits and are dismissive of objectors' claims, particularly with regard to the potential impact of the incinerator on the population's health.

But there is little doubt the swathe of public opinion has, over a relatively short period of time, shifted considerably.

And the 'anti camp' has received a massive boost in the shape of Keighley's new MP, John Grogan.

Not only has he pledged to donate half his first month's salary to the cause as campaigners push for a judicial review, but perhaps more significantly, he will be ensuring the issue reaches the corridors of power at Westminster.

Confidence amongst the objectors is rising, and it is easy to understand why.