KEIGHLEY students heading to university in the autumn are being urged to get a free vaccination against meningitis.

All 17 and 18-year-olds are eligible for the so-called ACWY vaccine.

It is also open to first-time university entrants aged 19 to 25.

Charity Meningitis Now and GPs have issued the plea after it was revealed that last winter only 30 per cent of those eligible took-up the vaccine offer.

Cases of bacterial meningitis can spike during winter months and students are particularly susceptible.

Liz Brown, for Meningitis Now, said: "Up to a quarter of students carry the bacteria that can cause meningitis, compared to one in ten of the general population.

"Over 12 per cent of all cases occur in the 14 to 24 age group, with first-year students being at particular risk.

"It's vital that those going to uni this autumn are not complacent about the threat of meningitis – we urge them to take up this lifesaving vaccine before they go."

A mum from Riddlesden, whose young daughter died of a form of meningitis, has welcomed the news that the vaccine is available and being actively promoted to university students.

Andrea Walker lost her three-year-old daughter Ellie in January 2013.

Mrs Walker, who is a Keighley town councillor, said: "I'm glad to see that students will be able to have the vaccination this autumn.

"I've also been campaigning for this ever since Ellie died. Ultimately I'd like to see all children, babies and toddlers have the vaccine."

Visit meningitis.now.org or call the charity's freephone helpline on 0808 80 10 388 for more details.