THE ACTIVITIES of three voluntary groups in Silsden have been highlighted to Bradford councillors.

Keighley Area Committee received updates on groups that look after Silsden Town Hall, the local environment and older residents.

Officers from the council’s Keighley area coordinator’s office give ongoing support to all three groups.

Silsden Green Spaces came together several months ago and held their first community clean-up in September 2016 at Hothfield cemetery.

The group, which has seven members and another 15 helpers, has received council support with the borrowing of tools, funding, health and safety, and networking with other council departments such as Bereavement Services.

The Friends of Silsden Town Hall, set up after the building was refurbished in 2013, has organised several activities for the community.

One of the latest events was held to support older people and involved around 15 volunteers.

A spokesman said: “The event has helped re-establish an older community tradition of ‘afternoon teas for the elderly’. Around 50 over-75s joined enjoyed music provided by the Swing Cat Trio.

The event was opened by the Mayor of Silsden, Councillor Peter Robinson, and funding came from the Beverley Tillotson Trust.

Later Life Cobbydale is made up of Silsden volunteers, supported by professionals from Keighley area coordinator’s office, Carelink, Keighley Volunteer Centre and Keighley and Ilkley Voluntary and Community Action.

Group members originally came together to discuss health issues in the community, then worked with partners to produce a booklet entitled Late Life Cobbydale.

A spokesman said: “The information within the booklet will assist older people to access services and activities on the doorstep.

“It will encourage those who may be on their own or isolated to take part in local activities.”