A PLAN to provide Keighley mayors with a ceremonial guard from the ranks of a town cadet unit has been agreed to in principle by councillors.

The proposal, originally put forward by Keighley Sea and Royal Marine Cadets, was considered by members of Keighley Town Council.

Cadets spokesman Sergeant Scott Jessop explained to councillors that the idea was to select exceptional young cadets for additional responsibility by enabling them to fulfil the role of ceremonial escort for the mayor when he attends formal occasions in his civic capacity.

Cllr Andrea Walker said: "I think it's a very good idea. The sea cadets have done a lot for this town.

"In the early 80s I was one of the first female sea cadets and it did me a heck of a lot of good."

The idea received the unanimous backing of town councillors and will now go back to their policies and governance committee for the precise details to be finalised.

A background report on the proposals issued to councillors states that if they are implemented, one or more high-achieving cadets could be selected from within the Keighley Sea and Marine Cadets unit to serve a 12-month term as mayoral cadets.

It adds: "It's anticipated that the mayoral cadets might attend ten or so functions per year, as well as the annual meeting or council mayor making.

"These functions would be of the larger or more ceremonial nature or might be connected with the armed forces.

"It is proposed to limit the number of places to two and to draw them from the local Sea and Marine Cadets, who have proactively requested to provide this service.

"Should the scheme be successful, it has the potential to be expanded at a later date."