HUNDREDS of school and college students were given an insight into their future options at a jobs fair in Keighley College.

The event, which was backed by Keighley Town Council, was held in the atrium and student common room of the Bradford Road campus yesterday afternoon. (April 19) It was formally opened by Keighley town mayor Councillor Mohammed Nazam.

The fair was originally meant to take place at the beginning of March but was postponed due to heavy snow. It ended up being held on the hottest day of the year so far.

Nicholas Walton, transition and employability officer at the college, said: "We had lots of interest from both schools and the wider community and we've had great feedback on the event from employers.

"Despite having to reschedule we've still had really good numbers, with the businesses we were expecting to attend all turning up.

"The students enjoyed themselves and a lot of people left with a very positive attitude about their future."

Airedale Hospital had a substantial presence at the fair, with a number of different stands showcasing different career opportunities available in the NHS.

Other organisations and companies present included the armed forces, Acorn Stair Lifts, Gesipa, Fibreline, Avon Products, Joda Freight, Bradford University, Craven College and Job Centre Plus.

Curriculum and operations director Heather Whitehead explained that Joda Freight brought along one of their heavy goods vehicles for young people to get a close-up look.

"We're beginning new apprenticeships with Joda in HGV driving, vehicle maintenance and warehouse work," she added.

"There was a really good atmosphere here during the jobs fair. It's so important to open people's eyes to the opportunities that are out there, and also for them to understand just how much is manufactured within Keighley and district."

She added that each organisation with a stand at the fair had paid £25, and that these sums would be combined to make a donation to Manorlands Hospice.