A SILSDEN company is backing an initiative which aims to attract more young people into manufacturing.

Advanced Actuators was among firms represented at an initial information event organised as the countdown begins to Bradford Manufacturing Week, which takes place in October.

Those present learned more about the district's current-day manufacturing industry, and what may lay ahead in the future.

Advanced Actuators showcased an electro-hydraulic product it has developed to help in the processing and movement of water in countries including Dubai, Qatar and Iraq.

The gathering also heard from career specialist Aspire-igen, which is creating manufacturer partnerships with schools.

A Bradford Grammar School student, Nia Naru, spoke about the benefits of work experience.

A 'toolkit' for the week was unveiled to support manufacturers in delivering good-quality work placements, tours and visits.

And Bradford Council representatives talked about the backing that will be offered to manufacturers in ensuring health and safety standards are met.

Bradford Manufacturing Week – which will run from October 8 to 12 – aims to create 1,000 work experience days for the district's teenagers, engaging with around 20,000 pupils across 75 schools.

Nick Garthwaite – managing director of international chemical and detergent manufacturer Christeyns, and organiser of the venture – said the turnout at the initial event was "fantastic" and that a number of schools and companies had already signed-up to the week.

He added: "This event was about giving more detail around the logistics of Bradford Manufacturing Week and the support that is on offer to schools and manufacturers to ensure everyone involved gets the most out of the initiative.

"From work experience and placement guidance to talking through the help available in having young people on site, Bradford Manufacturing Week's partners are here to make the process as easy as possible."

Chris Woodhead, managing director of Advanced Actuators, said he was fully supportive of the venture.

He added: "Our product development and distribution is world leading and it was fantastic to hear how West and North Yorkshire Chamber – alongside its partners – will be helping more manufacturers like us get young people through their doors to inspire, motivate and encourage consideration of a manufacturing career."

Advanced Actuators was originally formed as Elram International in 1969, to design and manufacture hydraulic actuators for the mining and steel industries.

As market forces changed during the 1980s, Elram developed a new range of products aimed at the power generation, oil and gas sectors.

Then in 1999, Advanced Component Technology Ltd was established to expand the supply of electro-hydraulic actuators into markets across the world.

The firm moved to its present, purpose-built manufacturing site at Ryefield Way in Silsden in 2004, which enabled it to further expand its product range.

The name change to Advanced Actuators Limited took place seven years ago.

Businesses wishing to get involved with Bradford Manufacturing Week should visit bradfordmanufacturingweek.co.uk for more details.