STUDENTS from two Keighley-district schools were among more than 500 from across the district given the chance to air their views to healthcare bosses.

Pupils from University Academy Keighley and South Craven School, at Cross Hills, took part in the Your Future, Your Health event at Bradford City's Valley Parade stadium.

They had the opportunity to speak to Michael Luger, chairman of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, and Dr Andy Withers, clinical chairman of the Bradford Districts Clinical Commissioning Group.

Airedale, together with the Bradford Teaching Hospitals and Bradford District Care trusts, joined forces to stage the event.

There were 'zones' which tackled issues including emotional health and wellbeing, drugs awareness and the effects of smoking and drinking, and experts from the district's health bodies were on hand to offer advice.

A washing line filled with hand-shaped comment cards offered teenagers the chance to give feedback on the event and their experiences with the NHS.

CPR demonstrations were also given and a rap artist developed works based on young people's views of healthcare.

Question and answer sessions enabled students to present their observations on accident and emergency ward waiting times and the health treatment given to older relatives.

Paul Hogg, Bradford District Care Trust secretary and event organiser, said: "We wanted to give young people an opportunity to voice their opinions on healthcare and have access to credible advice on issues that may affect them.

"It's the first ever joint event of its kind locally, so as partners we'll be interested in the feedback we receive."

Organisers, who hope to run the event every two years, are now gathering comments from each of the schools which attended.