Keighley could soon have its own answer to popular radio soap opera the Archers.

Actors, scriptwriters and engineers are all required to produce the town-based drama offering a slice of local life.

Listeners will be invited to follow the fortunes of fictional fellow townsfolk when episodes begin airing this Spring.

The initiative is the brainchild of the Welcome Project and Keighley community radio station Jam on Top.

The Welcome Project runs several Not Over The Hill Yet! groups, which encourage over-50s in Keighley district villages to get involved in community life.

Older people in particular are being sought to help produce the soap at Jam on Top’s Dalton Lane studio.

Sessions are due to run on winter Tuesdays, from 10am to 4pm, to prepare episodes for transmission when Jam on Top relaunches in March.

The Internet broadcaster will return with popular shows like Spinky’s 70s, Best of British, Bronte Beats and You Know You’re From Keighley When.

Jam on Top bosses Brian and Tracy Leach are working on the Archers idea with Welcome Project members Shona Grange, Geoff Grainger and Andy Sheppard.

Brian said: “We hope the idea of a local radio soap opera will appeal to people because many of them will have stories to tell.

“We also hope to attract people interested in writing scripts, acting, recording, sound editing and making jingles.”

Shona Grange said the soap illustrated the Welcome Project’s aim to help people use their skills for the benefit of the community.

She added: “It doesn’t do when people who are retired or have some sort of disability are made out to be a burden on society.

“In reality, many people are more than happy to offer their skills to benefit others.”

Contact Brian on (01535) 600133 or e-mail info@jam-radio.co.uk to get involved with the radio soap opera, or visit jam-radio.co.uk for further information.