RECORD numbers of children are taking part in a Keighley scheme to raise awareness of safety issues.

Two thousand youngsters from primary schools across Keighley and Bradford have signed-up for this year's Stay Safe initiative.

A range of activities is being held over four days next week (from July 6) at the Leeds City College Keighley Campus.

Fourteen schools are involved in the scheme, which is being hosted by the college for the fourth consecutive year.

Keighley Work Safe Project is staging the venture with support from several agencies including the Bradford Council road safety team, Yorkshire Water, British Transport Police, the school nurse team, Bradford District Care Trust, Northern Gas Networks, Northern Powergrid, St John's Ambulance, the Dogs Trust and the fire service.

Dave Towers, for Keighley Work Safe, said: "The commitment of these agency partners has allowed this project to flourish when many similar schemes in other areas have ended.

"Keighley Campus has been integral to this, with the offer to host the event free of charge."

Tim Jickells, 14-16 partnership manager at the college, said: "The tremendous feedback from teachers attending in previous years, the variety of scenario presentations and the behaviour of the children who attend convinced us of the value of the project in the locality.

"We are determined that if possible we will continue to host the project in future years."

Funding is provided through Bradford Council's public health service.

Executive member Councillor Ralph Berry said: "I am impressed at the partnership work and support from Keighley Campus for this important local project, which helps children become aware of a range of risks and to protect themselves from everyday dangers."