KEIGHLEY people are being urged to show their support as the town bids for a prestigious national award.

The public is asked to use social media to demonstrate its backing for Keighley's entry in the Great British High Street Awards.

The town is vying for the coveted Rising Star crown in the annual initiative.

If successful, Keighley would share in a cash pot and receive dedicated support and mentoring from industry experts – which could range from one-to-one coaching to digital marketing advice.

The entry has been spearheaded by Keighley Business Improvement District (BID), set-up to improve the town and attract more visitors.

Funded by a levy on traders, various measures have been introduced and a series of activities staged in the town centre.

The latest event, Keighley's Big Day Out, takes place this Saturday (Sept 24). It will feature art, music, literature and dance.

Also planned are a day of Halloween activities on October 29 and the Christmas lights switch-on on November 27.

BID manager, Paul Howard, said: "In Keighley there have been many great projects, such as Keighley in Bloom and the Townscape Heritage Initiative, which have enhanced the beauty and vitality of our town.

"In addition, the BID has brought major investment to the town directly through the co-operation of businesses – allowing us to create a new website and town-centre guides and to host the hugely successful Keighley by the Sea event. And we're only just getting started!

"The Great British High Street Awards are a brilliant opportunity for us and the Rising Star accolade would be a great achievement.

"High streets are a vital part of our local economy, providing jobs as well as offering a valuable community space.

"We'd love it if as many people as possible from the local area could show their support by using the hashtag #GBHighStreet."

Once a shortlist of entries has been announced, people will be able to vote for their favourite.

The Great British High Street organisation, a not-for-profit body, supports the regeneration of high streets across Britain and celebrates innovative schemes.

A spokesman for the awards said: "We have been bowled over by the number and quality of the entries and are now busy considering all the applications."

Finalists will be announced next month.

Visit thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk for more details.

For further information about Keighley BID and planned events, visit discoverkeighley.co.uk.