RIO-BOUND Muhammad Ali has been hailed by Keighley's mayor for being a positive role model in the town.

Councillor Shabir Ahmed was among several hundred well-wishers at a special farewell dinner for the Olympic boxer before he joined up with the Great Britain squad to fly to Brazil last week.

And the official praised the 20-year-old youngster, who grew up in Keighley, for helping to boost the town's image.

Mr Ahmed said: "Muhammad Ali has had a big impact in Keighley town. It’s amazing what he has achieved. It’s a tribute to him.

"I’ve seen him training and he’s very dedicated. He’s a role model for Keighley youngsters.

"He puts Keighley on the map in a positive way and I’ll be watching all his bouts on television."

Supporters turned up in big numbers at The Venue in Bradford to pay tribute to flyweight Ali for making the Olympics in only his first full year in senior amateur boxing.

There was a large contingent from Keighley, with resident Wasim Iqbal saying: "There a lot of issues happening around Keighley but Ali’s success gives the town a better picture and good outlook around the country and around the world.

"He has put Keighley on the map for the right reasons. We just wanted to give him a good farewell to let him know Keighley is behind him and Great Britain is as well. We’re looking forward to seeing all his fights."

Other guests came from around West Yorkshire, plus a group from Bury Amateur Boxing Club, where Ali trains, including his coach Mick Jelley.

Ali's father Shahid Saleem said: "I'd like to thank everyone that’s turned up to see off Ali – not just today but throughout the journey. It’s really good support and he’s always had good crowds watching him.

"Hopefully he will do Yorkshire and Great Britain proud."