MEMBERS of Keighley’s Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) have added sparkle to Christmas for youngsters and the elderly.

The group called at the Airedale Hospital children’s ward to deliver gifts and cards, donated by the Ahmadiyya Muslim community.

And members visited residents at Herncliffe Nursing Home in Keighley.

Dr Adeem Rubani, youth leader for AMYA Keighley, said: “Our desire to visit the elderly and those sick in hospital is derived from our faith, which teaches us to respect and care for those most vulnerable in society.

“Islam emphasises kindness towards those in need and we wish to instil this within our youth.

“At a time of festivities it can be very lonely to be in hospital, especially as a young child.

“Therefore we believe it’s a vital part of young people’s development to feel the pain and anxiety of others and attempt in some small way to sympathise with them.”

AMYA Keighley is planning further community activities in the coming weeks, including a town-centre clean-up on New Year’s Day.