A HUGE project is under way to add some sparkle to Keighley this Christmas.

People of all ages can take part in the initiative – the Festive Bauble Project.

Children and adults across the town are being encouraged to create baubles, which will be displayed on the Christmas tree in the Airedale Shopping Centre.

The scheme has been initiated by residents Melissa Booth and Helen James, who have worked together at Keighley Healthy Living for several years.

Funding has been provided by Keighley Big Local and the Business Improvement District.

Helen said: “It all started in December last year with a social media post to gauge whether there would be enough interest in encouraging children to create the baubles for a Christmas tree in the town centre.

“The post generated quite a lot of interest and as a result Melissa and I began to make plans over afternoon tea.

“With the help of schools, groups, churches and residents, we are hoping to encourage children and adults to create 1,000 baubles.”

Support is being given by the Airedale Shopping Centre and a number of groups and organisations including Keighley Creative, Keighley Big Local, the Keighley Healthy Living young parents’ group and Riddlesden Guides.

Shaun O’Hare, of Big Local, said: “Potentially many of the Christmas celebrations and events we are used to may not be held this year, so supporting grassroots activity like the Bauble Project is incredibly important to keep the festive cheer alive.

“We have already had a great response from groups in the Big Local area and across Keighley. It is a town-wide project.”

Templates are available to print out at facebook.com/Keighleybauble.

Once completed, the baubles can be dropped-off in special boxes at locations across the town including the Airedale Shopping Centre, Keighley Creative Space, in Hanover Street, and Keighley Healthy Living in Scott Street.

Mr O’Hare thanks all those who have supported the project so far.

“It has been well received,” he said.

“One thousand templates have been printed – let’s get them all designed and hung on the tree!”

For further information, visit the Facebook page or email melissa.bruley41@gmail.com.