A FREE app has been launched in Keighley as part of efforts to help businesses recover from the impact of the pandemic.

The town has become the latest of 65 areas across the UK to adopt the multi-award-winning LoyalFree app, which encourages people to explore their high street and shop locally.

Through the initiative, local people and visitors will be able to access information about the area, exclusive deals and loyalty schemes, events and trails.

Businesses will benefit from advertising opportunities and social media support.

Discover Keighley has forged the partnership with LoyalFree to help boost footfall and sales for hard-hit traders across the town centre.

"We're excited to offer this digital platform to our businesses at a critical time," said a spokesperson for Discover Keighley.

"There are already some trails live on the app – including pubs, hair and beauty and home improvements. And keep an eye out for more trails and interactive experiences.

"We hope the app will encourage more people to support the local high street and we look forward to adding further exciting content soon."

Sophie Hainsworth, co-founder of LoyalFree, welcomed the Keighley launch.

She added: "We are delighted to be launching in Keighley after seeing the success of the partnership in other towns and cities. We're excited to be able to offer local businesses a way to expand their digital presence and encourage locals to return to the high street."

People can download the app at loyalfree.co.uk/download, or search LoyalFree on the iOS and Google play store.

Anyone downloading the app before the end of this month could win £200 in vouchers to spend at independent businesses in the town centre.

The venture is the latest in a series of initiatives spearheaded by Discover Keighley to support independent businesses in the town.

A campaign giving away thousands of pounds in vouchers to shoppers was launched in November and continues until January 31.

People who get three stamps at participating businesses are entered into a draw, with the chance of sharing a £25,000 pot.

There are ten weekly and three monthly draws over the course of the campaign.

Winners receive vouchers to be spent at any of the 40-plus premises taking part – which include shops, cafes and restaurants.

The current campaign, which follows the success of previous initiatives, is being promoted across social media and in shop windows.

For more about Discover Keighley, visit discoverkeighley.co.uk.