KEIGHLEY will take centre stage globally next month.

The college is hosting the town's first-ever TEDx talk – events that are organised to help share ideas in communities across the world.

Speakers from a wide range of sectors – including health, technology, entrepreneurship and marketing – will address the event, at the Bradford Road campus on February 24.

College principal, Kevin O’Hare, said: "We are delighted to be bringing together speakers to share their views on a variety of subjects that will inspire and engage our students and the wider community.

"This is an opportunity to raise the profile of Keighley and introduce the community to a range of exciting opportunities to expand their horizons and mindsets, as well as hear from like-minded experts in their fields who share their thinking and ideas that will lead to growth in the town and surrounding areas.

"TEDx is an international community that organises events across the world, celebrating locally-driven ideas and elevating them to a global stage."

The overall theme for the Keighley event is 'life chances'.

Speakers will include leaders from across the town who will cover topics such as mental health and wellbeing, start-ups and sustainability, and positive marketing.

Tim Rogers – founder of Future Transformations, which runs TEDx – said it "made sense" to hold an event at the college.

He said: "Keighley has a rich history – with the globally-recognised Bronte Parsonage and Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, and manufacturing and engineering businesses continuing to be the town's bread and butter.

"Hosting TEDx at Keighley College makes sense. Not only is it recognisable, but it's also important to highlight the college's role in the town and its significance in shaping the minds, characters and skills of the workforce.

"Also, the diversity of the town is key. By representing the people with their experiences, culture and backgrounds, this will showcase the town's inclusiveness and commitment to building a better, stronger and sustainable community."

Mr Rogers added: "Keighley needs to bring together all of its assets, communities, educators and businesses to make it a sustainable place to live and work. I believe the town has the capacity, intellectual authority and motivation to become a successful, prosperous place welcoming new ideas, business and education."

Businesses and members of the community are welcome to attend the free event, which will run from 9am to 6pm. A hundred tickets are available. Email info@futuretransformation.org.