KEIGHLEY College has taken centre stage globally.

The campus hosted 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 – addressed the event.

College principal, Kevin O’Hare, said: "This event was a real milestone for the town. It put Keighley on the map globally – showcasing its rich culture, ideas and community spirit.

"We were thrilled to welcome diverse audiences, that engaged in discussions through a phenomenal celebration of ideas and concepts.

"Twenty like-minded experts engaged with our community and students on a fusion of innovative topics – such as the rise of artificial intelligence, raising aspirations of young people in the district, the power of apprenticeships, diversity in the TV and film industry, and sustainable businesses."

The overall theme was 'life chances'.

Tim Rogers – founder of Future Transformations, which runs TEDx – said: "Keighley is a national epicentre of talent, shown through its skilled individuals and unbreakable resilience.

"This event was a unique opportunity to show the world what the town has to offer, and champion individuals who're leading the way in some of the country’s most exciting projects.

"We want to help shape the minds and skills of the local workforce, and what better way to do this than by hosting TEDx at Keighley College, which sits at the heart of the community. We have brought together communities, educators and businesses to show the town’s capacity to become a thriving place which encourages a new way of thinking and working."

Amongst the speakers was Jason Atkinson, who started his career as an electrical apprentice before progressing to technical director at Keighley manufacturing firm Byworth Boilers.

He said: "The Bradford district is a real melting pot of ambitious and diverse young people, however not all of them know about the vast career opportunities available. I was fortunate enough to discover apprenticeships, giving me the chance to engage in real-world scenarios and put my knowledge into practice.

"The aim of my talk was to demonstrate the importance of providing young people with the best life chances by exposing them to options and career sectors they may not have come across before. Through discussing my journey from apprentice to director, I hope to inspire the next generation to consider apprenticeships, which can lead to fulfilling careers."