KEIGHLEY shops need people's support more than ever.

That was the message this week as townsfolk were urged to 'shop local' and back high street businesses.

The rallying call comes as traders gear up for the vital last few weeks before Christmas.

Steve Seymour, manager of the Airedale Shopping Centre, says: "Never more so than now has it been important to shop local and support Keighley's independent businesses.

"Keighley, like the whole of the UK and further afield, is still recovering from the devastating impact that Covid-19 brought with it – the changes in shopping patterns and the confidence to shop, socialise and do what we took for granted.

"To paraphrase Lord Kitchener, 'Keighley shops need you' and every penny really does count.

"So all I ask is that people come to town, enjoy the excellent range of independent shops, cafes and restaurants we have and help make this Christmas a great one for everyone – starting by coming down this weekend for the lights switch on event."

The festive lights will be switched on by Emmerdale star Bradley Johnson, who plays Vinny Dingle in the ITV soap, on Sunday (November 27) as part of a glittering afternoon of entertainment.

Bradley will perform the honours in the Church Green car park area at 4.30pm, when there'll also be a fireworks display.

But a host of musical entertainment will be held before that featuring The Trilogies, Voices of Yorkshire choir and Marigold Addams, who appeared as Cher on ITV's Starstruck.

Activities will begin at 2.30pm.

Keighley town mayor, Councillor Luke Maunsell, supports the plea to back businesses.

He adds: "Our town is full of cracking, independent businesses with outstanding stalls and shops which add to our economy – and products which enhance our lives.

"This Christmas, I would encourage everyone to stand with our family of businesses and shop local.

"Not only will you get high-quality products, but you'll be making a huge difference to our economy and the individual lives of fellow Keighley folk."

And Keighley MP Robbie Moore says: "With Small Business Saturday approaching – on December 3 – and Christmas on the horizon, it is so important for us to promote and celebrate our brilliant small businesses and to encourage people to shop, eat, drink, relax and do business locally.

"Whether it’s a stall in Keighley Market or one of the many fantastic independent traders across our area, small businesses are the backbone of our local economy and we need to give them all the support we can this winter."

* Mr Moore is currently running Small Business Awards. Visit robbiemooore.org.uk/nominate for details.