SKIPTON Building Society has pledged its support to armed forces personnel.

The society, whose branch network includes Cavendish Street, Keighley, and Kirkgate, Silsden, has signed up to the armed forces covenant.

It's the 700th business in Yorkshire to become a signatory.

Chief executive, Stuart Haire, says: "We know all too well what an incredible resource of skill, knowledge and experience individuals with time in the armed forces can bring to an organisation. We’re lucky to already have many colleagues from the armed forces community.

"But this is our bugle call. When it comes to a career after or alongside military service, we want to turn members of the armed forces into members of our workforce."

A signing ceremony took place at Skipton Castle, where guests included Lieutenant Colonel Richard Hill, commanding officer of 4th Battalion, The Royal Yorkshire Regiment.

He said: "We're thrilled that Skipton Building Society has become the 700th Yorkshire business to sign the covenant. This is a real milestone for the region."