Hundreds flooded into Airedale Hospital’s restaurant area on Tuesday afternoon to see lively demonstrations of a range of medical treatments Stands focusing on specialisms such as maternity, accident and emergency and surgery gave young and old alike a behind-the-scenes view of how the hospital is run.

The exhibits were part of the NHS Trust’s annual open day.

Visitors could experience putting on a plaster cast, have an ultrasound scan, speak to medical experts in person and watch demonstrations of procedures such as endoscopy.

They were offered the chance to become members of the trust as part of a drive to increase public involvement in their local hospital.

The afternoon featured demonstrations of the hospital’s new telemedicine service.

This involves Airedale entering into contracts with prisons across the UK to offer treatment to inmates via a video link.

There were also free health checks, advice on diabetes and maternity care and activities for children. Information was available for anyone interested in a career in the NHS.

Among those attending was Keighley resident Hanif Ansar, 17, who said he intended to study medicine at university.

He added he had longer term plans to become a surgeon.

“Obviously, I’ve got a long way to go but it’s good to come to an event like this and see what may be on offer career wise in the future,” he said.

“It’s daunting to think that I’ve got six years before I’m even a junior doctor but this gives me a bit more motivation.”

Carl Hunter, 18, who also plans to study medicine, said he enjoyed having a chance to speak to the professionals.

“They’re very helpful and encouraging,” he said. “I know it’s a challenging career and will be very tough so I need as many useful tips as I can get.”