Keighley must build on its newly-awarded Fairtrade Town status and expand the range of products offered.

That was the message as business and community leaders reflected on the success of the town’s bid for the coveted accreditation.

Steve Seymour, manager of Keighley’s Airedale Shopping Centre, said: “The centre is proud to be part of the Fairtrade provision in Keighley.

“We must now start to look at the initiatives and ideas identified as part of the accreditation to further develop Fairtrade in Keighley over the next three years.”

Town centre manager, Philip Smith, said: “This status will no doubt bring opportunities for our retail businesses in terms of product offer and for a new customer base. We look forward to more businesses joining those already offering Fairtrade products.”

A steering committee was set up in the spring to spearhead efforts to win the accreditation.

A spokesman for the steering committee said: “Further education and awareness around fair, honest and safe labour practice will underpin vibrant and sustainable trade.

“Purchasing products labelled with the Fairtrade mark is one way of ensuring the quality and accountability in the supply chain.”

Keighley’s status will be officially launched at the town’s Christmas lights switch-on on November 24.