THE work of a centre in Keighley which helps integrate newcomers to the district was praised by the town mayor after he was invited to visit its premises.

Mayor Councillor Fulzar Ahmed, who toured the Good Shepherd Centre with his wife and mayoress, last Wednesday (June 13) said the facility provides an invaluable service.

"The staff and volunteers there are full of energy, and are driven by a strong management team," he added.

"They provide much-needed support to new arrivals from Eastern Europe and other countries. Just recently they have been helping people from Syria."

Cllr Ahmed said the centre, which is in West Lane, donates items such as clothing, furniture and cots to families and individuals in urgent need of assistance.

And he said that during his visit he was impressed to see the centre running three different classes to help people learn English.

"At a time when resources are so limited they are doing outstanding work," he added. "For me it was a very worthwhile visit."

He said the people who welcomed him had in turn been interested to learn more about the town mayor's civic regalia.

Cllr Ahmed said he had invited people from the centre to pay a return visit to the Keighley Town Hall Chamber, where the town council holds its meetings.