AS part of a series of roundtables being held throughout Yorkshire, law firm Clarion visited Keighley College where local businesses met two headteachers to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by Keighley businesses.

The roadshow event was chaired by Clarion, who is undertaking a series of roundtables in local towns and cities.

“The skills gap was once again a key topic on the agenda,” said Sophie Morley, partner at Clarion. “We heard some tales of how to and how not to retain employees and there was a lot of discussion around ways in which local employers are having to be flexible in recruiting and understanding what makes employees stay loyal.

“Many businesses agreed they could no longer advertise 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday jobs and that such a role may need several employees all working flexibly to cover those hours.

“We also heard from Kevin O’Hare, principal of Keighley College, and Jon Skurr of Carlton Academy Trust, about the talented students they know of who are now looking for opportunities in the workplace.

“The event was a great opportunity to forge connections between businesses and schools and to help bring together those living, working and running businesses in Keighley to help the town to thrive.”