The newly-elected chairman of the Bradford Asian Business Association (BABA) has set himself a mission - to throw off the stereotypical cornershop image of the Asian entrepreneur.

Solicitor Iqbal Singh Seikh, 29, is determined that the association will better reflect the growing number of highly-qualified professionals among the district's Asian population.

"Typically businesses associated with Asians have been taxis and corner shops but this has changed and we now see lots of Asian professionals. We want to further encourage this diversification," he said.

BABA, which represents and assists Asian businesses operating in Bradford, has reorganised in the hope of bringing new blood to the organisation.

It was formed 15 years ago to provide a voice for Asian businesses but the organisation has lain dormant for the last two years.

With his election as chairman, Mr Seikh intends to re-establish the group.

"BABA was originally set up to achieve three objectives - to help Asian people access professional services without feeling intimidated due to language barriers and fear, to create networking opportunities and to become a voice for Asian businesses," he said.

"In my role as chairman I want to stick to these objectives and not get confused with other issues as has happened in the past.

"We also have plans to open a free advice phone line to offer practical business advice and information."

Former chairman Rashid Awan is now a patron of the organisation. Mr Awan hopes the new younger board members will regenerate the organisation.

Mr Awan said: "I am very pleased to still be a part of this very special organisation. As a patron of BABA I will take an advisory role and assist in any way possible.

"The combination of youth and experience is going to have a very positive impact on the work of the organisation."

Other committee members include: vice-chairmen Omar Khan and Qasem Awan, secretary Malik TH Siddique, general secretary Mohammed Asghar Choudhury, treasurer Abid Hussain, directors John Dowling and Sarwan Singh, and patrons AP Dharni, Nirmal Singh, David Scougall, Fazal Hussain.