A Keighley company is hob-nobbing with royalty.

John Pickard Hardware has produced a revolutionary doorknob, which it wants to name Queen Elizabeth. Now the firm is writing to Buckingham Palace, seeking Royal assent for the move.

The unique basket-shaped doorknob has been designed and manufactured by the 15-employee company, which moved to its current site at Airedale Road two years ago.

Managing director John Pickard said: "There is a Queen Anne range of door furniture, so I thought why not Queen Elizabeth?

"The doorknob has now been in production for two or three months and will be appearing in a catalogue we have coming out soon.

"I am hoping the Queen will give permission for it to be named after her. She might even like it herself. It is quite expensive -- at about £50 a set -- but it is put together by hand.

"I will be interested to see what response we get from the palace."

Buckingham Palace told the Keighley News the request would be given full consideration.

The spokesman added: "We do get lots of different companies wanting to name something -- perhaps a plant, or a product -- after a member of the Royal Family, but I think a doorknob might be a first!"