It is very gratifying to hear Martin Havenhand, chief executive of Yorkshire Forward, putting as much faith in Bradford's regeneration as he did in a speech to Rotarians in the city yesterday. He had positive things to say about the Broadway shopping scheme, Odsal, Manningham Mills and the need to encourage innovation.

It all suggests that he is well aware of the city's potential and very much wants it to become, in his words, a "prosperous, diverse and sustainable" place

The problem with regeneration is that it costs money. Private companies are often reluctant to invest in areas which are seen to be depressed and deprived - especially when, as in Bradford's case, there are image problems - unless there is significant support from public bodies, either domestic or European, to help to underwrite potential losses if things go wrong.

Bradford needs as much kick-start capital as it can get. One of the major sources of this is Yorkshire Forward. It is very important that that organisation is seen to be batting for Bradford at every opportunity. Mr Havenhand notched up a useful score yesterday with comments such as "Bradford is a surprising place - it has so many assets to build on."

Hopefully with the launch of the Urban Regeneration Company and the appointment of renowned international architect Wil Alsop to create a masterplan for the heart of the city, Yorkshire Forward will develop the confidence to give Bradford the support it needs and thoroughly deserves.