A cramped and outdated police station has been transformed thanks to a £500,000 refurbishment project.

Defunct magistrates courts in Keighley have been revamped to provide more offices - including the first purpose built major incident room.

Where once stood the criminal in the Number One court dock, now police officers are paraded and briefed before each working day.

And where magistrates used to dispense justice, road traffic police officers carry out their paperwork.

A television plays and police officers enjoy a meal in the new canteen where once was housed Number Two court.

The old magistrates courts formed part of the police station in North Street. They were closed in the late 1990s.

The refurbishment project marked the final phase in a programme which has also included updating the cells.

The transformation has taken about six months to complete, and was officially opened by West Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Graham Moore - his last official task before his retirement later this month.

Guests at the ceremony included Keighley MP Ann Cryer and the new Mayor of Keighley, Councillor Martin Leathley.

Mr Moore said: "This shows we are directing the money where it is needed to help officers deliver a better service.

"Keighley had mystical status, especially the cells, which were constricted, sweaty and tight. When I was first appointed I came to Keighley to see the cells for myself. The description was right.

"I am delighted to have been instrumental in making a difference. This work represents very great improvements."

The new major incident room meant that investigations like the recent Qadir Ahmed killing in Keighley could in future be dealt with from Keighley rather than from Toller Lane incident room in Bradford, said Chief Superintendent Graham Sunderland, commander of Keighley police.

Detective Chief Inspector Roger Gasson, who started his career as a PC 27 years ago in Keighley, said: "It was very close and cramped and the conditions were difficult to work in.

"This has been a long time coming, and it represents huge improvements for police officers and the public who use the building."