What a wonderful example Keighley is setting in the wake of the September 11 terrorist atrocities in America and the subsequent attacks on Afghanistan.

Firstly, we've had an unprecedented gathering of leading Muslims and Christians standing shoulder to shoulder to condemn the terrorists.

Leading Muslim clerics repeated their statements that Islam is totally opposed to such acts of terror - quite correctly trying to right any misconceptions.

Secondly, a group of Keighley women have returned from their pioneering trip to Pakistan, and point out that any riots in Pakistan have been in Afghan refugee dominated areas. The vast majority in Pakistan support the stance taken by the President, General Pervez Musharraf .

Thirdly, a peace vigil was held in Town Hall Square calling for an end to air strikes in Afghanistan. Those who took part believe the terrorists should be brought to justice, but support a diplomatic solution.

Fourthly, purely by coincidence, students from Greenhead High School and the Holy Family School's sixth forms held a day-long conference called 'What would a peaceful Keighley be like - and what can we contribute towards it?' It was held in response to the Bradford riots and summer disquiet in Keighley.

Fifth and finally we have had graffiti supporting the Taliban and Osama bin Laden daubed around the town. That is clearly the work of ignorant young people and should be treated as such.

As Mahboob Alam of Keighley Muslim Association said at the evening of peace and reconciliation - People of all faiths must work together to destroy the root of terrorism and ensure this kind of thing is never repeated.

No-one should doubt Keighley will keep on track as it follows the routes of frank, open and honest debate, mixed with good lines of communication.