Bosses have been urged to work together for a better future by the new president of the Bradford Textile Society.

Peter Vickers told members at the Society's first meeting of the new session that the textile industry had been hit heavily over the past few years but there were signs of improvement in some markets.

He said: "Confidence may be a necessary factor. All of us are hardened survivors. We know we need to stick together and collaborate further. Business in some areas is returning and the Government may be starting to listen."

Mr Vickers said the industry was on the Government's map thanks to the recently-announced aid package which could be a boost to morale as real money was being made available. He said the industry remained in a parlous position with the relative weakness of the Euro still a major obstacle.

"We have to build on the existing co-operation across the industry and throughout the supply chain. Our competitors are overseas and not down the street," he added.