Security has been stepped up following two incidents within weeks in the grounds of Airedale hospital. And in response to raised fears following the Lund Park attacks, hospital staff have been offered personal alarms.

A security guard was punched in the face after challenging a man in the hospital grounds last Friday night. The guard was patrolling at around 11.10pm when he was struck, sustaining a cut to his face. The attacker ran off.

The assault followed an incident less than a month ago when a nurse was accosted by a man who demanded the keys to her living quarters.

Now safety measures - such as an escort service for staff between the main hospital building, car parks and accommodation blocks - are being given a higher profile.

Richard Fisher, head of commercial services at the hospital, says: "We have issued personal alarms to any staff who feel vulnerable, such as those on the late shifts. These alarms are the same as those issued by the police.

"Following the attacks in Keighley and the first of the incidents at the hospital safety concerns among staff understandably were raised, and we responded to this.

"We have had an escort service - provided by porters and security staff - in place for some time, but we have given this more prominence and it is being better supported."

He adds that CCTV cameras have been in operation at the hospital site - where around 2,500 people are employed - for some time, and it is hoped to extend the system.

Sgt Allan Gee, of Keighley police, says: "Women, while walking alone at night, particularly in unlit areas, should take care in relation to their own safety.

"We would certainly advise people to get personal attack alarms."

A safe transport scheme for women in Keighley has seen a dramatic rise in passenger numbers after the recent attacks in Lund Park. Safe Rider members say 128 women a week are currently using the mini-bus service compared to the usual figure of around 90.

The door-to-door transport service for teenage girls and women has also seen an increase in the number of inquiries and people joining the scheme. Company secretary Pat Schofield says: "We are seeing a lot more younger women using the service and certainly more women who are going to work."

The service, which costs £1.75 for a return ticket or £1 for Passport to Leisure holders, must be booked in advance by phoning 611800 between 6-8pm, Mondays to Saturdays.

Tickets and more information is also available from Keighley Information Centre on 618014.

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