A new initiative to help local manufacturing firms is being launched this week in a bid to give the sector a louder voice and boost trading links.

The Bradford & Airedale Manufac-turing Alliance has been established by Bradford Chamber of Commerce after consultations with local businesses. It will offer support, advice and information to help firms survive the economic downturn.

The new body will be launched on Thursday at the Keighley campus of Leeds City College.

It will provide business-to-business trading opportunities and an advice forum. The launch event will be addressed by Barry Pearson, director of global operations at one of Bradford’s most successful manufacturing companies, Saltaire-based digital TV technology group, Pace plc.

Stephen Wright, deputy president of Bradford Chamber of Commerce, said manufacturing was vital to the economy in the Bradford and Airedale district, employing nearly 30,000 people.

Mr Wright, managing director of Bradford-based Thorite, said: “Manufacturing is still considered an important part of business and commerce in Bradford. It is now widely recognised that having a diverse economy gives greater scope for development and growth.

“BAMA will support skills needs in manufacturing, where the local supply chain is still important for the sector’s growth and success.”