The possibility of better rail links between Bradford and Manchester Airport as part of a massive overhaul of services in the North West is certainly welcome.

The airport is, after all, the biggest in the country outside of London, and a direct train service would surely boost our existing businesses and could be a factor in persuading others to set up shop here.

We also have a thriving tourism industry thanks to some beautiful countryside and attractions such as the Saltaire World Heritage Site, the National Media Museum and historic Haworth, and better transport links could only increase visitor numbers.

However, it is important to remember that Bradford has its own airport which is also thriving and which plays a pivotal role in our local economy as well as raising the city and district’s profile in a way other airports cannot possibly match.

There is also little doubt that Leeds-Bradford Airport could be even more successful if it enjoyed better transport links to Bradford city centre and the rest of the district.

Our own Chamber of Commerce is right to flag up the importance of getting rail links to the Yeadon site, not only because it would boost business in the region but also because it would ease congestion on the roads network.

The support for one regional airport must not be allowed to overshadow the needs of Leeds-Bradford.