ACCESS to a Keighley business support centre has been improved by the donation of a stairlift by a neighbouring company.

The new stairlift at Airedale Enterprise Services, which recently moved into the Crown Works Business Centre, was donated by Steeton-based manufacturer Acorn Stairlifts and unveiled by Keighley MP Kris Hopkins.

AES, which provides training, access to funding and room hire for new and existing businesses, is based on the first floor of the building without lift access.

Mr Hopkins, who officially opened the centre in September, contacted Acorn Stairlifts, following a site visit with former Leader of the House of Commons William Hague in April.

Kris Hopkins said: “I am immensely grateful to Dave Belmont and the team at Acorn Stairlifts for their kindness and generosity. I know it is deeply appreciated by everyone at AES with the benefits being felt for many years to come by those now able to access both floors of the centre.

"The future success of the Keighley and Ilkley economy is dependent on the success of local business, with AES at the helm. Thanks to their contribution, Acorn Stairlifts have more than played their part is helping local enterprise to flourish.”

Kate Gledhill, Acorn Stairlifts group HR manager, said: “We were delighted to help when Kris got in touch. Limited mobility should never be detrimental to business success and we’re aware of the great work done by Airedale Enterprise Services, it’s an excellent training facility and resource for companies of all sizes."

The stairlift marks the tenth donation made by Acorn Stairlifts this year,

Wendy Spencer, AES business and operations manager, said the stairlift would provide a major boost to the centre which doubled its space by moving earlier this year.