Business confidence and optimism are returning to Keighley, according to the town’s MP, Kris Hopkins.

He said new figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) provided further evidence a brighter economic future lay ahead.

Mr Hopkins was speaking after the ONS revised upwards the UK growth figure for the second quarter of 2013.

He said official confirmation the economy grew by 0.7 per cent in the past quarter was another small step towards a sustainable recovery.

Mr Hopkins added: “I have spoken to many firms across the constituency in the past few months and it is clear business confidence and optimism are returning.

“Locally, we have seen unemployment in Keighley and Ilkley fall again, and 50 jobs will be created next month when TK Maxx opens its new store at Keighley Retail Park.

“I am under no illusion there are unlikely to be further bumps in the road. But I believe a brighter, more prosperous future does lie ahead if we continue to hold our nerve.”