A COMMUNITY gathering has celebrated the work of people across the district in fostering unity.

Keighley-based Eden Community Association organised the event, in partnership with Inspire Support Sports Empower.

Communities Together in Celebration, held in the council chamber at City Hall, Bradford, recognised individuals and groups.

Award recipients were joined by guests including West Yorkshire deputy lieutenants Gill Arnold and Dr Manoj Joshi, High Sheriff Adeeba Malik and Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Bev Mullaney.

Eden Community Association director, Councillor Ashraf Miah, says: "The event highlighted the exceptional efforts of individuals and organisations working to strengthen and unite the Bradford district, and showcased the strength of collaboration in making it a more connected and vibrant place for everyone.

"A key objective was to promote cultural exchange, providing an opportunity for diverse communities to connect. With inclusivity at its heart, the celebration fostered mutual respect, understanding and co-operation amongst the many groups that contribute to the district's rich cultural diversity.

"This was the first event of its kind in the council chamber and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

"At Eden Community Association, we serve the grassroots community in Keighley and beyond. We are grateful for everyone’s support, and hope to make this event even bigger and better next year.

"Let’s continue celebrating the incredible work being done across the district."

Humayun Islam, director of Inspire Support Sports Empower, says: "It’s essential to create a platform that highlights grassroots achievements, and the council chamber provided a fitting venue.

"I extend my gratitude to our partner organisation Eden Community Association, and particularly councillors Ashraf Miah and Fulzar Ahmed, whose hard work made this event possible.

"I congratulate all the award recipients, and thank the dignitaries and everyone who attended."

Those who received awards included Ruhel Miah, for international charity work; Dr Ikram Butt, in recognition of a sports campaign against racism and contributions to the British Asian Rugby Association; and Paul Megaros and Cllr Chris Hayden, for their work with Hope not Hate Bradford.

Amongst other recipients were Fatima Patel, of Asian Standard; Haji Gulfor Ali and the late Hazrat Maulana Fokhrul Islam Sahib, lifetime achievement; and Ali Abed and Naz Khan, Afghan Mercy Bradford and Greater Sylhet Community UK (North Region) for community and culture.

Community football teams recognised included Bradford Kings, Crossflatts, Sonar Bangla, Sporting Bradford, Sylheti Allstars and Rocky Park, plus Bradleigh Pioli, of Bradford City FC Community Foundation.