KEIGHLEY councillors has given £500 to help a teenage athlete compete in the USA.

James Crossley from East Morton will represent Great Britain at the Special Olympics World Games next year in Los Angeles.

Bradford councillors who represent Keighley East ward, Doreen Lee, Steve Pullen and Malcolm Slater, made the donation from their Area Ward Fund.

Power lifter James, who is trained by Bradford Disability Sport and Leisure, has to find £2,250 to take part in the competition.

Coun Lee said: “We are delighted to support this young man to represent Great Britain next year.

“This is unusual to sponsor an individual but this is exceptional as he is a champion gold medal winner in last year’s National Games.

“I hope the people and businesses of Keighley also get behind him in any way they can.”

“We all hope James brings home gold, and we wish the Great Britain team all the best.”

Hilary White, chairman of Bradford Disability Sport and Leisure, said she was sure that you do Keighley proud at the World Games.

She added: “This is fantastic news for James and we are eternally grateful to the Keighley East Ward Councillors.”