It issued the plea in response to data which shows that the number of apprenticeships across Keighley has fallen, from 880 in 2011-12 to 660 in 2021-22.

Former Keighley MP John Grogan, who is standing again for Labour in the constituency at the next general election, spoke on the issue at a conference held during National Apprenticeship Week.

Keighley College says it has supported many employers over the years, and is keen to hear from any businesses that could potentially benefit from a collaboration.

Principal, Kevin O'Hare, says: "As one of the biggest apprenticeship providers in the region, we are calling on local employers to get in touch with us about their skills needs.

"As part of the Luminate Education Group employer board, we want employers to help us shape our curriculum and apprenticeship offer so it reflects our local economy and to bridge any gaps.

"Since 2016, we have gone from 30 apprentices to almost 400, and have supported many employers in sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, fabrication and welding, healthcare, financial services, childcare and many more.

"Amongst those is manufacturing company, Produmax, which has worked with us for almost four years. Our apprentices have helped drive the company forward to achieve new goals and bring new perspectives, innovative ideas and solutions to the table.

"We encourage all local businesses to contact the Keighley College team if they would like to learn more about how we can collaborate and the support the college can offer."

For further information about Keighley College apprenticeships, visit keighleycollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships.

National Apprenticeship Week saw employers and organisations showcase their opportunities.

Mr Grogan was speaking at the Labour Party Northern Skills Conference, in Heckmondwike.

He said: "Keighley is a proud manufacturing town with many medium-sized and small employers still very much the backbone of the local economy.

"Employers in Keighley tell me that a lack of skilled labour is one of the main constraints on growth.

"The apprenticeship levy taxes employers nationwide 0.5 per cent of their payroll each month if they have an annual wage bill of over £3 million.

"Businesses paying into the pot can use this money to fund apprenticeship training schemes. But the system is restrictive as businesses cannot use the money to fund courses shorter than a year in duration, and consequently £3.5 billion is being wasted nationally."