Older people in Keighley are recalling their past during art workshops at Cliffe Castle Museum.

People from local community centres and care homes are able to handle historical objects during the weekly sessions.

Art tutor Ruth Wightman has brought together people from different parts of Keighley to share their experiences and explore the museum’s wide collections The Capture the Castle project is funded through Community First, and is running for seven weeks.

It will finish with a celebration event on May 1, which will include a slide show of Keighley in the past.

Ruth said: “The project encourages participants to share the rich heritage of Cliffe Castle.

“So far it's been very successful with a good mix of interaction between communities which often would not have a chance to meet in a relaxed social situation.

“The manager of Laurel Mount Care Home said the participants can’t wait to come each week.”

Each session includes a short historical talk, painting and craft activities, and an opportunity to handle everyday objects that will encourage discussion and memories.

Sessions are based on different parts of the museum, including the Working Landscapes gallery, restored Victorian rooms and Keighley Stories local history gallery One popular session involves a Second World War box with items such as a Land Girl uniform, ration cards and wartime posters.

Ruth said: “We are providing copies of photographs to put into a sketch book to make a timeline on each session.

“We also provide photos of working life, holidays and home life. We will have the use of professional recording equipment for anyone wanting to record their own personal memories.

“To finish each session, volunteer professional musicians play keyboard, guitar and sing relevant songs from the past. We provide simple percussion instruments and are delighted for everyone to join in.”