VISITORS flocked to Cliffe Castle today for an Easter eggs-travaganza.

Families picnicked in the sun-soaked Keighley park and enjoyed a huge range of free attractions.

Hundreds of youngsters took part in an Easter egg hunt with a difference.

Volunteers from Cliffe Castle Support Group handed out clues to help children find eggs 'mislaid' by Bracewell the dragon, mascot for the Bradford Council-run museum.

Bracewell himself – together with a period-costumed Henry Isaac Butterfield, the Victorian millionaire and textile manufacturer who lived at Cliffe Castle – were on hand to greet the visitors.

Chocolate-egg prizes were on offer.

"There was a queue of people at the start of the hunt and it didn't stop all afternoon – it's been wonderful," said one support group member.

Other popular draws at the event included exotic animals and reptiles, provided by Shipley-based Into the Wild.

People could get up close with an array of creatures, from tarantulas and tortoises to snakes.

Children seeking a cuddlier encounter could pet the park's resident rabbits.

And in the museum conservatory, there were dragon-themed craft activities.

Dan Palmer, heritage parks officer with the council, said he was delighted with the public response to the event.

"It has exceeded all our expectations," he added.

"Of course, we've been helped by the fantastic weather.

"So many local families have turned out to enjoy the attractions, the park and the museum.

"This was the first of a few big events coming up at Cliffe Castle this year. It promises to be an exciting time."

Thanks were expressed to the support group and the council's parks team for their help with the event, and to B&M Stores and the Co-op for donating prizes.

For more details about activities at the museum, visit bradfordmuseums.org/venues/cliffe-castle-museum.