CLIFFE Castle park and museum volunteers are helping kickstart a new social group for men.

The Lion's Den is part of the UK Men's Sheds Association which sets up community spaces where men can "connect, create and converse".

Cliffe Castle Support Group (CCSG) has provided a 'seeding' donation for the Lions Den, which will meet in a container in the grounds of the Bradford Council museum.

They handed over the money during last month's official launch of the Lions Den, which was supported by local councillors and Keighley MP John Grogan.

The Lion’s Den has lined up a range of practical skills for members to share, from keeping fish to woodworking, with gardening and cookery in the pipeline.

A spokesman for Men’s Sheds said: “The activities are often similar to those in garden sheds, but for groups of men to enjoy together. They help reduce loneliness and isolation, but most importantly they’re fun."

A CCSG spokesman said: “The hard working staff at Cliffe Castle Museum and Park take a partnership approach to working with other organisations and we’re proud to be part of that team.  We’re sure the men and women of the Lion’s Den will fit in nicely."

The Lion’s Den is open every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10am until 4pm for men, who can drop in whenever they want. A women’s day is planned for Mondays in the near future.