A "GENTLEMEN Only" canal cruise has been launched by Ilkley and District Good Neighbours.

The group's first cruise just for men took place from Skipton to Gargrave last week - and organisers are hoping more will follow.

The cruise, operated by Skipton and Craven Action for Disability, took a number of local older men on a relaxing four miles per hour trip on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal where they spent a few tranquil hours chatting together as they travelled along one of Britain’s oldest waterways.

"We work hard at providing our older residents, whatever their gender, with an opportunity to interact and socialise with others, but we felt it was also important to provide a setting where men specifically could meet and engage," said Anita Dunford, the event organiser and trustee of Ilkley and District Good Neighbours.

"It’s often been said that men find it easier to express their feelings in male company, and we felt that a special trip like this would give them the chance to get together in male company. After the boat trip a number of the men said how much they enjoyed just talking to one another about themselves and the world in general so I’m really pleased that our first 'men in a boat' trip seems to have been a success. Hopefully there will be other trips in the future."

Ilkley and District Good Neighbours hold regular social events throughout the year, some of which are free. The events give older people the chance to get out of their homes to interact with others and reduce the effects of social isolation. Anyone who wants to be considered for future social events should contact the group.

A spokesman said: "Ilkley and District Good Neighbours is a local charity which relies on sponsors and donations and is always interested in speaking to individuals who might spare a little time to assist as volunteers. For further information on the practical and social support that Ilkley and District Good Neighbours provide or to view our volunteering opportunities visit our website at www.goodneighboursilkley.org.uk. Alternatively, contact us by email at info@goodneighboursilkley.org.uk or telephone 01943 603348."