PENNINE Lodge care home has introduced a new "gentlemen's club", and invited guest speaker Chris Green from Carlisle's Andy's Man Club, to get involved in the first session.

The initiative allows men a judgment-free space to share their experiences, functioning under similar rules as Andy's Man Club.

Katie Ritson and Lynsey Robinson, staff at the care home, recognised a lack of male participation at Pennine Lodge, leading to the creation of the "gents club". They hope the club will foster stronger relationships and provide crucial companionship for the male residents.

In the first session, Chris shared his story and information about Andy’s Man Club as well as what help is out there when facing challenges. The talk then opened topics within the gentlemen within the care home where they spoke about their own personal struggles passed and present.

Staff said: "Pennine lodge would just like to say a massive thank you to Chris for his time and coming to speak to us! And all our love and support goes to Andy’s Man Club! "