A 69-year-old weaving fanatic is single-handedly trying to bring back the lost art form that once made Bradford district famous.

Peter Mitchell, who owns two handlooms, has transformed an old coal store in Back Kirkgate, at Silsden, into “Peter’s Weaving Shed”, where he intends to produce quality woollen goods — all hand made — and pass on his skills in the ancient craft to visitors.

His partner, Helen Green, will also be knitting scarves, cushions, bags and tablemats on site in front of visitors. The pair have struck a deal to stock the wool of Silsden manufacturer King Cole and they officially open to the public this Saturday.

Mr Mitchell said: “Handloom weaving dates back to the Saxon era of English history. It is a heritage industry activity which directly relates to the history of Silsden.

“By the time the first mill was built in Silsden there were some 2-300 in use in the Silsden area. The advent of the mill system and power loom led to the demise of the handloom as a commercial activity.

“But I want to bring it back and show people how it is done.

“The shed will operate as a kind of hands-on working museum and I am hoping to do educational activities for schoolchildren as well.”

Mr Mitchell learned to weave when he worked for Arthur R Harrison, in Dalton Lane, Keighley, on leaving school, and then moved to Bridge House Mill, in Haworth.