One of my intentions for 2016, is to highlight more of the area's social clubs on this page. They are very much part of our social fabric - and provide enjoyable leisure time for many.

My first 'club' venture took me to an establishment, that in all fairness, had been in decline in recent times. However, its fortunes have very much changed, after the formation of a new committee almost three years ago.

It has typical club facilities - a spacious function room on the ground floor. Then on ascending a flight of stairs, you will find the concert room - recently refurbished to provide a rather swanky and comfy environment. It's well lit, and gives you a very relaxed feel.

I had a most warm welcome from the secretary, Diane Levens. She was eager to show me the other facilities. This included a two-roomed bar area. One being for general chit-chat and bar banter. And the other being a more homely space for relaxation. For the more 'sporting' members. There is a spacious games room housing two full sized snooker tables and an area for darts.

Diane introduced me to club president, Bob Gregory.

Bob said: "The club has been transformed since the new committee was introduced. We witnessed immediate improvements - and we became CAMRA's, Burnley Area Club of the Year, within the space of a few months."

Diane added: "We have never looked back since 2013. The club goes from strength to strength with the full and valued support of our members. It will be packed on Friday night, for the Clarets game on the big screen."

The club has an excellent reputation for cask beer. And four rotating ales are normally on offer, at £2.20 a pint. Steward of over six years, Barry Graham, was manning the pumps.

He said: "We love to support local brewers. Moorhouse's, Reedley Hallows and Worsthorne ales are very popular."

I plumped for Worsthorne's 'Some Like It Blonde', a crisp refreshing golden ale with tropical fruit flavours in charge. It was in exceptional condition. The brewery is only a few yards from the club.

Barry said: "We took their first barrel of beer. We were proud to be their first customer. Their ales will also be on at our eleventh beer festival from April 8 to 10."

There was lots of friendly banter from the members milling around the bar area. One cheery character was club stalwart, Derek "guzzler" Exton. He provided some fine anecdotes, to keep us entertained. He mused jokingly: "I've been coming here for 35 years - and they still haven't made me a life member."

Briercliffe Social Club is without doubt, an essential part of the localities social fabric. It provides the 'weft' that is woven together, in order to create harmony and friendship within the community. A thoroughly enjoyable experience - and I will return soon.