The Ilkley Gazette: News from across Ilkley and surrounding areas.
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Convalescing at new Ilkley hospital bowling green
2:51pm Thursday 9th May 2013
The opening of a new bowling green at Ilkley Hospital and Convalescent Home was captured for posterity in this shot. No date is given but it is thought it dates back to the 1940s.
Schoolboys receive bravery awards for rescue from frozen river Wharfe
2:47pm Thursday 9th May 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Scarlet fever breaks out and dog shot in the act of sheep worrying
12:59pm Thursday 2nd May 2013
125 years ago – 1888
Burley-in-Wharfedale Miss Young Conservative 1963
1:03pm Thursday 25th April 2013
These young women lined up for a photo when they took part in a Miss Young Conservative competition at Burley-in-Wharfedale in 1963.
Ben Rhydding Hockey Club team photo 1932-33
12:59pm Thursday 25th April 2013
This team photograph at Ben Rhydding Hockey Club was taken 80 years ago.
Eight-legged cat arrives late but sadly only survives for a few hours
12:56pm Thursday 25th April 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Menston Mental Hospital football team wins 1920s trophy
2:21pm Thursday 18th April 2013
These proud looking footballers had clearly won a very impressive trophy back in the 1920s.
Water supply found at farm thanks to well at village previously thought dry
2:14pm Thursday 18th April 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Ilkley station before redevelopment
2:31pm Thursday 11th April 2013
This picture apparently captures the last train to depart from Platform 3 of Ilkley Station, in September 1983. Although the station boasts just two platforms today, it was for many years a four-platform station. The old platforms 3 and 4 were originally used for through-trains, the services which ran across the bridge over Brook Street, to Addingham, Bolton Abbey and Skipton. Although the line to Skipton was closed in 1965, making Ilkley Station a terminus, both platforms 3 and 4, on the south side of the current platforms 1 and 2, remained in existence into the 1980s. The station was redeveloped in 1983, and the two little-used platforms were removed.
Buzzer sounds at Ings Mill after footballers spot boilerhouse flames
2:28pm Thursday 11th April 2013
125 years ago – 1888
Remember when?
2:26pm Thursday 4th April 2013
Ilkley Secondary School girls, pictured left, who won the championship for the Under 13s and Under 15s (combined) events at the annual sports of the Airedale and Wharfedale School Sports Association, in July 1963. Pictured are, back row, from left: Miss P Barnett, D Robinson, S Naylor, E Layton, D Reynolds and M Beasley. Front row, from left: K Hinchcliffe, P Lister, A Harrison, V Gell and P Taylor.
Driver thrown from cart on way to Addingham after horse takes fright
2:05pm Thursday 4th April 2013
125 years ago – 1888
Do you know any faces in this Otley football team?
2:55pm Thursday 28th March 2013
Taken in the late 1950s or early 1960s this photograph shows Otley’s DP&E football team.
Excavations uncover a papal seal dating back to Pope Innocent IV
2:53pm Thursday 28th March 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
And the band played on... but, sadly, not the school
4:17pm Friday 22nd March 2013
Memories of a school which closed around half a century ago will be evoked by this photograph.
Appeal goes out for volunteers to come forward for air raid training
4:13pm Friday 22nd March 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Taming the wilderness to create an extra nine holes for golf course
11:17am Thursday 14th March 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888 Sergeant Ledger, drill instructor to the Burley detachment of the 3rd W.Y.R.V. met with a serious accident on Monday.
Mysteries of the computer room
11:23am Thursday 14th March 2013
The mysteries of the computer room were demonstrated to parents by these local schoolchildren in 1983. There is no record of where the photograph was taken
Fountain and slide were big Lido attractions
11:21am Thursday 14th March 2013
It was a very different looking Ilkley Lido when this photograph was taken in the 1930s.
First girls at Ilkley Grammar School
2:26pm Thursday 7th March 2013
As the first girls to be admitted to Ilkley Grammar School these young women were the pioneers of their day.
May Day majesty at Otley Bridge Street church
2:21pm Thursday 7th March 2013
These youngsters were pictured more than 60 years ago taking part in the May Day procession in the grounds of the Catholic Church in Bridge Street, Otley.
Minister’s daughter comes to grief as toboggan collides with a tree
2:04pm Thursday 7th March 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Questions of water purification are tackled by mayor at town meeting
2:39pm Thursday 28th February 2013
125 Years Ago - 1888
Ilkley street party celebrates end of war
1:55pm Thursday 21st February 2013
This snapshot of VE day celebrations was discovered in a donation of items to the cancer research shop on the Grove in Ilkley.
Otley man shows off his Scottish dance skills in front of Queen
1:53pm Thursday 21st February 2013
He may have been a Sassanach but Otley man James H Nicholson was picked to perform Scottish dancing in front of the Queen during a visit to Holyrood.
Another blank as big freeze plays havoc with the sporting calendar
1:51pm Thursday 21st February 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Tale of the Alice panto bunnies from Ilkley is rediscovered
9:00am Thursday 7th February 2013
These ‘rabbits’ were caught on camera more than half a century ago as they performed in a production of Alice in Wonderland at the Ilkley Playhouse.
MP warned Bramhope public to be on guard against the threat of Communists
9:00am Thursday 7th February 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Ilkley Players cast testing out the means of escape
3:12pm Thursday 31st January 2013
Members of the cast of the Ilkley Players, who were taking part in a production of The Silver King, tested out a fire escape at the Ilkley Playhouse in February 1939.
How smallpox scare led to arrests of the homeless around the district
3:10pm Thursday 31st January 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Guiseley Under-14s enjoy success at swimming in 1978
3:45pm Thursday 24th January 2013
Pictured is Guiseley School’s under-14 boys team which came second in the Yorkshire Bank Inter-School Swimming Compet-ition at the international Pool in Leeds, held on Saturday, April 15, 1978. The boys each won a silver medal and a cash prize for the school.
Why the Otley Masonic Ball proves to be a source of pleasure to every visitor
3:40pm Thursday 24th January 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Were you a member of Ilkley school percussion band?
8:00am Thursday 17th January 2013
The picture above was discovered in a collection of old photographs and forwarded to us by former Ilkley schoolboy Ken Kaberry. It shows the winners of the Wharfedale Music Festival Percussion Band Section, possibly in 1936 or 1937.
Plans for extension of tramways to Wharfedale defeated by ratepayers
8:00am Thursday 17th January 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Ledgard bus is en route to posterity
3:02pm Thursday 10th January 2013
This picture, recently sold as part of a private collection, captures a Samuel Ledgard coach rounding the bend on Moor Road by The Hermit pub, Burley Woodhead.
Fish and chips pioneer Harry died fifty years ago at the age of 74
2:59pm Thursday 10th January 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888
Mills busy manufacturing clothing for people living in faraway places
8:00am Thursday 3rd January 2013
125 Years Ago – 1888.
A smart turn-out of Ilkley Frontiersmen
8:00am Thursday 3rd January 2013
This record of a Legion of Frontiersmen meeting in Ilkley is sadly lacking in any written detail. But the photograph, taken by Anning of Ilkley, appears to date back several decades. The legion, which celebrated its centenary in 2004-2005, was set up by adventurer and author Roger Pocock, who had seen service in South Africa and with the North-West Mounted Police in Canada.
Pantos and piano..all the fun of yesteryear
2:13pm Thursday 27th December 2012
Countless celebrations have been recorded in the Ilkley Gazette and Wharfedale and Aireborough Observer over the years – ranging from reports of social functions at Ilkley’s hydros in the Victorian era, to school parties and fetes, panto-mimes and theatrical productions.
Nurses given High Royds Hospital prizes
1:55pm Thursday 27th December 2012
Pictured are some of the nurses presented with awards in connection with the nurse training school at High Royds Hospital in Menston.
Quiet of Addingham is greatly disturbed by blaze at drapery establishment
1:52pm Thursday 27th December 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Wharfedale pupils with Christmas stars in their eyes
8:00am Thursday 20th December 2012
This photograph above, taken in 1990, shows the vicar of St Peter’s Church, in Rawdon, the Rev John Barnes and the Rawdon Church of England Primary School head teacher, Kay Literskis along with her school pupils who have helped collect a vast number of toys for their appeal.
Goldfish is unexpected party guest after 12,000-mile trip from Australia
8:00am Thursday 20th December 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887 Waggonette accident – Late on Tuesday night a serious accident occurred to a waggonette party from Skipton, who were driving home after attendance at the Christmas auction sale at Otley. When near Mount Stead Lodge the waggonette overturn, the occupants, some eight or ten including the driver, being precipitated into the road. Two of the party were so badly hurt that it was thought advisable to call in medical aid. But it happily turned out that the injuries were more apparent than serious.
Do you remember details about Observer photograph?
9:00am Thursday 13th December 2012
It looks like a scene from Heartbeat.
Smart set for Salute The Soldier week at King's Hall
9:00am Thursday 13th December 2012
This smartly-dressed group of people look as though they have stepped out of the 1940s – and the poster at the back of the photograph indicates it was taken during the Second World War.
Italian cook in court for taking gold pin from a Myddleton Lodge butler
9:00am Thursday 13th December 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Addingham's young ladies continue their efforts in raising funds for the new organ
1:41pm Thursday 6th December 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Otley school days – 80 years ago!
1:35pm Thursday 6th December 2012
The photograph above was brought in by Jeanne Hardwick, of Ilkley, and shows herself (maiden name Metcalf) and her late husband Peter Hardwick, together with fellow school starters in 1937.
Tragic double murder of child and police officer that shocked the town
8:00am Thursday 29th November 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Proud day as Burley juniors get their new strip
8:00am Thursday 29th November 2012
This bunch of happy youngsters have big smiles on their faces as they receive their brand new kit. James O’Neil, the captain of Burley Juniors, was presented with the strip by Generous Pioneer pub manager Brian Wiley. The photograph was taken in 1998.
Protest at the white slavery trade... and the fact that jazz is still with us
8:00am Thursday 22nd November 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Conga in the snows of ‘47
7:00am Thursday 22nd November 2012
The year 1947 had one of the worst winters in living memory – but it didn’t stop these children from having a good time.
Reader Joe reflects on Otley school days
1:19pm Thursday 15th November 2012
We received a letter from reader Joe McHugh who sent in this lovely photograph, above, of himself and fellow school children from St Joseph’s, in Crow Lane in Otley in 1946.
Thief hares off after stealing rabbit while pet owner is in the dog house
1:16pm Thursday 15th November 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Ilkley churches play major role in communities
7:00am Thursday 8th November 2012
This group of singers, pictured left, are part of the All Saints Ilkley Parish Church Choir, who are all enjoying themselves and warming up their vocals.
Swan bitten by wanderlust escorted back to river with a full police guard!
7:00am Thursday 8th November 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Going for gold as 10th Airedale Scout wins prize
2:41pm Friday 2nd November 2012
These Cub Scouts are pictured standing proudly to attention as one of their number received his Gold Arrow Award.
Hidden Candid Camera teams play practical jokes on Wharfedale train passengers
2:36pm Friday 2nd November 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Seasonal scenes in blossoming Ilkley and Otley
2:46pm Monday 15th October 2012
A fine display of blooms is being admired by visitors to a chrysanthemum and vegetable show, above, held by Otley and District Allotment Holders’ and Cottage Gardeners’ Association.
Football-playing dog red carded for ankle-biting challenge from behind!
2:44pm Monday 15th October 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Safety first for Menston quiz champions
1:15pm Friday 5th October 2012
No-one would doubt the usefulness of road safety quizzes in helping children learn about the perils on the road, and it is obvious from this photograph the subject could also be great fun.
‘Black beady eyes’ of Maggie the Magpie trained on terrified children
1:12pm Friday 5th October 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Townsfolk needing to clear the air over bad gas and unruly visitors
12:14pm Friday 28th September 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Ilkley Orpheus Glee Union is dressed to impress with award
11:54am Friday 14th September 2012
Dressed in their Sunday best and looking very pleased with themselves, the men, above, appear to be the proud winners of a trophy in the early 1900s.
Splendid new fire brigade uniforms did not fit and wasps attack drivers
11:50am Friday 14th September 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Fine views for those travelling via horsepower
5:43pm Friday 7th September 2012
Local residents steered clear of cars and opted for a more traditional model of transport to take in finer views of Wharfedale in April 1960.
Speeding drivers bemoan police radar guns as ‘not very sporting’
5:36pm Friday 7th September 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
War effort backing Finland is sew good
9:44pm Friday 31st August 2012
It was a beautiful setting for this sewing party when they got together to make clothes for people in Finland in 1940.
Battery lawsuits fear sees slipper and cane use in schools outlawed
9:42pm Friday 31st August 2012
125 years ago – 1887
Postal ballot to select gardens
12:03pm Friday 24th August 2012
More familiar today as one of Ilkley’s most-visited day-tripper spots – and now sporting the addition of a playground – this is how the Riverside Gardens looked in April 1957, left, then known as the Riverside Memorial Gardens.
Mischief astir with severe thrashing threat after missing cat court case
12:01pm Friday 24th August 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Man slit throat day before he was to marry woman from Lancashire
4:53pm Thursday 16th August 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Hole lot of fun for caving club
4:17pm Thursday 9th August 2012
These young men, above, from Aireborough and Wharfedale took part in a potholing course at Ingleton, in North Yorkshire, in June 1965.
View from behind the Iron Curtain while girl has lucky escape in crash
4:16pm Thursday 9th August 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Daring entertainment at former private hospital
4:21pm Thursday 2nd August 2012
Entertainment with a European flavour and a touch of daring was provided at Scalebor Park Hospital’s gala in 1966.
‘Fugitive visits’ of infectious visitors is key danger in the spread of disease
4:19pm Thursday 2nd August 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Remembrance parade mix-up consternation
2:10pm Friday 27th July 2012
A scene, above, from a well-attended Ilkley Remembrance Parade in November 1952.
Banking on photo details
10:21pm Friday 6th July 2012
These marchers were taking part in a grand parade past the Midland Bank Limited many decades ago – but no details have survived with the photograph from the Ilkley Gazette archive.
Pageant production re-enacted King Oswald’s story
10:21pm Friday 6th July 2012
The story of King Oswald was re-enacted by members of Guiseley Parish Church in July 1981.
Death of drinking contest ‘hero’ who allegedly downed 60 pints in one day
10:18pm Friday 6th July 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887 Broken Legs – On Friday afternoon an accident befell a navvy named John Goodwin, aged thirty years, whilst working on the new Ilkley and Skipton railway. He was engaged with others in removing earth where a cutting 24ft deep is in course of construction, near to New Town, Addingham. The workmen had dug underneath a quantity of earth, and before the unfortunate man could get away it fell, knocking him down and breaking his legs.
Rabid dog attack sees 15 animals destroyed and two children bitten
4:28pm Thursday 28th June 2012
Looking back with the Ilkley Gazette and the Wharfedale Observer
Chairman puts boot in to kick off rugby match
4:32pm Thursday 28th June 2012
They weren’t exactly the best shoes for the job but Horsforth Council’s chairman gave it a good try anyway when he prepared to kick off for the first of a series of seven-a-side rugby matches at Yarnbury.
Van-tastic post office vehicles are first class
4:30pm Thursday 28th June 2012
The van stole the show in this picture published in the Ilkley Gazette in 1972.
Do you recognise any of these ladies?
4:22pm Thursday 21st June 2012
A group of ladies making elaborate preparations for a church flower festival, possibly at Otley Parish Church. The photograph is thought to have been taken in the mid-1970s.
Moor work for fire crews in hot weather
4:21pm Thursday 21st June 2012
Firefighters had their work cut out for them in Whit week 1956, as moorland fires sprung up in the warm, dry weather.
‘Sensation’ caused as man attempts to commit suicide by slitting his throat
4:19pm Thursday 21st June 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Outlook unsettled as summer deluge fills Otley's reservoir to overflowing
2:45pm Thursday 14th June 2012
125 years – 1887
Do you recognise any faces in this picture?
2:48pm Thursday 14th June 2012
The Women’s Auxiliary were gathered in force when this photograph was taken in Ilkley. The picture, from the Ilkley Gazette archives, has no information attached but appears to have been taken in the Winter Gardens in the 1930s or 1940s.
Blossoming success for Flower Fund home scheme
2:47pm Thursday 14th June 2012
The opening of Flower Fund Homes in Horsforth was recorded with a photograph in the Wharfedale Observer in July, 1972.
How an Ilkley school marked the Silver Jubilee in 1977
3:41pm Friday 8th June 2012
Diamond Jubilee celebrations are expected to continue throughout this year, just as commemorations continued through 1977 for the Queen’s Silver Jubilee. Pictured here are pupils from All Saints School in Ilkley planting bulbs to mark the Silver Jubilee year. The bulbs were planted on Church Street, the Box Tree restaurant being a familiar landmark in the background.
Coronation celebrations were worth waiting for
3:36pm Friday 8th June 2012
Although the Queen came to the throne in 1952, the street parties and celebrations were saved until the following year.
Case for damages against officer who searched house is dismissed
3:34pm Friday 8th June 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Silver Cross Gala prize-giving
7:30am Thursday 31st May 2012
There were some impressive costumes on display in a gala’s fancy dress section in July 1960.
Darwin was among famous guests at hydrotherapy hotel
7:10am Thursday 31st May 2012
These people all look very dapper as they pose during a tennis tournament at Wells House in Ilkley.
Lido scheme hailed town’s best asset as it converts critics into supporters
7:10am Thursday 31st May 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887 Waggonettes Collision – During the holidays a waggonette belonging to a man named Heap, of Bradford, and another from the Devonshire Hotel, Bolton, came into collision near Bar Hill on the Addingham Road.
Injured orphanage matron was brave enough to soldier on with her duties
12:03pm Friday 25th May 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Cricket club’s silver jubilee celebration
12:07pm Friday 25th May 2012
With the Diamond Jubilee fast approaching, this is a look back at one of the many local events held around the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 1977.
An explosive discovery as fisherman finds mortar bomb on river bank
4:10pm Thursday 17th May 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
End of an era for school ‘with history in every stone and brick’
4:12pm Thursday 17th May 2012
Although these children look happy, this photograph marks the sad end of an era for them and their school.
‘Refugee supper’ for intrepid walkers on trek for Christian Aid
4:31pm Thursday 10th May 2012
This was the group of intrepid walkers (above) who set off for a late-night hike around Otley in May, 1967, raising money for Christian Aid.
James is on a mission from Largs to London via Ilkley, in search of record
4:30pm Thursday 10th May 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887
Stories from out files
12:10pm Friday 4th May 2012
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 26th April 2012
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette
Belles of the Craiglands fancy dress ball impressed with their costumes
10:22am Thursday 19th April 2012
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 12th April 2012
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 5th April 2012
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
12:00pm Thursday 29th March 2012
Looking back with the Ilkley Gazette and the Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
10:40am Thursday 22nd March 2012
Looking back through the pages on the Wharfedale Observer and Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:20pm Thursday 15th March 2012
Looking back through the pages of the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:20pm Thursday 8th March 2012
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 1st March 2012
Looking back through the pages of the Ilkley Gazette and the Wharfedale Obsever.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 23rd February 2012
Looking back through the pages of the Ilkley Gazette and the Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 16th February 2012
Across the years with the Ilkley Gazette and the Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
2:20pm Thursday 9th February 2012
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 2nd February 2012
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 26th January 2012
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 19th January 2012
Looking back with the Ilkley Gazette and the Wharfedale Observer.
The Otley Professional and Business Women
1:50pm Thursday 12th January 2012
The Otley Professional and Business Women were pictured in March, 1963, taking part in a Candle Ceremony.
Sharpshooter kills a rabid wild dog after it runs amok in the Crown Yard
1:48pm Thursday 12th January 2012
125 Years Ago – 1887 On Monday some consternation was caused in Addingham by the obtrusive presence of a rabid cur dog, which was said to have come from the direction of Ilkley. After making a detour of the village and biting several other dogs, it was shot in the Crown Yard, by Mr Carling Wilkinson. Three or four of the dogs bitten were also destroyed.
Do you remember these Dad’s Army types going on parade?
1:49pm Thursday 12th January 2012
These are members of Ilkley Home Guard on show during the Second World War. Originally called Local Defence Volunteers, the Home Guard was operational from 1940 until 1944 and comprised 1.5 million volunteers otherwise ineligible for military service, usually owing to age, hence the nickname ‘Dad's Army’. They acted as a secondary defence force, in case of invasion by the forces of Germany and their allies.
Stories from our files
12:10pm Thursday 5th January 2012
Looking back with the Ilkley Gazette and the Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
2:10pm Thursday 29th December 2011
Across the years with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
1:00pm Thursday 22nd December 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:10pm Thursday 15th December 2011
Across the years with the Ilkley Gazette and the Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
2:10pm Thursday 8th December 2011
Looking back with the Ilkley Gazette and Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
12:00pm Thursday 24th November 2011
Looking back through the pages of the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Across the years
2:33pm Thursday 17th November 2011
25 years ago – 1986 Credit Cards – Hillards starting accepting Access and Visa cards in an additional 22 superstores and petrol stations as from last Monday. Customers are now able to use these credit cards for the purchase of all their shopping, the only items excluded being cigarettes and tobacco. A spokesman for Hillards said the decision to extend the scheme had been taken after trials had proved successful in selected stores.
Stories from our files
2:20pm Thursday 10th November 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
12:00pm Thursday 3rd November 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:20pm Thursday 27th October 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 13th October 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
12:00pm Thursday 6th October 2011
Looking back with the Ilkley Gazette and Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 29th September 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Riddle of 'Beatles' carpet
1:42pm Thursday 22nd September 2011
This oriental carpet made the news in 1991 when speculation ran rife that the figures featured were the Beatles.
Youth group hears talk by Labour MP Michael Foot
1:37pm Thursday 22nd September 2011
125 years ago – 1886 Sleeping in a Cab – At the Otley Police Court Albert Ashton and William Hopkins were charged with sleeping in a cab, in the yard of the Rose and Crown Inn, Ilkley. PC Wright apprehended them and the prisoner stated that they came from Leeds. Several complaints had been received by the police from various cab proprietors in Ilkley with regard to this offence. The magistrates sentenced both prisoners to 14 days imprisonment.
Winning smiles that say it all
1:31pm Thursday 15th September 2011
There are some very proud men beaming out from this photograph after being presented with trophies to mark their sporting endeavours in 1954.
Headmaster enjoying a walk on the moors sparks missile alert
1:25pm Thursday 15th September 2011
125 years ago – 1886 Sangers’ Circus – From our advertising columns it will be seen that John Sanger and Son’s hippodrome circus and menagerie will visit Guiseley on Tuesday, when two performances will be given. The establishment is well worth a visit, being by far the largest travelling.
Stories from our files
12:00pm Thursday 8th September 2011
Looking back with the Ilkley Gazette and Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 1st September 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
2:00pm Thursday 25th August 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
12:00pm Thursday 18th August 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
3:40pm Thursday 11th August 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
11:30am Thursday 4th August 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale Observer and Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
11:00am Thursday 28th July 2011
Turning back the pages with the Wharfedale Observer and the Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
10:20am Monday 25th July 2011
Stories from the files of the Ilkley Gazette and Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
11:30am Thursday 14th July 2011
Turning back the pages of the Ilkley Gazette and Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our files
10:30am Monday 4th July 2011
Looking back through the pages of the Wharfedale Observer and Ilkley Gazette.
Stories from our files
5:24pm Friday 24th June 2011
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Stories from our files
10:30am Thursday 16th June 2011
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Stories from our files
2:17pm Thursday 9th June 2011
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10:00am Thursday 2nd June 2011
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8:30am Thursday 19th May 2011
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Stories from our archives
12:00pm Thursday 3rd February 2011
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Stories from our archives
11:40am Thursday 27th January 2011
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
10:20am Monday 24th January 2011
Turning back the pages of the Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
1:20pm Thursday 13th January 2011
Looking back with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
12:10pm Thursday 6th January 2011
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Stories from our archives
1:40pm Thursday 30th December 2010
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Stories from our archives
12:10pm Thursday 23rd December 2010
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11:50am Thursday 16th December 2010
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Stories from our archives
12:10pm Thursday 9th December 2010
Looking back through the pages of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
12:10pm Friday 3rd December 2010
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Stories from our archives
10:00am Monday 29th November 2010
Looking back with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Stories from our archives
2:40pm Friday 19th November 2010
Looking back with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
2:40pm Thursday 11th November 2010
Looking back with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
1:30pm Thursday 4th November 2010
Looking back with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
The day an Otley street became a trunk road
11:09am Thursday 4th November 2010
More light has been shed on an old photograph showing circus elephants passing through the streets of Otley.
Stories from our archives
10:26am Thursday 28th October 2010
Looking back with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Stories from our archives
11:07am Thursday 21st October 2010
Looking back with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Stories from our archives
4:10pm Thursday 14th October 2010
Looking back with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
2:00pm Thursday 7th October 2010
Looking back with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
10:14am Friday 1st October 2010
Looking back across the years with the Wharfedale & Airedale Obsever.
Stories from our archives
12:10pm Thursday 23rd September 2010
Looking back through the pages of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
12:14pm Thursday 16th September 2010
Looking back through the pages of the Wharfedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
2:58pm Thursday 9th September 2010
1885 The severe thunderstorm which broke over Yeadon on Thursday evening last appears to have been attended with injury to property. About a-quarter to five o’clock on that evening, the Old Mill at Yeadon was struck by lightning, which descended the chimney with such force that the doors covering the boiler fires were forced open, and the boiler-house filled with a cloud of dust and soot. The fireman was unable to enter the boiler-house for fully five minutes on account of this and the sulphur which pervaded the air. The top of the chimney is very much damaged, one stone near the top, 8in thick, being broken in two, while for a yard from the summit large stones are disarranged and knocked out of place.
Stories from our archives
2:55pm Thursday 2nd September 2010
Turning back the pages of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
11:40am Thursday 26th August 2010
Looking back through the pages of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
12:30pm Thursday 19th August 2010
Turning back the pages of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
10:22am Thursday 12th August 2010
Turning back the pages of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Stories from our archives
11:33am Thursday 5th August 2010
Turning back the pages of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Stories from our archives
2:40pm Thursday 29th July 2010
Wharfedale & Airedale Observer stories from days gone by.
Stories from our archives
3:30pm Thursday 22nd July 2010
Turning back the pages of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
8:10am Friday 16th July 2010
Looking back across the years with the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Stories from our archives
10:50am Thursday 8th July 2010
Looking back at the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer in years gone by.
Stories from our archives
5:40pm Thursday 1st July 2010
Stories from the files of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
12:40pm Thursday 24th June 2010
A look back through the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
12:30pm Thursday 17th June 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
1:30pm Thursday 10th June 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
1:00pm Thursday 3rd June 2010
Stories from the files of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
11:00am Thursday 27th May 2010
A selection of stories from the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer in days gone by.
Stories from our archives
10:40am Thursday 20th May 2010
A selection of stories that made the headlines in the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer in years gone by.
Stories from our archives
11:00am Thursday 13th May 2010
A selection of stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Stories from our archives
3:50pm Friday 7th May 2010
Figures showed that "the health of Otley, Ilkley and Burley was very satisfactory".
Stories from our archives
12:30pm Thursday 29th April 2010
A vote being taken against suffrage for women at a meeting of Horsforth Conservatives is just one of the fascinating tales from our archives.
Yeadon schoolgirl gets knitting needle stuck in hand
7:00am Thursday 22nd April 2010
Another selection of stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Board urged to tackle menace of cattle on Otley streets
8:37am Thursday 15th April 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Money borrowed to secure contract for building Menston Asylum
8:00am Thursday 8th April 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Farmer's bid to recover 31½ pairs of skates
2:40pm Thursday 1st April 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Yorkshire Penny Bank makes progress despite depression
8:57am Thursday 25th March 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Gang of rowdies disrupt Salvation Army meeting at Yeadon Town Hall
7:00am Thursday 18th March 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Mild weather brings early spring lambs at Weston farm
3:27pm Thursday 11th March 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Burley Local Board studies case of seven people sharing a bedroom
8:42am Thursday 4th March 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Rawdon Board gets approval for compulsory purchase of land
11:28am Thursday 25th February 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Horsforth greengrocer fined for doctored sweets
10:45am Thursday 18th February 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Lambs make an early appearance at Weston
3:20pm Thursday 11th February 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Hawker in Otley court after her pedlar's licence expired
12:25pm Thursday 4th February 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer.
Notorious woman dies in the workhouse
8:49am Thursday 28th January 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer
Man dies after accident at Yeadon mill
2:34pm Thursday 21st January 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Skating and curling on Yeadon Dam
12:13pm Thursday 14th January 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer.
Poor of Otley receive a delivery of free coal
11:42am Thursday 7th January 2010
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer
Christmas treat for workhouse inmates
10:30am Thursday 31st December 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer
Woman sues Burley grocer
10:00pm Wednesday 23rd December 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer
£25,000 to build a railway
11:00am Friday 18th December 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Fined for riding without reins
9:40am Friday 11th December 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Guiseley girl seriously injured after fall during game
5:15pm Thursday 3rd December 2009
A selection of stories from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer.
Yeadon footballer breaks leg
8:08am Thursday 26th November 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer.
Government Board to inquire into Horsforth's bid to fund efficient water supply
9:33am Thursday 19th November 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Otley's schools receive the highest praise from inspectors
8:27am Thursday 12th November 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Wharfedale Board discuss 'improper nursing'
9:10am Thursday 5th November 2009
Looking back through the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Justices criticised for not being tough enough over irregular attendance of children at school
9:59am Thursday 29th October 2009
1884 ON Friday afternoon last at the ordinary meeting of the School Attendance Committee of the Wharfedale Union it was reported that the action of the Justices in not imposing the full penalty for irregular attendance of children at school was having a most injurious effect throughout the district. Mr Garnett (one of the magistrates) had been spoken to about it and that gentleman’s reply was that the Bench were anxious not to be too hard upon the poor parents. Mr Stephenson (Guiseley) asked: “Cannot some pressure be brought to bear upon the justices?” The chairman replied: “The only remedy I can see is to send a letter to the newspaper and let the blaze of public opinion be brought to bear upon the matter.
Teenager falls into Horsforth quarry
8:50am Thursday 15th October 2009
1884 ON Thursday afternoon in last week, about half-past four o’clock an accident happened at the Long Row Quarry, Horsforth, which belongs to Messrs Whitaker Brothers, stone merchants and contractors, Horsforth. A large heap of soil was being removed from the side of the quarry. A young man who is about 19 years of age was digging away the earth close to the edge of the quarry when he fell down into the bottom, a depth of about 36 feet. On being examined by the doctor he was found to have been conscious but very much shaken.
Three tramps taken into custody after assaulting Guiseley pub landlord
9:26am Thursday 8th October 2009
1884 THREE tramps, who described themselves as mill-hands from Rochdale, were taken into custody at the White Cross, Guiseley, on Saturday last, charged with assaulting the landlord and refusing to quit the house. It appears that one of the prisoners used some very indecent language to the landlord’s wife, for which her husband attempted to put them out of the house. The prisoners remonstrated and a struggle followed, in which the landlord had an awkward fall which broke his right leg.
Numbers fall short of expectations for Otley demonstration
8:27am Thursday 1st October 2009
1884 OTLEY the chief town of an important and thickly-populated district, was on Saturday last the scene of great political excitement and activity, consequent upon the holding of a mass meeting of Liberals of the town and surrounding districts to demonstrate against the course pursued by the majority in the House of Lords on the franchise question, and in support of the Government. It was a large and enthusiastic gathering but the numbers fell short of what was expected by the more sanguine of promoters, though all circumstances considered, the muster may be said to have brought together about 3,000 people.
Former teacher sheds light on old Otley picture
8:49am Thursday 24th September 2009
A READER has been able to shed some light on an old photograph reproduced in the Wharfedale Observer recently, after recognising himself in the picture.
Special trains to take people to reform demonstration at Otley
8:47am Thursday 24th September 2009
1884 THE Reform demonstration at Otley tomorrow afternoon is the all-absorbing topic. Arrangements of an elaborate and most complete kind have been made for a monster gathering and with favourable weather it is not too much to expect a large influx of visitors from Leeds, Bradford and the immediate district. To give Mr Forster’s admirers an opportunity of hearing what is certain to be an important speech on a most important subject the Midland Railway Company have arranged to run a special train from Bradford and intermediate stations to Otley, and no doubt this will be very generally patronised, as well as the ordinary trains. A commodious platform capable of seating 250 persons has been erected in the New Cattle Market which is sure to be filled considering that the Liberal clubs of Baildon, Ilkley, Rawdon, Horsforth, Guiseley and Yeadon are co-operating with the Otley executive and intend to send contingents.
Rowdy Liberals have only themselves to blame
1:50pm Thursday 17th September 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer.
Mass protest at Otley over Franchise Bill
11:22am Thursday 10th September 2009
1884 A MEETING of the committee of the Otley Liberal Club and of the Otley Polling District Liberal Association was held on Monday evening at the Liberal Club to make arrangements for the forthcoming demonstration at Otley in support of the Government in their efforts to pass the Franchise Bill, and to protest against the action of the House of Lords. The demonstration is to take the form of a mass meeting in the New Cattle Market and will be attended by contingents from the Liberal Clubs and associations of Ilkley, Yeadon, Guiseley, Horsforth and Rawdon, who will march from the station to the Licks in processional order headed by bands of music.
Pigs cause problem for Westgate School
12:10pm Friday 28th August 2009
A plaque to commemorate the opening of the new clubhouse at Rawdon Golf and Tennis Club was unveiled by the president, Mr R M Cooper, in 1965. Present at the ceremony were, from left, Mr E Fearnside, Ladies' Captain Miss J R Read, Mr Cooper, Mrs Cooper and the captain, Mr B Oldham.
Guiseley worker loses claim for unpaid work
8:13am Thursday 20th August 2009
1884 At Otley County Court there was an action for 3s 6d for work done. Plaintiff, James Holmes, who is a cloth weaver, said the claim was due for weaving cloth, on March 4. The defendant, J Wilkinson, of Guiseley, in reply, said that the plaintiff would have got his wages, but having struck work before they finished their contract, he and those who had acted with him, were not entitled to it, they having left when the steam was up and the engine running. His Honour gave judgement for the defendant.
Love Feast held by Guiseley Primitive Methodists
8:23am Thursday 13th August 2009
1884 The annual camp meeting in connection with the Guiseley Primitive Methodists was held in the Spring Head Mill field. In the evening a Love-Feast was held in the chapel. There were large congregations at all the services, and the annual camp meeting was a great success.
Otley's feast of fun
8:26am Thursday 6th August 2009
1884 Otley Feast has this year been celebrated in weather of the most enjoyable character. This fact, coupled with the popularity with which St Lubbock’s Day is everywhere observed, lend the even additional interest, and afforded facilities for its more general enjoyment.
Art class examination earns grant for Guiseley Mechanics Institute
10:35am Thursday 30th July 2009
1884 The results of the examination of the art class held in connection with the Guiseley Mechanics’ Institution during the winter session have just been made known. On the second grade work sent up to South Kensington for examination, 92 marks have been awarded, upon which a grant of £9, 4s will be received.
Otley mission celebrates its first anniversary
7:50am Thursday 23rd July 2009
1884 The first anniversary of the Otley and Wharfedale Mission was held. Since the opening of the new Mission Room the number of members has gradually increased. This body of earnest workers set a noble and worthy example to other places and we earnestly hope that God will continue to bless their labours.
Conservative Club members invited to Horsforth Park
9:33am Thursday 16th July 2009
1884 At the kind invitation of Mr Surr William Duncan, of Horsforth Hall, the members of the West Hunslet Conservative Club, with their wives and sweethearts or lady friends, to the number of about 200, had an outing in Horsforth Park, and the weather being all that could be desired, the proceedings were of a most enjoyable kind. Mr Duncan, who is a gentleman in the truest and highest sense of the word, had made thoughtful and liberal arrangements for the comfort and pleasure of the party and spared no pains to make them welcome.
Concerns over the introduction of salmon to the River Wharfe
11:47am Thursday 9th July 2009
1884 The proposal to introduce salmon into the Wharfe has caused considerable alarm among trout-fishers and aflowing letter has appeared: Sir, - I suppose some of the advocates for the introduction of salmon expect to indulge in the delightful sport of playing a big fish in some of the deeps above Otley. If so, I fear they would be disappointed. In the first place the number of fish which would struggle over the difficulties presented by a series of steep passes would probably be very small.
Girl is killed on level crossing by train
2:23pm Friday 3rd July 2009
1884 A lamentable affair occurred near the Otley Railway Station which resulted in the almost instant death of a 10-year-old girl, the daughter of a plate layer. The poor girl had been making her way home for dinner from school when at a level crossing, she did not notice a train coming and stepped in front of it. An inquest jury returned a verdict of accidental death.
Dog thief sent to jail
10:00am Friday 26th June 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer
Payment for Otley Ladies Sick Visiting Society
9:00am Thursday 18th June 2009
1884 John Sinclair, on behalf of the Ladies Sick Society, acknowledges a donation as follows: “Received from Mr Hawkins, of East View Terrace, Otley, the sum of Two Guineas for the Otley Ladies Sick Visiting Society, being part amount paid to him in a compromised claim for damages.”
Man in precarious state after being trapped under stone
8:18am Thursday 11th June 2009
1884 A very serious accident occurred to Mr B Hollings, monumental mason, of Cross Green, Otley. At Garnett’s paper mills he was caught by the hips when a stone, weighing two to three tons tilted over. Three men who were helping him tried to lift the stone off him but were unable to do so for some time. He is in a very precarious condition.
Otley pair charged with poaching
7:20am Friday 5th June 2009
1884 Two Otley men were charge at the Otley Police Court with poaching. The defendants had been seen in the early hours of the morning walking up the Old Chevin Road. When at the top of the hill they sent their dog into the wood. Several rabbits were chased and the defendants got over the wall and encouraged their dog. They were found guilty and sentenced to a fine of 40shillings or a month’s imprisonment.
Weston man's coming of age party
10:17am Sunday 31st May 2009
1884 Mr Stopham Dawson of Home Park, Weston, came of age and in a quiet but thoroughly hearty way, the event was celebrated by a dinner to the Weston Hall servants, many of whom had known him from childhood and to his own personal attendants. Desiring ‘no fuss’ of any kind, Mr Stopham still considered that this social meeting would be gratifying to those who had known him so long.
Inquest into death of the vicar of Weston
9:08am Thursday 21st May 2009
1884 An inquest was held on the body of the Reverend W R B Arthy, 75, the chaplain to the Manchester Blind Asylum, and lately Vicar of Weston, Otley. Catching a train at Stretford railway station he was seen to be foaming at the mouth and looking very ill. By the time he arrived at Oxford Road station he was dead. One of the jurymen said the conduct of a passenger who had got out of the same train compartment and left the deceased alone was inhuman; and the Coroner said he had the man’s card and believed he was a German.
Samples of filthy water go on display
10:20am Friday 15th May 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Fined for working lame horse
10:20am Friday 8th May 2009
1884 At Leeds Borough Court a youth in the employ of Mr William Wood, Bridge Inn, Horsforth, was fined 5s, including costs for having worked a horse while suffering from lameness. Inspector Whitehead of the RSPCA prosecuted.
Horsforth football club elects new chairman
7:30am Friday 1st May 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Workhouse woman sent to prison for insubordination
4:50pm Thursday 23rd April 2009
Stories from the archives of the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer.
Farmer's arms are bitten by horse
10:38am Friday 17th April 2009
1884 Robert Fenwick, farmer of Darley, was at the White Swan Inn, Otley, in charge of an entire horse. He was in the act of putting on the bridle, when the animal seized his left arm severely biting the flesh and breaking the bone. In the man’s efforts to free himself the horse got his right arm into his mouth and did a similar injury to that. Mr Fenwick is in a very critical condition.
Otley man fined for cutting off dog's tail
11:31am Monday 13th April 2009
1884 An Otley man was charged at the town’s police court with cruelty to a dog. The landlord of the Bowling Green Hotel lost the dog and five days later found it in the possession of the accused. The dog was chained up, its tail was cut off, and its hind parts were covered with blood. He had intended to show the dog at Otley in May but now he could not do so. The accused was fined 40s after admitting the offence.
Otley audience for temperance play
1:20pm Thursday 2nd April 2009
Stories from the Wharfedale & Airedale Observer archives.
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