HORSFORTH has been named as one of the best places to live in England in a study commissioned by Royal Mail.

The study, undertaken by the Centre for Economics and Business Research, looked back at the past two years to identify the most desirable areas based on a range of factors including good schools, access to green spaces, good employment prospects, working hours, affordable housing and average commuting times.

Horsforth came in at number eight in the list of postcodes, and was the only place in Yorkshire to make it into the top ten. Bebington, on the Wirral took top spot. Other areas winning accolades in the study were North and North West Norwich; Broadstone, in Bournemouth; Sale, Greater Manchester; East Cowes, Isle of Wight; Eastleigh, Hampshire; Ipswich, Suffolk; Dronfield, North East Derbyshire and Earley, Reading

Steve Rooney, Head of Royal Mail’s Address Management Unit, said: “This new report builds on the study that we commissioned two years ago and provides unique insight into the most desirable places to live and work, through the lens of the postcode.”

According to residential sales and lettings agency Linley & Simpson the town's reputation as a homes hotspot comes as no surprise.

"Since we opened our doors on Station Road back in 1997, Horsforth’s popularity as a place to live and work has grown year-on-year and this will only increase further now its attractions have been shared on a national scale," said branch manager David Mear.

"One of Yorkshire’s best-kept secrets is now out – and will trigger yet another spike in inquiries, especially from outside the region."

Valuation manager David Reeves added: "It is a magnet particularly for families, thanks to the unrivalled schools – such as Featherbank and Newlaithes, where Ed Miliband spent his early years - that serve the community, as well as the ever-improving Trinity and All Saints’ College."