WHAT IT DOES:

Prominent speakers, usually with the support of audio-visual aids, give presentations on subjects relating to the Nidderdale and associated areas.

Such meetings are held on the third Monday of each month except from June to August, at the Village Hall, Dacre Banks.

All meetings are held at 7.30pm.

Membership is open to all persons of all ages.  The annual fee is currently £7.00 per person, the payment of which entitles the member to attend all presentation meetings; it also includes light refreshment.  (Anyone wishing to attend a one off meeting may do so for a payment of £2.00).

The Society also organises walks, most of which are not very demanding. They range in distance from about 5 to 10 miles.  These usually start at 10.30am on the Tuesday of the week following each presentation meeting.  At present, there is no charge for persons participating in these walks. 

Full details, including programmes for walks and talks, may be obtained from the secretary, by ‘phoning Kay Sheard on 01423 781 203 or Jack Mears on 01423 711 108 or by e-mail at: niddsoc@btinternet.com.

In addition to the above, the Society is represented at meetings concerning the environment, ecology and development of the Nidderdale area; for example, it receives planning applications from the local authority which seeks its comments.  It is active in ensuring that an appropriate harmony and balance between nature, on the one hand, and man’s interventions, on the other, are sensibly maintained. 

BRIEF HISTORY OF THE SOCIETY:         

In August 1964, a group of interested Nidderdale residents in Pateley Bridge, came together to discuss the formation of an amenity society under the Civic Trust.  There had been concern about the maintenance of architecture and general development standards in the area, together with the preservation of the upper dales rural character.

  Enthusiasm was so strong that within a short time there were nearly 200 members.  A steering committee was formed and the name “The Nidderdale Society” was agreed.  It was seen as an instrument through which local people could do something about preserving the natural beauty of the Dale.

The main aims of the Society, as then outlined, remain the same today, namely:

The Nidderdale Society became a registered charity in March 1965 (registration number: 240753).

More in depth information about the Society may be obtained by visiting www.nidderdale-society.co.uk.

YOU WOULD BE MADE WELCOME AT ANY OF OUR WALKS OR TALKS.