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Who are we?

We're an independent voluntary society formed 50 years ago, dedicated to promoting high standards, public interest and pride in Spen Valley's townscapes and countryside. We're local people with a wide variety of interests including architecture, urban planning, history, nature conservation, walking & cycling. We belong to the Yorkshire & Humber Association of Civic Societies and to Civic Voice, giving us both regional and national connections.

Where are we? And what's "Cleckheckmondsedge"?

We're in the heart of West Yorkshire, near the M62 and M1, at the centre of a circle joining Bradford, Leeds, Wakefield, Huddersfield and Halifax (all less than 10 miles away). The River Spen rises near Bradford and flows south into the River Calder near Dewsbury. Our Spen Valley is about 7 miles long, containing the small townships and hamlets of Gomersal, Drub, Hunsworth, Scholes, Roberttown, Hightown, Littletown, Cleckheaton, Heckmondwike and Liversedge. The last three gave rise to the fun name of "Cleckheckmondsedge"! These settlements are surrounded by countryside, criss-crossed by footpaths and bridleways. The famous Spen Valley Greenway (part of Sustrans National Cycle Route 66) runs through our valley, a boon for walkers, horse riders, joggers and cyclists of all ages and abilities. Our historical gems include over 100 listed buildings, many Bronte and Luddite connections, and sites where spirited free-thinking local people like Quakers, Chartists and Non-Conformists stood up to oppression and intolerance.

NEWS

Our popular Out and About Map has been completely revised and the new edition is now available for sale- £5 per copy. Use the "Contact Us" facility to order a copy! Or buy from Spen Stationers Albion Street Cleckheaton, & Paperland newsagents Northgate Cleckheaton.

We're crowdfunding to create a wildlife pond at our Jo Cox Community Wood - please help by going to

www.spacehive.com/create-dragon-pond-at-jo-cox-woo... and pledge a pound or two! Thank You!