Haworth’s torchlight parade hailed ‘one of the best ever’

Great Yorkshire Morris, Sowerby Bridge Morris, dance group Bazzmatazz and Santa Claus appeared last Saturday, while on Sunday the Voices of Yorkshire Choir – made up of choirs from Oakworth, Silsden, Bingley and Skipton – delighted crowds with Christmas classics.

Josie Price, from the Christmas in Haworth organising committee, said: “The procession was fantastically attended on the Saturday, possibly one of the best turn-outs, and the support shows the charm of torchlight is continuing to be held dear by both locals and visitors.

“The procession was led once again by Spence Terry as he juggled flaming fire clubs up Main Street, followed by torchbearers collecting for Manorlands. The West Yorkshire Police Brass Band played carols and the crowd of all ages carried torchlight wands, kindly made by Claire and her team at Hawksbys on Main Street.”

“Despite the poor weather, hundreds turned out again on Sunday to set off from the bottom of the cobbles in the torchlight parade,accompanied by carols played by the Hebden Bridge Brass Band.”

Sunday’s procession was followed by a packed carol service at Haworth Parish Church.

During the weekend West Lane Baptist Church held their second Christmas Tree Festival, with around 20 trees donated and decorated by local businesses and community groups.

Coming up on December 14 and 15 is the annual Brass Band Weekend with traditional Christmas carols and festive favourites along Main Street. On Sunday there will be a carol service held in the parish church at 7pm.

Many village shops will open until 8pm on Thursday December 19, with seasonal specials and festive treats. The Christmas craft market will continue at the Old School Rooms over the next two weekends.

Nativity Weekend is on December 21 and 22, when people can gather at the bottom of Main Street at 2pm to join Joseph, Mary and the donkeys as they make their way up the hill.

Pictures by Stephen “Hoggy” Hogg.