Walkers are Welcome Launch Event
Ilkley formally announced its newly awarded Walkers are Welcome status on Sunday 20th September 2009 during a day of celebrations and guided walks.
The day began with entertainment and refreshments before the ceremony, which officially awarded Ilkley with the national accreditation, got underway. The local Town Crier created a unique ditty for the occasion and speeches came from Kate Brown, Ilkley Parish Councillor; Councillor Anne Hawkesworth, Bradford Council's Executive member for the Environment and Colin Speakman, founder of the Dales Way.
Many attendees, including residents and invited guests, took part in the guided family trails, longer walks across the famous moors and heritage trails around the town centre. The walks, taken from the newly launched walking guide, offered visitors the chance to revisit old haunts or discover the area for the first time. Seven guided walks took place in total throughout the day, covering a number of distances to ensure there really was something for everyone.
Councillor Anne Hawkesworth, Bradford Council's Executive member for the Environment, said:
"It's fantastic to see how much support there is for Ilkley which is clearly demonstrated by the amount of individuals here this morning. This fantastic accreditation would not have been possible without the support of local businesses, residents and in particular the local tourism partnership. We couldn't have asked for a better start to the scheme. I'm really looking forward to seeing Ilkley thrive following this announcement and for the Town to be recognised as a first-class walking destination. "
