Stunning film opens to packed audience

More than 200 people turned out for the launch of a new film exploring the fascinating history of Cragg Vale and Mytholmroyd.

The film, shot by film-making duo Peter Thornton and Ray Riches (Pathways Productions), premiered to a packed St Michael’s Church, Mytholmroyd, last Saturday.

They were the first organisation to use the hall since it was devastated by the Boxing Day floods.

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The pair began filming their latest work at the Lancashire-Yorkshire border, following the Turvin Brook as it tumbles its way down the valley where it meets the River Calder in Mytholmroyd as the River Elphin.

Local historian David Cant gives a guided tour of the mills which flourished there. The importance of the Hinchcliffe family to the valley’s history is detailed, with a close look at Old Cragg Hall and new Cragg Hall.

The Cragg Vale Coiners are investigated and the pair look at hugely successful Mytholmroyd firms including Thornbers, Walkley’s Clog Soles, Royd Ices, Moderna Blankets and Russell Dean Fine Furnishers.

The World Dock Pudding Competition is featured, alongside the village’s long-standing gala. There’s also footage of when the valley was showcased in all its glory when the Tour de France came to town in 2014.

The film is now available from www.pathwaysvideo.co.uk and in various outlets in the valley.