The Deputy Mayor of Hebden Royd Town Council was delighted to attend the official Yorkshire Day civic celebrations on Thursday, August 1, 2025. Held jointly in Bradford and Ilkley this year, Yorkshire Day was made even more significant by coinciding with Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture.
Organised by the Yorkshire Society, the annual Yorkshire Day celebration brings together civic leaders from across the county to honour Yorkshire’s people, culture and heritage. This year’s festivities were hosted for the first time by both Bradford and Ilkley, marking the third occasion the event has been held in the Bradford district, and a historic first for Ilkley.
Deputy Mayor, Cllr. Steve Woodhead, joined other Mayors, Lord Mayors, and civic dignitaries from across Yorkshire in Bradford City Hall for a morning reception before travelling to Ilkley for the main events.
“What a fantastic day, celebrating the many things that make Yorkshire a great place to live. Bradford and Ilkley were superb hosts.” – said Cllr Woodhead.
“A highlight was the service at All Saints, Ilkley, where five inspirational young people of different faiths shared their experiences of growing up in the diverse and wonderful county of Yorkshire.”
The celebrations also included a grand civic procession along The Grove in Ilkley, and a traditional performance of the local anthem, On Ilkla Moor Baht ’at, led by Ilkley’s Town Crier. Guests were also offered a private preview of a new exhibition at Ilkley’s Manor House.
The Deputy Mayor’s participation in the day reflects Hebden Royd town Council’s ongoing commitment to celebrating regional pride in our local communities across the county.
