MEMORIES of a historic field at the heart of Addingham could prove the latest weapon in a battle to stop developers

building in the village.

A resident, who does not want to be named because she is wary of attracting the wrath of people with opposing views, has launched a campaign to have Manor Garth registered as a village green to

prevent 20 houses being built there.

The woman - a resident of The Rookery, a row of weaver's cottages overlooking the field - says that by collecting villagers' memories she could safeguard the future of the field.

"I need to find a good many people who can remember what has been going on in the Garth," she said. "In order to have the Garth registered as a village green I have to prove that for a period of 20 years people have used the field for recreational purposes, believing they had the right to do so."

The village is united in its opposition to development on the Garth and parish

councillors, along with the civic society, have hired a solicitor to fight the current

planning application, submitted by field owner Farmer Peter Johnson.

But the woman, whose family have owned her cottage since 1932, believes her plan will thwart the developers for good.

"If we just fight the planning application this time there is nothing to stop it all happening again," she said. "We need to look long term. My aim is to register it as village green land so that we never have to fight this battle again."

The woman, who moved back to the cottage three years ago, had always assumed Manor Garth was common ground.

"I was really surprised to discover it could be built on," she said. "It is so sad. Everyone in the village loves the field. And The Rookery, which they are planning to put two houses in front of, is a rare place steeped in history.

"These new houses are not needed just wanted. To take good land is wrong - they will spoil this beautiful village."

Now the formidable lady is asking people to come forward with their memories so she can build up a comprehensive record of the field. "I will probably focus mainly on the 1980-2000 period so I need to find people who can remember spending time there.

"It could be walking the dog, flying kites, blackberry picking, letting off fireworks, tobogganing or playing in the beck. It doesn't have to be organised sports or pastimes - just so long as you used the field as of right i.e. believing you had a perfect right to do so.

"This could take a long time and I have no idea if we stand a good chance - it depends how many people come forward. The more the better. There have been other unsuccessful cases but I am going to attempt this."

Vice Chairman of the parish council, Gordon Campbell, said he applauded the resident's efforts. "It is literally a one-woman campaign - she is doing this all herself," he said. "I think it's an excellent idea and wish her every success."

Anyone with memories to share should call (01943) 830209.

Farmer Johnson declined to comment on the woman's campaign.