A MAN with many fond memories of growing up in Upper Wharfedale has had a book published at the age of 81.

Tommy Metcalfe was born at Redmire Farm, Buckden, and in his book, Memories of Upper Wharfedale, recalls the changes he has witnessed.

He moved to Wayside Cottage, Starbotton, in December 1969 with his wife, Alice, and has lived there ever since, remaining after her death several years ago.

He was encouraged to write the book by his many friends.

"People kept saying I had a good memory and that I should someday write a book," he recalled.

Tommy began by jotting down notes on the people and places he remembered. He starts with a tour of Cam Houses, listing the occupants of each house and some reminiscences about them.

Tommy then recalls what life was like in the 1920s, as well as many village events such as births, marriages, deaths, work and recreation.

Memorial inscriptions from Hubberholme Church have been included as well as many photographs and illustrations. There are also excerpts taken from the Craven Herald in 1938. The task took him around a year to complete.

He explained that a copy of his work was seen by the Wharfedale Family History Group which suggested the book should be published.

The result is a fascinating insight into life in the Dales. Priced at £4.25 (including postage) the book is obtainable from Wharfedale Family History Group, 206 Moseley Wood Gardens, Cookridge, Leeds LS16 7JE. A donation of 50p will be made from the sale of each book towards Hubberholme Church.

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