FOOT and Mouth; the fuel crisis and the potential impact of the Millennium Bug are just some of the recollections in the history of Airedale and Bradford RSPB.

September 1 commemorated the 45th anniversary of the founding of the group and trawling the archives led the current group leader, Paul Barrett, to discover some of the significant events and the impact they had.

While we all, including the RSPB, prepared for the potential issues posed by the so-called Millennium Bug - described as a computer flaw which may have caused problems when dealing with dates beyond December 31 1999, thankfully the moment came and went passing without the anticipated impact as we welcomed a new era.

Another major issue, which forced the postponement of the local RSPB group's September meeting in 2000, was the fuel crisis prompted by the rising cost of petrol and diesel for road vehicle use.

Perhaps one of the worst recollections was the outbreak of the infectious Foot and Mouth disease in 2001. While there had been previous substantial outbreaks in the Fifties and in 1967, the 2001 outbreak was deemed to be the worst leading to the slaughter of millions of animals across the UK and devastating the farming industry.

This impacted on the local groups activities as its records indicate trips and walks scheduled for the early part of 2001 were postponed due to the outbreak.

Other significant events included the announcement of the release of the Red Kites in Yorkshire. Their location was initially kept secret to protect the birds.

Dipping into the archives, Paul also discovered how the local group of the RSPB has also played a part in shaping the area for future generations to enjoy and preserving the wildlife within.

Notably, the group was involved in developing a Structure Plan for the local district focusing on land use within a time scale of 20 years.

During the late 1990s, the district produced a comprehensive list of 'Sites of Local Importance for Nature Conservation' including the group's contribution for 'Areas of Importance to Bird Life' explaining the importance of their conservation.

Preservation of local wildlife is paramount and the role of the local group remains imperative to this day. Another anecdote from their archives recalls problems with cygnets ingesting lead on the canal at Bingley. Local angling clubs were contacted and two articles were published in the Telegraph & Argus.

Over the years, as well as film shows and trips to various locations to see wildlife in their natural habitat, the group has also helped the RSPB to celebrate its centenary. In 1989 the Lord Mayor attended a film evening at Bingley arts centre.

And the group has contributed to boosting funds for the charity too - the proceeds of coffee mornings and other events, amounting to £2,000, was presented to the RSPB.

To celebrate their special occasion, guest speaker and accomplished photographer, Geoff Trinder, gave an illustrated talk on the unique wildlife of 'Madagascar.'

The group's programme of events for the current season include illustrated talks focusing on wildlife around the world as well as topics closer to home.

There will be guided walks and field trips from September to May 2018.

Meetings are open to RSPB members and non-members. For more information visit rspb.org.uk/groups/airedaleandbradford.