SILSDEN Footpaths Group has disbanded after 20 years.

Membership had fallen to less than half a dozen, due to increasing age and bereavement, but the group has left behind an admirable record of achievement in the local countryside.

As well as organising regular walks along local routes, the group, headed by Clarrie Gallagher, was actively involved in footpath clearance and signage and some years ago published a series of walks leaflets in handy wallets, which were sold in local shops and encouraged many people to step out over fields and moors for the first time.

The group also devised the 13-mile Silsden Circuit walk, which remains a popular distance route, and a selection of other walks, brought together by Jack Pollard, now appear on the internet as Jack's Walks Around Silsden.

Members were also vigilant about blocked stiles and other obstacles, and did much to preserve the environment that they loved.

The group's remaining funds have been distributed to local charities.