The Yorkshire Ridings Society

So, have you visited the South Riding of Yorkshire?

Cast of BBC's South Riding.

Yes, we know it's a work of fiction, but fans of the BBC series (showing in May on Masterpiece Classics on PBS in the USA) could be forgiven for feeling there actually was a South Riding in the 1930's. Ridings, however, only come in threes, as the name comes from the Danish word 'thridding' meaning a third, a legacy of Yorkshire's rich and ancient history. 

The series, based on Winifred Holtby's novel, used many locations in the East Riding where her book is recognisably based, showcasing some of Yorkshire's beautiful coastline and countryside, and evoking a strong sense of the period in which it was set.

More background on the book and the series can be found here:

Winifred Holtby's South Riding   Guardian   Feb 18 2011

The tragic story of 'South Riding'   Independent  Feb 18 2011

Why South Riding feels like a 21st century drama  Sunday Mercury  Feb 20 2011

 

Minden Rose to be marked by plaque.

A plaque is to be placed next to the the white rose tree, which was carried to Minden, Germany by YRS members Chris and Roger Sewell. The walkers will attend a ceremony, organised by the Royal British Legion, Minden Branch and attended by the Bugermeister of Minden, at the Battle of Minden Memorial, on Monday 18th April, at which the plaque will be unveiled.

Yorkshire flag to fly in London. Update.

The flying of county flags continues outside the Department of Communities and Local Government. However, the Department is unable to confirm when the Yorkshire flag will be flown.

The date originally given was mid June. Now, it seems the flag will not be flown until mid July. Perhaps someone has discovered four extra counties which we didn't know about!