Ripponden Expands

my name is Bronwyn Huggon nee Hicks. I remember Brig Royd being built and seeing Miss Eyres who lived in the big house being driven in her horse drawn carriage. What wonderful days we had at the Gala waiting to see who became Miss Ripponden or who was chosen to be the Rose Queen. I remember the parade, the food and the field races. Then came the At Homes when we all imagined ourselves to be the stars of the stage. I have happy memories of Mr. Brigham (Vicar) who used to open his house so we could practice our lines for the plays we performed.
When The Lords Mayors Ball was on in the Conservative Club we were allowed to stand in Royds Lane and see the Ladies arrive in their finery. We went to the dances at the Club young and old, and the Pantomimes were something else, all great family fun.