SETTLE Graveyard Project has just completed its run of summer graveyard trails in Settle, Giggleswick and Long Preston.

These popular and entertaining trails celebrate the lives of local ancestors revealing some incredible success, a few unfortunate incidents and some hilarious antics all wrapped up in a comfortable coating of social history.

Sarah Lister who researches the stories behind some of those buried in the graveyards and presents the live talks said: "The trails were full to capacity with over 200 people coming along, both locals and holidaymakers. Miraculously, we avoided the rain on every trail. The generous audiences raised £600.

"Through the rest of the year we run talks, private trails and sessions for the Settle to Carlisle Railway at Ribblehead as well as free sessions for schools. The total income, together with book sales means that nearly £1,000 has been raised this year, all of which goes to local charities. This year’s charities include Settle’s Victoria Hall, Settle Swimming Pool, Settle Amateur Operatic Society, The Folly and the churches.

"This summer’s proceeds added to previous years' events make a total of over £11,000 raised since the project started in 2018.

"In Settle we encountered some incredible talent on and off the stage in Stars of Victoria Hall, some horrific 19th century medical techniques in ‘The Hazards of Being a Doctor’, then true love, dithering bachelors and a trigamist in ‘Artists and Romantics’ and the perils of crinoline dresses in Accidents and Lucky Escapes. In Giggleswick we found a very bad tempered man, an incorrigible rogue and local heroes and in Long Preston found that money doesn’t necessarily guarantee happiness!

"Thanks to all the churches, especially the grounds and refreshment teams, volunteers at the trails and the audiences of course. One visitor said: ‘It’s fascinating to find out more about the real people buried on our doorstep. It was so entertaining but respectful too. I can’t wait to come back next year'.

To contact Settle Graveyard Project go to their Facebook page or email settleresearch@gmail.com.