Yorkshire Society

Formed as a non-political, not for profit organisation in 1980, the Yorkshire Society encourages businesses, charities and individuals from or living in all parts of Yorkshire to join together to promote the County.  Membership of the Society is open to Individuals, Businesses, Charities Educational Establishments, Councils etc. to enable everyone to work towards and achieve common goals throughout the County.  The Society works with established organisations in their efforts to generate and promote culture, tourism, business and awareness of all the various facets to be found within the County.  The Society seeks to promote projects which will improve the beauty, attractions and amenities to be found and experienced throughout Yorkshire.

Chairman Keith Madeley MBE states: “The Yorkshire Society, under the Patronage of His Royal Highness The Duke of York, represents the very best that Yorkshire has to offer for those working, visiting or investing in the County.  The Society has something to offer to all who join and I urge all organisations and individuals to play your rightful part in the future success and development of Yorkshire.  The Society is inclusive of all ethnicities and faiths and would welcome you to join in our endeavours to promote and preserve our wonderful home of Yorkshire.”

The main event in the Society’s year is the 1st August – Yorkshire Day.  A town or city hosts the event and it is the largest gathering of Civic Heads in one place on one day in the world.  The Society holds an Annual History Awards Ceremony.  Contributors are invited to submit original essays on aspects of Yorkshire History never before published.  A team of Professors and relevant Professionals adjudicate and ensure that a very high standard is maintained.  We are now working in partnership with the University of Huddersfield who are kindly providing administrative support.

The Society erects the Yorkshire Rose Plaques to celebrate the lives of famous and diverse Yorkshire people not previously commemorated within the County.  A new initiative has now been launched to acknowledge companies founded and still operating in Yorkshire by the erecting of a plaque on their building.  This is kindly being supported by MTL Advanced Ltd of Rotherham.

The Society encourages fellowship between Yorkshire people throughout the world by appointing Ambassadors to act as focal points for communications and information.