Project to celebrate dark skies over North Yorkshire's Howardian Hills hailed a winner

The initiative run by the Howardian Hills Partnership saw seven public events staged to raise awareness at locations across the spectacular 79 square mile landscape.

Held between September 2023 and March 2024, most were oversubscribed with approximately 255 people attending.

Richard Darn, project co-ordinator, said: “What’s been apparent is just how much people value their dark skies.

"The number attending speaks for itself.

"We combined colourful talks on light pollution, its impact on wildlife, plus stargazing with viewing through telescopes when skies cleared.

"It’s obvious there is concern that the proliferation of lighting could impact some of our darkest landscapes, including the Howardian Hills.”

The Howardian Hills has been monitoring the quality of its night sky since 2019 with special light meters, working alongside a similar survey operating in the North York Moors National Park.

This has now been strengthened with the installation of four automatic devices which take sky quality readings through the night.

It’s hoped that by collecting data over time a clear trend will emerge.

Mr Darn added: “We also asked people to complete feedback forms.

"Everyone said that we need to act to protect our dark skies.

"Nearly all also indicated they were prepared to modify their lighting to produce less stray light, or even replace lamps with dark sky friendly designs.

"In total 46% of respondents thought their sky has got brighter over the years.”

The project engaged with a number of parish councils and a dark skies leaflet was published offering simple guidance to residents on external lighting.

Ellie Hook, Manager of the Howardian Hills Partnership, added: “We can’t take our dark skies for granted.

"It’s said that 80% of Britons can’t see the Milky Way from their home.

"But we can and at a couple of our events the sky cleared, revealing a marvellous star-scape.

"We want future generations to be able to enjoy the same experience.

"We are working on plans to continue the project and build on what’s already been achieved.”

Events were held at Welburn, Husthwaite, Gilling East, Yorkshire Arboretum, Nunnington, Terrington and Slingsby.