A Tribute to Colin Spencer

Mr Colin Spencer, who died in May aged 89, will be remembered as a notable historian, author, teacher and headmaster, whose legacy to the Upper Calder Valley lives on.

His knowledge of his adopted town was vast: for 33 years he was president of the Local History Section of Hebden Bridge Literary and Scientific Society, contributing numerous writings and lectures, his energy and dedication playing a large part in the society's success.

Highly regarded for the academic research he undertook, which culminated in a book, The History of Hebden Bridge, published in 1995, Mr Spencer also provided the text for a best-selling book produced to mark the new Millennium, A Century of Change, as well as numerous booklets and pamphlets.

As a tribute, the autumn programme of Hebden Bridge Local History Section will include a series of lectures, based on material by Mr Spencer. Said president, Mr Frank Woolrych: "For over fifty years, Colin has been a guiding light in the society of which he was so justly proud. With a considerable knowledge of the Calder Valley, he has dedicated much of his time in documenting the area and this now forms part of the societies archive. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him."

Mr Spencer leaves a widow, Rita.

Read the full story in Milltown Memories, issue 5. If this or other stories stirs a memory, we'd be happy to know - send us your memories and comments.