Our February’s meeting saw the welcome return of Mr John Lyte who gave a very interesting and informative talk on the village of Briestfield, near Grange Moor.

John had carried out extensive research into the history of the village from the Middle Ages to the present day.

His talk included references to the Beaumont Family, who were Lords of the Manor, and who fought for the Crown in the Civil War. He also talked about five very large historical houses that had been demolished by their owners to avoid death duties,  and also the various other buildings that had been demolished to build new properties to serve the current requirements of todays population.  

His talk also included a more recent part of history, which many of the members were able to recall – the collapse of the old Emley Moor Television Mast on the 19^th March 1969.

The talk was illustrated with videos and photographs.

The Chairman, on behalf of the members, thanked John for his interesting talk.

GEHS Member and Mr John Lyte

(PW/cb)