A thoroughly enjoyable evening last night as the guests of Aireborough Historical Society who invited David Myers and myself to talk about the History of Parkinson’s Park, and show some of the films that David has made in the past about the legacy of Frank and Albert Parkinson.

The association of the site of the Park with Frank and Albert Parkinson began in 1918 when the first F & A Parkinson Ltd works was built on Netherfield Road in order to produce electrical motors.

Following a merger with Crompton Lighting in 1927, Crompton Parkinson grew into a major UK business, much loved by its employees.

As well as providing employment the firm also had a thriving social programme, with events such as the Children’s Gala and Bonfire Night. Many of these events used the Park which was developed from the late 1930’s for both workers and the people of Guiseley.

Very sadly Cromptons closed in 2004 following a sale in 1999 to Cooper Industries. The works were pulled down in 2006 and a new housing estate developed. The Park is now owned by Bellway Homes and managed by Meadfleet.

You can read more of the history of the Park on our website here.

We also have a Story Trail leaflet and a Guiseley Jubilee Tree Story booklet with the history of the Park woven into a tale by Bradford Author Irene Lofthouse. Both are available at all our events, or email parkinsonspark@gmail.com.