Kirklees Countryside Unit is keen to promote the use of the area around Castle Hill, which is a prominent hill overlooking Huddersfield, with a long history of settlement and recreational use by local people.     The views of Carboniferous Millstone Grit and Coal Measure landscapes are impressive and the rocks have been used for coal mining and quarrying for many centuries.

The group has been working on the trails for several years and many people have been involved in walking the routes, taking photos, researching the geology and geomorphology, drawing sketches and writing and editing the leaflet.     We are applying for a Local Heritage Initiative grant to cover the cost of printing the leaflet and way-marking the routes, though all the work so far has been voluntary.

The two trails start close to the top of the hill and follow tracks and footpaths to the north and south of the hill, encompassing the views and landscapes visible from the top of the hill.     Way-marking of the routes will take place during the winter and it is hoped to launch the trail leaflet in the spring.

Huddersfield Geology Group has contributed to the Radio Leeds supporting website with material on the geological importance of the RIGS site at Beaumont Park, Huddersfield.     The wilder end of Beaumont Park has excellent Rough Rock cliffs which are accessible for anyone who would like to look at sandstone features, including wash-outs, cross bedding and scouring surfaces.

• Wednesday 15th September at 19:00
  "The Life and Work of Alfred Wegener" by Dr. Clare Dudman, Author of "Wegener's Jigsaw".
  Held in the Department of Earth Sciences in the Williamson Building, University of Manchester, Oxford Road (opposite The Manchester Museum)
  Tea, coffee & biscuits are available at 18:30

• Wednesday 13th October at 18:30
  "River Basin Studies" by Mr John Sanders, United Utilities
  Joint Meeting with Geographical Association in the Mansfield Cooper Building, University of Manchester