Cllr John Blackie on Local Government in The Dales

Cllr. John Blackie was the guest speaker at the Club's weekly meeting. He is well known for his support for the needs of people living in the Upper Dales. Telling of his initial involvement in supporting the Dales community, he reminded members of the time in May 1992 when Dairy Crest closed the factory with the loss of 59 jobs and proposed to move the making of Wensleydale Cheese to Lancashire. He worked hard, with others, promoting the need to retain cheese making in Hawes. Six months later there was the management buy-out, which resulted in the resurgence that is the factory today, employing over 200 people and selling the cheese worldwide.