A CAMPAIGN to get Cranbrook officially recognised as the town which created a popular Yorkshire anthem has been launched.

Well-known and much-loved Yorkshire song Ilkley Moor Baht 'at is believed to be derived from a hymn called Cranbrook.

Ilkley historian Frazer Irwin, 64, is now pushing for the two towns to be twinned.

He has been in touch with Cranbrook and Ilkley parish councils, and is looking for pubs in the two areas willing to put up plaques to recognise the connection.

Chairman of Cranbrook and Sissinghurst Parish Council Peter North said: "It is a little-known fact that the song originated from the Cranbrook hymn.

"We would be happy to consider anything which would promote Cranbrook, encourage more visitors to the town, and build strong relationships with other towns."

Canterbury cobbler Thomas Clark was said to have visited Cranbrook regularly and loved the town so much that he was inspired to write a hymn tune in 1803.

It was not until 1877 that the words of Ilkley Moor Baht 'at were published by a conductor, with the recommendation that the lyrics be sung along to the tune of Cranbrook.

Mr Irwin conceded that it was a controversial issue, saying: "When I have told Yorkshire people about the origins of their song, it does hit a bit of a nerve.

"But the Victorians were very good at romancing an issue and the facts were sometimes buried.

"Things were taken as gospel, the idea of the song being started by factory workers in Bradford is one such example.

"I reckon that Ilkley owes Cranbrook a debt of gratitude. This song is known all over the world and Cranbrook should be recognised for its part in that.

"Apart from Happy Birthday, it is the most-sung song in Yorkshire."

Brian Holmans, who was born in Cranbrook, but now lives in Bingley in West Yorkshire, said: "I have told people but they still think it is the Yorkshire anthem."

Cranbrook is not twinned with any other town, although it has formed a friendship with another Cranbrook, in Canada.