DOZENS of ‘sky quality’ metre readings have reinforced the Yorkshire Dales status as an International Dark Sky Reserve.

During 2023 the national park authority tried out permanent light metres at locations including at Grassington, Long Preston, Malham, and Oughtershaw.

They consistently produced sky quality metre readings of above 21, indicating that the national Park offered stargazing at its best, with the stars of the Milky Way clearly visible.

One-off readings were taken at a further 46 locations during the year, including at Malham Tarn which also produced readings of above 21. The data has now been included in the park authority's second annual report to the US-based certification body, Dark Sky International.

The Dales national park gained International Dark Sky Reserve status in December 2020, at the same time as the North York Moors National Park. Since then, it has increased engagement with Dales tourism businesses to promote the dark sky, particularly during the dark skies season running from October to March. This year's dark skies festival, which took place last month, had more than 50 events, including at Broughton Hall.

Derek Twine, member champion for promoting understanding at the national park, said: “It’s fantastic that the national park has International Dark Sky Reserve status. My thanks go to the volunteers who collected the sky quality metre readings. It’s great to see so many people working locally to protect the dark sky.

“Since submitting our annual report to the international association, we’ve held the 9th Dark Skies Festival, in February. Businesses such as accommodation providers, pubs and outdoor activity providers have told us they benefited from increased tourism and revenue during the festival period."