We've always been a bit touchy about how those south of the Watford Gap perceived us. Life has been grim for some people, particularly in those areas of dangerous and difficult occupations, where much of the wealth of the nation was created.It can still be hard in the idyllic landscape of the Dales for the upland farmers. The further we peer into the past,the more we see just how hard life has been. For those of us who have lived "soft" lives, (and grateful for it),we realise that we are no better than southern softies - with northern accents ! But proud of heritage and land.
