This is a film from a collection of home movies made by Jack Johnson of Pontefract.  It shows Jack Johnson with his wife on a trip that traces the journey of the river Went from its origins.  The film includes footage of the surrounding countryside, with a view to its conservation, and is accompanied by a commentary and musical background. Title – This film features the musical talents of John and Peter Whitehead Title – Jack Johnson presents A ‘Gem of the North’ Production – The Valley of...

This is a film from a collection of home movies made by Jack Johnson of Pontefract.  It shows Jack Johnson with his wife on a trip that traces the journey of the river Went from its origins.  The film includes footage of the surrounding countryside, with a view to its conservation, and is accompanied by a commentary and musical background. Title – This film features the musical talents of John and Peter Whitehead Title – Jack Johnson presents A ‘Gem of the North’ Production – The Valley of the Went The film begins showing a drive to Ackworth School.  The car passes fields and villages, and the footage is accompanied by the hymn, ‘Daises are our silver’.  The film highlights the natural life and shows the church at Kirk Smeaton.  The vicar poses for the camera.  The film moves onto Wentdale, and there are shots of the Fox and Hound pub.  At Badsworth, the stained glass windows of St Mary the Virgin Church can be seen.  There is a gardener maintaining the church grounds.  Riders on horseback can be seen.  This is followed by shots of a new dual carriage road and a river crossing.  Next is Broackadale House and a nature reserve.  There is work clearing the river. At Kirk Smeaton there is the Shoulder of Mutton pub, a church, and a mill.  The couple are seen on bikes as they pass a canal, and a bridge woman gatekeeper opens the gate to allow boat to pass.  There are pastoral views before they stop for a picnic.  There is a river level gauge near a bridge.  The film finishes with the hymn ‘Glad that I live am I’, and a sunset. Title – We walked and cycled 100 miles to film this production in May 1971. Title – The End Title – A Gems of the North production.