DERBYSHIRE photographers Ashley Franklin and Ian Daisley – and 50 other invited photographers – present the inaugural photo book celebrating the wonder and beauty of Derbyshire’s Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. This 228-page hardback publication marks the culmination of a nine-year aspiration for Ashley, rooted in his deep ties to the valley while residing in Milford.
Initially commissioned in 2014 by the Arkwright Society during his tenure as their official photographer, Ashley’s project took flight in 2019 when Ian joined forces with him, and they invited additional photographers to participate. Garnering an overwhelming response of 1,000 submissions, the book features nearly 500 images, with Ashley’s extensive collection spanning two decades as the centrepiece.
Curated into three thematic sections – Industrial Heritage, People & Places, and Wildlife – the book encapsulates the valley’s historical significance, its communities, and its rich biodiversity. It serves as both a visual delight and an invaluable guide for exploring the Derwent Valley.
The publication, titled The Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site – A Photographic Record, and published by The Arkwright Society, is available in hardback for £30 with calendars for £10. They can be purchased at Cromford Mills; Scarthin Books in Cromford; Hall of Frames in Belper, and online at derwentvalleyimages.co.uk/purchase-book. Proceeds from the calendar go to the charities Family Connect and The Arkwright Society.
A free exhibition of the photography is on display in the Visitor Centre at Cromford Mills until the end of December.