Photographers Ashley Franklin and Ian Daisley - both based in the Derwent Valley - and 50 other photographers have produced the first ever photo book to celebrate the wonder and beauty of the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site as the World Heritage Site.

Please note: if you live within a 10-mile radius of my home in Milford (DE56 0QJ), you can make your order of the book and pay no delivery charge. For more details, click here

This 228-page hardback publication marks the culmination of a nine-year dream for Ashley, rooted in his deep connection with the valley, having resided in the same millworker's cottage in the village of 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, inviting additional photographers to participate. Garnering an overwhelming response of 1,000 submissions, the book features nearly 500 captivating 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. Accompanied by informative text, it serves as both a visual delight and an invaluable guide for exploring the Derwent Valley.

‘This is a perfect way of celebrating this World Heritage site,’ says Ashley; ‘a photographic record of this site is well overdue, and I’m proud and thrilled that Ian and I and all the invited photographers have been able to highlight the valley’s significant industrial heritage, its diverse people and places and its bountiful wildlife.’ 

The publication, entitled The Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site - A Photographic Record is published by The Arkwright Society, and available in hardback for £30 with calendars for £10.00.  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, where everyone can experience the photographic delight of this beautiful valley. The exhibition will then tour the Derwent Valley throughout 2024.