On Saturday, local people will gather in a Bradford village for a community event.

Nothing unusual about that – but the organisers have been together, working for the community, for the past 40 years.

Heaton Township Association has been working to keep their corner of Bradford a place of which they can be proud.

The group came into being almost by accident and has, in a short period of time, become well-known and influential in Heaton and the wider district.

“Not many groups like ours go back 40 years,” says its chairman Sonja McNally, “We have achieved a lot over the years and will continue to do so.”

Its origins can be traced back to a planning application made in June 1970 by the then-owner of Ashwell Farm, for a development of 108 houses between the farm and Heaton Woods.

Although Bradford Corporation – which was later to become Bradford Council – rejected the plan, there was sufficient concern to set up a Park Drive Residents’ Group.

Following a public inquiry, it was revealed that, had the development gone ahead, the 'green belt' between Heaton and Shipley would have been reduced to 54 yards.

Having proved its worth, the action group decided to expand into Heaton Township Association. To conserve and protect the area within its former local government boundaries prior its amalgamation with Bradford.

“It started because the people of Heaton wanted to preserve their local environment, its amenities and services,” says Sue Brown, the group’s committee planning secretary.

“Planning was an important feature of the township’s history and we have carried on trying to prevent unnecessary and unsuitable development in the area.”

Former Bradford Lord Mayor Stanley King – who also held the title of Lord of the Manor of Heaton – was among those involved in its conception.

Says Sonja, who has lived in Heaton for more than half a century: “With cutbacks taking place, communities are becoming more and more important to people and to their wellbeing. Groups like ours encourage communities to bind together – and here in Heaton, if it can last 40 years that indicates a pretty solid community group.”

Adds Sue, who had lived in the area for more than 40 years: “Over the years, the community demographic has changed and we have to maintain the township to serve our diverse and talented population.”

With more than 100 members, the group would like to encourage people from all cultural backgrounds to join.

“We would like to see a good mix,” says Sonja.

Protection of the environment remains a crucial part of the group’s role.

“As well as monitoring planning applications we organise clean-up days, and litter picks,” says Sue. “We work alongside Bradford Council and volunteers from the community.”

The association’s members attend meetings and community forums, and invite people to approach them with any concerns.

“People have come to us for advice and help about issues such as dog fouling, fly-tipping, speeding, tree protection, abandoned houses – they even consult us on issues like not securing a place at a chosen school,” says Sue.

“We advise them on where to go and how to seek help, and should they find it difficult, we will liaise on their behalf with relevant agencies. We can also go along and support them.”

“People have said in the past that when Heaton Township is mentioned, people listen. It is respected. We deal with relatively small issues, but involve ourselves in bigger ones.”

The group plans and promotes community events such as Heaton on the Hill Jubilee last year, which included a play, stalls and activities for children.

They interact with other community groups within Heaton such as Heaton Woods Trust, The SAFE Project and Heaton Graveyard Project.

“We are aware of each other’s needs, and when necessary we unite and complement one another,” says Sonja.

As the group enters its 41st year, the message from its members is: ‘Help us to help you’.

Says Sonja: “No-one can look after Heaton better than the Heaton folk themselves – we have a good record of success, and we must do better in the years ahead.

“It is hard work, and there are sometimes obstacles to overcome, but it can be done. Joining us means you can help to make our are a better place to live.”

Saturday’s community event takes place between 2pm and 5pm in St Barnabas Village Hall, Ashwell Road, Heaton. It includes a cooking demonstration by the HALE Healthy Living Project. People will have the chance to take part at 2.30pm and 4pm. For details on joining, e-mail bradfordhta@ hotmail.co.uk, or ring Sonja on (01274) 493294.