North York Moors Tweed project launches to revive Yorkshire’s wool heritage

North York Moors Tweed, founded by farmer Emma Boocock, was officially launched recently at a community event in Danby, celebrating the region’s rich sheep-farming and textile heritage.

The Kickstarter campaign will fund the first production run of locally-sourced tweeds and throws - all made from wool grown on farms across the Moors.

For generations, Emma’s family has farmed at Freebrough Farm, near Moorsholm, raising Scottish Blackface sheep on the rugged hillsides of the Moors.

Inspired by her late father’s love of wool and the land, Emma is determined to restore its value and meaning in a world dominated by synthetic fibres.

“Wool was once one of Britain’s most treasured natural fibres - now it’s often treated as waste,” said Emma.

“We’re determined to change that by paying farmers fairly, using local mills, and weaving fabrics that truly tell the story of our landscape.”

Backed in part by funding from the North York Moors National Park Authority, the project has already attracted strong community interest.

Through the Kickstarter, supporters can pledge to receive beautifully designed tweeds, throws, and heritage keepsakes, each inspired by the colours of the Moors - from heather purples to stone greys and bracken browns.

The project’s initial goal will fund the first three collections - Freebrough, Danby, and Rosedale - with stretch goals including community weaving workshops and apprenticeship schemes to pass traditional skills to a new generation.

“Every metre of tweed carries a story - of the land, the farmers, and the people who care for this place,” Emma added.

“This isn’t just fabric; it’s a living legacy of the Moors.”

Visit https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/northyorkmoorstweed/north-york-moors-tweed to support the campaign and learn more.