VILLAGERS celebrated the 150th anniversary of a Huddersfield landmark – but wind and rain meant the celebrations couldn’t be held next to it.

Longwood Village Group had hoped to hold a ceremony at Nab End Tower yesterday afternoon.

But the poor weather forced them to move to Longwood Mechanics Hall to mark the anniversary of the tower, which was built by unemployed men in 1861.

Village group chairman Raymond Collier said: “We went to the tower to get everything set up and it started raining so we made the decision to use the indoor venue.

“It was disappointing as it would have been much better to be at the tower.”

The celebration event included a tombola and a performance by Huddersfield Brass Band. There were also children’s games in the basement of the hall.

Kirklees Council’s Deputy Mayor Clr Christine Iredale – who represents the village – gave a short speech at 3pm and cut a cake made for the occasion.

She said: “It’s great to be here. I’ve been looking forward to this for ages and I’m among friends.”

Brenda Hey, who has lived in Longwood for 50 years, explained the importance of Nab End Tower.

“It’s the symbol of the village,’’ she said. “It’s a landmark like Castle Hill.”

The annual Longwood Sing event will take place at the tower from 2.30pm on Sunday, September 11.