The Yorkshire Declaration of Integrity: A Proud Tradition on Yorkshire Day

Each year on 1 August, Yorkshire Day is marked by a proud and poignant tradition—the reading of the Yorkshire Declaration of Integrity. This short but powerful statement reaffirms the historic identity of Yorkshire and the enduring unity of its three Ridings. Often read at civic events and by individuals around the world, the declaration is a reminder of Yorkshire’s deep-rooted heritage and the pride its people hold in their county.

Here’s a closer look at the origins of the declaration, how it’s used today, and the full text for those who wish to read it aloud on Yorkshire Day.

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A Civic Tradition with Historic Roots

The Yorkshire Declaration of Integrity was first introduced by the Yorkshire Ridings Society in 1974, following local government reorganisation that dissolved the administrative Ridings. The declaration was created to reaffirm the historic boundaries of Yorkshire and promote continued recognition of its cultural and geographical identity.

Every year, it is traditionally read in the city of York—and in many other locations across the county—at 11:39am, a time chosen to reflect the symbolic date (1/8/39) of the county’s origin.

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Reading the Declaration

The declaration is usually read aloud at civic ceremonies and by individuals marking Yorkshire Day. It is often done in the following format, with the name of the town or city where it is read inserted at the start.

Here is the full text of the Yorkshire Declaration of Integrity:

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The Yorkshire Declaration of Integrity

“Your attention, please:

I being a resident of in the county of York, declare:

That Yorkshire is three Ridings and the City of York with these boundaries of 1139 years standing;
That the address of all places in these Ridings is Yorkshire;
That all persons born therein or resident therein and loyal to the Ridings are Yorkshire men and women;
That the whole of Yorkshire is ours and we will not have it changed.”

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How to Take Part

Whether attending an official Yorkshire Day event or celebrating from home, anyone is welcome to read the declaration and take part in this county-wide tradition. Some choose to recite it as part of a toast, while others post videos or photos to social media as a show of pride.

You can download a printable version of the declaration or find further resources about Yorkshire Day events and history at Yorkshire.com.

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Yorkshire Pride, Loud and Clear

The Yorkshire Declaration of Integrity is more than a ceremonial statement—it’s a shared voice of identity and a symbol of resilience. As Yorkshire Day continues to grow in recognition each year, this annual reading stands as a reminder that, regardless of boundaries or bureaucracy, Yorkshire’s spirit remains as strong as ever.