Lime Tree Observatory, Ripon: The trio of volunteers who created a 'hidden gem' in the heart of Nidderdale

For a trio of volunteers that helped make this happen, there is a special recognition with an award from the British Astronomical Association (BAA).

The joy, said amateur astronomers Chris Higgins with fellow presenters John Roberts and Martin Whipp, is in sharing something special.

"For us as volunteers it's just nice to be recognised for what we do," he said. "When we see children enthused by it, to see their faces as they look down a telescope, it's just amazing."

The project began back in 2012 with the rescue of a 24-inch reflector telescope from Kent, which had been crafted by an avid inventor called John Wall.

At one time, in the 1970s, it had bene the largest amateur-built telescope in the world but its future was thrown into jeopardy when the local council closed off its building.

Members of a York Astronomy Society, on hearing of this, had sought to save it and a local farmer near Ripon offered volunteers the use of his land provided they could collect it.

This was to the start of the Lime Tree Observatory, which has only grown with 300 people passing through its doors in its first season and now so many more.

It's a hobby, said Mr Higgins, that has only gained a life of its own: "We are finding that people have a love of discovery and learning about the night sky."

An observatory opened to the public first in 2016. Recently refurbished, a new telescope now takes pride of place. And when it's a cloudy night, the gems of the night sky can be seen from a special 25-seat planetarium featuring an immersive cinema experience, built by the trio and delving deeper into the dark night constellations.

Among those to benefit are Scout, STEM and school groups, and the boost of a planetarium is that it can open during the day.

There has been tremendous support, said Mr Higgins. Firstly from farmers Peter and Irene Foster, for the offer of land, and in forming a community interest company (CIC) to ensure it's not for profit. From the Nidderdale AONB, and Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT).

Now, nominated in secret, the trio have been awarded the prestigious Sir Patrick Moore prize, for helping to promote astronomy with the public and young people.

Open three or four evenings a week in the winter season, from September to March, teams are already taking bookings for next October as it's become so popular.

In nominations, the observatory was described as a "hidden gem" for Nidderdale.

"The trio - along with new volunteers - share a rare gift for science communication, and an extraordinary generosity in donating their time and many talents in its name," nominations had said.

"Lime Tree Observatory is an extraordinary place, and it exists because of the hard work of these three inspiring and innovative people."