Derby & Thornley

Derby & Thornley is a rural ward in the Ribble Valley, consisting of several small villages and hamlets set within agricultural landscapes. The area is defined by its rolling farmland and the presence of the River Ribble, which shapes the local geography. Settlements like Thornley and Great Mitton are characterised by traditional stone-built properties and historic farming practices. The ward's economy remains closely linked to the land, with a focus on livestock and arable farming across its open fields.

The community is served by local institutions such as the village hall and primary school, with parish councils playing a key role. A notable landmark is the historic St. Michael's Church in Great Mitton, which dates to the medieval period and sits near the river. The area offers quiet country lanes and public footpaths for walking, connecting the scattered settlements. This ward maintains a distinctly pastoral character, with its identity rooted in its agricultural heritage and the Ribble's course.