was one of the last recommended in 1963 by Richard Beeching's rationalisation programme. Despite often-congested roads in and out of the Manchester conurbation, Hayfield remains a magnet for those who enjoy outdoor pursuits. The old railway trackbed now forms a popular linear recreational route, the Sett Valley Trail. The bus station is at the eastern end of it where many walkers and horse riders visit; there is a car park, toilet and tourist information centre. The nearest major airport is Manchester, which chiefly offers holiday and other leisure flights. This convenience for passengers is bought at the cost of extensive overflying of the village by incoming flights, especially in the summer. Notable residents Arthur Lowe, the actor famed for his role as Captain George Mainwaring in the television show Dad's Army, was born and brought up in Hayfield. On 30 August 2011, a blue plaque was unveiled at his home on Kinder Road. Although born in Birmingham, Lowe's wife, the actress Joan Cooper, lived in Hayfield until her death in 1989. Coronation Street creator and script-writer Tony Warren spent some time in nearby Little Hayfield, and has a particular connection with the Lantern Pike Inn, where some Coronation Street memorabilia can be found. Pat Phoenix, former Coronation Street actress, also lived in Little Hayfield at the same time as Tony Warren. The Lantern Pike Inn also displays memorabilia relating to her. Footballer Frank Thorpe, who won the FA Cup with Bury in 1903, was born in Hayfield in 1879. Rob Hayles, former Olympic sprint cyclist. Vicky Horner, former Olympic swimmer. Horner and Hayles are married. See also Listed buildings in Hayfield, Derbyshire References External links Hayfield Parish Council official website Hayfield website Hayfield Development Trust Hayfield Civic Trust website Villages in Derbyshire Towns and villages of the Peak District Civil parishes in Derbyshire High Peak, Derbyshire