Why Is Happy Valley Called Happy Valley?

[naomi24]

No spoilers please. I've only watched a few episodes of series 1 and it doesn't seen very happy to me.

[Ken4155]

Perhaps it was a 'happy valley' before the arrival of TLJ, Naomi :-)

[-SharonA-]

Too many drugs & everyone happy.

[Barmaid]

I know this because I looked it up when I started watching it. Apparently it is the nickname the police use for the area because of the high usage of alcohol and drugs there.

[Ken4155]

Ah, apparently, Naomi, Hebden Bridge (where much of it is filmed) has, like many a place, an area troubled by drugs and drug users/dealers. The local plod call this area 'Happy Valley' and Sally Wainwright thought it a good name for the series.

[MissTerious2]

I've often wondered Naomi.

Found this

https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/news/tv/bbcs-happy-valley-called-happy-26101814

[barry1010]

That's the explanation the creator gives - drugs https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/news/tv/bbcs-happy-valley-called-happy-26101814

[Ken4155]

Okay, i'm not the fastest typist in the west :-)

[MissTerious2]

Others beat me to it!

[gingejbee]

I assumed that the creator of the series fancied a bit of irony...

[naomi24]

Isn't he the pits, Ken. He reminds me so much of someone I'd rather never have known, I find it a bit difficult to watch him.

Thanks so much all. Would you all mind sharing a best answer?

[Ken4155]

Hope the comparison doesn't put you off watching the rest, Naomi.

[naomi24]

It won't, ken - got to be realistic .... but I struggle even with his name ....

[douglas9401]

I've never watched it but assumed from all the trailers about the place that the title tied in with the cheery demeanour of the polis woman. :-P

Looks like misery in hi-viz.

[gingejbee]

I envy people who have never watched any of the three series...they have 18 hours of top-notch drama to enjoy.