In 1571, William Slingsby discovered that the waters of its springs were very similar to those of the famous Belgian town of Spa. When Edmunde Deane published his famous work on the healing properties of spa water, people began to flock to the town.

By the 19th Century, Harrogate had gained the same kind of reputation as other English Spa towns, such as Bath and Scarborough and grand buildings sprang up to accommodate and entertain wealthy visitors from around Europe. These building still stand today - a testament to the huge popularity that the sulphur and iron rich springs once enjoyed.

Spas fell out of popularity in England throughout the 20th Century, but the spring water kept on flowing. As interest in natural therapies for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis grew in latter years, enterprising townsfolk began to realise that once again they could capitalise on the trend.

Phil Walker, managing director of Harrogate Sulphur Soap is one such businessman. His range of therapeutic cleansing products are based on the sulphur-rich waters for which Harrogate is famous. Since 1994, he has exported products around the world - mainly to dermatologists and pharmacists in the far east. Now, he is hoping his website will raise sulphur's popularity in the UK.

"Anyone who has heard of Sulphur skin care products tends to think of exotic locations such as the Dead Sea. But people can look closer to home for a sulphur treatment. Harrogate's water has great therapeutic qualities and I'd gladly recommend it to anyone."

Phil is keen to point out this his products are not cures for skin complaints.

"Many companies try to sell Sulphur as a 'cure', but actually it is best used to help alleviate the symptoms of diseases like psoriasis by reducing itching and keeping the skin as clean and as fresh as possible."