Holme Valley Review, February 2021

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Library to be handed over to the community

By Susan Hampshire

HONLEY library is to be transferred to community management.

Kirklees Council has agreed to pass ownership of the 1930s building on West Avenue and its surrounding land to Holme Valley Parish Council.

The parish council will, in turn, lease the building to the Friends of Honley Library which has supported and helped to develop the existing services since 2013.

Before the current closure due to Covid regulations, the library was open for 19 hours a week with Kirklees library staff

working alongside volunteers.

Under a five-year agreement as part of the asset transfer arrangements, Kirklees Library Service will continue to provide its current level of service with the day-to-day management of the library undertaken by the FOHL. “We have been working for over three years to make this asset transfer happen in order to ensure a more secure future for this important local resource,” said Jenny Lockwood, chair of the trustees of FOHL. In addition to working alongside library staff, volunteers run poetry

evenings, reading groups, a pop-up café and recycling events.

They also organise family and children’s events working with schools and the wider community.

Additional children’s events in school holidays

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include using favourite books, working with local authors, sharing art, craft, drama and music.

Once it is safe to do so, all these activities will resume as the Friends work towards expanding the library’s role as a community hub.

The aim is to widen the range of activities and events which run in addition to the core library services.

The Friends, working alongside Library Services, have also drawn up plans to improve the flexibility of the present library layout and to upgrade lighting, heating and internal decorations.

Plans extend to the land surrounding the library where, with the support of Honley Community Growers and Friends of Honley/Honley Village Trust, volunteers hope to provide space for children’s events and other outdoor activities.

“With the generous support of the Parish

Council, we look forward to developing the library and its grounds as a vibrant, welcoming community hub,” said Jenny. “We could not have achieved so much without a hard working team of volunteers and we hope to recruit more people to help us with our exciting plans for the future.”

If you feel able to help or would like to discuss ideas for future projects at the library, contact: Ann Brooks at brooksat2@aol. com or 07980 254964, Jenny Lockwood at jenny1941@ icloud.com or 07913 382017 or Carrie Birch at carriebirchdirect@icloud. com

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Unlock your potential with new online learning courses KIRKLEES College is helping to facilitate improving work skills and professional development opportunities for local people through the delivery of its online learning programme.

Whilst the current national lockdown means that a significant amount of the population has been furloughed or made redundant, research has shown a strong correlation between adults undertaking education and training courses and successfully re-entering work.

In response to the pandemic, the college has adapted to the everchanging climate in the education sector by introducing remote learning methods.

A shift to online learning has meant that workers can still access professional development

opportunities whilst adhering to the Covid-19 guidelines in place.

With employers assessing their businesses’ current needs, this year provides the ideal opportunity for people to improve their skillset and

enhance their career prospects, whether that is upskilling in a current job or retraining in a new career.

The Adult courses at Kirklees College aim to support jobseekers

or those looking for a new challenge with flexible study options to accommodate their needs.

The specialist courses aim to support adults in learning the knowledge and skills needed to pursue their career goals.

The course offering encompasses a range of sectors, including Animal Care and Land-based, Business, Creative Industries, Hair and Beauty, Health and Social Care, Hospitality and Catering, Sport and Teaching.

The college is also committed to helping people to achieve their career goals through continued professional development (CPD) courses.

These short, certified courses offer flexible, online learning suitable for all professions,

from improving knowledge of mental health and learning firstaid to gaining a more in-depth understanding of health and safety procedures.

Philippa Firth, assistant principal for adults and higher education, said: “As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, there is set to be an increase in demand for skilled workers in certain sectors.

“Our Adult courses aim to support learners to gain valuable employability skills that will prove beneficial in the current job market and help them adapt to the ever-changing challenges in the workplace.”

For more information and to download the new 2021 Adult guide, visit https://www. kirkleescollege.ac.uk/adultlearners/.

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Holme Valley Review, February 2021 – 3

Fly-tippers prosecuted despite Covid delays FLY-TIPPERS blamed for dumping in the Holme Valley are being investigated and prosecuted by Kirklees Council – despite Covid-19 causing some delays and disruption to services and court hearings.

Cases first reported to the council as far back as 2019 have been investigated and are now appearing in the courts.

Twelve cases originally scheduled for hearings in 2020 had to be rescheduled for 2021.

Three people living in the area have recently been issued with fines of between £75 and £200 for offences related to littering, flytipping and failure to supply waste transfer documents.

Coun Naheed Mather, cabinet member for environment, said: “There is no excuse for fly-tipping – it’s a criminal offence, causes an unsightly blight on the environment and attracts pests.

“Despite the pandemic, we’re pursuing people where we have evidence of an offence and would like to thank those who report incidents to us.

“Fly-tipping comes down to a few people simply not caring about what happens to their waste and the impact dumping it has on others.

“It’s your waste, and your responsibility to get rid of it in the

“There is no excuse for fly-tipping – it’s a criminal offence, causes an unsightly blight on the environment and attracts pests.”

right way.

“The council’s recycling centres are open, and we also offer a bulky waste collection service. Charities will often collect large items for upcycling and specialist waste can be collected by reputable companies.

“Remember, if you ask someone to remove waste on your behalf you must check they have a valid waste carrier’s licence.

“Not everyone who offers waste collection services is reputable and they may dump your rubbish - if they do, and our investigators find evidence, you could be prosecuted too.

“We’re always looking at ways in which we can reduce the opportunity to fly-tip, and more recently we’ve used stronger measures to catch fly-tippers in the action through the use of static and mobile cameras.”

To report fly-tipping to the council go to www.kirklees.gov.uk/ flytipping.

Charity wins bronze award

By Susan Hampshire

RIVER Holme Connections, a charity dedicated to making the River Holme a better place for people, business and wildlife has been awarded a bronze level accreditation by the Wild Trout Trust.

This has been awarded for the wide range of work that River Holme Connections has carried out in the Holme Valley to improve biodiversity, tackle invasive non-native

EweMove Holme Valley – helping EWE move on THE one thing that is certain about the property market is that nothing is ever certain!

Nearly a year after Covid and lockdowns hit, there is still a lot of upheaval and uncertainty with concerns about job security and the economy and rumours around whether the Stamp Duty Holiday will be extended or not.

On a positive note, mortgage rates are still low and many people are continuing to reassess their priorities in light of changes to work patterns and the impact of coronavirus on their lifestyles.

As a result, the property market is still buoyant especially in the Holme Valley as buyers seek to take advantage of everything the Valley has to offer.

David and Lorna Carrighan, the Honley based branch directors of EweMove Holme Valley, frequently get calls from buyers looking to move to this area.

As they discuss their individual needs with each of these buyers, it is clear that the properties they are looking for vary greatly from two-bed cottages to larger four/five bed detached houses.

David and Lorna Carrighan So, if you are thinking of selling, then David and Lorna would be happy to talk to you about how they can help.

Offering a very different and personal estate agency experience, their service is not just about selling your home; it’s about helping you move on.

They aim to get you the best price, in a time frame that suits you and make the whole process as straightforward as possible.

To find out more, give them a call on 01484 248719.

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species, clean up green spaces, educate people about the importance of river ecosystems and improve recreational opportunities for the whole community.

Dr Paul Gaskell, Wild Trout Trust “Trout in the Town” project manager, said: “I’m delighted after working with so many of the people responsible for River Holme Connections for several years to be able to formally recognise their achievements.

“Perhaps even more importantly,

I’m delighted to acknowledge their contributions to the growing movement towards protecting and improving urban, post-industrial rivers throughout England.

“In this way, their achievements for the River Holme are inspiring similarly positive impacts at a national as well as a local level.”

Charles RangeleyWilson, vice president of the Wild Trout Trust, added: “Clean rivers and wild trout in our

towns and cities are a wonderful affirmation of hope, and that we can build a world where there’s room for both people and nature”.

Simon Hirst, river steward at River Holme Connections, concluded: “We are delighted to receive this accreditation from the Wild Trout Trust, and it’s down to all the hard work of our amazing volunteers who work tirelessly to improve the River Holme. Our next goal is silver accreditation.’’

4 – Holme Valley Review, February 2021

The Holme Valley Mountain Rescue team is incredibly proud to have presented many Mountain Rescue England and Wales long service certificates in 2020. In ‘normal times’ these would he presented at the AGM but unfortunately the team had to settle for some socially-distant photos in a car park this year. Hopefully this doesn’t detract from the achievements of those receiving awards. The team is extremely grateful for their dedicated service.

The awards were as follows: 10 years’ service – Adam Dierckx, Cath Kinder, Matt Parry, Adam Stancer. 15 years’ service – David Honour, John Wood.

20 years’ service – Mark Clarke, Owen Phillips. 30 years’ service – George Healey, Seamus Quinn, Dennis Woodhead. 40 years’ service – Peter Phillips. 50 years’ service – Jim Berry (photographed).

Phase one of repairs now completed A PLANNED phase one of repairs to Ramsden Road in the upper Holme Valley has now been carried out.

This is the first part of an ambitious long-term project between the Friends of Ramsden Road and Kirklees Council.

Approximately two years ago, after a public meeting hosted by Kirklees Council, a group was formed to look at repairs and subsequent maintenance of the lane. The “Friends of Ramsden Road” represents all user groups.

The historic Ramsden Road, close to Hade Edge, is an important lane for all its users, but in recent years it has fallen into disrepair, largely due to water erosion.

Blocked/broken drainage systems and surface erosion have left large parts of the lane in a difficult, rutted condition.

The lane needs to be available and accessible to all eligible

users – walkers, mountain bikers, horse riders, wheelchair users, motorcyclists and 4x4 drivers as well as farm and

emergency vehicles.

A major survey of drainage, water flow and run-off has been carried out by the group in preparation for further phases of work to bring the lane up to a standard where it is accessible to all.

Currently Ramsden Road and the surrounding area is currently experiencing problems with irresponsible driving of 4x4’s, motorcycles and quad bikes.

Irresponsible drivers are driving off the legal lanes, driving in newly constructed drainage ditches and causing great damage to the track, walls and gates.

The Friends of Ramsden Road are actively working together to try to eliminate this problem and include the Green Lane Association and motorcycle groups and are talking to the police, Kirklees Council and local landowners.

When lockdown restrictions allow, work will be arranged (with volunteers) to repair some of the damage done and to install measures to deter these irresponsible characters.

FoRR would urge all members of the public to help in this by reporting any incidents witnessed to West Yorkshire police by telephoning 101.

The more incidents that are logged by the police the higher priority this would become enabling more manpower to be allocated.

Ramsden Road is a historic lane in the upper Holme Valley, on the edge of the Peak District national Park, used by centuries by packhorses, peat cutters and pedlars.

Today it is a public Byway Open to All Traffic, used regularly for recreation enjoyed by many local residents and visitors.

PARISH COUNCIL NEWS

Supporting the community AT the end of last year, Holme Valley Parish Council considered its budget for the 2021-22 financial year, reviewing all the proposals from the various committees.

We are pleased to confirm that we are keeping the respective council tax band charges to households at the same level as the current year.

We have, however, decided to boost our spending to support the community through these difficult times by calling on financial reserves.

The Parish Council is

fully committed locally to continuing to address the ongoing climate emergency and, following our collation of requests for financial help through our ‘Expressions of Interest’ process, we intend to offer increased support to local community assets such as village halls and community centres.

Management of this process through our Community Assets Support Committee allowed us to receive early indications of potential future needs by assets run by the community for the community and, in our

first year of trialling this approach, we received 19 applications.

We identified 10 of these as eligible for funding so earmarked £42,550 of next year’s budget for their anticipated applications.

This has been an extremely challenging year for our local facilities which have struggled to raise money through normal fund-raising opportunities due to the Covid pandemic.

We hope that our support for capital repairs and improvements will help make more assets in the community sustainable.

New procedures for grant applications: In the new Council year, starting April 2021, the Council will be moving to a new process whereby grant applications are reviewed on only two occasions in the year – in September and in February. The hope is that applications can then be considered alongside and against one another. Any group should therefore aim to get their applications in by the end of August 2021 or the end of January 2022. However, we do appreciate that applications to meet unexpected needs do arise and, in liaison with the Clerk, such applications can be presented to the Parish Council at any time for consideration.

Recent grant awards HOLME Valley Parish Council supports a range of activities and services in the valley and our website www. holmevalleyparishcouncil provides a list of all the grants that have been made along with reports from community groups on how those monies were used.

In recent months, we

have contributed towards protective screens to allow the Holmfirth Country Markets to operate in a more Covid-safe way, the Holme Valley Patient Transport Scheme helping vulnerable people visit their GP, the Random Acts of Kindness project which organised festive presents to combat loneliness,

and to festivals planning post-pandemic events (Holmfirth Arts Festival and Honley Children’s Book Festival).

Under the climate emergency banner, we have also recently paid out grants to undertake land use mapping of the Holme Valley, and energy audits of Parish Council buildings.

Holme Valley Parish Council supports the Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill: Continuing our commitment to actively addressing the climate emergency, the Parish Council was pleased to pass a motion this month supporting the Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill which is currently before Parliament. The Bill demands that the Government act more quickly towards net zero by developing an emergency strategy (further details are on https://www.ceebill.uk/)

Improving local youth facilities THE Service Provision Committee was pleased to make a grant of £4000 in November towards the appointment of a new Youth Worker in Honley.

The Committee is looking forward to supporting this venture further in the year ahead and linking up with other youth provision in the Valley.

Holme Valley Review, February 2021 – 5

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6 – Holme Valley Review, February 2021

Expressions of interest invited for new market

place. Holmfirth has a strong reputation for independent shops and a new market could really enhance this offer.

“Whilst our town centres are only open for essential shopping during lockdown, the council remains committed to the longer-term economic recovery of all our towns and villages.

“A vibrant market can bring a real buzz to the town, support the local economy and give visitors and shoppers more choice and provide access to a great selection of local produce and crafts.”

Applicants have been asked to provide details of where and when they would look to operate a market. Kirklees Council will then provide further information following an expression of interest.

If you have any queries about the Holmfirth Market License, please contact Chris Cotton on 01484 221000.

KIRKLEES Council has invited expressions of interest from private, public or community organisations to operate a market in Holmfirth.

Management of the market will be an exciting opportunity for someone with experience of setting up and running markets, looking after traders and promoting up and coming events.

The opening of a new market in the town will help Holmfirth thrive and provide Kirklees residents and visitors with an alternative shopping experience.

Councillor Paul Davies, cabinet member for culture and greener Kirklees, said: “Operating a market in Holmfirth provides a unique opportunity for the right organisation.

“This will be a completely new market and the organiser will need to identify the best location for the market to take

Consultation feedback now being reviewed

n Basic Conditions Statement Councillor Peter McBride, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “This opportunity gave local people a chance to have their say on the guiding principles that will be used for future developments in the area that, when introduced, will be used at the very earliest planning stages.’’

The council is responsible for sending all comments received during the consultation to the independent examiner for consideration.

Once feedback has been considered, and provided the plan meets relevant requirements, the Council and Peak District National Park Authority would move it to a local referendum.

If more than 50 per cent of those who vote in the referendum vote in favour of the plan, it would become part of the statutory development plan alongside the Kirklees Local Plan.

Read the plan at www.kirklees. gov.uk/neighbourhoodplanning

ALL comments are now being reviewed following a recent consultation period over the planned Holme Valley Neighbourhood Development Plan.

The public was recently asked to comment on the plan and submit views by February 2.

The plan, produced by Holme Valley Parish Council and its Steering Group, captures previously gathered local feedback to set out an agreed vision, objectives and planning policies for the area.

These policies help developers understand local priorities and aspirations, as well as support wider agendas including climate change issues and the Kirklees Local Plan.

Local people had the chance to comment on five documents: n Holme Valley Neighbourhood Development Plan (Submission Plan) n Strategic Environmental Assessment Report n Habitats Regulation Assessment Screening n Consultation Statement

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Solicitor is awarded MBE to recognise his services to children and families

By Susan Hampshire

LOCAL solicitor Nigel Priestley has been honoured with an MBE in the recent Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.

A senior partner at Huddersfield law firm Ridley & Hall, Nigel received his MBE in recognition of his services to children and families.

He still doesn’t know who put his name forward for the award but says he is deeply touched by the nomination.

Nigel describes receiving the MBE as a great honour which took him totally by surprise.

Over the years he has received other accolades including being named Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year and Solicitor of the Year.

He said: “This award is not just down to me. It is only through team work that we have been able to achieve the results for our

Nigel Priestley clients.

“It is an honour for the great team at Ridley & Hall Legal. I want to give special mention to my assistant Jane Bolton who should be sharing the honour with me.’’

Nigel is a leading expert in kinship care, adoption breakdown and care proceedings.

As a member of the Children’s Panel, he

regularly represents children, parents and grandparents in care proceedings.

He has spent 25 years fighting for families and children.

He says he often acts for people who don’t have a voice, working hard to make their voice heard.

Nigel also stood for Parliament, for the Liberal Democrats in the Colne Valley, between 1987 and 1997.

He said: “It would have been great to get elected but with hindsight I believe that I have impacted on more individual lives as a solicitor than I would have achieved as a back-bench MP.’’ Nigel is also proud of the success of Ridley & Hall which he joined in 1978 to start a Court department.

“We continue to win awards – last December we were named Family

Law Firm of the Year at the 2020 Yorkshire Legal Awards. I could never have expected such recognition.

“We have learnt the importance of being specialists so that we don’t just have to rely on local clients. Our clients come from all over England and Wales.’’

Nigel said: “I was recently approached about training lawyers and judges in Belize, South America.

“In 2018 with a team, I travelled to Paraguay to train on Children’s law.

“When I moved into the Vicarage at Meltham Mills in 1974 and then into a bedsit at Bent House in Meltham, as I trained to be a lawyer, I never thought that such things would happen.

“I am indebted to the support my wife Sue and my family have given me and my wider family at St James Church Meltham Mills.”

Jo turns to verse to keep spirits up HOLMFIRTH’S popular Old Bridge Hotel may be closed because of the national lockdown, but enthusiastic general manager Jo Richmond has now turned to verse to help keep everyone’s spirits up.

For she and fellow GMs and other colleagues across the 18- strong Coaching Inn Group now star in a poem which can be viewed at https://bit.ly/ CIGfamily “We really are one big family and are all

keeping in close touch with one another through social media,” said Jo. Chief executive Kevin Charity said the 10-verse poem about the hotels and their team members reflected the strong

sense of camaraderie felt within the Coaching Inn Group.

“We can’t wait until the day we can reopen The Old Bridge which now plays such an important part in the life of the community,” he added.

Walking scheme to ease loneliness A SCHEME to ease the loneliness of lockdown in rural communities has been launched.

The project – dubbed Walking Buddies – aims to get people out and about with a bit of sociallydistanced company.

Those interested will be paired by staff at Penistone Leisure Centre after filling in an online form on the venue’s website.

A spokesman said: “We know there are a lot of people out there who are feeling isolated by the lockdown and we have been thinking about what we can do to help.

“The lack of social contact is getting to us all, but it must be particularly

tough for those who live alone, or are far from their families.

“Current lockdown rules mean people are allowed to meet one other person within the local area for exercise.

“We know there are a lot of people who are in the same boat, who might benefit from some fresh air, a chat and some exercise.

“Anyone interested in being paired up with someone else locally to meet for a walk and a chat should simply fill in our form.

“We’ll then get in contact when there is a suitable match and pass on individual details to arrange a walk.”

Holme Valley Review, February 2021 – 7

Local photographers have been out and about capturing stunning snowy landscapes during the recent freezing weather. Several recent falls of snow have turned the Holme Valley into a winter wonderland with beautiful views in every direction. Here are just a few of the images which have been captured, showing the valley covered in its white blanket of snow and some of the animals carrying on with their daily lives in the snow-covered fields.

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New woodland taking shape THE new Wild Space at Thongsbridge being developed by River Holme Connections is already being installed – with 170 trees being planted to create the working woodland.

The woodland will have a mix of tree species that will provide produce to make woven baskets, jams and preserves.

This is great news for the Thongsbridge Cricket

Club and River Holme Connections collaboration to create two new outdoor spaces for the Thongsbridge community.

Both the spaces have been fully funded through Spacehive as part of the Growing Great Places scheme launched by Kirklees Council.

The Cricket Club is well underway with the new outdoor serving facility.

Plans are fully developed to build a great outdoor space to prepare food and refreshments in a pleasant outdoor environment.

These new projects will hopefully be completed in time for the Summer Family Fun Day that is being hosted

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Game birds to be given ‘much needed’ chance to flourish

By Josh Timlin

Alison Milner, Walk in the Park 2021.

Photo Steve Speller, courtesy YSP

Relationship between the built environment and nature explored YORKSHIRE Sculpture Park is to present an exhibition exploring human relationships between buildings, landscape and wellbeing.

The exhibition will run from March 27 to June 27 and is by decorative minimalist Alison Milner.

Artist, designer and maker Alison refers to herself as a ‘Decorative Minimalist’ – being inspired by the geometry of nature and by a simple, minimal use of materials.

The relationship between nature and the man-made is a key theme in her work and many of her artworks illustrate landscapes, architecture, nature and wildlife.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park and its 500 acres of historic landscape have heavily influenced Milner’s latest exhibition.

The exhibition explores the relationships between nature and the built

environment through her creative use of imagery and materials.

Decorative Minimalist features a large-scale, illustrated tile mural entitled Walk in the Park.

Designed exclusively for YSP, the mural consists of 160 ceramic tiles that capture the everyday life and soul of Yorkshire Sculpture Park.

Yorkshire’s elemental weather, iconic works by Henry Moore and James Turrell, historic architecture such as Bretton Hall and the 18th century chapel, large sculptures being installed, a medley of wildlife by the lakes, and families enjoying a stroll, reinforce Milner’s and YSP’s belief that spending time outdoors surrounded by works of art and nature is good for your mind and body.

Working in a wide range of sustainable and natural materials, Milner’s chosen mediums are clay, plywood,

paper and vitreous enamel, all of which are represented in this new exhibition at YSP. Learning about new materials and extending processes through collaboration with other makers and manufacturers is a key part of her practice.

Tiles consist of unglazed porcelain, black stoneware and high-fired terracotta in earthy tones and minimalist, geometric patterns.

The collection is simply made, using a deliberately limited range of tools and techniques, including rolling, hole punching and slip sgraffito.

With a clean, clear and quiet aesthetic, Milner reduces, simplifies and uncovers underlying patterns.

Some details of this exhibition may need to change subject to COVID-19 restrictions.

Check the website for the most up to date information.

GAME birds in the Holme Valley’s beauty spots will be given a ‘much-needed’ chance to flourish after years of being targeted by shooting parties thanks to new laws.

Tighter rules will mean grouse moors – including those at Dark Peak near Dunford Bridge and Digley Reservoir in Holmfirth – will no longer see the routine burning of heather on some of the borough’s most ecologically-sensitive sites following widespread calls from campaigners.

Gamekeepers set fire to heather in order to create an optimal breeding habitat for game birds which are shot for sport – though the contentious act has been linked to widespread environmental damage.

Almost three-quarters of England’s peatlands are damaged or degraded, according to a study by National England, with heather burning being a key driver.

Since the government’s pledge was made, Ban Bloodsports on Yorkshire’s Moors, a campaign group against grouse shooting, has compiled more than 600 reports of peat moorlands being set alight by grouse shoots across Yorkshire –

including the Holme Valley.

Luke Steele, a spokesperson for the group, added: “In the midst of a climate emergency there is no justification to allow fires to be set on any carbon-rich peatlands.

“It’s past time to put an end to the burning of peatlands for grouse shooting - a practice which degrades fragile ecosystems, releases climate-altering gasses into the atmosphere and worsens flooding in communities downstream from grouse moors.

“With hundreds of fires set on grouse moors on local heather hills since the government pledged a ban in October 2019, every single fire set signals the failure to deliver on that.

“Grouse moors are woefully under-regulated so we welcome the announcement that burning on fragile blanket bog will no longer be routinely allowed in many areas.

“This is a much-needed change.”

Shooting leases – granted on Yorkshire Water-controlled land in the region – have led to a ‘wildlife crisis’, according to the group, but the stay of execution has been granted on all the utilities firm’s land.

A spokesman from Yorkshire Water confirmed a

Food bank in urgent need of supplies THONGSBRIDGE’S food bank is in need of supplies after figures revealed it’s supporting about 150 families a week.

Basics such as long-life milk, tinned meats and fish, vegetables, rice, pasta and sauce are some of the sought-after items identified by the group.

Takeaway available Take away and delivery service

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Tel: 01484 688661 Mobile: 07539 944009 7 Sheffield Road, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7JT

SAT at home wondering what to have for tea tonight?

If you fancy a taste of authentic Indian or Bangladeshi food, then remember that the Spice Fusion restaurant at New Mill is currently offering a takeaway and home delivery service.

Customers can either ring to order their food or complete an on-line order.

Takeaways and deliveries are available every night except Monday from 5pm with last orders at 10pm.

The whole menu is available and the Spice Fusion team look forward to taking your order.

The family-run business is now well established within the New Mill and Holmfirth areas and offers authentic Indian and Bangladeshi food.

Chefs use only the finest ingredients to ensure all food is of the highest quality.

The restaurant has an extensive menu which includes an excellent choice of starters, classic dishes and house specialities.

Biryani are a North Indian classic and are always popular with customers along with classic favourites like tikka, korma, kahari, bhuna, dansak and rogan josh which come in chicken, lamb, fish and prawn choices.

The house specials include a wide array of flavours from the Indian and Bangladeshi regions and feature a choice of mild or robust flavours with delicious tender chunks of meat, perfect spicing and fresh flavours.

Order at www.spicefusionholmfirth.co.uk or by phone 07539 944009. You can also order with Just Eat and Uber.

review into its tenancies has been completed and changes are being implemented as a result of shooting concerns.

“Our tenancy agreements already include a clause which automatically terminates the lease of anyone convicted of a wildlife crime,” they added.

“However, we have reviewed this to make them as robust as possible to ensure a zero-tolerance approach to wildlife crime.”

Anyone caught flouting the public space protection order – which is in place for a minimum of three years – will be given on-thespot £100 fines or face prosecution through the court system if they opt against paying.

There are exemptions for private residential areas but any land that has a public right of way or public access is included in the scheme.

Local gamekeeper Richard Bailey, who was part of the team who helped combat widespread fires in 2019 near Dunford Bridge, also praised the new guidance.

“We need to do all we can to reduce the risk of wildfire,” he added.

“The last fires released an estimated 26,000 tonnes of CO2 over the three weeks they burnt – that is equivalent to the annual emissions of 19,000 cars.”

A spokesman said: “Donations can be made between 9am and 11.30am, Tuesday to Friday, and on a Saturday morning.”

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Pick up your copy at local Co-operative stores and supermarkets Morrisons, Sainsbury’s and Tesco.

Due to the current situation some of the smaller retail business are closed we have now doubled the copies distributed in supermarkets, co-operatives and our key selected pick up points which are fully open for business as usual.

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at tables of no more than six will close forever as THE Holme Valley’s and groups are not it’s permitted targeted the hospitality becoming so difficult. struggling night-time to mingle. trade sector – refuting any “Just when we thought which pub landlords One Holmfirth bar notion blame we owner, that it was responsible were getting back to the government’s strict who wished to remain normal, an increase in positive for the government appear 10pm closing curfew anonymous, told the tests to is Holme – and called on ministers be unfairly targeting ‘significantly’ harming Valley Review venues to the popular simply publish evidence for hospitality industry venues and will lead will not survive – unless opting to with no some close pubs at 10pm. evidence it’s been responsible to shut altogether, restrictions are rethought owners or A spokesman for its for the so-called second believe. a suitable financial local spike package branch told the added: of coronavirus cases.” is given.

All hospitality venues now “Publicans across the The sector was forced have to shut at 10pm “When we were given to –a borough close on March 20 who have already permission to reopen, move which is ‘strangling’ as a result we spent thousands making of the coronavirus decided to close at already tough trade outbreak earlier and result their premises before their reopenings Covid-secure anyway but the 10pm in businesses going were time is bust, it now face dwindling given the go-ahead just too hard to even has been warned. levels in July. attempt of trade as a result Since then tougher to turn that into any of these Prime Minister Boris sort of government decisions, restrictions have been profit,” they said.

Johnson, who outlined will undoubtedly lead which enforced - which threaten “Last orders are called the tough new stance to permanent closure. in landlords with a £10,000 just before 9.30pm a televised address fine now, so to “Without seeing the if they’re found to be effectively that’s the the nation at the end flouting cut-off evidence that was used of the rules - and the point for us to make September, said this curfew cash. impose a curfew and to means was announced “If something isn’t other ‘closing and not just in a bid restrictions, the beer calling ward off a second spike to brought in – whether and for last orders’. of that’s pubs sector feels that Resident Sheila Matthews coronavirus cases. a rethought curfew it Businesses must also helps to plant her time or is being unfairly targeted favourite flowers in The Campaign for Real another big financial ensure customers are the package without explanation served care home in Holmfirth. raised beds at Greenacres Ale (CAMRA) claim from the governmen , evidence the The home has t – bars or any financial help national Gardens government has unfairly to in Bloom competitio just won a compensate. n.

Full story on page 5

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Details of the next issue of the Review will be posted on our Facebook & Instagram Pages

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Holme Valley Review, February 2021 – 9

Teen did not mean to end her life, inquest concludes A TEENAGER who was found dead following years battling mental health issues did not intend to end her life, an inquest concluded.

Eleanor Lomax, 19, was found hanged in her bedroom at her family home at Belmont Terrace, Thurgoland, on February 17 last year.

The former Penistone Grammar School pupil, who was under treatment for anxiety, depression and mood instability, had recently spent time in a hospital mental health unit.

Ellie, who had also undergone a programme to address issues concerning the use of alcohol, had made previous attempts to take her own life, including an overdose in November 2019, when having left a note confirming her action was planned, she was found by her mother and taken to hospital.

But at her inquest at Sheffield Medico-Legal Centre, assistant coroner Tanyka Rawden – after hearing evidence from three mental health professionals – said she believed the fatal actions were ‘an expression of distress’ and recorded death by misadventure.

Mrs Rawden said: “Ellie was a very poorly young lady with a personality disorder which made her act impulsively.

“There was no note this time, and on balance, it is likely her action was an expression of distress rather than an attempt to take her own life.”

Ellie’s mother Elaine said that her daughter, the youngest of four adopted siblings, was ‘adored’ and ‘gelled the family together’.

The inquest was told

Eleanor Lomax how as she moved up to secondary school level, she was badly affected by the death of her grandparents, to whom she was very close, and was a victim of bullying.

She struggled to make relationships, her moods became more variable and in her later teens Ellie used alcohol to cover up distressing feelings.

“When she drank, she didn’t seem to have a cutoff point,” said Mrs Lomax.

An overdose in 2018 led to a referral to children’s mental health services, and she underwent interpersonal therapy treatment.

Ellie found the transition to adult mental health services, which began in late 2018, unsettling, and there was a second overdose.

After her overdose in November 2019, she came under the care of consultant psychiatrist Dr Patricia O’Malley and was admitted to the Priory Hospital at Altrincham.

Dr O’Malley said she found features of emerging unstable personality,

emotional instability and impulsivity, and Ellie underwent a variety of treatments.

With evidence that while not dependant on alcohol, she used it in a harmful way, Dr O’Malley urged her to undergo an addiction programme, to which she eventually agreed.

After two periods of home leave, she left hospital in late January 2020.

Dr O’Malley said: “Ellie had responded well to an addiction programme which is challenging, and medication had had a positive effect.

“She was at the beginning of a journey, not the end of treatment.

While she wasn’t felt to be at risk, there were a number of complex and ongoing issues which needed to be addressed, and there was a treatment plan, including long-term in-depth therapy, which encompassed all of that.”

Elaine, who along with her husband Chris has been nominated for a Proud of Barnsley award for their fundraising

work to help improve mental health services across the borough since their daughter’s death, is concerned that the coroner’s verdict means Ellie’s death won’t be counted among suicide figures.

They have expressed their disagreement with the conclusion in a letter to the coroner’s office.

“We were shocked and bamboozled,” said Elaine.

“It was never said beforehand that misadventure, rather than suicide, was a possible ruling, and we weren’t exactly sure what it meant until we had the chance to look it up afterwards.

“To us, there is the implication that it was an accident, but Ellie had issues and problems. She wasn’t sleeping and was utterly exhausted, and couldn’t see how anything was different after coming out of hospital.

“She had taken overdoses before, and while she had left a note in only two of the cases, her intention to end her life was clear. This time, she knew she could get help, we were downstairs, but she made sure she wasn’t found.

“In our view, there is no doubt she intended to take her own life. That any doubt has been raised is bizarre.

“There is a concern that Ellie’s death may not be included in suicide statistics, and that there are other similar cases, and if the figures mean suicides are undercounted, that may have an effect on the funding for mental health services.

“We are heartbroken that she chose to take her life. She lit up our lives and many others.”

A series of wood sculptures have been created on logs and trees in Meltham Pleasure Grounds and include monsters, creatures, fairy houses and toadstools. The work was carried out recently by sculptor Heather Crompton of Form Artworks and was paid for with funds raised at a walkers quiz night in March 2020. Various work has been carried out in recent times to improve the Pleasure Grounds which are popular with local walkers and families. Improvement work has included a new picnic area, planting and landscaping.

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Health and happiness – the ideal combination WHEN Donna Hall goes to work, she says she’s always smiling.

“The guy in the garage remarked that I’m always cheerful, and he’s right”.

Donna runs DMH Podiatry within the Elmwood Health Centre and reckons her good spirits are down to the job she does.

“So many of my patients have tales of woe from the past year, but they don’t let it get them down.

We end up having a real laugh behind our masks.”

But Donna reckons there’s a serious side to levity – it can help to fend off loneliness and puts problems into perspective at a time when we are all feeling the pressure of lockdowns and the threat of

Covid-19.

“A visit to the podiatrist gives our patients a chance for a chat and gives me and my colleagues a chance to assess overall patient health and well-being,” she said.

“You would be surprised at the number of ailments we’ve caught early on through listening and taking time to investigate that bit further.

“One patient told me that we’d saved his life, according to his GP, by detecting an undiagnosed heart problem.

“When things like that happen, it really does bring home how important it is to investigate every small clue.”

Donna runs her successful clinic with three colleagues, all qualified podiatrists who take healthcare very seriously.

“Podiatry is not just about the feet: we are experts in the body from the hip downwards.

“So often, with a little bit more care, we are the first to detect early signs of health issues such as diabetes or poor circulation, which can then be treated quickly.

“We routinely refer patients to GPs, often right here at Elmwood.

One lady was seen immediately after her appointment with me, which must be a record.”

Clearly all the staff at DMH Podiatry are dedicated to the overall health of their patients.

“Poor foot health has its own effects on quality of life, but our job shouldn’t stop there,” Donna concluded.

At DMH Podiatry we provide a wide range of foot health services for conditions affecting the feet and lower limb.

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Clinic appointments & home visits available: Tel: 01484 684757 email: dmhpodiatry@gmail.com

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Spring Motoring

10 – Holme Valley Review, February 2021

Poster urges motorists to keep within speed limit New law on using old tyres A BAN on old tyres for buses, coaches and lorries came into force earlier this month.

The new law came into force following an eight-year campaign by a bereaved mother whose son was killed in a coach crash.

An inquest found that the crash was caused by a tyre which was almost 20 years old.

According to the Government website, as of February 1, Construction and Use Regulations will not allow tyres which are more than 10 years old to be used on the front steered axles of lorries, buses, coaches or for all single wheels fitted to a minibus.

The new regulations should alert all vehicle owners to the dangers of using old tyres and encourage motorists to use

reputable local garages whenever they need tyres and repairs/servicing for their vehicles.

Many tyre experts believe it is only a matter of time before someone dies because of part-worn tyres being fitted to cars and believe the new law should be extended to include all vehicles.

CHARLIE’S TYRE SHOP To get some top quality tyres on your vehicle, drive to the local Holme Valley experts.

Charlie’s Tyre Shop has been serving the local community since 1981 and is the name many Holme Valley motorists rely on.

With tyre shops in both Honley and Meltham, it’s the place to go for tyres and much more.

Established in 1981

at Crossroads, New Mill Road, Honley and in 2004 at Meltham Tyre & Exhaust Centre in Carlile Street, Meltham, Charlie’s Tyres looks after hundreds of local motorists every year.

As well as tyres, both centres also offer car batteries, exhausts, service and MOT requirements, engine computer issues and diagnostics, service and sensor, lights reset and brake replacements.

New tyres arrive daily and Charlie’s Tyres is now a Toyo tyres dealer.

Both centres also offer the latest four-wheel alignment system and guarantee if you have a problem with your vehicle, Charlie’s Tyres can fix it.

The team at Honley and Meltham would like to thank all customers for their loyal support over the years.

TO coincide with the recent Road Safety Week, Meltham Town Council invited all primary school children (between the ages of four to 11 years) in Meltham, Helme and Wilshaw to design an A4 poster which reminded motorists to keep within the speed limit.

The best participating school was Meltham CE which received £50 in book tokens.

Over 25 individual pupils from Meltham CE, Meltham Moor and Helme primary schools received either book tokens (sponsored by local firm Towndoor) or prizes donated by another local firm Rosenbauer for their creative posters.

There was one overall winner who received £30 in book tokens and whose poster will be printed in the next edition of the Council’s newsletter.

Residents in Meltham will also be encouraged to display the winning poster in their windows.

All the prizes were delivered by the Town Mayor, Councillor Kate Buchanan, who said: “Reducing speeds is vital to keep our roads safer, especially for children travelling to and from school.

“We’ve been keen to remind motorists that speeding will not be tolerated, and the winning poster will help get that message out.”

During Road Safety Week the Town Council also delivered ‘20s plenty’ wheelie bins stickers to residents along the highways

in Meltham which have a 20mph speed limit.

Councillor Buchanan added: “Speeding in Meltham was one of the things that was raised most regularly by residents during the Ask Meltham project last year and the council continues to explore ways of reducing speeding – the stickers look really effective when all the residents in a street use them and show the community’s commitment to lower speeds.’’

Busy garage open as normal HUDDERSFIELD’S Parkside Garage is open as normal during lockdown restrictions.

Since the beginning of the first lockdown, almost 12 months ago, the garage in Somerset Road has remained open to provide vital repairs, servicing and MOTs for its customers.

Mick Leech, proprietor of the Land Rover and Jaguar specialist said the garage had been extremely busy during the past year and is now looking for extra staff.

He said: “We are busier than ever and are currently recruiting for staff, preferably someone with Land Rover and Jaguar experience.’’

“We have been doing everything we can to help

people with their vehicles over the last 12 months.’’

Because Parkside is a Land Rover and Jaguar specialist, parts for these vehicles are always in stock. However all makes of vehicles are welcome at Parkside and Mick and his team will always do their best to keep their customers on the road.

Mick said all necessary steps have been taken to keep staff and customers safe with social distancing and essential hygiene steps.

Members of the highly skilled garage team have a wealth of experience gained over many years in the automotive industry.

The Parkside Garage has

all the latest diagnostic equipment which allows mechanics to test, solve, repair and reset any issues your vehicle may have.

Customers can now find it even easier to use the Parkside Garage services with a new online appointment booking system.

Simply go to the website and follow the instructions to get your appointment date and time confirmed.

Customers are always ready to sing the praises of The Parkside Garage - look at some of the testimonials on the website.

Take a look at www. theparksidegarage.co.uk for information, contact details and online booking facility.

Holme Valley Review, February 2021 – 11

• Tyres • Batteries • Exhausts • Service • MOT • Engine Computer • Diagnostics • Service & Sensor • Lights Reset • Brake Replacement

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12 – Holme Valley Review, February 2021

Holmfirth Tech launches community share offer

By Susan Hampshire HOLMFIRTH Tech has launched its muchanticipated community share offer, so anyone over the age of 16 can buy shares and secure The Tech’s long-term future.

The Tech is the place where people can have fun, learn, help each other, where they can be creative and develop both their skills and their business.

It is also a community anchor and has provided support to local groups and people in many different ways over the last difficult year.

Work on bringing the Tech back home started about 10 years ago when Kirklees College first indicated its intention to close the then Adult Education Centre.

Several attempts were made to find a new purpose for it as The Tech means so much for many local people.

These came to nothing until 2018 when Kirklees College decided to sell the building.

It took a further two years of negotiation and a complex legal process involving the Charities Commission to confirm that purchase was the only right and proper way to transfer ownership.

Holmfirth Tech’s offer of £225,000 for the building and car park was accepted.

A deposit of £10,000 and

payment of a first instalment of £107,500 was made using money raised from donations and a grant from the Holme Valley Parish Council.

The legal structure of Holmfirth Tech, a not-forprofit community benefit society, now ensures this landmark building and its associated resources are in the hands of the people of Holmfirth and the Holme Valley.

Prior to the Covid pandemic, The Tech welcomed over 400 people per week through its doors.

They were taking part in a number of different types of activity, including music and art classes, choirs, music, art, craft and fitness groups, meetings, conferences, and social events.

The Tech was also being a local hub for co-working and enterprise. This range of activities demonstrated The Tech’s vision of being Holmfirth’s creative hub, providing the place for arts, learning, wellbeing and enterprise is realistic.

When the first lockdown forced The Tech to close its doors, work started on supporting local people through a role as the Community Anchor for the Holme Valley.

This involved providing administrative back up to the Mutual Aid and other local groups helping people

cope with the crisis, liaising with the NHS, Kirklees Council and Third Sector leaders to make sure that systems were in place and funds were available to deliver support and shopping.

The Tech also administered the Holme Valley South Emergency Hardship Fund which has provided grants worth more than £10,000 since last May. Other activities have included running the Caring4Carers and the Random Acts of Kindness schemes, supporting groups aimed at men, helping the Children’s Art School provide art packs, and the Good Footing walking and talking service.

The Tech is now busy organising volunteers to support the valley’s Primary Care Network run the Covid vaccination clinic at the Holme Valley Memorial Hospital.

Work has also begun on establishing Holmfirth Tech Limited, a charitable Community Benefit Society

incorporated under the Co-operative & Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 and registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), registration number 7739.

Future plans include getting the pre-Covid activities back in action, opening for a youth café and expanding of learning, wellbeing and workspace offerings.

In the midst of all of this activity, The Tech has opened a Community Share offer.

This has been awarded the Community Shares Standard Mark which indicates the offer has met national standards of good practice.

One local supporter and Patron of The Tech, Jimmy Dickinson of Longley Farm said: “I am really pleased to support The Tech, as it is such an important resource for the people of Holmfirth.

“The ex-Adult Education Centre is being transformed into Holmfirth’s Creative Hub. “This landmark building

has a whole new future ahead of it and will be a magnet to draw people into the township to all kinds of education, as well as providing a place to meet, learn and be with others.

“Acquiring new skills and having access to the arts is a perfect way to explore creativity and promote personal wellbeing.

“There are a lot of lessons to be learnt from the pandemic: not least the importance of community spirit and the value of helping, sharing and growing together.

“I fully support The Tech in its Community Share Offer and encourage local residents and businesses to help secure its future for all.’’

Holmfirth Tech now needs to raise the remaining amount owed to Kirklees College by inviting people to buy shares.

The second instalment of £107,500 must be paid

by May 2022 and at least an additional £50,000 is required for essential

building works to make the building fit for its new purpose.

If the Tech cannot raise this money the property and all the money already paid out will be lost, leaving the building to potentially fall into disrepair or worse.

Margaret Dale, one of The Tech’s directors, said: “We hope the people of Holmfirth and the Holme Valley will take up the opportunity to become shareholders in The Tech and turn our dreams and hard work into a reality.

“This building is just too important to the town and many local residents to be lost.

“In buying shares you will be part of The Tech and will help us make sure The Tech’s future is secure as it will be owned and controlled by local people.

“The Community Share offer is time limited and is open until April 25. This is only weeks away so your help on this final push to safeguard the Tech for the future is needed now.’’

Sarah Broxton, centre manager, added: “The Tech has been part of the Holme Valley community since its inception in 1894.

“It’s essential that this wonderful building and all the activities that go on here are, and remain, available to future generations.

“We’d love to talk to you about our Community Share Offer. If you’d like further information, please call 07512 236764 or email centre.manager@ holmfirthtech.co.uk “We’ve also put together a FAQ page on our website www.holmfirthtech.co.uk/ Share-Offer-FAQs and you can purchase your shares direct online www. holmfirthtech.co.uk”

Car park charges reintroduced across area CAR parking charges have been reintroduced across the Kirklees area.

Charges, which have been free since June 2020, were reinstated on January 11. Kirklees Council urges motorists to remember to check signs and meters when they park to check the costs.

The council offered free parking to people visiting Huddersfield and Dewsbury as well as other local towns and villages when shops re-opened after lockdown in June.

This was then extended until the end of 2020.

Free car parking has been on offer in Kirklees for longer than neighbouring authorities and has helped encourage more people to shop local and take advantage of the

opportunities on offer for leisure and retail throughout the borough.

Coun Peter McBride, Cabinet Member for Regeneration said: “We always intended to start charging again in the new year.

“As we move into the new year we have to think about the wider economic recovery.

“We know free parking was appreciated by both residents and businesses in our town centre but now is the right time to start bringing in income so that we can deliver on our ambitions for the whole of Kirklees.”

Coun Naheed Mather, Cabinet Member for Environment and Highways said: “We’ve learned a lot from offering free parking,

both positive and negative.

“Parking charges are not all about bringing in extra money, they also allow us to make sure there are enough spaces for everyone who needs them.

“A successful town centre economy requires a regular turnover of people visiting and spending money.

“At the moment some of our bigger car parks are being used exclusively by people working in town, making it harder for shoppers to find a space.”

Although parking charges for other users came into effect on January 11, key workers in the NHS, social care and some other key frontline council services will be able to park for free whilst on duty.

The council has been in contact with NHS and care

providers about how they can access free parking.

However, senior managers of those essential services that think their staff may also qualify are encouraged to contact parking@kirklees. gov.uk.

Coun McBride said: “Frontline workers in Kirklees have more than enough to worry at the moment.

“We don’t want parking to be an issue for them. They are out there saving lives and keeping our society going every single day.

“We want to recognise their heroic efforts.

“We’re supporting vital workers by making parking free.’’

The latest information on car parking is available on the Kirklees Council website.

Village association turns £10 per month into £’000s for businesses

Holme Valley Review, February 2021 – 13

THERE are no two ways about it; it’s been tough for many business owners over the past 12 months.

Unless of course, you sell hand sanitiser or manufacture toilet roll.

While a handful of industries have thrived, many businesses have been forced, through no fault of their own, to close their doors and either wait for lockdown to ease or adapt their business plan to survive.

Businesses in Honley, however, have an advantage: Honley Business Association is behind them.

As it says on the tin, HBA is a collection of local businesses that work together to improve Honley village for the people who live and work there, and for those who visit.

HBA chair Sylvia Sellen said: “Our goal is to help Honley’s businesses to thrive – whether

Honley village courtesy of that’s through help with Government grant and loan schemes, use of social media or just being there to bounce ideas off or let off steam.

“Each business is unique – whether by location (high street, online or in one of “Honley’s industrial units), customer type or marketplace.

“What we have in common is just that – the strength of our difference”.

Giving Honley-based businesses an advantage In autumn 2020, HBA launched www.honley. info.

This one-stop-shop for people visiting, working or living in Honley, gives local businesses a professional online

John Steel Photography. presence.

Whether a business is run from home or from commercial premises, providing it’s based in Honley, business owners are eligible to join Honley Business Association.

Membership costs just £10 per month – that’s less than £2.50 per week – but the benefits can run to thousands of pounds.

Financial benefits and more For the price of a posh cup of coffee each week, Honley Business Association members can benefit from: n A professional online profile worth more than £500 on honley.info with professional copywriting and photography. n Blog worth £100 is offered free to member businesses.

n Access to more than 8,500 mostly local people on HBA social media – What’s Happening In Honley Facebook Page, Honley Community Facebook Group, Instagram & Twitter. n Networking events and opportunities. n Promotional events, including the Christmas Light Switch-on and Street Market. n A voice in how HBA is run and the direction it takes. n A safer, brighter village – HBA installed CCTV, and decorates the main street with trees, lights, flags and flower baskets. n A better community – HBA works closely with local community groups to make a difference.

From the local Covid Vaccination programme to fundraising for a village youth worker, HBA cares about building a strong community now, and for the future.

More sales and valuable leads These benefits are not just nice-to-haves - they generate valuable leads and increase sales for local businesses.

Since joining HBA, Honley-based electrical

specialists, Evolve Electrical, have received more enquiries from customers in the local area, improving work-life balance and reducing travel time and costs.

Owner David Mooney, said: “One social media post on Honley Community, telling landlords about the new law requiring checks on electrical installations in rented homes, generated a huge amount of local business.”

It’s surprising who lives in Honley too.

Andy Broughton, MD of BrandLink Golf, a golf branding and events company that also sells quality golf equipment and apparel, received an enquiry from a potentially valuable partner based in the North East.

He said: “One of the company’s reps lives in Honley and saw BrandLink Golf on the new honley.info website.

“We now have a very hot lead that came as a direct result of our Honley Business Association membership.”

With trading through lockdown a tough proposition for many, isn’t it worth giving your business a boost?

If you have a Honleybased business and want to benefit from HBA membership, visit honley.info/join-in or email joinus@honley.info

Company reaps benefits of being a member A GOLF events and equipment business based in Honley has already reaped the benefits of belonging to the village’s business association.

Three years ago Andy Broughton, who lives in Honley, launched BrandLink Golf, a specialist on-line business selling exclusive golf equipment, clothing and a range of accessories.

Andy also regularly organises charity and corporate golf events and has held tournaments both at home and overseas for a host of household names and sports clubs including Huddersfield Giants, DHL and The Royal Society of St. George.

During the last year many golf events have had to be cancelled or postponed but Andy is hopeful that once lockdown restrictions ease, golf tournaments will be back on the annual calendar.

He said: “The last event I organised was in October to raise funds for Simon On the Streets, a homeless charity which was very successful.

“Hopefully later this year we can all get back to enjoying sports and events like this.’’

His on-line shop however is still

praises of this thriving Honley organisation.

He said: “After BrandLink Golf was showcased on the association’s website, I had a call from the director of a large company wanting to work with me to sell their products and partner up with BrandLink.

“The Honley Business Association is a really thriving local organisation and has given

me a platform which has already resulted in a good business partnership.

“The HBA is very pro-active and supports all the businesses in the village.

“It has a modern new website and has allowed me to pick up a major contract.’’

For more details about Andy’s business, take a look at his website www.brandlinkgolf.com

• •

Leeds United Business Club Champions Dinner with some Leeds legends, holding BrandLink golf head covers. Pictured left to right are: Jon Newsome, Andy Couzens, BrandLink Golf’s Andy Broughton, Mel Sterland, Steve Hodge, Neil Aspin and John Hendrie. busy and continues to grow and develop.

The idea for the business came from Andy’s friendship with former German No.1 and Solheim Cup

winner, Elisabeth Esterl and PGA Club Professional Neil Webb.

BrandLink Golf is a member of the Honley Business Association and Andy is keen to sing the

• • •

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14 – Holme Valley Review, February 2021

With better weather on the way and hopefully some easing of lockdown restrictions, local businesses are hoping for a better year ahead. Although some local businesses have managed to stay open or have adapted the way they operate, it’s still been a difficult and worrying time for all. As they hopefully start to take the first steps to get back to some kind of normality, they still need our support to help them get back on their feet. It’s more important than ever now to shop local and support your local business community. If there’s one thing the last year has taught us all, it’s that local communities need to continue to pull together and support each other.

JONES HOMES A luxury new homes development in Holmfirth has proven popular, with the number of buyers purchasing at the site doubling over the last 12 months.

Jones Homes’ Heather View development, located off Dunford Road, Hade Edge, has seen enquiries and sales soar in recent months, with house-hunters keen to purchase a quality, modern home in a picturesque location.

Jayne Swift, sales and marketing director for Jones Homes Yorkshire, said: “It is clear to see that over the last 12 months, homebuyers’ wish-lists have shifted.

“House-hunters across the country are now favouring not only a rural setting, but also highquality, high-specification homes that offer them space to work and relax.

“Heather View is the ideal location, situated on the doorstep of the Peak District national park.

The small village has a strong community spirit and is just two miles from the renowned town of Holmfirth and just six miles from Huddersfield.”

Construction work is due to end on the 58-home development in spring, and just six homes are remaining to purchase at the site with prices starting from £519,995.

Two of the houses, a Stratton II and a Latchford II are ready to move into now.

Jayne said: “The final few homes at Heather View are traditional five-bedroom detached properties with open-plan kitchen, dining and family rooms on the ground floor as well as a separate lounge, utility room and double garage.”

For more information about the homes available at Heather View, call 01484 685469 or visit joneshomes.co.uk.

CONROY BROOK The new show home at the Conroy Brook WoodNook development in Denby Dale is now open.

Appointments can now be made to view the new threebedroom Garrigill show home and prospective buyers should be aware that only a few homes on this prestigious site now remain.

The Garrigill is a beautiful large three-bedroom property, complete with home office, which is sure to be in great demand.

Jon Bailey from Conroy Brook said this type of home, which offers the space to work from home, is exactly what today’s buyers are looking for.

There are just three Garrigill designs left on the WoodNook development.

If you’re in the market for a

High streets like Meltham’s may be distant future. slightly larger home, then take a look at the remaining Cowling four-bedroom spacious property which comes complete with a gym/ cinema room and home office.

Viewings are by appointment only and the WoodNook development is selling fast.

To make an appointment, please contact Val Mellor from the sales team on 07912 296432.

Take a look at the website www. conroybrook.co.uk for more details and a virtual tour of the show home.

LODGE CONSTRUCTION LTD THINKING about a house extension or home improvement project to update your living space?

Then call in the experts from Lodge Construction Ltd. Run by brothers Matthew and Christopher Lodge, the business based in Marsden can tackle all manner of household construction and remodelling work, whether a project is large or small.

Established in 2007 Lodge Construction Ltd has many loyal repeat customers who always call on this local business to carry out vital household improvements.

Lodge Construction Ltd also receives many word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied customers, delighted with the high standard of workmanship.

The portfolio of work includes large and small home extensions, renovations, kitchen remodelling, wet rooms and bathrooms.

The business’s speciality is structural work including internal remodelling to remove internal walls and create contemporary

quiet at the moment, but hopefully that will change in the not too living spaces like large, spacious kitchen diners.

All work is personally overseen

by Matthew or Christopher who have a team of professional tradesmen to assist them including plumbers, electricians, plasterers etc.

Matthew and Christopher say: “We take care of the whole project from start to finish, from the initial design stages to full completion.

“When a customer employs us to do work, we project manage the whole process so customers have no need to worry about the different stages and the need to engage various tradespeople.

“We also offer a fully transparent cost plan to control the individual budget.’’

Lodge Construction Ltd has an estimating package which can price the completed job to fit in with people’s budgets.

Most of Lodge Construction’s work is carried out in homes across both the Holme and Colne Valleys.

All workmen are now adhering to the current Covid-19 regulations to ensure customer safety.

To get in touch, ring 07887 471354 or email:lodgeconstructionmh@gmail. com

undergoing a revamp to showcase new kitchen designs and handmade furniture.

Dan said: “We continue to be really busy with orders, particularly kitchens. The workshop is open and customers are welcome to contact us at any time on 01484 666333.

Dan says he welcomes enquiries from new and existing customers looking for his handcrafted kitchens and other bespoke items for their homes.

Based at Unit 3, Crossley Mills, Honley, all aspects of the business – kitchens, furniture making, paint stripping service and woodturning – are all still available.

Dan is known primarily for his beautiful handcrafted kitchens which can transform your home and living space and are available in a choice of European Oak, American Oak, Pine, Beech, Mahogany or Walnut.

He also makes furniture to order for all rooms of the house. Dan is currently very busy with orders for fitted wardrobes.

Take a look at the website www. handmade kitchensyorkshire.co.uk to see examples of his work.

The showroom will reopen once lockdown restrictions allow.

OAK AND PINE BY DESIGN

GRANITE WORKTOPS UK LTD

Despite lockdown, Daniel Fitzpatrick and his team at Honley based Oak and Pine By Design are still managing to produce beautiful kitchens and pieces of furniture for their loyal customers.

Although the workshop is really busy, the customer showroom is obviously closed to the public at the moment and is currently

Although the Aspley showroom is currently closed due to lockdown restrictions, the owners of Huddersfield’s Granite Worktops UK Ltd are still dealing with enquiries from customers keen to update their kitchens in 2021.

Business owners Paul and Deborah Bond can still give help

and advice to customers getting in touch either by telephone or email to discuss future home improvement plans.

The manufacturing side of the business is still working as normal and the repair service is still available to anyone whose existing granite or quartz worktop has a chip or damage.

All repairs to existing granite, quartz or Corian worktops are carried out by Paul, adhering to Covid regulations.

Deborah said: “We will be reopening as soon as Government restrictions allow.

Customers can still get in touch with us for help and advice. You can also look on our website to see the range of granite and quartz worktops currently available.

Granite Worktops UK Ltd has worktops for all budgets from affordable ranges to more expensive choices. Look at www. graniteukltd.com So, if you’re planning on updating your kitchen with a new worktop this year, get in touch now and start looking at a range of designs to give your kitchen a brand new look.

LOCAL BUSINESSES Despite lockdown, many other local businesses are keeping very busy and continuing to look after their loyal customers.

Sons of the North at Armitage Bridge continues to provide welcome hot drinks and a varied menu from the outdoor facility.

The lockdown take-away menu can be ordered on-line or by phone if you prefer not to wait. Luke and the team look forward to seeing you.

New and loyal customers continue to visit Blacker Hall Farm Shop near Wakefield for great Yorkshire fresh food.

Whether you’re looking for top quality meat, deli items, bread, pies, fresh vegetables and much more, there’s no better place to shop.

If you’re thinking about home improvements, remember that local businesses like SW Interior Designs of Brockholes are still taking enquiries from local homeowners.

With a showroom refurbishment on the way, why not take a look at what they can do for your home.

Look at the website www. swinteriordesigns.co.uk for opening times etc.

If you fancy a taste of authentic Italian food, remember that the very popular Orlando’s Italian Restaurant at Grange Moor is currently offering a takeaway service. Look at the Facebook page for more details about the takeaway service.

Local people helping other local people A NEW project has been launched to help older people.

The Kirklees Community Micro-Enterprise Project, delivered in partnership with Kirklees Council, aims to link up with local people and support them to set up their own community microenterprise and provide care or help at home for older people, (or others that need some care or help to live a good life).

The initial focus of the project is to increase options in Holmfirth, Honley, Meltham, Skelmanthorpe, Kirkheaton, Dalton, and Rawthorpe, where there are particular difficulties with provision.

Juss’ There to Care is one example of the new project: Having recently retired after working for 30 years as a police officer, and as the mother of a daughter with autism who needs some support to live her life, Jussy Baird (pictured) has a wealth of experience in helping others.

As a popular member of her local community, Jussy

had a strong desire to put her skills to use and was very enthusiastic when she heard about the project.

Jussy joined the development programme, and having developed her enterprise is now offering the following services: keeping people company, shopping, attending appointments or accompanied local trips out, meal preparations and cooking for fun, supporting people to maintain interests, hobbies, leisure activities and social opportunities, cleaning, decluttering and organising, gardening, light

maintenance/DIY jobs, help with computer/internet, paperwork.

She said: “During my career as a police officer, I did my best to support members of my community who were older and/or vulnerable and always knew that, once I retired, I wanted to continue with this.

“I initially looked into doing this in December 2019, but found the whole process too daunting, so I was unable to progress.

“A few months later, I saw an advert from the Kirklees Community Micro-enterprise Project, which helps people set-up small enterprises that provide help at home for local, older and vulnerable people.

“This was the missing piece to the ‘puzzle’ I had attempted to complete in December, and so I contacted the project coordinator, Mark Finch, in the hope that he could help.’’

For more information about the project contact Mark Finch on 07741 260676 and mark.finch@ communitycatalysts.co.uk

Livestock fare well despite difficult winter weather WINTER has been treacherous with snow blocking access to our fields, ice freezing our farm’s water supply and melt water washing though our cellar.

That said, the livestock fared well, our sheep escaped being buried by the snow drifts and having the flock at home made pregnancy scanning easier.

We ultrasound scan pregnant ewes to show how many lambs each are carrying.

Their diets are then adjusted accordingly, with those expecting twins or more fed generously and those expecting a single lamb having restricted diets,

this ensures the lambs don’t grow too big making for difficult births.

We’re pleased with this year’s scanning results, 95 per cent of our flock are expecting twins – Brightonhouse Inspector, our new ram, has done a good job so far.

The cattle have been outdoors most winter, having access to the barn for shelter.

They have grown thick winter coats and enjoy their freedom – so much so that

one cow gave birth and wouldn’t let us near her or the calf.

Cows that have just calved are very protective of their new born and can be aggressive, it can take an experienced stocks man a few days to regain her trust – it took Andrew a week to go anywhere near the calf and we’re all still very wary even now.

Over the coming weeks we’ll be preparing the sheds for lambing time.

With bed and breakfast silent and the girls home schooling, there is a slower pace of life on the farm and we are, dare I say, getting on top of the jobs.

Holme Valley Review, February 2021 – 15

The characters from the popular Room on the Broom novel.

Groups invited to take part in annual festival

By Susan Hampshire LOCAL community groups are being invited to take part in the forthcoming Huddersfield Literature Festival /Woven Book Trail.

Winners can pick up book tokens or a luxury book and food hamper.

Many people have been escaping into a good book during lockdown – and now is the chance to bring favourite fictional characters to life by taking part in the (HLF) Book Trail, in partnership with Woven Festival.

Community groups across the Holme Valley and beyond are invited to run Book Trails in their local area, using repurposed fabrics and other recycled materials to recreate a favourite character or scene from a book, children’s or adult.

These are to be displayed in front windows or gardens (not public spaces) to form local trails, from Sunday March 28 to Monday April 5, (Easter Monday).

Each group will choose a winner from those taking part to receive a £20 book token.

The Festival committee will then choose an overall winner to receive a luxury book and food hamper.

Full details can be found on the HLF competition page at www.huddlitfest.org. uk/book-trail-competition The literature festival will return from March 18 to 28, 2021, with an exciting programme of online events and a spectacular lantern installation in the courtyard of the Lawrence Batley Theatre, which will be lit up from the anniversary of the first lockdown (March 23) to Easter Monday.

This will be followed later in the year by a programme of indoor events once it’s safe to run them, including ‘Queen of Crime’ Val McDermid.

The festival has been awarded Safer Event organiser accreditation, ensuring that all the relevant Covid-19 safety measures

will be in place for live events.

The Huddersfield Literature Festival began in 2006, and takes place annually in March. Recent guests have included Ann Cleeves, Joanne Harris, Alan Johnson, Dame Jenni Murray, Ian Rankin, Sir Patrick Stewart, Lemn Sissay and Irvine Welsh.

Woven is a biennial festival that first took place in June 2019, with the next big event due in June 2021.

It is initiated and funded

by Kirklees Council, but is owned by everyone, including community groups, textile businesses, cultural and educational organisations, artists and heritage sites.

Woven’s theme is generations of innovators, connecting a strong heritage with today’s innovative developments in industry, university research, a strong arts and crafts scene and the creative expression of the district’s rich and diverse communities.

Farm shop

Mouthwatering Aberdeen Angus beef, succulent lamb & scrumptious pork reared in the Holme Valley.

Home delivery to HD9 www.coddysfarm.co.uk info@coddysfarm.co.uk · 07714588822

16 – Holme Valley Review, February 2021

Just a few homes remain for a Spring 2021 move

STA DUT MP Y PA ID

Just 29 homes tucked away in the heart of Denby Dale with fabulous views over the village Spacious homes carefully designed for work and relaxation.

3 bedroom with home office from £294,950.

4 bedroom with home office and cinema room/gym from £525,950.

Each home at WoodNook features: SieMatic kitchens with Silestone worktops Swiss made Laufen Pro sanitaryware with Vado shower and taps Bathrooms and ensuites half tiled in quality porcelain tiles Carpets and tiling on all floor surfaces Security alarm, lighting and sensors throughout Turfed gardens

New Showhome Now Open

( by appointment vmellor@conroybrook.co.uk)

For more details visit: www.conroybrook.co.uk/new-homes/woodnook-denby-dale