Kirkstall Matters Issue 121 by Kirkstall Matters

KIRKSTALL MATTERS Issue 121 Spring/Summer 2018

Editor’s Note

Contents Page Abbey Mills Update

Kirkstall Valley Development Team

Kirkstall Art Trail

Burley RUFC

Kirkstall Harriers

Kirkstall in Bloom

Kirkstall Abbey Markets

Kirkstall Forge

Lucinda Yeadon

Why I Volunteer

West End House

Kirktall Valley Pubs Bucking the Trend

A Library at War: Leeds

Kirkstall Festival

What Matters in Kirkstall 22

It’s my privilege to be putting together this comeback issue of Kirkstall Matters. I am hoping we can get issues out to you more frequently, since it has been so long since the last one! A little bit about me. Yes, John, my name is Mindy Goose! I’ve lived in Kirkstall for the last 4 years, before that I was in Burley for 7 years. I love Kirkstall, how can you not! There is of course the magnificent Abbey, the monthly market, and its parklands; the wonderful museum and its slightly secret garden (more of that later); the shops on my doorstep, Pets at Home is our households favourite; and the delightful Kirkstall Bridge Inn and West End House, both of which are friendly and inviting; we have some great councillors representing our area, although it is sad to see Lucinda Yeadon step down, we hope Hannah can fill her metaphorically big shoes! I volunteer, a lot, I am much less able to get involved with wonderful projects like Kirkstall in Bloom, but try to do things that my disability allows (oh yeah you might see me staggering around like a drunkard, that’s not the booze, it’s my frayed nerves!), I am a creative person, so was happy to take on the challenge of editing and designing this magazine. I also volunteer for Bramley Elderly Action, and Love Arts Festival (which is an annual arts festival organised by Arts & Minds). I have recently become a member of the Kirkstall Festival committee, learning how things are run and hoping to become more useful in years to come! My personal creative practice centres on my walks in the area. My little dog Mickey comes with me on my walks, and patiently waits as I photograph the things that interest me the most. At this time of year, it is the flowers, and the gorgeous magnolia on the front cover was taken at Abbey House Museum, I provided the photos of the beautiful KiB garden for their article. And the slightly secret garden? Well, I am always in there photographing the flowers, bugs, and sitting under the cherry tree where I can feel my most relaxed. Hopefully you can see some of my photos at this years Kirkstall Art Trail!

Mindy 2

Chairperson’s Introduction John Liversedge, Chair, Kirkstall Valley Community Association Hello again! The last time I submitted my introduction was in the Spring/Summer of 2016 edition. Unfortunately, we lost our editorial staff and were unable to produce further issues until we found a replacement. Well I’m pleased to say we have a lovely lady who has volunteered her services, so to start with it’s a big thank you to Mindy Goose and yes that is her real name!! So much has happened in Kirkstall since the summer of 2016, we have a vibrant community spirit which shows itself in many ways. We at the KVCA are very lucky to have many younger people who volunteer and will one day soon take the roles and responsibilities off us, shall we say, on the mature side. One example is Hannah Corah, Hannah is one of the organisers of Kirkstall in Bloom and this year will be taking over the very responsible role of Treasurer for the KVCA from Rita Samuel, although Rita will be staying on to assist Hannah. Rita has been a stalwart for the KVCA and festival, and has

always been there for me when I needed support or encouragement, I am pleased she will still be around to monitor and control me! Our wonderful events manager Alan Crump has stepped down from the role, and our new events booking manager is Jim Corah, who comes with many new ideas. Also over the last year or so, there have been new projects, Friends of Hawksworth Wood, Friends of Morris Wood, The Cardigan Arms pub reopening, a new landlady at the West End House pub, and all very good for our community I’m pleased to say. We now look forward to the Kirkstall Festival, remember the date in your diary Saturday 14th July!!! And talking of dates, on the 15th May 2018 our Kirkstall Valley Community Association was FORTY YEARS OLD. Our constitution was signed and dated 15th May 1978. If you would like to help in the production of this magazine, or write an article for publication then please contact us, you would be very welcome.

A slection of photos taken in the garden next to Abbey House Museum – credit Mindy Goose 3

Abbey Mills Update

Kirkstall Valley Development Trust is working closely with the Council to bring the Abbey Road block, which runs adjacent to the road, into community ownership this year. We would have liked more space, but had to face financial realities, and it will still provide Kirkstall with a great community hub with event, café, meeting and work space, linked to the retail park by a footbridge. At its June meeting, the Council’s Executive Board is scheduled to consider transferring the block to us and what that means for the leasing of the rest of the mill. The Trust and local councilors are involved in what exactly will go into a tender brief for the mill. One option is that is that any developer of the rest of the site will be obliged to refurbish the structure of the Abbey Road block. The site is likely to be tendered in the autumn and we are working with any developer that brings community benefit to the mill. The provision of extra care housing for older people is of particular interest to us. It would also fit with a desire for a low car use scheme that does not involve building an additional access road. 4

by Chris Hill

We continue to work with Heritage Lottery (HLF) and other funders on obtaining the finance to refurbish the Abbey Road block, and creating a Community Heritage Centre. One of the problems for us is HLF’s lengthy process. It may be that a final decision does not come until the end of next year. A community share issue is planned for late this year that will hopefully be matched £ for £ by Power to Change in an effort to raise £200,000. If we are successful in gaining a long lease on the Abbey Road block, that would come with the land and buildings to the left of the entrance, which we would see as a Stage II of the development offering workshops and play space in the future. In the meantime, we are organising a series of events at the Abbey (Flowers and Fairies, Jazz evening, Murder Mystery etc.) to raise awareness and funds and just give people a chance to enjoy themselves at low cost. Please book (or offer to help) through our Abbey Mills Facebook page.

www.facebook.com/kirkstallvalley/

Kirkstall Valley Development Trust Events

by Adele Rae

The Kirkstall Valley Development Trust are holding as series of affordable, community events at Kirkstall Abbey this year. Flowers and Fairies in May

Wallys and Jazz in June

Fun for all ages on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th May

Wally’s Festival of Fun At The Abbey Sunday 10th June 11-4pm Wally’s Festival of Fun and Where’s Wally World Record Attempt is coming to Kirkstall Abbey, promising a day of feel-good activities for everyone, young and old. At 2pm join in our attempt to set a world record for the largest gathering of people dressed up as Wally (when the Guinness Book of Records will be there to count), with lots more activities such as laughing yoga, improvised comedy, crafts, a Wally dog competition and much more happening before and after. FREE

Fairies at the Abbey Visit the magical fairy village uncovered in Abbey Gardens. Terrible trolls and a fire-breathing dragon lie in the way, but once inside you’ll be able to hear stories from the fairy queen, meet smoke the dragon and make your own fairy wand and firebreathing dragon mask. So shake out your wings and come along! Flowers at the Abbey A day of learning and activities to inspire growers old and new, with special guest Mary Swan (show garden designer for the Royal Horticultural Society’s Chatsworth Flower Show). Featuring: ‘Our back yard’ show gardens, gardener’s question time, great plants for sale and much more, Flowers at the Abbey has something to offer whether you’re an occasional weeder or a serious green thumb. £5 for adults, free entry for children

Jazz at The Abbey Sunday 10th June, from 6pm An evening of live jazz featuring The Tom Sharp Jazz Orchestra joined by special guests The Jack Chandler Quartet, plus the duet stylings of Helena Debono and Will Powell, staged in the stunning setting of the Kirkstall Abbey cloisters. Tickets £8.50 TICKETS AND INFO KVDT.ORG.UK/EVENTS

Kirkstall Art Trail

Kirkstall Art Trail is an annual celebration of art in the community featuring local artists and creative organisations.

For two days, on 21st and 22nd July, venues throughout Kirkstall will host a variety of exhibitions, free workshops and activities suitable for all ages and abilities. Now in its fourth year, KAT will once again be hosting artists, makers and creative organisations based in West Leeds and the surrounding areas in the weekend-long celebration of creativity. The Art Trail is a free event which aims to inspire local engagement with the arts and celebrates the creative talent in and around Kirkstall. It is organised entirely by local volunteers with a passion for arts and community. Each year a wide variety of venues across Kirkstall open their doors and become exhibition spaces and workshop venues for just 2 days. Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s venues included Kirkstall Abbey, Kirkstall Educational Cricket Club, a unit at Kirkstall Bridge Shopping Park, a camper van, an allotment, an office, a pub and a selection of 6

by Mark Hinchcliffe

private residences and studios. In 2017 we had over 1000 visitors over the weekend, taking part in workshops, talking to artists and exploring the area! This year our main site will be Kirkstall Abbey where the committee will be on hand to welcome visitors and volunteers. The Art Trail offers a unique opportunity to experience art in the community in unusual venues. Our venues are very different to gallery settings and our maps will be available to guide you round the various locations in Kirkstall. We encourage artists to give demonstrations of how they make their work and we will be running workshops and activities too, so as well as experiencing art in the community on a lovely walk round Kirkstall there will also be things to do along the way. This year we have also linked with the National Citizen Service and we are looking forward to seeing what their team of youth volunteers come up with for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Art Trail treasure hunt.

www.kirkstallarttrail.com Twitter: @kirkstallart Facebook: www.facebook.com/ kirkstallarttrail/ Instagram: @kirkstallarttrail

Burley RUFC – The Rugby Pitch

by Duncan Elsey

After several years of negotiations, mainly between Burley RUFC, Sport England and Leeds City Council, with credit to John Sanderson representing Burley, the playing area is now in the process of being improved and this hard work is now being rewarded as the contractors move in. A substantial grant from Sport England, The Rugby Football Union and The Rugby Football Foundation, in addition to a major contribution from Burley RUFC, have helped make this possible, along with a guarantee that Rugby Union will be played on the pitch for at least the next 25 years. Work started at the beginning of April. The pitch was covered in weeds, so it was sprayed with an agent to kill off this heavy vegetation, which turned the pitch almost yellow. Burley signed off from the pitch, after we received the go ahead from the contractor, with

The last game against Rothertham – showing the discolouring of the pitch

a hard fought 15-10 defeat against League leaders Rotherham Phoenix. Following this game, by Monday evening the pitch had been fenced off for the heavy work to start . The pitch will be dug up, treated, and turned in to a “level slope” – there is a large fall from top corner to bottom corner to prevent it fully levelling out. It will then be seeded before the waiting game starts, and we hope for a reasonably wet summer, with a few sunny days thrown in to help the seeds take and grow. The pitch will remain fenced off throughout the summer, to prevent people from walking over it, and give it the best chance of success. It is possible that if everything goes perfectly we could be using it by the end of November, however this is reliant on many factors – not least the weather!

The machinery moves in to level out the pitch

Follow Burley RUFC over on Twitter to keep up to date with the progress: twitter.com/BurleyRUFC 7

Kirkstall Harriers Review The Harriers have been keeping themselves busy, and we started off our 2018/19 season with our AGM in February. The Sports Trophies, as voted for by members, were presented at the AGM too. Sportsman went to Simon Smith, and Sportswoman was awarded to Niamh Jackson; both are hard working, committed club members, and thoroughly deserve the accolade. The Club Championship shield was also presented to 2017’s winner Paul Grist, and the Trail Championship shield to Emma LavelleWood. Special mention to Emma who was also the first female at the Hardmoors 55, a gruelling fell race, a couple of months later. Twenty members took part in the Northern Cross Country Championships at Harewood House, and seven made the trip to London, to run the National Cross Country Championships on the iconic course at Parliament Hill in February. The local PECO Cross Country season ended in some disappointment, as the ladies team were relegated, with the men just staying up. We have a good chance of silverware next season! The PECO races have attracted huge numbers of members from all clubs. It has been encouraging to see so many taking part in a sport which holds so many bad memories for many from school! April was a busy month as we enter marathon season. The most famous of which is the London marathon, and six Harriers took part on the hottest marathon day on record. Amongst them was Marion Muir taking part in her second London Marathon, and raising money for Dogs for Good along the way. You can visit Marions fundraising page here: bit.ly/MarionJustGiving Hannah Lee completed her second marathon in a fortnight, having completed the Manchester Marathon just a fortnight earlier. Richard Kennedy-Joyce was running his eighth marathon, and has decided to hang up his marathon boots now. Richard finishes with an impressive record. Richard has raised money for various charities through his running and this year was raising money for the British Heart Foundation. You can read more here: bit.ly/RichardJustGiving 8

by Jill Buckley

Also taking part was Hal Roberts, who having completed the Paris Marathon the week before, went on to complete the Three Peaks race the week after! Covering 23 miles over Pen-YGhent, Whernside and Ingleborough in the Yorkshire Dales, the race is known as the ‘marathon with mountains’ and is a very prestigious race to take part in. Six Harriers took part in the race and several more made the trip to the Dales to assist with officiating and cheering. Andrew Carter also completed a marathon in April in Manchester. Andrew was running to raise funds for Murphys Army. Sadly Andrew and his family lost their beloved family pet Ollie when he fell through the ice whilst they were out walking earlier in the year. Murphys Army helped with the recovery of Ollie to return him to his family and Andrew was keen to raise funds to help their future efforts. He raised more than £1500 for a great cause.

Harriers Diary The Veterans Grand Prix race season began with the first race at Honley in April, and Kirkstall will be holding their own race as part of this at the end of May. The Veterans races are about five miles in length and are open to runners over the age of 35. There will also be the summer relays at Washburn, Golden Acre and Danefield coming up, with the slightly longer Leeds Country Way relay in September. Also in September we will be holding our annual race, the Kirkstall Abbey 7, starting and finishing in the grounds of Kirkstall Abbey. There are junior races too and entries are already open at kirkstallharriers.org.uk/new/ socials/kirkstall-abbey-7/ Kirkstall Harriers meet every Monday and Wednesday at 6:50pm at Kirkstall Leisure Centre, and all abilities are welcome. We take part in events on road, trail and fell over various distances. For more information visit www.kirkstallharriers.org.uk

Kirkstall in Bloom

Spring is here and with it the fantastic joys of new flowers. For Kirkstall in Bloom it signifies the coming of our Summer preparation; after a long Winter we really look forward to it. Our preparations started in January, mapping out the monthly sessions for the year ahead. With two main planting sessions, Spring for Summer and Autumn for Winter plants, and taking part in Yorkshire in Bloom's competition, there's a lot of planning to be done by our committee. There's been change in our committee, with members taking on new roles in the community and a long-standing member leaving for gardens new (thanks for all the help, Sam, you were awesome). These changes have meant Kirkstall in Bloom have had to think about attracting new volunteers. We like the work we do, we get amazing comments from our community, though we'd like more help. 10

by Jim Corah

We invite you to come along at 10:30am on either 26th or 27th May 2018 to see what we're doing, what you can do to help, and how you can bring about making Kirkstall even more blooming marvellous. We generally meet on the last Sunday of every month. Volunteering with Kirkstall in Bloom is fun. It's muddy sometimes, though not arduous work, and there is something quite wonderful about seeing the Drink and Be Grateful Fountain Garden anew after a good weeding. Kirkstall in Bloom need help! We require more volunteers so that we can keep achieving great things.

Kirkstall Abbey Markets Kirkstall Abbey Markets is back from winter hiatus, bigger and better than ever, and 2018 sees the market enjoy its eighth year. Join us at the outdoor markets in the picturesque 12th century ruins of Kirkstall Abbey, where you can find 50 stalls over the weekend, and for an extra day on bank holiday weekends.

You can still expect to find some of the greatest produce and crafts Yorkshire have to offer, with international award winning cheeses, award winning street food and beers, artisan crafts, and collectibles â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the list is endless â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we are

Dates for your dia May 26th, 27th & 2 June 23rd & 24th

ry:

8th

July 28th & 29th 27th August 25th, 26th & 30th September 29th & October 27th & 28th 5th November 24th & 2

by Mark Kilvington

sure there is something for everyone. There is free parking opposite Abbey House Museum, and also at the recently opened Kirkstall Forge urban village, which is just 15 minutes up the road. There are toilets (including an accessible toilet and baby change facilities) in the visitor centre, along with free crafts for children. Why not bring the family and make a day of it?

Kirkstall Forge The CEG Northern office moved into the ground floor of Number One in December last year and we are settling into life at Kirkstall Forge alongside fellow occupiers Zenith. It’s been great to see the two companies supporting and socialising together and that is testament to the strong relationship we have nurtured. It was fantastic to hold a building launch event in partnership with WiredScore for the city’s office agents and Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership. The event showed how crucial it is for developers to innovate through technology to attract and retain tenants. There’s only 36,000 sq ft of office space still available, and with the buoyant office market predictions for 2018 we’re confident further lettings will follow. In April we launched our ‘Different by Design’ event series at Kirkstall Forge. The sold out event saw over 100 guests arrive for the inspiring design event featuring speakers Oliver Wainwright (Architecture and design critic - The

by Laura Kenny Guardian) and Keith Bradley (Architect/Partner - Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios). Guests were then offered the opportunity to engage a thought-provoking Q&A with the CEG team regarding the future residential development at Kirkstall Forge. Finally, we are incredibly proud of our Forging Futures Campus which is going from strength to strength. We welcomed cohorts to our monthly Employability Skills course in January and February before launching our new professional apprenticeship programme in March. It has been wonderful to see them succeed and push forward with the momentum of the course to employment, further training and education opportunities. We’re looking forward to seeing you all at the Kirkstall Festival in July, if not at Butler’s before!

Find out more on the website: www.kirkstallforge.com

Butlers at Kirkstall Forge

Welcome to Butler’s The Butler family left a lasting legacy at Kirkstall Forge, having been involved in the management of the Forge for six generations from 1779 to 1974 and we are honoured to take on this next chapter of the Forge’s history. It was with this in mind that we chose to name our ground floor bar/restaurant Butler’s. Butler’s switches

seamlessly between freshly made breakfast and lunch options to a licensed bar in the early evenings which provides a great place to relax and unwind for those working in the office and the local community. It not only provides us with a social space, but it is also popular for informal meetings. 13

Lucinda Yeadon This May, Cllr Yeadon steps down as our ward reprensentative after 10 years in office. Kirkstall thanks her for her hard work, and we will miss her.

Representing the fantastic community of Kirkstall for the past 10 years has been such a great privilege and although I have taken the decision to step down at this election, I am so pleased that you allowed me this chance. When I was first elected in 2008, I already knew that Kirkstall was unique - with a community spirit like no other. However, over the past decade I have had the opportunity to see it and its people at its best. The development of Kirkstall Festival, as one of the biggest and best community festivals in the country illustrates the strength of our neighbourhood. The introduction of Kirkstall Deli Market, Kirkstall In Bloom, Kirkstall Art Trail and the exciting plans of the Kirkstall

in her own words Valley Development Trust shows that the area is always evolving and responding to changing needs and expectations. The numerous community, tenants and residents associations (far too many to mention) supports and enriches the lives of hundreds of people every day. And of course, the spectacular community response to the devastating floods on Boxing Day in 2015 was the personification of the spirit of Kirkstall. However, these things are only possible because of the many volunteers, who each year, dedicate their time, energy, passion and commitment to making our home the wondrous place it is. So, it is you that I wish to thank. You all make up crucial and precious pieces of a jigsaw, which makes all of this possible. It has been an honour to have been your Councillor, but I have felt truly blessed to consider so many of you my friends. Thank you.

Lucinda x

Why I Volunteer My name is James and I am a volunteer in my community. There's not one reason for volunteering though mostly through volunteering I tend to spend a lot of time thinking about motivation and motivating people. Those two words can seem a bit of an embarrassment, or worse, something we don't really think works. Why should it? We don't need motivating, we tell ourselves, we already know what we need. And we're right, we already know. Except motivation doesn't work like that, the experience counts. It allows growth and development, and gives us knowledge that we can share. I think I could motivate anyone to volunteer. There's four approaches to taking up volunteering, and one of them will work with you. First up, you're already interested. What you need now is to find a community group or organisation to volunteer with. There's quite a few resources available for volunteering opportunities, like Kirkstall Matters or social media. Ask someone who already volunteers. Second up, you're not sure. You've heard friends talk about how much they like volunteering but you've also heard about the problems they've had. Like how Kirkstall Festival finishes at 5pm for visitors, our volunteers will be working through to 9pm or 10pm to return Kirkstall Abbey grounds to normal. These aren't problems though, they are little obstacles to overcome. Believe me, the

by James Corah sensation of knowing Kirkstall Festival attracted 25,000 people to the Abbey and we've managed to clear the grounds within four hours is amazing. Third, you don't want to look silly volunteering or do something wrong. This is how I felt when I initially started volunteering, that somehow I might ruin everything by doing something incorrectly. However, I knew I did want to get involved. I could see the impact other volunteers had in the community and understood how I could contribute. This goes for all volunteers, don't think about anyone else, if you want to do something in the community do it. Do it. Just by participating, doing something as a volunteer, you are already making a difference. Fourth. Well, let's face it, you're not convinced. In fact, you know there's nothing in volunteering you would enjoy. You're right, so right, about that. More than the anything else I've written here this I am sure of. Don't believe me? Here's your means of testing it. Find a group that needs volunteers, and take part in one session per month for a total of four months. Then stop, completely stop. The thing is, volunteering will help the individual and the community. One of my best decisions was to get involved, I'd urge you to come together and volunteer in your community.

West End House In August 2017 Tammy Gibson took over the role as Landlady, with 15 year’s service behind the bar, starting out as bar staff, before coming manager, which has ensured a seamless transition to the next phase in this vibrant community pubs life. It’s business as usual with the same ‘old’ friendly faces behind the bar, and Dawn Cartwright taking the lead role in the kitchen, customers have experienced no upheaval with the change. As a friend and colleague, I am proud to announce that she has taken on the role with enthusiasm and vigour, she is a real supporter of community projects including Kirkstall in Bloom and Kirkstall Festival to name but a few. Some of her achievements are: • Became Official Supporter for Leeds Rhinos •

February 2018, Awarded Pub of the Month by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) – nominated and voted by members of CAMRA. A recognised prestigious award from customers!

•

Appeared in the Yorkshire Evening Post – Top 10 lunch Spots in Leeds according to Trip Advisor, Leedsbars.co.uk

•

April saw the Introduction of the New Craft Tap

Tammy’s enthusiasm and love for the pub is evident in everything she undertakes. I wish her well in her endeavours and extend an invitation to come along and sample some of the finest pub grub this side of Yorkshire and a drink and natter with friends.

You can find them at: 26 Abbey Road, Leeds LS5 3HS 0113 278 6332 www.thewestendhouse.co.uk twitter.com/westendleeds 16

by Pat Stead

Upcoming event 19th May 2018 from 12pm Royal Wedding BBQ and Street Party Watch the wedding on the two big screens Hope to see you all there!

Kirkstall Valley Pubs Bucking the Trend No fewer than 57 pubs closed in the Yorkshire and Humber region in the second half of 2017. Pubs face high beer duty and increased business rates; some are unable to survive. In our community we have enjoyed a resurgence of good drinking establishments. This started with the re-development of The Kirkstall Bridge Inn by Steve Holt of Kirkstall Brewery and the opening of The New George by Terry Weston. Steve then acquired and refurbished The Cardigan Arms. These developments have complemented the excellent choice of pubs we have, including The West End House under new tenancy. Looking to the future Terry is planning another

by Roger Moran

small bar next to The George. The function room at The Cardy, as it is affectionately named, is currently being refurbished with a new upstairs bar planned together with a revamp of the original gents’ toilet facilities. Plans have also been approved for an extension to the upper floor at The Bridge, on stilts to avoid flooding. No start date has been set for this yet or the proposed tap room at the Brewery near ITV. All of this is great for the area and showing that well-run establishments are not closing but thriving. Supporting our local hostelries is critical to ensure their continuing success. Cheers all!

Find out more about what’s on at The New George: www.facebook.com/TheNewGeorgeKirkstall/

Find our more about whats on at the Kirkstall Bridge, by following their social media: www.facebook.com/KirkstallBridge/ twitter.com/Kirkstallbridge Find out more about what’s on at the Cardigan Arms, by following their social media: www.facebook.com/thecardiganarmsleeds/ twitter.com/thecardiganarms Find out more about Kirkstall Brewery, by following their social media: twitter.com/kirkstallbrew www.kirkstallbrewerycompany.com 17

A Library at War: Leeds Part One

presented in 3 parts

Kirkstall Library, Abbey Road. 1938 Image copyright Leeds Library and Information Services

‘Tuesday, 31 October 1939: “Felt energetic so polished several floors and worked fairly hard. Tony came home to lunch at 1.30, and the afternoon somehow slipped away....Went to the library and got out a book by Siegfried Sassoon about the last war....”’ ‘Wednesday, 1 November, 1939: “After dinner finished Sherston’s Progress [1936, by Siegfried Sassoon] and passed it on to Tony. Thought it was very similar to [Edmund] Blunden’s Undertones of War [1928] in general feeling – that the war was bloody in every way, but the men wonderful and it was almost worthwhile to find that out.....”’ So wrote Joan Ridge in the diary which she was keeping at that time for Mass Observation. And a good book and a boiled egg – which somehow seems an appropriate combination – so we read a little later for ‘Friday, 24 November: ”Went to the library and chose two books, then came home and had a boiled egg tea by the fire. Mixed the Christmas puddings and listened to the six o’clock news, which was depressing- more ships sunk....’” [Voices, p 50] The UK had entered the Second World War on the 3rd September 1939. Joan Ridge and her husband Tony were part of what might have been called the reading and writing class; or perhaps the class which then at least had more of the time and education needed to read. They were certainly part of the Oxbridge class. Tony had been to Jesus college 18

by Mike Harwood Cambridge; their close friend David Masson to Merton College, Oxford. They lived in Far Headingley, in Leeds, in Moor Park Drive, which was no doubt much as it is today; a comfortable life, at least in the frame of their future prospects. Tony worked for the Post Office; and after the War, in 1963, he became Deputy Director- General of the Universal Postal Union, a United Nations Agency. David ended up as the curator of the Brotherton Collection at Leeds University. There was a radio but no television for the Ridges (or anyone else) at this time. With the reading (and discussions about their reading) went visits to the theatre, music - as at home on 29 October 1939...”We played the gramophone until the news – some Beethoven songs sung in lovely German....I was beginning to get tired but Tony insisted on playing some Bach to David and explaining its characteristics....” (Voices, p 32) What is interesting is the frequency with which Joan was visiting the cinema during the daytime – often on her own, Tony being at work. ‘Then I had tea and went to see a film, The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle, which I enjoyed very much. All the films you see nowadays seem to be connected with the war in some way.’ [2 November, Voices, p 38]. ‘Left about 5.30 and went straight on into town where I did a little shopping and went to a cinema. It was a new little cinema I hadn’t noticed before, and the top price was only 1s [shilling, pre-decimal] so that I was afraid it might prove to be a rather low dive and a man would come and nudge [grope] me. However, it was very comfortable....’ [19 October, Voices, p 26] The cinema was a relatively new art/ entertainment form. Modern cinema is generally regarded as descending from the work of the French Lumière brothers in 1892, and their show first came to London, at the Regent Street Polytechnic in 1896; cinemas to be described in 1914 as ‘the most universally accepted

modern amusements’. In 1934 there were 4,300 cinemas in the country, with many of them large and ostentatious ‘picture palaces’, in some cases seating over 4,000 people. [Beaven, pp, 105, 187 and www.britishcinemagreats.com/ cinema_history/pre_british/page_1.htm]. In 1939, you could not afford to or maybe ‘just would not’ drop in casually to see La Bohème of an afternoon at the Grand Theatre in New Briggate in Leeds. Perhaps the cinema, like the public library, marked a step towards the democratisation of art and culture. Today, on October 3rd 2017 at 7.30 pm at the Vue Cinema, in the Light, in Leeds you will (this being written in August) be able to watch La Bohème on screen broadcast from a live performance (and no need to wear a tuxedo!) But it is the public library and its wartime function which interests me in this piece. How was a library and its readership in this period affected by a cataclysmic war, what purpose did it serve? Just as today the question arises as to the function of a public library in the age of Kindle, computer games and austerity The Leeds (public, I should say, which above all magnificently it was) Library Service was started in 1870 with Jas Yates as Chief Librarian and the opening of branches in Hunslet Mechanics Institute; and, to serve Hunslet and Holbeck, in the Zion School, in Whitehall Road. The Reference Library was first opened in the Old Infirmary in 1871 with 14, 151 volumes. The Central Lending with 8,000 volumes was first opened in the Old Infirmary in 1872. The history of today’s Leeds Public Library had begun. The vision of the public library was not the monopoly of the middle classes. It is worth noting, in passing, that it was only a few years earlier, in 1867, that the Reform Act of that year had enfranchised part of the urban, male working class. The Headingley Branch Library, no doubt the one that Joan was visiting, was first opened in 1884. In 1892 it had been transferred to a new building; and in 1931 it had been reopened after reconstruction. The library’s reach was widespread, and certainly not confined to the more middle class areas. By 1940 there were 23 branch libraries including Armley, Beeston, Bramley, Burley and Chapel Allerton; and Kirkstall (the last opened in 1877; closed -

together with 12 others by (austerity ?) in 2011). The Libraries and Arts Committee to the Council published a Report with respect to libraries each year between 1870 and 1966 (copies available in the central, Local History Library). The first after the start of the war, was that for the year ended 31st March 1940 (war immediately having an effect in necessitating an abbreviated report). This is the period of the phoney war, (‘Twilight War’ to Churchill; ‘Sitzkrieg’ or ‘Sitting War’ to the Germans though they were busy crushing Poland at the time). It seems that Leeds’ library service has been thriving - now70 years of age – but the time to read is already becoming a luxury. Here, a glimpse of the home front at the start of the war: ‘There can be little doubt that, but for the outbreak of war, the book issues for the year would have shown a commendable increase, and registered a new high record of circulation. The enlistment of thousands of young men, many of whom must have been borrowers and users of the library service; the leisure time occupation of adults on various forms of civil defence; the reluctance of many to face the darkened streets; the overtime worked by industrial workers; the evacuation of schoolchildren and the almost complete dislocation of the educational system were all of adverse effect upon the library service. It would have been surprising, and indeed revealing as to the place the libraries occupy in the normal life of the citizens, had it been otherwise.’[Annual Report, 1940, p1; the circulation of books had decreased by 482,914 to 3, 360,312] The library’s established readership was thus diminished; and to the regret of the Library, the view which had been expressed ‘in some quarters that the many to whom, unfortunately, the reading of good books makes no appeal would, in a time of stress, have sought the restful relaxation of reading’.... was not reflected in its readership. ‘If there were any such it is to be regretted that few registered at the public libraries of the city. Part 2 will be in the next issue of Kirkstall Matters. All referencing will be found in part 3. 19

Kirkstall Festival 11am – 5pm Saturday, 14th July We hope that you’re all going to come and join us at Kirkstall Abbey for this year’s Kirkstall Festival.

• Over 150 stalls selling a wide variety of goods and providing useful information

As usual there will be lots of entertainment to suit all the family. You can find more information on the Kirkstall Festival website but so far the committee of volunteers have organised:

• A colourful parade of local school children leaving Hesketh Road at 12 noon and walking through the streets to the Abbey grounds.

• A full day programme of music and entertainment on each of the 3 stages, and in the arena • Battle of the Bands • A wide range of hot food stalls catering for all appetites, including vegan

And don’t be surprised if you see groups of Vikings walking around the Abbey grounds or residing in their authentic Viking encampment! None of this would happen without you coming and supporting us – so see you at the Kirkstall Abbey grounds from 11am!

The Festival Committee

What Matters in Kirkstall What Matters In Kirkstall Here we go again, The page turning event everyone was waiting for. Over there, history of Kirkstall, Bedded next to Kirkstall in Bloom's blooming activities. Did you know there is a mortuary under the Drink and Be Grateful Fountain Garden?, That makes Pokemon collecting more fun. These pages and the words they contain, A journey around our community, Bringing together the all in one. We are different, we'll disagree - Oh no we won't yet we have this thing, we share it, That we are. And what's next? Our border is vague, An umbrella for a wide, wide community. So let's make everyone our Captain. Give the Outsider our support. Let's embrace the Other, And greet our newest neighbour like our oldest dearest. These pages celebrate, Like the biggest party with the loudest proclaimers: We are here in Kirkstall, this is our community, you are welcome. James Corah, 2018

Spring walk at Kirkstall Abbey, April 2018 Photo Credit: Mindy Goose www.mindygoose.co.uk

About us The Kirkstall Valley Community Association (KVCA) was founded in 1978 with the aim of promoting and benefiting the inhabitants of Kirkstall and the neighbourhood. We are non-party political, non-secretarian and a registered charity. KVCA is also responsible for organising events and activities, for example through the Kirkstall Festival Committee. We act as a pressure group and watchdog on developments affecting Kirkstall, and campaign and cooperate on a number of issues with other local organisations. Editors Mindy Goose kirkstallmatters@gmail.com The views expressed in Kirkstall Matters are those of the contributors and if not attributed to individuals, they are from the editorial team. They are not necessarily the views of the KVCA. Production Kirkstall Matters is the magazine of the KVCA (registered charity number 507822). It is published by volunteers.

For details and dates on the next issue please email the editor or check our website: www.kirkstall.org.uk. We also publish articles and news items regularly on our website: www.kirkstall.org.uk, on Twitter @kirkstallonline and our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/kirkstallonline/ Articles, readerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s letters, poems etc. are welcome. Our preferred format is plain text with separate high resolution images but we can accept other formats. Ideally please email your file as an attachment to the editor. Large files can be sent via wetransfer.com, which is a free secure file transfer website, alternatively other online file transfer methods are available. Sorry, but we no longer accept hardcopies of digital content. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t provide your article in electronic form, you can give it to us typed or handwritten. Distribution Delivered through the doors of Kirkstall and beyond, by members of the KCVA. If you can help distribute on your local street, please contact via email at kirkstallmatters@gmail.com 23