North Leeds Life April Edition

NORTH LEEDS Life FREE APRIL 2012

C O N N E C T I N G YO U TO T H E C O M M U N I T Y

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04

APRIL 2012

NORTH LEEDS LIFE MAGAZINE | CONTENTS

NORTH LEEDS Life FREE APRIL 2012

C O N N E C T I N G YO U TO T H E C O M M U N I T Y

KAY MELLOR TALKS ABOUT HER LATEST TV SERIES CREATING YOUR DREAM GARDEN ROYAL VISIT FOR ILKLEY I L K L E Y | B U R L E Y- I N - W H A R F E D A L E | M E N S T O N | O T L E Y

Cover: Kyte Photography www.kytephotography.co.uk

FEATURES

18

Another Kay Mellor Drama to Look Forward to Kay Mellor talks about her latest TV series, her passion for the north and her role as patron of Friends of The Hollies

Dear Readers, So, Spring has sprung! And, according to a number of our advertisers, things are looking up. Let’s hope so! Certainly our readers aren’t wasting time – there seem to be just as many events and celebrations happening as ever, and more and more people are getting involved in community projects.

This month we bring you the news of a Royal Visit in Ilkley and Menston residents express their disappointment at the recent Planning decision. We talk to Kay Mellor about her new television series ‘The Syndicate’ and about becoming patron of Friends of The Hollies. We also talk to Esther Rantzen as NSPCC’s ChildLine celebrates 25 years. Landscape designer Lindsay Bird gives a little advice in our garden feature; JRR Tolkien is the subject of ‘They Lived in Leeds’; and we review the film ‘The Descendants’.

Before you know it, it will be May! Our deadline for your stories and notices is 1st April, and it’s 6th April for advertising.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards

Carole, Jack and the team

In This Issue 06

Ilkley Brewery & Lishman’s Selected for Royal Visit

Princess Anne chooses to visit Lishman’s and Ilkley Brewery

08

Misery for Menston Residents after Battle for Greenbelt

26

Your Dream Garden – With a Little Help!

Lindsay Bird outlines how garden designers can help

10

23

36

Proposed development could force 2,400 traffic movements per day down narrow, congested lanes

ChildLine Celebrates 25 Years!

ChildLine founder Esther Rantzen talks to NLL about how the charity has grown

Mary Shelley at The Playhouse A bold new play about the author of Frankenstein by award-winning playwright Helen Edmundson

Bradford’s 18th International Film Festival

This year’s event promises to present its usual eclectic mix of feature premieres, cult classics, international guests,

documentaries and family features

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COMMUNITY NEWS

ILKLEY BREWERY AND LISHMAN’S SELECTED FOR ROYAL VISIT EDITORIAL

Carole Carey-Campbell carole@northleedslife.co.uk

0113 293 4303 REVIEWS

Brendan Campbell brendan@northleedslife.co.uk

DESIGN

Kyle Harvey kyle@northleedslife.co.uk

SALES ENQUIRIES

Princess Anne personally selected Lishman’s and Ilkley Brewery as two of the businesses she would most like to visit during her time in the county. The visit comes after a string of regional and national awards for the brewery, and a regional Countryside Alliance Award for Lishman’s last month.

“This is such an incredible honour for everyone here at the brewery”, said Stewart Ross, one of Ilkley Brewery’s directors. “To hear that The Princess Royal was actively involved in choosing the businesses she would like to visit makes the occasion even more special. We are all looking forward to welcoming her to Ilkley and hope to give her an inspiring and enlightening visit.”

David Lishman, a Q Guild Butcher and twice Champion of Champions winner for his famous sausages, added: “It’s been a tremendous year for Lishman’s following our Yorkshire Sausage campaign last summer and our recent ‘rural Oscars’ success. To top all this off with a visit from Her Royal Highness, is wonderful. We are thrilled to be part of this Royal visit and look forward to meeting her.”

A Royal brew To commemorate the visit, and to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, Ilkley Brewery will create a special ale called Ilkley Jubilee, which Princess Anne will officially launch

during her visit to the brewery. She will also unveil a commemorative plaque celebrating the installation of Ilkley Brewery’s sixth fermentation vessel, which will increase the brewery’s output to 40,000 pints a week.

Ceremonial sausages Lishman’s will show Her Royal Highness its latest salami production venture which uses locally reared meat to make traditional, artisan salamis. Following this, she will see one of Lishman’s popular butchery classes in action, before unveiling a commemorative plaque and receiving a special Lishman’s hamper.

“

To hear that The Princess Royal was actively involved in choosing the businesses she would like to visit, makes the occasion even more special

“

Ilkley Brewery and Lishman’s butchers will each welcome HRH The Princess Royal to Ilkley on Tuesday 3rd April as part her visit to West Yorkshire.

Jack Campbell info@northleedslife.co.uk

0113 274 8776

NORTH LEEDS LIFE 265A OTLEY RD, WEST PARK, LEEDS, LS16 5LN INFO@NORTHLEEDSLIFE.CO.UK WWW.NORTHLEEDSLIFE.CO.UK OFFICE: 0113 274 8776 Disclaimer: Whilst every effort is made to ensure that all editorial, advertising and directory listings are accurate, the publisher is not liable for any errors, omissions, statements or opinions provided. The publishers accept no liability of any nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of this magazine.

Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the express permission of the editor.

This magazine is published by North Leeds Life (UK) Limited, 265A Otley Road, West Park, Leeds LS16 5LN. Established in 2005, we are an independent, family-owned and operated business, publishing three monthly magazines covering Headingley, Meanwood, Weetwood & West Park, Horsforth, Cookridge, Adel, Bramhope, Menston, Otley, Burley-in-Wharfedale and Ilkley.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

MISERY FOR MENSTON RESIDENTS AFTER BATTLE FOR GREENBELT – AND THERE’S MORE TO COME

“

That is just the start. Local geology means this land is liable to flood; so concerned were residents that we pooled funds for a Flood Risk Assessment. However, its damning findings were totally ignored by the planning officer’s report. Instead, they used desktop calculations based on national averages. Menston properties now face serious flooding, yet the decision panel, led by Councillor Shabir Hussain, told us ‘this was not a planning matter’!!

Nor, do our tribulations end there. Our Dale no longer offers any significant employment; Menston, a village, has no secondary schools: travel for work and education is a necessity. Already at peak hours, our trains are dangerously overcrowded, and the A65 near gridlock: it can take two hours to travel the ten miles to Leeds. Three hundred extra family houses can only intensify the travel misery.

I contemplate this situation with dread, a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. For fighting for our families’ wellbeing we are denounced as ‘middle class’ NIMBYs by Bradford’s housing policy executive Councillor Val Slater.

Yet, the real issue lies entrenched in the relationship between developers’ desire to build where it is most profitable, and a weak Local Planning 08 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

Authority prone to developers who whisper inducements in their ear.

Bradford’s stated policy is Brownfield regeneration first; but, Brownfield is unattractive to developers. To circumvent the policy, they obtain planning permission on Brownfield sites and landbank them; effectively removing them from ‘circulation’ and prolonging city deprivation. They then speculatively take out binding purchase options on greenfield sites; subsequently challenging this status in the cause of Bradford’s unsubstantiated housing targets. Inducements help the process; party political councillors carry it through. The irony being, the houses are not bought by the homeless of Bradford.

This is just the start for Wharfedale.

Bradford’s local development framework threatens many villages with bulldozers and concrete; Cllr Slater has promised developers she will ‘lock horns’ with us to ensure it happens. To her aid will come the Government’s

“

How can this have happened? Two productive farms, sandwiched between Menston and the moors now have planning permission for two housing estates? This land was Greenbelt in Bradford’s UDP; its development will force 2,400 traffic movements per day down narrow, congested, lanes and past our village school.

Stated policy is Brownfield regeneration first; but, Brownfield is unattractive to developers. To circumvent the policy, they obtain planning permission on Brownfield sites and landbank them; effectively removing them from ‘circulation’ and prolonging city deprivation national planning policy framework with its presumption in favour of ostensible ‘sustainable development’. The fox has been gifted the keys to the hen house, and our councillors are trading green England acre by acre.

Graham Booth Committee Member, Menston Action Group and WARD www.WARDyorkshire.org, 01943 496569

OTLEY CARNIVAL HAS ITS QUEEN

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Front : Attendant Ellora Green, Crown Bearer Imogen Bell and Attendant Eleanor Bradford.

This year’s Otley Carnival is scheduled for 16th June and preparations are well underway. Recently the Carnival Queen, her deputy and attendants were selected. A total of 20 girls aged from six to ten attended the ceremony to choose the 2012 Queen and her retinue at the Senior Citizens Welfare Centre in Otley. The judges, Ann and Colin Whiers from Harrogate and Betty Syril from Baildon, commented on the difficulty of their task, but finally selected Poppy Roberts (10) from St. Joseph’s RC Primary as Queen, Scarlet Hannan (10) from All Saints C of E as her deputy, and Ellora Green (9), Westgate Primary and Eleanor Bradford (8) Ashfield Primary as her attendants. The Crown Bearer will be Imogen Bell (9) also from Westgate Primary.

The Carnival Queen and her party are available to attend any event or activity in the area and organisation who would like to invite the queen should contact Wendy Corden on 01943 463954.

Last year’s Queen, Sylvia Cullen, and her attendants have attended other carnivals as guests, assisted with switching on the Christmas lights, and visited local nursing homes and patients in Wharfedale Hospital. In this year of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, involving our local Carnival Queen would be even more appropriate.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

NSPCC’S CHILDLINE CELEBRATES 25 YEARS! NSPCC 1950’S JUBILEE BALL

Keith Fielding, ChildLine Volunteer, Esther Rantzen, and Darren Worth, ChildLine Supervisor Last month, Esther Rantzen, ChildLine founder and TV presenter, was in Leeds to celebrate the charity’s 25th anniversary. Down at NSPCC’s Leeds HQ, we asked her the same question that John Humphrys of BBC Radio 4’s Today Show asked her 25 years ago: “Did you know what you were taking on?”

Esther quickly admitted that she didn’t.

“No, but you’ve got to take a risk from time to time”, she told us. “We thought we would take the calls and immediately pass them on to the various bodies, like social services, to deal with.

“We got it wrong. We soon found out that we had to work at the child’s pace and make them feel safe. It was a matter of finding ways to give them hope. If social workers were to arrive at their door it could have put them at risk.

So the whole emphasis of ChildLine had to change.”

Of course, children’s services might eventually become involved, but only when the child was ready. It was interesting, too, to see how children’s concerns had changed over the years – 25 years ago their main concern was sexual abuse, later the emphasis shifted to physical abuse, and most recently it’s bullying.

In the last 12 months, ChildLine has counselled over 265,000 children and young people. The Leeds base alone received over 15,400 contacts from children from across the UK.

“ChildLine is a lifeline for thousands of young people who desperately need support and advice with problems they dare not share with anyone else”, said Esther. “Our trained volunteer counselors work around the clock to ensure that the most vulnerable young people can get the protection and support they need, transforming and sometimes even saving precious young lives.

“Up until now, some children had to try many times before they could get through to ChildLine. It makes me especially proud, in our 25th anniversary year, that we can say, for the first time in ChildLine’s history, we can now answer almost every call or email the first time a child tries to get through.”

NSPCC’s ChildLine, a free 24-hour confidential helpline for children and young people, has been providing support and advice across the UK since 1986. As Keith Fielding, one of 33 volunteer councilors working from the Leeds centre, commented: “ChildLine helps empower children and young people as it gives them an opportunity to express themselves and talk about their problems.”

Esther thanked the ChildLine staff and volunteers – as she said: ”Without them this vital lifeline for children and young people could not continue”.

Celebrate The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style at the NSPCC’s 1950’s Ball at the Rose Bowl, Civic Quarter, Leeds, on Saturday 26th May starting with a Champagne reception at 7pm. Then enjoy a four course dinner, live entertainment and dancing until late, all with a thoroughly 1950’s flavour. Tickets £600 for a table of 10.

CHILDLINE’S THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE Friday 13th – Sunday 15th July Grab your walking boots for this fantastic National Three Peaks challenge and make a real difference to children’s lives. This guided walk takes in the three highest peaks in Scotland (Ben Nevis 1,344m), England (Scarfell Pike 978m) and Wales (Snowdon 1,085). Widely regarded as one of the UK’s most challenging events, it provides the ultimate test of mental stamina and physical endurance. Not for the faint hearted, but with prior training and professional support it can be the experience of a life time.

Registration fee: £50 (over 18s only) with a minimum sponsorship goal of £350.

For further information on both events, contact 0113 218 2735 or northappeals@nspcc.org.uk

ANOTHER EXCITING DAY PLANNED FOR OTLEY GREEN FAIR

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Otley’s annual Green Fair will be at Otley Courthouse on Saturday 14th April from 10am – 4pm.

This year the Courthouse welcomes the Buttercross Belles, who will be dancing in the courtyard; Home Grown, the local group which encourages people to grow their own fruit and veg, will be giving out advice and information on how to make the most of your garden, allotment or window box; plus there will be crafts, campaigns, local and environmental groups, organic and Fair Trade food stalls.

You will also have an opportunity to try various alternative therapies, including Reflexology and Alexander Technique.

And, Chevin Cycles will be on hand with advice on bicycle maintenance and repair, as well as information about all kinds of bikes.

To celebrate the Olympics and the first Otley Cycling Festival, which will be held on Sunday 8th July, there will be a children’s workshop (1 – 3pm, cost £2) creating art work on the theme of cycling. Workshop places are limited so book early on 01943 467466. Under 8s should be accompanied by an adult.

For further information, visit www.otleycourthouse.org.uk or call 01943 467466.

COMMUNITY NEWS

OTLEY TOWN MAYOR ANNOUNCES FINAL EVENTS OF MAYORAL YEAR Otley Town Mayor, Councillor Nigel Francis, recently announced the final events of his 20 X 20 Appeal, which aims to raise £1,000 for 20 charities, organisations and community groups, and he is confident that the people of Otley will pull together to help him reach his goal of £20,000.

On Saturday 28th April there will be a Spring Fayre, 10am – 4pm at the United Reformed Church, Bridge Street, featuring stalls selling new and quality second hand goods and gifts. Admission is free and a number of displays and other activities are planned.

to a close with a concert at Otley Methodist Church on Saturday 12th May. The soloist will be Emmy Wilde (soprano) and Len Wilson will compere.

Following their recent television appearance, this concert is likely to be very popular. Tickets (£7) can be obtained from various shops in Otley and from Councillor Francis.

The nominated charities are: RNLI, St. George’s Crypt, Martin House Hospice, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Otley Christmas Crib, Yeadon RAF, Cadet Band, Help for Heroes, church restoration in Akandjaevo, Beth Equipment Fund, Otley Action for Older People, St. Gemma’s Hospice, Wheatfields/Sue Ryder Hospice, Fire Brigade Benevolent Fund, Otley in Bloom, Replacement seats in Otley, International Rescue, Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue, Otley Christmas Lights and Hang on to a Dream.

The Town Mayor’s Dinner Dance is on Saturday 5th May at Otley Golf Club. A four course dinner will be followed by an auction, and entertainment from local artists. Tickets (£25) are available from Councillor Francis on 01943 463467 or nigelfrancis@btinternet.com.

The famous Steeton Male Voice Choir, one of the most popular choirs in the area, will bring the mayor’s fundraising

Mrs Diane Francis and Councillor Nigel Francis

OTLEY PUB CLUB THROWS ITSELF INTO THE YEAR’S CELEBRATIONS Otley has a busy year ahead and Otley Pub Club plans to be in the thick of it!

Their aim is to have four teams per pub, each team representing a country, from 12th July – 11th August.

The Club plans to kick start the celebrations by changing all the Pub names in Otley to ‘Queen Elizabeth’ for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations (3rd – 6th June). They are asking all licensed premises to celebrate this momentous occasion, and let them know what they have planned, so they can publicise all pub events.

The country with the most points earned will receive Gold and so on to Bronze (they are looking for a sponsor to cover the cost of the medals). There is a £5 per person entry fee and all proceeds will be donated to a local charity.

The Club is also entering a float in Otley Carnival (16th June), and they may be joined on the float by a well-known local band. This is a great opportunity for the pubs to attract visitors for good food, fine ales and entertainment.

For during the Olympics (27th July – 12th August) Otley Pub Club is preparing an Otley Charity Olympics Quiz.

12 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

The presentation will be performed by a local celebrity to be decided by nomination. Otley residents are invited to nominate their favourite local celebrity, giving the reason they think this person should be selected.

Anyone wishing to participate or assist with sponsorship should contact chair@ otleypubclub.co.uk or call Peter Jackson (Chairman) on 07799 465070

If ‘Living Together’ is the new ‘Married’ what happens when it’s time to separate?

At JARVIS we support couples and families who are dealing with relationship breakdowns and this is not limited to those who are married. A number of issues arise for couples who have not ‘tied the knot’ – particularly in relation to property, finances and children.

The law for those living together and not married has been up for debate for as long as we family lawyers can remember. A recent case brought into focus the benefit of taking a moment to record the intentions of a couple moving in together (or for that matter a couple currently living together) as it can make life much more simple if they come to separate at a later date.

who had separated without addressing the issue of who was entitled to what share of the equity in the property. The woman had stayed in the home with the children and the male partner had left, buying a further home for himself and leaving the woman to maintain the home and pay the outgoings herself. At the time of separation both acknowledged that they had an equal share of the home.

The matter was taken to court as the question arose many years later as to whether the woman was entitled to a greater share of the equity in the property as she had ‘invested’ her time and money into maintaining the house over the years.

The case I am thinking of concerned an unmarried couple who had jointly owned a home together but

A surprising decision At the first court hearing the Judge awarded the woman a 90% interest in the property leaving the male only 10%. This decision was set to have a huge impact on the law relating to unmarried couples particularly as there had been no agreed intention between the parties to vary the share each was due.

Unsurprisingly, the male involved appealed the decision and the second court hearing overturned the first court’s decision resulting in the couple reverting to the position of a 50-50 split.

together and then separate is very uncertain and is still changing.

My advice to any couple just moving in together, or even for those who have lived together for some time, is to stop and take a moment to consider what might happen about your property, finances (joint savings, loans etc) and your children if you were to separate in the future. It’s like making a will – it’s never an easy thing to do, but it does make life a little more straightforward should you ever need to There are, of course, two sides to every ‘story’ and call upon it in the future! from the woman’s perspective the decision may seem unfair as she had maintained the house and paid At JARVIS I am able to work with couples (not only the mortgage from her own funds for many years those separating) to provide advice on all aspects so why would she not receive a greater share? But of Family Law including divorce, financial settlement from the male perspective there was no intention and child related issues. for the woman to receive more and she had merely ‘paid’ for her occupation of the house, so perhaps Initial interviews can be arranged at a time to suit the second decision seemed fairer. What is certain you, are free and there is no obligation to instruct is that the law surrounding couples who have lived me.

Neil Dring • 01423 858582 JARVIS Family Law (Solicitors) Mitre House, North Park Road, Harrogate, HG1 5RX Website: www.jarvisfamilylaw.co.uk

LIFE & STYLE

THEY LIVED IN LEEDS John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, 1892-1973 Writer, Poet, Scholar, Philologist

When JRR Tolkien arrived in Leeds in 1920 to take up the post of Reader in English Language at the University, he was an unknown young man of 28 on the threshold of his career. He had survived the horror of war, and had already begun to write poems and stories about his imagined world of Middle Earth, its mythology, unique languages and fantastical inhabitants. But it would be many years before his work appeared in print and established him as one of the most popular and controversial writers of the twentieth century.

He was born on 3rd January 1892 in Bloemfontein South Africa, where his father, a Birmingham bank clerk, had gone to improve his prospects. When he was four his father died, and his mother moved back to Birmingham with the two children. Money was short, and she had little support – she had alienated her family when she converted to Catholicism (Tolkien and his brother remained devout Catholics all their lives).

Tolkien adored his children and every Christmas wrote them a ‘letter from Father Christmas’, wonderfully illustrated, with tales of adventures with the Snow-elves and other characters (published in 1976). He clearly loved telling his children stories and inventing characters to amuse and thrill them, together with magical drawings and paintings.

Many of these stories and images found their way into his later work.

Tolkien won a scholarship to King Edward’s School and was prospering when suddenly his mother died from diabetes, untreatable before the discovery of insulin. She was 34, he only 12. He and his young brother were left penniless orphans, but were cared for by a compassionate Catholic priest who had befriended the family.

When war ended, Tolkien and Edith, now with a young son, returned to Oxford where he found work with the New English Dictionary, but in 1920 he applied for the post of Reader at Leeds and to his surprise 14 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

“

Tolkien left Leeds in 1925 to take up the post of Professor of AngloSaxon at Oxford, where he remained for the remainder of his working life. His first published book, The Hobbit, appeared in 1937, followed in 1954/5 by the three books of The

The salary from the University was low, his office cramped, the English department small, but Tolkien was happy at Leeds

was appointed. Edith followed him to Leeds, with their newly-born second son, and they settled in a small terrace house, 11 St Mark’s Terrace, near the University. It was dingy and dark, and the sooty air rotted the curtains and covered the baby with smuts outside in his pram! In 1924, with a third child on the way, they moved to greener, pleasanter surroundings at 2 Darnley Road, West Park, a tall Edwardian red-brick semi next to fields (still there).

“

Tolkien persisted in his studies, displaying a remarkable gift for languages, and won a scholarship to Oxford where he focused on Middle and Old English and Old Norse, rich sources of inspiration. Here, when he reached 21 in 1913, he renewed his romance with Edith Bratt, whom he had met and fallen in love with three years before. They got engaged in 1914 just as war was declared, and married in 1916 when Tolkien had completed his degree and enlisted – they knew he might never return.

He fought in the devastating battle of the Somme, an experience that affected him deeply. In late 1916 he contracted trench fever and was invalided home. His recurrent poor health prevented his return to the Front, where all but one of his closest friends died.

The salary from the University was low, his office cramped, the English department small, but Tolkien was happy at Leeds, liked the students and found a congenial colleague in E.V. Gordon. Together they produced an acclaimed new edition of the Middle English poem Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. They shared a sense of fun too, and founded a University Viking Club – a feature of which was the composition of bawdy songs in Old Norse!

Lord of the Rings, which became an international best seller and inspired an Oscar-winning cycle of films.

The Silmarillion, edited by his son, was published after Tolkien’s death in 1973, as were many of his other works and papers. The extraordinary world he created continues to attract commentators and researchers, enthusiasts and critics.

By Eveleigh Bradford

LOOK OUT! IT’S FUN PLANNED BEHIND YOU! FOR EVE’S It seems that every time you turn around another Sainsbury’s Local or Tesco Express has sprung up. Not content with luring shoppers to larger shopping centres, the supermarkets have been surreptitiously moving on to every high street and local parade of shops.

In the last couple of months I have noticed new Sainsbury’s Locals on Street Lane, Roundhay, (the old Oddbins site) and Harrogate Road, Moortown (where the Jade Dragon used to be), the Yorkshire Bank in Chapel Allerton is to become an M Local (Morrisons), there’s a Tesco Express opening on King Lane, Alwoodley (on the site of a small, independent garage), and apparently, ground level at the old Lounge Cinema on North Lane in Headingley is also about to become a Sainsbury’s Local.

Councils and the Government are always delighted – crowing that the supermarkets are bringing lots of new jobs. Low paid, part time jobs. While we sit by and watch, the all-powerful supermarkets are turning this ‘Nation of Shopkeepers’ into a nation of shelf stackers.

CHARITY BALL

Fundraising efforts continue to raise enough money to send Eve Williams (7) to America for life-changing surgery.

Eve suffers from Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, which severely limits her mobility, and has been given the opportunity to visit the St Louis Children’s Hospital in Missouri for pioneering surgery. A recent ‘Boot Camp’ at David Lloyd Leeds was a fantastic success, attracting over 100 people and bringing the total raised to date to £25,000 (they need to raise at least 45,000 for the trip, and an additional £30,000 to cover private physiotherapy for 2-3 years after the operation).

Eve’s parents, David and Gina, have organised a Charity Ball at Hollins Hall, Shipley on Friday 27th April. Tickets for Eve’s Charity Ball are £40 and tables are available at a reduced rate. There will be an auction with fantastic prizes and lots of fun.

Contact daveyandgina@hotmail.com for further information and tickets.

Property developers have bought up large sections of high streets and raised rents so much smaller entrepreneurs can no longer afford to rent retail space. They welcome supermarkets with open arms – it’s sure cash. Only they can afford the large amounts that developers demand up front.

Headingley has had a bit of a resurgence recently. Once again there is a butcher (Headingley Farm Butchers), and a baker (Artisan Bakery). Then there’s the long established Harris’s Greengrocers and the Natural Food Store just across the street – all of these on North Lane, clustered around what is to be this new Sainsbury’s Local.

Leeds City Council loves to boast that Leeds is a fantastic shopping destination – no it’s not. City centre rents are so high, and the Council is so set on building huge shopping centres, that soon all Leeds will be able to boast is national chain stores and designer names that exist in every other town and city. What’s great about that? No character, no individuality, no enterprise, no creativity. Stop them please!

Now, as the all-powerful supermarkets muscle in on our communities, corner shops and newsagents are rapidly disappearing. Everyone operating or thinking of opening a local business today desperately needs the support of their local community to help keep and build a vibrant local economy.

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0113 274 8776 info@northleedslife.co.uk 16 March 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

BEFORE

AFTER

Julie Fuller, a graphic and web designer from Otley, was toying with the idea of cutting her hair last autumn and decided that if she was going to do it, she might as well put it to good use. She had heard about the Little Princess Trust, which helps children suffering hair loss due to cancer treatment, so she got in touch.

“

Julie had heard about the Little Princess Trust, which helps children suffering hair loss due to cancer treatment, so she got in touch

“

•

To ensure her hair was long enough, she continued growing her hair for another six months before making her way to The Hair Studio on Otley Road, Headingley. Not only is she a long standing client of The Hair Studio, she also designed their website!

Stylist Susan Riddeal undertook the challenge of cutting Julie’s hair to the specifications of The Little Princess Trust and gave her a gorgeous new look.

For more information about The Little Princess Trust and donating your hair, contact Monica on 08450 942169 or monica@littleprincesses.org.uk

CITY CENTRE LEGAL EXPERTISE Now In Horsforth

Jordans Solicitors now bring their wide ranging legal expertise to the people and businesses of Horsforth. So you no longer need to travel to Leeds city centre to access professional, personal and commercial law services.

Services for Individuals • Wills and Probate • Family • Personal Injury • Conveyancing • Employment

Services for business • Company and Commercial • Dispute Resolution • Commercial Property • Employment

Kerry Street, Horsforth LS18 4AW | 0113 2586 307 | www.jordanssolitors.co.uk

Crescent Blinds 0113 2619775 Your local family run window blind specialists formerly Apollo Blinds

FREE Quotations 399a Otley Old Road Cookridge Leeds LS16 7DF

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ARTS & CULTURE

ANOTHER KAY MELLOR DRAMA TO LOOK FORWARD TO

“

We’ve got a wonderful cast including Timothy Spall, Joanna Page, Matthew McNulty, Matthew Lewis and Lorraine Bruce

“

Was setting The Syndicate in Leeds important to you?

Very – it’s my home town. It’s where I live and this is the world I know, the world I grew up in. For me it had to be northern working class, about ordinary people whose lives had changed. I think it’s vital that the north of England is represented in mainstream drama.

What inspired you to write The Syndicate?

The times we are living in today, where people are desperate, holding on to the dream that winning the lottery is the only solution available.

When can we expect to see it?

Look out for it later this spring…

Kay Mellor talks to North Leeds Life about her latest TV series for BBC, her passion for the north and her role as patron of local community project Friends of The Hollies. She is currently working on a new, Leedsbased drama called ‘The Syndicate’.

Your new TV series is based in Leeds - can you tell us a bit more about it?

Will we be seeing any familiar faces and locations?

The series is about five employees of a small, cut-price supermarket whose lives are turned upside down when they hit the lottery jackpot. It follows the winners’ individual stories and how their lives, loves and relationships are changed ... some for the better, some for the worse.

We’ve got a wonderful cast including Timothy Spall, Joanna Page, Matthew McNulty, Matthew Lewis and Lorraine Bruce. We filmed the whole series in and around Leeds. So yes, there will be familiar locations to look out for!

18 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

Kay Mellor, one of Britain’s leading TV writers and has written a host of highly acclaimed television dramas, including Band of Gold (1995), Playing the Field (1998), Fat Friends (2000), Between the Sheets (2003), Strictly Confidential (2006), The Chase (2006) and A Passionate Woman (2010). She is renowned for her gritty realism, strong characters and for flying the flag for northern talent. Born and raised in Leeds, Kay was awarded an OBE in 2009 in recognition of her contribution to British broadcasting.

Interviewed by Liz Mayers Photo: Kyte Photography

KAY MELLOR JOINS FRIENDS OF THE HOLLIES

Living close to The Hollies in Weetwood, Kay Mellor was delighted to be asked to become Patron of Friends of the Hollies.

“I walk through The Hollies on a regular basis… I watch the seasons change and it keeps me sane”, said Kay. “Sometimes I have my best ideas walking through the woodland.”

The Friends of The Hollies was formed almost year ago and has already achieved a great deal. The group meets on the second Saturday of the month in The Hollies car park at 10am and works for about two hours under the guidance of the Leeds City Council gardeners, who donate their time. To date the group has cleared drainage ditches and overgrown areas, re-planted national collection shrubs and uncovered and restored a ‘lost’ path. The volunteers always wind down at the end of each session with home baked cakes and coffee!

“I may not be as hands-on as I would like, but I see the work that the Friends achieve every month and it’s lovely to think that I’m one of a collective that really appreciates the natural beauty of The Hollies”, continued Kay. “Careful, judicious pruning will help to retain the woodland’s natural beauty and allow re-growth, and the project will help to ensure that the streams are kept free flowing.

“It is so important that the local community is involved as it gives people a sense of belonging and ownership. The very nature of working together in a party promotes community.

Having a shared passion can unite people from different ages and backgrounds.”

Friends of The Hollies Plant Sale The Friends’ next fundraising event will be a plant sale in The Hollies Car Park on Saturday 12th May at 10am. Kay is hoping to be there – work permitting.

Further information is available at

http://friendsofthehollies.wordpress.com/

Plans Underway for Second Ilkley Arts Trail

Ilkley’s first ever Arts Trail took place last October and, despite inclement weather, saw over 3,000 people take it in and over £12,000 in art sales!

The event included 28 different venues showing the sculpture, paintings, glass, ceramics, fabric and silver work of over 30 artists. Well-known, established artists were shoulder to shoulder with emerging, contemporary artists, and the success of the Trail surprised even the organisers.

Building on this success, freelance arts project manager Lorna Bird and local artist Lucia Smith are now looking forward to organising the second Art Trail in October this year.

“A call for submissions from artists will go out soon and, of course, support is still needed”, said Lorna. “Last year The Trail quickly attracted the support of Ilkley Brewery, Weaverbird Workshop, The Art Shop and Cakewalk-Handmade-andVintage. We have now opened up a new marketing window for other local businesses to reach our audience and support Ilkley Art Trail 2012. Support from individual patrons would be particularly welcome.”

Lorna is already busy recruiting volunteers and identifying new venues. If you are able to help in any way, she would love to hear from you.

The Ilkley Gallery, which uses non-gallery space (e.g. wine bar, hotel, brewery loading bay, solicitors’ reception area etc), to exhibit local and regional artists, is currently hosting two exciting exhibitions. Pastel artist Lucia Smith’s work is exhibited at Ison Harrison Solicitors on The Grove and the public is welcome during office hours. Wells Practice Osteopaths are featuring the work of oil painter Judith Levin and textile artist Linda Dewart. Visitors are welcome when the practice is staffed, call in on the off chance or phone 01943 817191 for an appointment.

For further information, contact Lorna on 07789 681862 or lorna.bird@btopenworld.com. For a glimpse of Ilkley Art Trail 2011, visit www.ilkleyarttrail.org.uk

ARTS & CULTURE

CAPTAIN MURDERER AND THE MORECAMBE MERMAID Leeds-based theatre company Captain Mermaid presents Captain Murderer and The Morecambe Mermaid at City Varieties on Friday 13th April.

Created and performed by Lisa Howard and John Barber, this twoman exploration of addiction, sexual exploitation, immigration and kissme-quick seaside cheekiness tells the story of a drunken end-of-the-pier show owner and his star attraction ‘The Morecambe Mermaid.’

Lisa Howard in 2010, following years of previous collaborations. Based in Chapeltown, it makes small-scale touring shows aimed at theatre and cabaret audiences. Captain Mermaid is driven by a desire to create intelligent funny populist theatre, and to promote theatre skills within the region, through delivery of integrated workshops in masks and puppetry and skills sharing.

For more information, visit www.captainmermaid.co.uk

MUSIC TO DIE FOR The courage of the members of the Titanic’s band on 14th April 1912 is legendary. As with most legends, some are based on fact, others on fancy.

There is no real evidence that the hymn Nearer My God to Thee was ever played, but many convinced themselves that it was, and most of the 40,000 people who attended the funeral of the Titanic’s bandmaster, Wallace Hartley, in Colne seem to have joined the choir in singing it. His body had been recovered with his initialled music case still strapped to it – so it was said.

Could those musicians have actually contributed to the number of passengers who drowned? Could the numbers of those saved have been more than the 712, despite the fact that there were only enough lifeboats for half of those on board?

Having conducted the Barcarolle from Offenbach’s Tales of Hoffman as afterdinner entertainment for first-class passengers, and as the seriousness of the situation developed, Hartley was called upon to play on deck. He chose the latest popular melodies. At first it was not certain that the lifeboats would have to be used. Most people were still below deck in their cabins.

Captain Mermaid Theatre Company was founded by John Barber and 20 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

“

Captain Mermaid is driven by a desire to create intelligent funny populist theatre

“

He’s trying desperately to tell his favourite story, a version of a littleknown Dickens short story about a dastardly captain who marries women before eating them in pies, but it’s not going well. His foul-mouthed daughter Tanya is more of a hindrance than a help and he could really do with a drink. All the mermaid wants is to get back to sea, but he’s got something that she needs. Following their stories as they intertwine across Morecambe, from the beach to the fishmonger, a hotel lounge to their washed-up endof-the-pier show, this new production is a fast-moving parade of puppetry and masks, illusions, projections and original songs.

Why did the music continue when it became apparent that urgent action was needed to save lives? People seemed reluctant to get into the boats.

Could this have been partly due to the fact that the music was soothing nerves a little too much? Was the message being sent out that it was unnecessary for people to actually get moving?

Music can stir the soul and sometimes it can be the equivalent of hot cocoa.

In this case, it might have been better if the musicians had simply packed up their instruments and made their way to the lifeboats.

When all the boats had left and they knew they were going to die, they continued playing until they were waistdeep in water – yes, that was heroic.

Richard Wilcock

AWARD-WINNING PIANIST TO PLAY QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE CONCERT “Awe-inspiringly confident and assured … with a perfection which apparently effortlessly sets him apart from everyone else … Alexej Gorlatch is one of those players who can take you into areas that others just can’t reach.” Irish Times Alexej Gorlatch, the talented young Ukrainian pianist who took the Silver Prize at the 2009 Leeds International Piano Competition, makes a welcome return to Leeds Town Hall on Saturday 2nd June to take part in the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebratory Concert being presented by Leeds Philharmonic Chorus. Alexej, whose many other awards include 1st Prize at international competitions in Dublin, Dresden and Japan, will be playing Mozart’s Piano Concerto No 18 in B flat, accompanied

by Manchester Camerata. This exciting evening of celebratory music also features Handel’s Four Coronation Anthems – including Zadok the Priest – and Mozart’s Coronation Mass (No

15 in C major), performed by Leeds Philharmonic Chorus and soloists Sarah Ogden, Heather Ireson, Thomas Morss and Matthew Kellett. The conductor is David Hill.

Tickets (£16 – £31.50) are available from City Centre Box Office at The Carriageworks on 0113 224 380, or via

HAYDN’S ‘CREATION’ AT ST MARGARET’S Ilkley Choral Society, in association with Ilkley Parish Council’s Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, will perform ‘Creation’ by Franz Joseph Haydn on Saturday 28th April at St Margaret’s Church, Queen’s Road, Ilkley, starting at 7pm After visiting London and hearing the music of GF Handel, Haydn determined to write an oratorio that would be remembered long after his lifetime.

A religious man, he put his all into composing Creation.

The oratorio depicts the creation of the world as described in the Book of Genesis and in Milton’s Paradise Lost. Part 1 encompasses the creation of primal light, the heavenly bodies, earth, water, weather and plant life and concludes with the marvellous chorus ‘The heavens are telling the glory of God’. Part 2 tells of sea creatures, birds, animals and man, and Part 3

concludes with a choral and symphonic hymn to the Garden of Eden and the first hours of Adam and Eve. Composed between 1796 and 1798, the oratorio was scored for soprano, tenor and bass soloists, chorus

www.leedsphil.org, or from any chorus member.

Leeds Phil is always happy to welcome new members. Rehearsals are held at 7.15pm every Thursday at St George’s Church, Great George Street, Leeds 1.

For further information visit www.leedsphil.org/join.asp

and orchestra. The soloists for this performance are Kristina James, soprano, Christopher Trenholme, tenor, and Philip Wilcox, bass. Ilkley singers will be joined by members of Otley Choral Society, and Christopher Rathbone, Director of Music at St Margaret’s Church, will play the organ.

The conductor is Alan Horsey.

Tickets are available from The Grove Bookshop, members of the chorus, or from 01943 816774.

ARTS & CULTURE

A CELEBRATION OF LEEDS PERFORMING SUCCESS AT ABBEY HOUSE The exhibition Performance: Tales from Platform, Pitch and Podium a celebration of Leeds success in sport and performance, is currently running at Abbey House Museum.

It features objects from over 100 years ago to the recent past – including medals won by Leeds-born

swimmer Doris Storey, who competed at the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games, and rare footage from the Yorkshire Film Archive of the New Zealand All Blacks team playing at Headingley during their UK tour of 1947.

You can also see footage of the Rolling Stones’ concert at Roundhay Park

in 1982 and the 1963 film ‘Billy Liar’ starring Tom Courteney and Julie Christie. There are medals awarded to Leeds Festival Chorus in 1922 and 1925, theatrical costumes used

by Kirkstall Players around 1910, and a section devoted to dance with costumes borrowed from RJC Dance, the Joyce O’Donnell School of Irish Dancing, and Briggate Morris Dancers.

Other elements include Leeds’ choral tradition, classical symphonic and instrumental music.

The exhibition has been designed

by Leeds Metropolitan University second-year design students Leigh Durham, Lucy Dunks, Jessica Hellawell, Molly Waterhouse and Dennis Chu, who won a competition to work alongside Leeds Museums and Galleries curators managing the displays from the council collections.

Leeds Town Hall Saturday 2 June 2012, 7.30pm

Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Celebratory Concert

David Hill conductor Alexej Gorlatch piano

(Silver prize-winner at the 2009 Leeds International Pianoforte Competition)

Sarah Ogden* soprano Heather Ireson* mezzo Thomas Morss* tenor Matthew Kellett* baritone

Handel Coronation Anthems Mozart Piano Concerto No 18 in B flat, KV456 Mozart Mass No 15 in C major, KV317 (Coronation Mass)

* By kind permission of the Royal Northern College of Music

Tickets: £16 – £31.50 Concessions available

City Centre Box Office at The Carriageworks

0113 224 3801

www.leedsphil.org 22 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

MARY SHELLEY A bold new play by award-winning playwright Helen Edmundson on Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein, is currently showing at The West Yorkshire Playhouse.

A co-production between The Playhouse, Shared Experience and Nottingham Playhouse, this beautiful play explores the remarkable life, radical beliefs and relationships that led the author of Frankenstein to write one of the greatest novels in history when she was just 19 years old.

Having lost her mother, feminist Mary Wollstonecraft, at an early age, young Mary finds comfort in reading the family memoir written by her father, the radical philosopher William Godwin. However, his free-thinking account of her mother’s suicide attempt, extra-marital affair and birth of her illegitimate elder daughter are regarded by society as shocking.

Sharing her father’s controversially liberal outlook, Mary is herself drawn into scandal when she falls in love with Percy Bysshe Shelley, a married poet, and elopes at 16.

Delving into Mary Shelley’s turbulent personal history this striking production sheds light on the life of a bold young woman who came to write a novel so radical in its ideology, she changed the literary landscape forever.

Mary Shelley is at West Yorkshire Playhouse until Saturday 7th April.

Tickets are available from 0113 213 7700 or www.wyp.org.uk

“IT’S A TOTALLY DIFFERENT WAY TO SPEND YOUR TIME, THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW HAPPENING.”

HAVE YOU BEEN YET?

There’s more to art than just looking at it — get a richer experience with our talks, tours and workshops. The Hepworth Wakefield helps you see art in a new way.

Have you been yet?

T 01924 247360 www.hepworthwakefield.org

“Give them quality” W

ho would have thought that the slogan of a century-old American chocolate bar company would come to embody the philosophy of a modern Yorkshire building firm?

Kevin Payne of Renov8 Builders has always taken a long view of dealing with customers.

“I realized early on in this profession that if you treat people right, they’ll come back to you for more. So I’ve always concentrated on doing the best quality job possible, using the best materials available. It may cost a bit more sometimes, but the end result is always worth it. And our customers really notice the difference; that’s why a small job can often lead to much more work for the same customer over a period of time.”

It wasn’t until a couple of years ago that Kevin and his business partners discovered the guiding philosophy of American chocolate bar magnate Milton Hershey, who said, ‘The best form of advertising is… give them quality.’

When Kevin saw those words he thought, “That’s it! That’s exactly how we operate at Renov8; it’s why so many of our customers recommend us to their friends - so I’ll use it in our advertising!”

A family run business Renov8 Limited is a family run building business located off York Road in Leeds (behind Great Clothes), with a wealth of experience and a history of getting it right first time, with a minimum of fuss and disruption.

Small jobs are undertaken with the same care as major operations, as most of their customers come back time and time again.

Customers’ recommendations are very important to Renov8, as they realise that happy customers are their best sales force!

At Renov8 they treat your home as your castle and largest investment. So all work carried out is done in an efficient, professional manner.

All quotes are inclusive of everything needed for the installation in hand, so there are no nasty surprises. They don’t take shortcuts, they will source the best materials available for the job, and ensure that all work is carried out by highly trained craftsmen.

No job too big or small Renov8 are well resourced to undertaken any size of project, from complete installations of kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms, to conservatories, porches and orangeries, house extensions, loft conversions and garages.

They also have considerable expertise in the installation of UPVC and hardwood windows and doors, and all roofing work, including fascias, soffits, guttering and GRP canopies. In addition, Renov8 lay high quality, impressive driveways, including block paving and stamp concrete paving.

As Kevin says, ‘There’s not much we can’t do when it comes to building, and whatever we undertake, we always start and finish with the guiding principle, ‘give them quality’.

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HOME & GARDEN

IN

RE

Garden designers have the skills and knowledge to help you create a space that you will enjoy living in and looking at all year.

Lindsay Bird of Full Circle Garden Design outlines how they can help.

26 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

Armed with skills ranging from spatial awareness and extensive plant knowledge, to familiarity with the huge range of garden products available today (not to mention a flair for design!), a garden designer can transform your outside areas into an extension of your living space – an area that you will enjoy relaxing and working in, that changes with the seasons and constantly fascinates.

www.paperbark.co.uk INTERPRETING YOUR REQUIREMENTS

A garden designer will interpret your requirements – for example, how the garden might be used, the realistic skills and time available for ongoing maintenance, the style and genre of garden that would suit both you and the site, and the budget available.

Based on this brief, they will set about creating spaces and introducing suitable features and plants. They will consider the aspect, levels, soil conditions, microclimates and neighbouring sites, and work with any planning conditions and constraints such as tree preservation orders and conservation sites.

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■ Established over 20 years ■ Complete ‘Garden Makeover’ ■ Unique hand drawn designs ■ Outline plan or full design and construction ■ Garden advice and ‘garden doctor’ service ■ Border design and replanting ■ RHS Gold Medal & Best in Show Award Winners

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AN EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE OF PLANTS

Garden designers draw on their extensive knowledge of plants and hard landscaping materials to achieve the desired effect, whilst addressing the practical issues. Whether you are on a tight budget, want something low maintenance and child friendly, or are an avid gardener; there is always something a designer can recommend.

“

Garden designers draw on their extensive knowledge of plants and hard landscaping

“

HOME & GARDEN

Throughout the design development process, the design brief is constantly in the back of the designer’s mind, so expensive mistakes can be avoided – for example, plants keeling over and dying because they have been planted in the wrong place! This is one of the most obvious benefits of working with a professional.

A UNIQUE LOOK WITHOUT BLOWING THE BUDGET 28 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

Hard materials form the basic structure of the garden. The designer can achieve a unique look without blowing the budget or making maintenance of the garden a chore, by combining materials in a certain way.

The same goes for planting.

The planting pallet available nowadays is endless. Designers can use plants from all over the

world and some will thrive in the British climate. Your designer will be able to draw up a planting plan, advise on quantities and varieties, and give you an illustration of how the planting will look over time. A planting plan will also give you an accurate cost and allow you to add to or subtract items as your budget dictates.

NEW PERSPECTIVES AND IDEAS

Working with a garden designer can bring new perspectives and ideas that can solve the problems of the site and maximise the potential of the available space. They will work closely with you to ensure that your garden is a space that you will enjoy being in and matches the kind of time that you have to maintain it.

They will carry out a full garden survey before creating sketch designs based on your brief.

Collecting images from books, or photographs that illustrate the kind of thing you would like to see in your garden, will all help your designer to create the garden of your dreams.

Lindsay Bird, BA(Hons) Garden Art & Design Full Circle Garden Design & Construction Contact: Lindsay@fullcirclegardening.co.uk 0787 6255 036 / 0113 216 6296 www.fullcirclegardening.co.uk

Full Circle Gardening offer a free consultation service

GARDENROUND-UP

By Kath Hall, Paxton Horticultural

...............................................

We are now coming into the busy period when everything appears to be happening at once and needing our attention – propagating, seed sowing and pruning!

For those who have over-wintered dahlia tubers, now is the time to place them in some moist compost in a warm place.

Shoots will soon appear, which can be detached and set into pots to grow and make new plants. Sow vegetable seeds outdoors in well prepared beds. To avoid a glut of produce, try sowing small quantities in succession. Main crop potatoes can now be planted outdoors or, for those with no room, in tubs. The same goes for runner beans, beetroot, Chantenay carrots, peas, spring onions and a lettuce or two in trough planters. There really is no excuse for not growing a few vegetables of your own. Remember to protect seedlings as they will be vulnerable to birds – put a criss cross of cotton or netting over them.

Complete any bare root planting alongside any evergreen trees and shrubs, making sure the area is well dug over, removing any weeds and large stones. Dig a large, deep hole and line the base with compost finally planting and back filling making sure that there are no air pockets.

Early flowering shrubs like spiraea, berberis and forsythia need pruning after flowering. This is an opportunity to shape them too, also prune the less hardy shrubs ceanothus and fuchsias.

Clematis is starting its long flowering season. Place obelisks in borders or beds with clematis growing up and round them.

This will work for sweet peas too. Keep dead-heading spring flowers, daffodils in particular. Leave the leaves to turn yellow before removing them – to allow all the nourishment to go back into the bulb, along with a sprinkle of slow release fertilizer so that you get good flowers next year. Once primulas have finished flowering, its time to divide them and discard any old woody pieces. Re-plant and put spare plants elsewhere in the garden, making sure the area has been dug over and adding a mulch of compost around them. Where you have loosened the soil or weeded around the garden a layer of mulch won’t go amiss, mulching not only helps suppress weeds but is a good soil improver.

Water lilies can be planted now and special baskets are available at garden centres. Don’t forget to put a layer of gravel on top to stop soil releasing into the pond. Make sure that you plant at the right depth according to the instructions.

If you have a small pond, make sure that the lily you are buying is of a pigmy variety, otherwise the pond will be swamped.

Lastly, keep up mowing the grass and make sure the edges are tidy. northleedslife.co.uk | April 2012 29

HEALTH & FITNESS

HEAD FOR THE TOP OF THE WORLD AND HELP ST. GEMMA’S In this tough economic climate, St. Gemma’s Hospice is finding it more and more difficult to raise funds. With current running costs at over £22,700 a day, your support is so important.

St Gemma’s would love you to take part in one of these challenges to help raise funds towards caring for terminally ill people in Leeds. Places are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.

For details of all these and other fundraising opportunities, please contact Michelle on 0113 218 5570 or michelleb@st-gemma.co.uk

Why not make this a year to remember?

Take up one of St Gemma’s physical challenges, and help them raise those vital funds. The charity is running a whole host of events, including: • Sponsored Parachute Jumps in North Lincolnshire – take to the skies on 29th April, 17th June and 9th September (plus other dates) • Leeds Half Marathon – push yourself that extra mile on 13th May • Leeds 10k Run For All on 8th July • Great North Run - 16th September • Everest Base Camp – scale the world’s highest mountain on 28th September • North Pole Challenge – trek to the North Pole on 3rd March 2013

JAMES WILLSTROP IS WORLD NUMBER ONE! After winning three tournaments back to back at the end of 2011, Leeds-based professional squash player James Willstrop, who has been consistently in the top 10 in the world since 2003, made it to the top of the world rankings.

James continued his winning streak at the Davenport North American Open in Richmond, Virginia the end of February.

The timing was perfect, as it coincided with the launch of his book, ‘Shot and a Ghost’, which chronicles a year in his life as a travelling professional.

He writes with candid honesty about the issues and events that affect him. As 30 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

critical of himself as of others, he talks about his relationship with his father and coach, Malcolm, who coached at Pontefract squash club for many years and, at the age of 75, is still producing top class players; the devastating death of his mother; and his fierce rivalry with fellow Yorkshireman and former world number one Nick Matthew.

As we go to press, James is preparing to play the Canary Wharf Classic in London. From there he travels to Egypt for another World Series event, and in May he plays the last tournament of the season, the prestigious British Open which will be held at the London O2 Arena.

‘Shot and a Ghost’ is available from www.willstrop.co.uk and an e-version is available from Amazon.

A

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Monday

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STUDIO 2

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9.30am Pump 5.30pm Pump Clinic 6.00pm Pump 7.00pm Aerobics 8.15pm Circuits

7.15pm Hatha Yoga

7.15pm Spin 8.15pm Spin Tuesday

7.15pm Spin

6.00pm Zumba 7.00pm Pump

Wednesday

9.30am Spin

9.30am Pump 5.30pm Pump Clinic 6.00pm Pump 7.00pm Pump

10.45am Dru Yoga

7.30pm Dru Yoga

7.15pm Spin Thursday

6.30pm Spin

6.30pm Pump 7.30pm Zumba

Friday

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Saturday

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The Old Mill, Railway Road, Ilkley LS29 8JB • 01943 604361 www.dillonsfitness.co.uk • info@dillonsfitness.co.uk

HEALTH & FITNESS

OLD OTLIENSIANS TURN ON THE LIGHTS! Old Otliensians raised over £60,000 to install the long awaited and much needed floodlights on their second team pitch and Greg Mulholland was on hand for the official switch on recently.

The floodlights were installed to facilitate training during the winter months. The club secured grants from the Rugby Football Union, Otley Town Council and Leeds City Council as well as donations from local businesses, as well as organising fundraising events at the club.

“Huge credit must go to all those who were involved in overseeing the plans and fundraising for the project” said Greg. “I second the massive thank you to all the local businesses that made donations, making the installation of these floodlights possible.

“The floodlights look fantastic and create perfect conditions for teams to train under. I hope this allows the club to really kick on now and I wish all the players and those involved at the club the best of luck for the rest of the season.”

George Leach (Club President), Greg Mulholland, Steve Robinson (Club Chairman), Nigel Francis (Otley Town Mayor) and John Churchman.

OTLEY BADMINTON CLUB THROUGH TO FINAL! Otley Badminton Club’s Leeds Mixed Team is through to the final of the ‘Fryer Hallam Trophy’, which will be held at Gateway’s School on 19th April.

The Club’s Leeds Men’s B Team, who play in Leeds Division 4, got to the semi-final of the Anchor Trophy, but were defeated by the Headingley B Team by just 9½ points. Headingley are now second in the division, three above Otley, and highly fancied for promotion to Division Two. The Anchor trophy, which is handicapped, and gives lower teams a chance of success, is familiar territory for Otley. Their name is on this trophy twice already.

Otley Badminton Club (Adult section) plays at all levels, with six league teams.

The Summer season starts Monday 16th April, when the club will welcome 32 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

visitors for a series of open days.

They will have four courts available on Monday and Friday evenings from that date until early June – so drop in and see them.

Junior coaching (ages 9 – 16) starts again at Prince Henry’s Grammar School on Saturday 21st April for five weeks. There are still some places available. For more information contact info@otleybadmintonclub.co.uk

Grass Track Cycle Racing at Roundhay Park

HARROGATE TIGERS BASEBALL CLUB Harrogate Tigers Baseball Club was established just three years ago and won the British North AAA League Championships in its first year!

Grass track racing returns to Roundhay Park this summer offering cycle racing for children and adults on Monday evenings. The cricket oval at Roundhay Park is actually a banked cycle track which has seen racing every summer since the early 1900s. Even if you don’t want to race, it is a fabulous spectator sport that is free to watch with light refreshments available.

The dates (weather permitting) are: Monday 14th, 21st, 28th May; 11th, 18th, 25th June; 2nd, 16th, 23rd and 30th July; 6th and 13th August. The British Cycling Regional Championships are on the 9th July and there will be a BC National Men’s and Schools’ competition on Saturday 22nd July where the best racers in the country will compete for National medals.

The club, which has both adult (16 & up) and youth (5 to 15) teams, offers expert coaching in a safe and friendly atmosphere.

“We are really looking forward to the start of the 2012 season”, said David Criss, Team President and Manager. “We are focusing on getting the word out to schools and communities in Yorkshire that baseball is being played in Harrogate. As numbers increase, the club will form more teams. Baseball is a great team sport that really pushes one’s abilities.”

“

Grass track racing returns to Roundhay Park this summer offering cycle racing for children and adults on Monday evenings

“

Children (12 and under) can ride any bike as long as it is in good working order with brakes. Those over this age will need a fixed wheel track bike. The club may have some available to borrow.

For further information, contact Mandy Parker on 07917 860 292 or visit www.cycleroundhay.co.uk

Sunday training sessions start again on 1st April at Harrogate High School playing fields (Ainsty Road, Harrogate HG1 4AP) from 12 – 3pm. Players of all levels and abilities are invited to come along. Current Tiger players and coaching staff will be on hand to offer basic instructions on throwing, fielding, hitting, pitching and base running. Sessions cost £5.

The team is looking for ancillary staff, including umpires and scorers (full training will be given and volunteers will be paid £10–25 per game).

For more information, contact harrogatetigers@yahoo. com, visit www.tigerbaseball.co.uk or follow them on Twitter @harrogatetigers.

SOUND & VISION out but to offer him the chance to say goodbye before they switch off the life-support.

I’m a fan of writer-director Payne’s work, his films often taking a sensitive and subdued approach to characters with very human foibles and failings, dealing with complex emotional situations as best they can. As such, Payne’s films seem tricky to market. Usually inaccurately pitched as comedies, they tend to be somewhat light on laughs, more likely to elicit a wry, bittersweet smile than a thigh-slapping guffaw.

THE DECENDANTS DIRECTED BY: ALEXANDER PAYNE STARRING: GEORGE CLOONEY, SHAILENE WOODLEY, AMARA MILLER CERT: 15 LENGTH: 115 MINS Some have described the films of Alexander Payne as belonging to a genre that could be called ‘coming of middle-age’ and a quick look over his previous features bears that out.

Films such as Election, Sideways and About Schmidt all centre around men who are approaching or have reached a turning point or crisis in their lives, and in this respect, The Decendants is no exception.

George Clooney plays Matt King, a wealthy Hawaiian land baron whose wife is in a coma following a boating accident. Throughout this difficult time, Matt has remained the dutiful husband while struggling to do his best keeping his two wayward daughters in line.

The tough times get tougher when, the day after he’s informed that his wife in unlikely to recover he learns that she’d been having an affair in the period leading up to her accident.

After getting the identity of the other man from some friends, Matt takes his daughters on a trip to a nearby island where he hopes to track 34 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

down the man who had made him a cuckold.

The trip affords Matt the opportunity to bond with his daughters but also to confront his wife’s lover, surprisingly, not to knock his lights

It’s probably the fact that The Decendants deals with themes of tragedy and loss that saw it nominated for a clutch of Oscars including Best Film and Best Actor in a Leading Role.

Of course, in the Best Film category it stood little chance against the allconquering The Artist but I felt, in terms of Best Actor, Clooney was a viable contender.

I’ve always considered George Clooney to be more a movie star than a film actor. Naturally, he’s a watchable actor, with the necessary star power and charisma to carry a picture, but I had yet to see him push

OTLEY COURTHOUSE ROCKS As a young man coming of age in Otley, I would often, like every small town youth before or since, lament the lack of things to do. Upon reaching legal drinking age, one could avail themselves of the town’s numerous drinking holes but save for, perhaps, the annual Victorian Fayre or the occasional drunken street brawl, my peers and I were somewhat starved for entertainment.

How I wish we could’ve had the marvelous Otley Courthouse in my day. The brainchild of live music lover and budding promoter, George Holmes, this excellent Courthouse Rocks night has been running for two years and provides a great platform for exciting local and touring bands.

In The Courthouse, George saw potential for a venue that could play host to prestigious musical acts that Otley giggoers would formerly have had to venture to Leeds city centre to hear.

The Decendants may be his best work to date. He gives a subtle, nuanced performance in a film that is poignant and moving without being manipulative or mawkish.

“

Courthouse Rocks already seems to have established itself as a venue that can hold its own against more well known Leeds counterparts

“

himself in terms of performance, with many films leaning too heavily on Clooney’s easy charm and allowing him to coast through a picture.

The roomy hall with its high vaulted ceiling is not dissimilar in shape and size to the upstairs room at The Library pub (home of the 360 club) in Leeds. Boasting a decent PA system and an adjoining bar, it’s a great performance space for live bands.

In the relatively short time it’s been going, Courthouse Rocks already seems to have established itself as a venue that can hold its own against more well known Leeds counterparts and continues to gain credibility on the local music scene and further afield.

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Perhaps the biggest name to take to the Courthouse Rocks stage to date is Mancunian indie rockers, Puressence, but many of the bands who have played the night here have gone on to bigger and better things, or have returned to the venue having toured with nationally and internationally renowned acts.

Otley lads, The Chevin, found themselves supporting White Lies at Wembley Arena following their hometown gig and recent headliners, Club Smith, have been on tour with Kaiser Chiefs.

I will certainly be returning to Courthouse Rocks nights in the future to check out upcoming acts such as The Rainband, The Troubadors, The Quangos and The Sundowners.

More info can be found at www.facebook.com/courthouserocks

SOUND & VISION

The National Media Museum in Bradford will play host to the 18th Bradford International Film Festival from Thursday 19th – Sunday 29th April.

Celebrating all things cinematic, from the briefest short to 3D IMAX and widescreen epics screened in glorious Cinerama, this year’s event promises to present its usual eclectic mix of more than 25 UK and international feature premieres, cult classics, internationally recognised guests, tributes, themed programmes, industry events, documentaries and family features.

This year’s highlights include: a Ray Winstone Retrospective (in the presence of the ‘Sexy Beast’ himself!); a tribute to animation giant, Chuck Jones; silent film pianist Neil Brand with film critic Mark Kermode’s skiffle band The Dodge Brothers accompanying Beggars of Life. And, Widescreen Weekend (27th – 29th April) will celebrate the 60th anniversary of Cinerama.

“Eighteen is pretty mature in film festival years, and we think we’ve come to know ourselves: we’re a celebration of cinema in all its forms”, said Tom Vincent, joint Festival Director with Neil Young. “BIFF’s special mixture of worldclass facilities and sheer enthusiasm for film means that a single day could involve taking in epic spectacle, wild experimental provocations, candid interviews, live music, unearthed gems, and a hot new preview.”

In addition to specially selected medleys of Jones’s films being screened, BIFF’s family weekend events (21, 22 & 28, 29 April) feature activities for all ages inspired by the animator’s delightfully unique sense of entertainment. Free drop-in family workshops at the National Media Museum include Looney Tunes Sound Effects and Cartoon Creations, allowing visitors to bring their own animated characters to life.

36 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

Ray Winstone in Scum

The Dodge Brothers

For more information and tickets, visit www.nationalmediamuseum.org.uk/ biff or call the National Media Museum box office 0844 856 3797.

“

BIFF’s special mixture of worldclass facilities and sheer enthusiasm for film means that a single day could involve taking in epic spectacle, wild experimental provocations, candid interviews, live music, unearthed gems, and a hot new preview

“

BRADFORD PRESENTS ITS 18TH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The Dodge Brothers (Saturday 21 April, 5pm) - Featuring BBCTV Culture Show’s film critic Mark Kermode on double bass, accompanied by renowned pianist Neil Brand, will provide a live soundtrack to the classic 1928 melodrama, Beggars of Life (1928), starring Louise Brooks and Wallace Beery.

MUSICLISTINGS Jazz Café & Jam Session Sun 1 Apr, 1pm at Seven Arts, Chapel Allerton.

Enjoy music by Seven Jazz workshop band & many others. £5/£4, under 16 free.

The Riley Stone-Lonergan Trio Sun 8 Apr, 1pm at Seven Arts, Chapel Allerton.

Riley on sax, Max Sterling double bass & Steve Hanley drums. £5/£4 under 16 free.

Those Darlins Mon 2 Apr at Brudenell Social Club, Leeds. Hard rocking country/ punk/garage from this Tennessee-based band. £7 from Jumbo Records.

Feast of Fiddles Mon 9 Apr at City Varieties. This 11-piece band features six of the UK’s finest fiddle players. £16.60/£17.60.

Big Fat Kill Tues 3 Apr at The Junction, Bondgate, Otley. Part singer/songwriter, part rock ‘n’ roll, pert contemporary acoustic, fuelled by the songs of Jon Palmer Encore! Wed 4 – Fri 6 Apr, 7.45pm Upstairs @ Carriageworks. Maggi Stratford & Daniel Bowater – fabulous French Music from Piaf to Brel & beyond, featuring voice, piano & accordion. £9/£7 from 224 3801, 07706 427606, or maggistratford@gmail.com The Fix Thurs 5 Apr at Musiquarium, Wyther Lane, Leeds. The Fix is the latest project from Rhianna Kenny, partnering up with key wiz Bill Laurence.

Sue Richardson’s ‘Too Cool’ - the music of Chet Baker Thurs 5 April, 8pm at Seven Arts, Chapel Allerton.

Sue on vocals & trumpet, Andy Williams guitar, Neil Richardson piano, George Trebar bass & Sam Glasson drums. £12/£10 from Seven Arts 262 6777 or on door.

Orbital Fri 6 Apr at O2 Academy. British electronica legends touring with their first new album in eight years. £24.

Timewarp Sat 7 Apr at The Swan, Addingham. Local band playing mainly 60’s covers John Otway & The Big Band Sat 7 Apr, 8pm at City Varieties. Legendary eccentric & two-hit wonder.

Show will be filmed to gather clips for forthcoming film Otway The Movie. £18.

We Ghost Tues 10 Apr at The Junction, Bondgate, Otley. Acoustic rock. AngloSwedish 3-piece with tight three part harmonies & hypnotic guitar sound.

Jagermeister Music Tour: Skindred + Therapy? + The Black Spiders + Hawk Eyes Tue 10 Apr at O2 Academy.

The 2nd year of this hard rock/alt metal tour.

Howard Alden & Jeanne Gies Thurs 12 Apr, 8pm at Seven Arts, Chapel Allerton.

America’s best known jazz guitarist & New York jazz singer Gies, with Gary Jackson bass, Caroline Boaden drums. £15/£12 from 262 6777 or on door.

After Hours Sat 14 Apr at The Swan, Addingham ‘Roots of Dubstep’: Mad Professor Sat 14 Apr at The Wardrobe. Sonic dub master Mad Professor’s live ‘Roots of Dubstep’ show is a sensory-altering journey. £12.50.

‘Kefaya’ with Giuliano Modarelli Sun 15 Apr, 1pm at Seven Arts, Chapel Allerton. Exciting new UKbased collaboration with an exploration through jazz & contemporary electronics into world music. £5/£, under 16 free.

Ellen & The Escapades Sun 15 Apr at Brudenell Social Club. Launch night for Escapes debut album ‘All The Crooked Scenes’ plus support from Paper Aeroplane.

Francois & the Atlas Mountains Mon 16 Apr at Brudenell Social Club. Sweet sounds from French-born Francois Marry. £6.

The Endellion String Quartet Tues 17 Apr, 7.30pm The Venue, Leeds College of Music, one of the finest quartets in the world playing Beethoven Quartet Op 18, No 6, Mozart Quartet K464, Mendelssohn Quartet Op 44, No1. £19.50/ £17.50. 0113 224 3801 www.leedsconcertseason. com Mambo Jambo Tues 17 Apr at The Junction, Bondgate, Otley. Ska, reggae, multiinstrumental roots duo.

Barn Owl + A-Sun Amissa Wed 18 Apr at Brudenell Social Club. Guitar drone from San Franciscans Barn Owl and A-Sun Amissa a recently formed Leeds-based project. £6.

Piaf The Songs Wed 18 Apr, 7.30pm at City Varieties.

Eve Loiseau sings the songs of Edith Piaf with Fiona Barrow (violin) & Edward Jay (accordion).

Michael Janisch & New York Standards Quartet Thurs 19 Apr, 8pm at Seven Arts, Chapel Allerton.

NYSQ strives to develop its own language by radically reinterpreting music from the standard jazz repertoire.

Tickets £15/£12 from 262 6777 or on door.

Jazz workshop/ Improvisation Group Fri 20 & 27 Apr, 7.30-10pm Methodist Centre, Chapel Allerton. £5.Contact dominicgmoore@hotmail. com The Despoilers Sat 21 Apr at The Black Bull, Horsforth.

Popular covers band.

Big Fat Kill Sat 21 Apr at The Swan Addingham.

The Fureys & Davey Arthur Sun 22 Apr, 7.30pm at City Varieties. Legends of Irish music.£18 / £20.

The United States of the North mark Sun 22 Apr, 1pm at Seven Arts Chapel Allerton, marking 90th Anniversary of the birth of Charles Mingus &

combining new settings of the composer’s works with audio-visual responses. £5/£4, under 16 free.

Uh Huh Her Mon 23 Apr at Brudenell Social Club. US dance pop duo with guitars and synth-driven electro on their UK tour.

Martin Roberts Tues 24 Apr at The Junction, Bondgate, Otley. Singer/ songwriter.

Leeds Bluegrass Club Special 30th Anniversary Night Thurs 26 Apr, from 8.30pm at The Grove Inn, Back Row, Holbeck (off Water Lane, with lots of ‘Real’ Ales). Live acoustic Americana/ Bluegrass/ Country. Resident Bands + Guests + Picking sessions musicians welcome. £3.

Details: John 267 0761, Kevin 267 7040.

Renbourn & Williamson Fri 27 Apr, 8pm City Varieties. Founder member of Pentangle with founder of The Incredible String Band. £17.50 Roots: Rory McLeod Fri 27 Apr, 8pm at New Headingley Club, 56 St Michael’s Rd. ‘Modern troubadour, one man band, poet & storyteller playing his own upbeat dance stories’ with a bite. £8.

Jumpstart Sat 28 Apr at The Swan, Addingham.

Presenting some of the best classic rock from late 60s through to today.

Courthouse Rocks: The Rain Band Sat 28 Apr, 8pm at Otley Courthouse. Live music from the best local, regional & national rock acts, this month’s headliner is Manchester’s Rain Band. £6, 18+ Jean Toussaint & Dagda Quartet Sun 29 Apr, 1 – 4pm at Seven Arts, Chapel Allerton. Rising stars of the UK jazz scene, Dagda in concert with Art Blakey tenor saxman Jean Toussaint. £5/4, under 16 free.

YOUNGER LIFE

NATIONAL PE AND SPORT AWARD FOR ST. MARY’S St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Menston, is to become a Youth Sport Trust Gold Partner School for its commitment to PE and school sport following a recent review and inspection.

Youth Sport Trust Partner Schools demonstrate how they deliver high quality school sport and improve the PE experience for every young person, and how they use sport to raise achievement levels across the school.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the Youth Sport Trust Gold Award”, said Robert Pritchard, Head Teacher. “As a Sports College and leader of a successful School Sport Partnership, we are highly committed to sport and its wider potential. There is a whole

range of educational, health and wellbeing benefits from delivering high quality PE and school sport and we see on a regular basis that when sport is delivered well, it can transform the lives of pupils.”

As a partner, St. Mary’s will receive additional training and development opportunities and become involved in national education and sport initiatives.

Memorial Concert Raises Over £1,000 for Riding for the Disabled A group of Sixth Form students from St. Mary’s Menston recently organised a fundraising concert in memory of their fellow student Erin Crotty who sadly died last July.

The event was held to raise money for Riding for the Disabled Association, which helps disabled children fulfil their dreams of being able to ride horses. This charity was chosen because Erin had a great passion for both horses and caring for other people, so it was thought particularly fitting.

The concert, featuring local bands and singers, was held just two days after Erin would have celebrated her 17th birthday. Together with sponsorship money for a student who had his head shaved and generous donations from

38 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

friends and family, the event raised an incredible £1,070.

Erin was an extremely caring and vivacious young lady who touched the

lives of many people. The hard work put into the event by her friends and family is testament to the impact she had on the lives of the people she loved.

GATEWAYS HOSTS ART CLASS ON Notices WORLD WAR II THEME

Baby Rascals Are you a new Mum? Would you like to meet others & enjoy a cup of coffee? Come to Otley Parish Church, Wed 1 – 2.45pm (term time). Details: 01943 463 815.

Chevin Wildlife WATCH Group Fun kids & parents group run by volunteers in partnership with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust & one of the longest running WATCH Group in Yorkshire. Activities every 1st Sat & 3rd Sun. Details: Jennifer Watts on 0113 237 5320, chevinwildlifewatch@hotmail.co.uk Little Rascals meet Wed 9.30 – 11.15am (term time) in Otley Parish Church. A group for pre-school children, parents & carers.

Toys, drinks, crafts. Free. Details 01943 463815 Otley Children’s Centre Provides free groups & information for parents & carers of children aged 0 – 5. The centre is open 9am – 5pm all year round. Groups include: stay & play sessions, baby signing, mini-movers, baby cafe, parenting courses & many more.

Details: 01943 467379, hargrad02@leedslearning.net Otley Junior Orchestra (ages 8 – 12) Thurs 3.30 – 4.30pm.

Details: 01943 462826

Gateways School in Harewood recently hosted an Art Master Class on a World War II theme, led by textile artist and fashion designer Susan Forbes.

“

The children learned about ‘make do and mend’ and ‘sew and save’, which were very much a part of life on the Home Front during wartime

“

Gateways girls were joined by Year 5 and 6 boys and girls from Brodetsky Primary School in Leeds, Deighton Gates Primary in Wetherby, Harewood and Bardsey Primary Schools.

The children learned about ‘make do and mend’ and ‘sew and save’, which were very much a part of life on the Home Front during wartime. They then embarked on their own projects, creating an ‘evacuee’ knapsack. The children first created their designs on paper, incorporating images and symbols of things that meant something to them personally, and transferred their designs onto calico. All the children came up with interesting, eye-catching designs and thoroughly enjoyed their experience.

“The Master Class was a huge success with all the children thoroughly enjoying the day”, said Yvonne Wilkinson, Gateways School Headmistress. “They learned a great deal about the Second World War era and the concept of ‘making do and mend’. We were delighted to welcome so many children from nearby schools.”

ILKLEY FLOWER SHOW SCHOOLS’ COMPETITION HAS A ROYAL THEME Ilkley Flower Show Society Secretary, Bob Smith, reports that preparation of the Show Schedule has started, with several classes having a Royal theme to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

The special Schools’ Diamond Jubilee Competition, open to both junior and senior schools, has four classes: 1. Write a Short Essay entitled ‘Sixty Glorious Years’ (max 2 sheets of A4, using one side only) 2. Write a Poem entitled ‘Sixty Glorious Years’ (max 2 sheets of A4, using one side only) 3. A Piece of Art Work, any medium, on the same theme (max A3 size) 4. A Photograph Celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Closing Date for entries is Wednesday 11th July 2012.

All local schools should have received details of the competition, however if your school has not, please contact Bob Smith.

Prize winners will be presented with their trophies at the Flower Show on Saturday 4th August at the Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley.

Ilkley Flower Show Society Annual Coffee Morning is on Saturday 26th May at the Clarke Foley Centre.

Copies of the Flower Show classes are now available. The complete Show Schedule and entry forms will be available at the end of June. For further details, please contact Bob Smith on 01943 877244 or rsmith6pj@btinternet.com

YOUNGER LIFE

MADELINE IS GROOM FOR A DAY In February, Madeline from Newcastle visited Hope Pastures Horse and Donkey Sanctuary in Weetwood and became ‘groom for a day’, an experience organised as a birthday present by her aunt in Leeds.

She had a great day grooming ponies, mucking out, walking miniature Shetland ponies through nearby woods and doing general stable tasks.

“The best bit of the day was walking Dotty and Angel through the woods”, said Madeline. “I can’t wait to go back. Even mucking out was fun.”

Pony Days start again on 12th April and continue every Thursday, 10am – 3pm during the school holidays until 1st November. The day costs £25 per child – a packed lunch and suitable clothing are required. They are happy to arrange more ‘groom for a day’ days for individual children and

birthday parties. And, a pony, horse, donkey or mule can also be adopted for a minimum donation of £15 a year – an unusual birthday or Christmas present!

Hope Pastures Open Day will be held on Sunday 20th May, a great day out for all the family – entry 50p for adults and children free. There will be a sponsored dog walk on Sunday 29th July. Further information available from www.hopepastures.org or phtrust@fsmail.net

Like most charities, Hope Pastures is struggling to raise money for the upkeep of the sanctuary and care of the animals. They are introducing more interactive and educational days for children as part of a scheme to raise these much needed funds.

FUN AND FREEDOM UNDERNEATH THE FLOORBOARDS Underneath the Floorboards is brimming with original songs, colourful costumes and beautiful movement that allows the children to interact with the performers and storyline.

The show provides a comfortable viewing experience for both children and adults, with a soft floor, cushions and a seated area, and encourages the young people to interact freely.

“Underneath the Floorboards aims to create an environment where individuality is accommodated and the choices our children make as audience members are embraced”, said Liv Lorent. “balletLORENT aims to provide fun, magic and adventure without compromising excellence.” balletLORENT presents Underneath the Floorboards, a new, highly acclaimed performance for the under5s, at The Carriageworks on Thursday 5th April at 12 noon and 2.30pm.

40 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

Award winning choreographer Liv Lorent has created a production that puts the young person at the heart of the work.

Tickets (£13 adults/ £11 children) are available from 0113 224 3801 or www.carriageworkstheatre.org.uk

COMMUNITY NOTICES

COMMUNITYNOTICES

ACTIVE Addingham Yoga Circle Meets Mon 7.30 – 9pm at Addingham Primary School, Bolton Rd. (term time).

All welcome, including beginners. Friendly club for all who want to benefit from practising Hatha yoga.

Details: Margaret 01943 431248

Dance Scottish in Ilkley Scottish Country Dancing, Thurs 2 – 4pm at St Margaret’s Church Hall, Queen’s Rd, LS29 9QL. Beginners welcome.

No partner necessary.

Details: Don Andrews 01535 605065, donald@ hbandrews.fsnet.co.uk, or Nadine Wharton 01943 600860 www.rscdsleeds. org.uk Great Yorkshire Morris Men meet at Pool Memorial Hall alternate Wednesdays.

Mainly Cotswold dances, with forays into the Yorkshire Longsword, Rapper & Border styles.

New dancers & musicians welcome - no experience required. Details: Bob Carter 01423 863433 www.gymm.org.uk Grove Hill Tennis Club, Otley runs a year-round social programme. Club plays 3 mixed doubles teams in Wharfedale league, a men’s team in the Yorkshire league & a Leeds medley team.

Excellent coaching for both adults & juniors. Details: www.otleytennis.webs.com Grove Hill Crown Green Bowls Club Welcomes new members – all ages, beginners or experienced.

Get fit & have fun.

Details: Judith 01943 462963

Ilkley Yoga Club Meets Thurs, 7.30 – 9pm in Riddings Hall, Christchurch, The Grove, Ilkley. A friendly club where both beginners & those with experience can enjoy Hatha yoga. All welcome.

Details: Margaret 01943 431248 Last Man Stands are looking for additional teams to enter their winter indoor & summer outdoor cricket leagues. They cater for all standards. Details: Paul 07795 154444, leeds@lastmanstands. co.uk Leeds Area Disabled Swimming Club Mon 7 8pm at Holt Park Leisure Centre. Are you disabled or recovering from a condition where swimming/ exercising in water could help? We provide a safe, sociable private pool session where you can work to your own ability to gain strength & confidence.

Details: Roger 267 4716, Sarah 287 6250 www. ladsc.co.uk Leeds YHA Walking Group organises walks, cycle rides, weekends & social activities. Over 160 members aged 20-74. Try before joining. Membership £8 pa. Details: Mary 228 6766, Phil 268 9996 www. leedsyha.org.uk Otley Athletic Club is your local running club. It caters for everyone, so don’t be afraid to go along to one of their training session – Tues & Thurs, 7.15pm at Otley Cricket Club, Cross Green. Reduced membership for first year – £15 rather than £25.

Details: www.otleyac.org. uk/

FREE FOR charities, churches, social clubs & non-profit community groups

Otliensians Hockey Club Looking to get fit and have fun? Look no further - we do both! Women’s teams in both Yorkshire 1st & 5th divisions. Training Thurs 7 - 8pm, Ben Rhydding sports ground. Everyone welcome. Details: Sue 07793 841822 or www. otliensianshc.org.uk Otley Badminton Club meet at Prince Henry’s Mon 7.30 – 9.30pm & Fri 7 – 9pm. Junior Club coaching available Sat 9.30 – 11am.

New members welcome.

Details: Steve Norfolk 07860 242089, info@ otleybadmintonclub.co.uk, www.otleybadmintonclub. co.uk Otley Short Walks For All Walks up to 3 miles start from Otley Courthouse Wed am. Please arrive before 10.15am. Often use local buses, so bring bus fare or bus pass. Sensible footwear advisable!

Details: 01943 465542, 01943 865585.

Otley Walkers Twice weekly walks, 5 – 20 miles. Weekends away & special events. New members welcome. Annual membership £5. Get the programme & try before joining. Details: 01943 875 995, otleywalkers@ talktalk.net Pudsey & District Rambling Club: Walks of 5 - 10 miles Sundays & alternate Thurs.

Friendly, long established club with members from all around area. New members very welcome.

Annual membership £5 (£1 juniors). Try before you join. Details: 01943 430657 or pat_barnett@ yahoo.com with PDRC as subject

Sequence Tea Dance Old Pool Bank Village Hall, Fri 2 – 4pm. A great way to exercise & socialise. All welcome. Details: 0113 284 2126.

Sequence Tea Dances at Winter Gardens Ilkley most Thurs, 1.45 – 3.45pm. Pay at door. Details: Michael 01943 608871 Wharfedale Wayzgoose Tues 8.30 – 10pm, Wesley Hall, Walkergate, Otley.

Energetic Mixed Border Morris. New dancers & musicians welcome.

No previous experience necessary. Details: Anita Walker squire@wharfedalewayzgoose.co.uk, Malcolm Hills 01943 462605/ 07918 611614, bagman@ wharfedale-wayzgoose. co.uk White Rose Squares American Square Dancing.

Sun 7pm at Pannal Memorial Hall, Harrogate.

Fun, sociable & good exercise. Music everything from Country & Western to modern pop. Couples & singles welcome. Details: Geoff 01423 870221, Jackie 01423 500525 Yarnbury Angling Club Matches held 1st Sun of month. Members only.

Coach transfers to & from venues. Membership details: Adrian Addy on 07956 964713.

FOR MORE COMMUNITY NOTICES

EMAIL YOUR COMMUNITY NOTICES TO CAROLE@NORTHLEEDSLIFE.CO.UK

COMMUNITY NOTICES ARTS & CRAFTS Chinese Brush Painters Society Sat 14 & Sun 15 April: Workshops on painting bamboo & pots with vegetables & fruit with Pauline Cherrett. All workshops 10am – 4pm at Pool-in-Wharfedale Memorial Village Hall, Arthington Lane, Pool.

New members welcome.

Details: Anne Allan 01422 368482, mail@cbpsyorks. co.uk Harrogate & Nidderdale Art Club Spring Art Exhibition & Sale Sat 5, Sun 6 & Mon 7 May at Ripley Town Hall, Ripley, Nr Harrogate HG3 3AX. Open 10am – 5pm each day, admission FREE. Details: www.handnart. co.uk Ilkley Art Club meets Tues, 7.30pm at the Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Rd. Easter Break 3 & 10. Varied

programme throughout May & June.

Pool Art Group Fri 10am12pm, Pool Methodist Church. Support & encouragement from fellow artists at all levels. Details: Pat Walker 0113 203 7952.

COFFEE MORNINGS, FAIRS & MARKETS Arthington Village Spring Fayre Sat 12 May, 10am – 3pm at Arthington Village Hall, Arthington Lane.

Lots of stalls – produce, handcrafts, plants, books etc.

Coffee Morning Every Sat, Otley Methodist Church Wesley Hall, 10am–12 noon. Homemade cakes, scones etc & a friendly atmosphere. Access Boroughgate & Walkergate (disabled access).

Coffee Morning 1st Sat every month, 9.30 – 11.30am Burley in Wharfedale United Reformed Church, Main St. Lots of stalls, incl. home baking, handcrafted cards, bric-a-brac, books & nearly new clothes – all at bargain prices!

Guiseley Senior Citizens Association Coffee Morning Sat 7 Apr, 10am at the Scout Hut opposite Aireborough Leisure Centre. Tombola & cake stall. Proceeds go to fund annual senior citizens’ seaside outing in Aug. Country Market Fri 27 April (25 May, 22 June), 10am – 12 noon at Riverside Hotel, Ilkley, & Fri 20 April (4 & 18 May, 1 & 15 June) 9.30 - 11.30am at St John Ambulance Hall, Gay Lane Otley (please note change of venue).

Genuinely homemade,

home grown & handcrafted produce - range of breads, biscuits, preserves, cakes & pastries, plus variety of craft items & cards.

GROUPS/CLUBS Air Yorkshire Aviation Society Interested in aviation, aircraft old and new, airports? Why not try Air Yorkshire - regular guest speakers, monthly colour magazine, trips and social events. Details: Dave Senior 0113 282 1818, www.airyorkshire.org.uk/

Alwoodley Motor Club Every other Thurs 8.30 – 9pm at The Wharfedale Inn, Arthington Lane, Pool in Wharfedale. All welcome.

Details: 0113 391 0403 www.alwoodleymc.org.uk

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Ben Rhydding Bridge Club meets Mon, 9.30am at Ben Rhydding Methodist Church. New members always welcome. Details: Molly 01943 466605 Budgie Sitters Circle Do you worry about your budgies when you’re away? Join the Budgie Sitters Circle – then you can hand your budgies over to another member & return the favour when they go away, & you’ll know your pets are being well cared for. Details: Lilliane 275 5479, lilliane98@hotmail. com Burley in Wharfedale & District Probus Club New Members Needed!

Retired or semi-retired men welcome. Fortnightly meetings in Salem United Reformed Church hall.

Varied programme of speakers, social events, quizzes & outings. Details: Rod McKenzie 01943 865561 Burley Gardeners’ Association meets for talks, visits a garden in summer, holds plant sales & a Flower & Produce Show.

Annual Membership £5 families/ £3 individual.

Next meeting Thurs 19 April, 7.30pm at Salem Church Hall, Main St, Burley in Wharfedale.

David Elcock talks about ‘Parks in Bradford Through the Ages’. Details: 01943 862750 Cat loving volunteers wanted! Join friendly new cat welfare group supporting feral & stray cats. Fundraisers needed to raise funds for food, cat kennels & vet costs.

Fosterers also needed - full support given.

Details: 07876 212 518, feralcarwelfare@aol.com, www.feralcatwelfare.org.uk Chevin Antique Society meets 1st Tues of the month (Sept – May), 8pm at West Park Rugby Clubhouse, Bramhope.

Speakers on a wide range of subjects. Annual Membership £25. Details:

Lis Loach 0113 267 4843, Sally Wilkinson 0113 267 1721 Chevin Division Trefoil Guild meets 7.30pm on 1st Mon of the month in Otley or Guiseley. The group offers a varied calendar of events, with opportunities for travel, adventure & broadening your horizons, & supports Girl Guiding UK. Details: 01943 872892.

Friends of Chevin Forest Park Practical conservation work such as vegetation clearance, step building or meadow management on 2nd Sun of every month.

Details: The Countryside Rangers 0113 237 5312 countrysiderangers@leeds. gov.uk Friends of the Earth meet monthly in Ilkley.

They campaign on global issues such as climate change, & local issues like waste & recycling & developing a sustainable community. Details: www. wharfedalefoe.org.uk Ilkley & District Motor Club 1st & 4th Wed every month, Otley Rugby Club, Cross Green, Otley, starting 8pm. Everyone welcome. Also meets 2nd, 3rd & 5th Wed at other locations. Details: www. ilkleymotorclub.org Ilkley & District U3A an educational self-help group offering wide range of interest & activity groups for retired. There’s something for everyone who would like to keep learning & socialising.

Day-time sessions. Drop-in sessions 10.30am 1st Mon of month at Clarke Foley Centre, Ilkley. Details: 01943 465059, www.

IlkleyU3A.org Ilkley Rotary Club meets Tues 12.30pm (6.30pm on last Tues of month) for meal & speaker at Craiglands Hotel. Global network of local and international community volunteers. Details: Kelvin Newberry 01943

863752, kelvin.newberry@ btinternet.com Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary Club Small friendly club welcomes both male & female members. Meetings held at Craiglands Hotel, Ilkley, Tues 8pm.

Details: Georges Lepelley 01943 600712 or www.ilkleywharfedale. rotary1040.org Kaleidoscope Social Club for over 50s & unattached with a zest for life. Monthly programme of events. Not a dating agency. Details: 262 1455 or 261 2619, www.kaleidoscopeleeds. weebly.com Kirklands Bridge Club Menston rubber bridge club meets at Kirklands alt Tues evenings. Details: Dorrie Waugh 01943 872771/ Carol Cowell 0113 267 0426.

Leeds Anglo German Club Mon 23 April, 7.30pm at Headingley St Columba’s URC. Illustrated talk in German & English by Dr Gary Chambers, Leeds University – ‘Preparing teachers of German for life in the classroom. A curate’s egg?’ Details: 0113 268 7697 Leeds & Bradford Friendship Group meets 1st Wed of month, 1.30pm at Pudsey Civic Hall LS28 5TA. Friendship & activities for people of retirement age. Speaker or entertainment at 2pm. Days out, dining, walks, computers, etc.

New members welcome.

Details: 258 5955.

Leeds Oxfam Group Lively group campaigns on issues of interest to anyone concerned about global justice. Everyone welcome.

Details: www.oxfamleeds. org.uk/, or Facebook

Looking for a 41 Club?

Ilkley Olicana 41 Club meets at Craiglands Hotel, Ilkley, 7.30pm on 3rd Wed of each month. Open to all those who have been in Round Table. Details: Paul Kitching 01943 604683. paulk152@gmail.com Mercury Movie Makers meet Weds, Rawdon Conservative Club, 7:30pm.

The club is for camcorder owners. Advice, regular film & practical evenings, & occasional outdoor events.

Details: 0113 257 7274, www.mercurymoviemakers. com National Trust Leeds Summer programme of walks, day visits & holidays begins April. All National Trust members welcome to join this 400 strong friendly & lively group who raise money for the N.T. whilst enjoying the company of like minded people.

Details: membership secretary Pam 258 8178 North Leeds Model Flying Club New members very welcome, experienced or beginners. Building or flying, plenty of friendly advice. Regular meetings at Horsforth or airfield at Almscliff Crag. Details: 0113 217 8348, www. nlmfc.org Otley in Bloom A friendly group of volunteers who work to improve the green environment of the town. New members welcome. Meetings at Otley Courthouse, 7pm first Tues of every month.

Otley Camera Club Meets Thurs at Prince Henry’s Grammar School, 7pm.

Packed programme of speakers & competitions.

Improve your skills & get more from your camera. Details: www. otleycameraclub.co.uk

COMMUNITY NOTICES Otley Chevin Rotary Club Meets at Chevin Country Park Hotel, York Gate, Mon, 7.30pm. Dinner followed by interesting speaker. Rotary provides a wide range of services - local, national & international, plus a good social programme. Details: Bill Baker 01943 462400 Otley Film Society, in association with Bradford International Film Festival, will show a feature film on Mon 23 April, 7.45pm at Otley Courthouse. Check programme for title www. nationalmediamuseum. org.uk/biff. ‘Shine Shorts’, best short films shot over the past year, will be showing 3pm Sun 29 April, also at Courthouse. Tickets £4, OFS members £3.

Otley Film Society Annual Quiz Fri 27 May, 7.30pm at Otley Courthouse.

Questions on all topics (not just film). Come along & try to topple the current champions! Entry £5pp includes Ploughman’s Supper. Teams of no more than six. To book a table, contact info@ otleyfilmsociety.org.uk Otley Home Grown Gardeners Meet Thurs 5 April, 7pm at Otley Courthouse, when they welcome Joe Maiden who will explain how to ‘Grow with Joe’. Non members welcome. Details: 01943 464312 Otley Lions Club meets 1st & 3rd Mon, 8pm in the Horse & Farrier, Bridge St. Bookshop 5, Mercury Row, Tues, Fri & Sat, & Otley Market Sun am. Easter Egg Tombola at Waitrose 6 April. New members & helpers welcome. Full social programme. Details: David McDowell 01943 467551 brantwoodconsultant@ aol.com, Patrick McCauley 01943 466917 pg@ mcatkins.co.uk Otley Little Theatre Live theatre & musical events in Otley. New members welcome – acting, singing,

dancing & anyone who can help with technical backstage. Details: Lee Wells 01943 464982, info@olt.org.uk, www.otley. co.uk/littletheatre Otley Poets meet 1st Tues of month, 8pm at Korks Wine Bar, Bondgate, Otley, for poems, drinks & occasional guest poets.

Details: Alan Holdsworth 01943 968374 alanrh62@ yahoo.co.uk, Sandra Burnett 01943 465372, Sandra@s-burnett.fsnet. co.uk Otley Rotary Club meets weekly at Westbourne House, Bradford Road, Otley, Thurs 12.30 – 1.45pm. Open to active or retired professional or business people. Lunch followed by guest speaker.

Details: Keith Thompson 01943 879329 ktswoop@ talktalk.net Paxton Horticultural Society Spring Show Sat 7 April at Paxton Hall, 186 Kirkstall Lane, LS5. Open to public 2 – 4.30pm. Details & Schedules: Graham Wheatley 0113 256 3055 Pool Bridge Club meets on Mon (excl bank holidays),1.15 – 4.30pm at Pool Methodist Church.

Social Events Club Meals, pub nights, theatre/film/ music, walks, badminton, book group, weekends away, holidays & more.

Mainly over 30s. Monthly new members’ night in North Leeds. Details: 0844 8111025, www.leedsivc. org.uk Trackrod Motor Club Meets 1st Tues of each month, 9.30pm at Old Modernians Club, Cookridge Lane. New Members welcome. Details: www.trackrodmotorclub. co.uk Wharfedale Speakers Club meets 1st & 3rd Wed of each month at Cross Green Community Centre, Pool Rd, Otley. New members welcome. Speakers of all ages & backgrounds.

Come along & improve your speaking skills. Details: Tony Morris 0113 258 3507 Wharfedale Gardeners’ Group Meets 7.30pm 2nd Tues of the month (Sept - May) at Otley Methodist Church. Guest speakers, plant sales & trips. Annual membership £10. Details: Thelma Harrison 0113 225 6405.

Wharfedale German Circle meets on or near 15th of month at 8pm. Events include speakers, films, debates, quizzes, music, parties & conversation members & visitors (in English or German).

Details: 01943 464087, wgcircle@gmail.com, or visit www.germancircle. ilkley.org Yorkshire Malaya & Borneo Veterans’ Assoc. meets 1st Sat of month, 1.30pm at New Headingley Club, St. Michael’s Rd, Headingley.

Anyone involved in the Malayan Emergency & Indonesian Confrontation in 50s & 60s most welcome. Represents all units of the armed forces.

Details: Eddie Seville 0113 263 7583.

MUSIC Burley in Wharfedale Probus Male Voice Choir, Burley Catholic Church Hall, Bradford Rd. New rehearsal times: Mon 2.15 - 4.15pm, not mornings as of old.

The Chippendale Singers Mixed voice choir, rehearses Wed, 7.45 – 9.30pm Methodist Church, Boroughgate, Otley. Madrigals, folksongs, spirituals & sacred works, & songs from shows.

Vacancies for male singers (music readers essential). Details: Chris Denton 0113 284 3744 chrisjdenton@gmail.com To book choir: Jan Wilkinson 01943 461318 www. chippendalesingers.co.uk

Chippendale Singers Royal Celebration Concert Sat 12 May, 7.30pm St. Mary’s Church, Burley in Wharfedale. In aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Programme includes Handel’s Zadok the Priest, William Walton’s Crown Imperial organ duet, Rule Britannia & other patriotic songs. Tickets (£10/£8, under 16s free) available on door. Details: Jan Wilkinson 01943 461318 Fairfax Singers (Burleyin-Wharfedale) sing for charities & have helped raise significant funds. If you would like to book a concert please contact Marjorie Hall 01274 597024, marj.hall51@ yahoo.co.uk. Waiting list for singers, contact Dorothy Hawkshaw Musical Director 01943 877464 www. fairfaxsingers.org.uk Friends of University Art & Music helps to foster the musical & artistic outreach of the University of Leeds.

Membership open to all.

Regular activities arranged.

Details: 0113 343 2584, www.leeds.ac.uk/fuam Horsforth Leeds City Brass Band A friendly, community brass band welcomes new players.

Possible instrument loan, if needed. Rehearsals: Mon 7.30 – 9.30pm at Leeds Trinity University College, Brownberrie Lane, Horsforth. Details: Hannah Rowlands 250 0208, Betty Emberton 267 6529 Idle Guitarists Meet Fri, 1.30 – 3.30pm in Idle Baptist Church, Idle, Bradford. Absolute beginners to advanced, young or old, all are invited to join this friendly group.

Music is provided, tailored to your level. All you need is a classical (or acoustic) guitar. Details: Darren 07752 184752

Leeds & Bradford Barbershop Harmony Club Mon, 7.30pm, Rawdon & Guiseley Conservative Club, Leeds Rd, Rawdon.

Male singers who can take on four part harmony most welcome. Details: 01274 583 989.

Leeds Organ & Keyboard Club Meets Wed 7.30 – 10.30pm at Guiseley Factory Workers Club, Town St. Guiseley. New members (player/ non player) welcome. Club has a Roland AT900c & a Yamaha Tyros 3. Regular concerts by professional artists. Guests welcome. £4. Details: 0113 267 9865, www.organfax.co.uk, www.leedssocialclubs. co.uk Me-Time Community Singing Group New members (especially men!) welcome – no auditions, no pressure, no experience necessary – just a love of singing in a relaxed

friendly, environment.

Every Tues 8 – 9.30pm at 7 Newall Mount, Otley.

Details: 01943 461971, sing.out@mac.com Opera North in Rawdon Mon 4 June, 7pm St Peter’s Church, Rawdon.

An evening of musical celebration in honour of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with 12 of the company’s top artists.

Favourite operatic excerpts, songs from the shows & something patriotic!

Tickets (£10/ £7.50 incl. glass of bubbly & nibbles) from 07956 879 726.

Otley Chamber Orchestra rehearses fortnightly on Sundays, 7 - 9pm at Otley Courthouse. New members (especially upper strings) welcome. Details: john_ restorick@hotmail.com

Otley Little Theatre Orchestra rehearses 1st & 3rd Wed of each month, 7.30pm at Otley St John Ambulance Station near Sainsbury’s. They play a range of music including musicals, popular & classical & would welcome more musicians. Details: Neil Briggs 07900 050346, aliandneil@ briggs6566.freeserve. co.uk

West Riding Opera has vacancies for chorus members to participate in concerts & staged opera selections. All voice ranges welcome, no audition.

Rehearsals Wed, 7.30pm at West Park Centre, Spen Lane. Details: 01274 595978, davewb8@sky. com

Players for Pleasure offers playing opportunities to adult amateur musicians.

All levels, beginners to advanced. All instruments & all ages over 18. New performers especially welcome. Friendly, informal & supportive atmosphere. Details: www. playersforpleasure.co.uk

We Can Help Your Charity Organise a musical evening & we will bring some lovely music to help raise those much needed funds. With a 14 year reputation, we cover charity fundraising & corporate events.

Details:01274 597024, 01943 877464 www.fairfaxsingers.org.uk

Society of Recorder Players – meets 2nd & 4th Sat pm in Bingley & Headingley.

Different conductors take each meeting.

Intermediate players, all

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COMMUNITY NOTICES Wharfedale Recorded Music meets Wed, 7.45pm at St. John’s Church Hall, Margerison Rd, Ben Rhydding New members & visitors welcome. 18 Apr: “Naxos at 25” – David Denton (Visiting Speaker). 25 Apr: AGM followed by Rossini’s Stabat Mater. Details: www. wharfedalerecordedmusic. ilkley.org The White Rosettes Female barbershop chorus (four part unaccompanied harmony), 12 x national champions, rehearse Wed 7.30 – 10pm at Moorlands School, Foxhill Dr, Weetwood Lane, LS16 5PF. Details: Jan Spencer 07852 210640, membership@ whiterosettes.org.uk Yeadon & District Male Voice Choir Would welcome new members to take them through to their 100th anniversary in 2013.

Rehearsals Thurs 7.45pm at Yeadon Methodist Church (side entrance), next to Yeadon Town Hall.

Details: John Atkinson 0113 294 9095.

SENIORS Ilkley Senior Citizens Club meets Tues, 2pm in the Clarke Foley Centre, Ilkley, for fellowship, entertainment & outings.

Just turn up to join in the Concert Hall.

Leeds & Bradford Friendship Group Friendship & activities for people of retirement age.

Meets 1st Wed of month at Pudsey Civic Centre 1.30pm. Also days out, dining, walks, holidays, computer & play reading groups. New members welcome. Details: Barbara 01943 875208.

Menston Retired Men’s Forum Meetings 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 10am at Kirklands. New members welcome. Details: Ken Chadwick 01943 874530, 46 April 2012 | northleedslife.co.uk

Geoff Winter 01943 877832.

Otley Over 60s Club at Crossgate (opposite Rose & Crown) open Wed to Sat, 9am–12 noon, serving refreshments. Sequence Dancing on Wed 2 – 4pm; Gentle Exercise to Music on Thurs, 10.15–11.15am; Sat Bingo,1.45pm; brica-brac stall Fri & Sat 9am–12noon.

Otley Action for Older People Chair based exercise class 1.45 – 2.45pm at Otley Methodist Church, or 10 – 11am at Bennett Court. £3. Details: 01943 463965 www. otleyactionforolderpeople. org.uk SPIRITUAL Bethel Evangelical Church Otley & Ilkley meets every Sun,10.30am at Whartons Primary School (off Newall Carr Road), Otley & 6pm at Ilkley Playhouse, Weston Road, Ilkley. Details: Pastor Martin Woodier 01943 464631 www. bethelotleyilkley.com Guiseley Baptist Church is a growing welcoming community. A mixture of ages, including children & young people meet at Sunday services at 9.30am & 11.15am. Details: 01943 884 233, www. guiseleybaptistchurch. co.uk Fourth Way Philosophy & Meditation Group Introductory meetings & readings from ‘In Search of the Miraculous’ by P.D. Ouspensky. Meetings in Leeds & Otley. Details: 07814 951231, info@ gurdjieff-leeds.com The Leeds Gurdjieff Society Free Meditation at Ilkley Happiness Centre, Leeds Rd. Ilkley (above Veggie Cafe). 9.30 – 10.30am Mon – Fri, or 6.30 – 7.30pm Mon – Thurs.

Meditations range from guided visualisation, to

shamanic drumming, Sufi chanting & healing meditations. All welcome.

Details: 01943 601517, www.ilkleyhappinesscentre. co.uk Meditation Classes Tues, 7.30 – 9pm in Friend’s Meeting House, Queen Rd. Ilkley. Explore how Buddhist meditation can be used to solve daily problems, improve health & find meaning & purpose in life. Guided meditations, how to meditate & discussion. £5. Details: 01535 958189 www. enjoymeditation.org Menston Methodist Church welcomes newcomers & visitors. Sunday service: 10.30am, plus alternative form of worship, “Taste & See” is held in Cornerstone Cafe last Sunday of month.

Various activities at the Church include Wesley Guild, Wednesday Group, Women’s Fellowship, Walking Group, Choir.

Details: 01943 871909 Otley Methodist Church welcomes newcomers & visitors to their weekly services, Sun 10.30am.

Holy Communion 1st Sun of month & 9.30am 3rd Sun. Family Service 2nd Sun. Refreshments after each morning service.

Fri shoppers service 10 – 10.30am. Disabled access on Boroughgate & Walkergate.

Otley Quakers meet 1st & 3rd Sun of the month, 10.45am – 12 noon.

Details: 0113 318 8084, otley.quakers@virgin.net. www.otley.co.uk/churches/ Otley Spiritualist Church Church services: Tues healing 7.30pm; Wed healing 2.30pm; Sat Service 7pm (clairvoyance); Sun Service 6.30pm (divine). 38 Newmarket Street, Otley.

Rise & Shine @ 9 Everyone welcome. 30 minute cafe-style worship, ideal for all ages. Informal, friendly, light breakfast every Sunday, 9am at United Reformed Church, Main Street, Burley-inWharfedale. Details: Mirella 01943 465 353 St.John’s Parish Church , Menston Sunday Services: Holy Communion 8am; Parish Eucharist 10am on 1st, 3rd & 4th Sun, 10.30am 2nd Sun; Let’s Worship 9.15am 2nd Sun (children & young families); Evensong 4.30pm except Dec. SUPPORT Arthritis Care (Otley & District) meets at St John Ambulance Meeting Room, Gay Lane, 1st Wed of month, 2 – 4pm. People of all ages with arthritis, or an interest in it, most welcome. Details: 01943 466428.

Courthouse Inclusive Support Group Fri 11am – 12.30pm. New social coffee morning in Otley Courthouse Cafe for those experiencing, or who have experienced, emotional distress – including a sense of loss, lonliness or sadness. A friendly, gentle space to meet & chat. Details Gill Roughley 01943 462816 or Allan Luxton 07891 272 077 Crohn’s & Colitis UK Support for people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), their friends & families throughout North & West Yorkshire.

Four educational & support meetings a year, plus regular informal meets.

Details: 0845 130 6809, Leeds@crohnsandcolitis. org.uk, www.groups. crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/ Leeds

La Leche League of Wharfedale meets 1st Fri of month, 10am to noon, lower hall, Christchurch, The Grove, Ilkley. Breastfeeding help & support. Details: Becky on 01535 633788 Leeds Coeliac Group Local support group for people with Coeliac disease.

Details: 07711 768850, .leeds@coeliac.org.uk Leeds Samaritans provide confidential, nonjudgemental support 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. They listen with an open mind & in complete confidence, for as long as you need.

Details: 0113 245 6789, 08457 909090.

Lymphoma Association Support Group A friendly group that meets the last Mon of each month, 2pm at Robert Ogden Macmillan Cancer Information Centre, St. James’s Hospital, LS9 7TF. All who have experienced Lymphoma, their family & friends, are welcome. Frequent guest speakers. Details: Roy 01765 692132, Jane 0113 2811226, Norman 0113 267 3388.

258 2892, Graham 01977 796219 Wharfedale General Hospital Cardiac Club (affiliated with British Heart Foundation) is open to former cardiac patients & their partners. Opportunity to take part in exercise classes under supervision of qualified instructors.

Meets Mon, Wed & Thurs at Wharfedale General Hospital. £3. Details: Clive Wilkinson 0113 267 1721.

The Yorkshire Cancer Help Centre is now at the Day Therapy Unit, St Michael’s Hospice, Harrogate two Saturdays each month, offering support for people with cancer & their loved ones. Details: Esme 01423 881392/ Karen 01937 573166, www.ychc.org.uk TALKS & DISCUSSIONS Leeds Astronomical Society meets 2nd Wed of month with a guest speaker presentation & regular telescope nights at Quaker Friends Meeting House, Woodhouse Lane, LS2. Visitors welcome, first visit free. Details: info@ leedsastronomy.org.uk, www.leedsastronomy.org. uk

Memory Lane Café 4th Thurs of month, 1.30 – 3.30pm, Otley Rugby Club.

A supportive & welcoming environment for older people with memory problems or dementia.

Enjoy some musical entertainment & pass a sociable couple of hours.

Refreshments. Support for carers. Transport available for small fee. Details: Otley Action for Older People 01943 463965

Leeds Geological Association meets Thurs 19 April, 7.15pm in the Rupert Beckett Lecture Theatre, Michael Sadler Building, Leeds University.

Lecture: ‘Understanding the Tectonic Evolution of Central Europe: a Seismological Perspective’

by Prof. Graham Stuart, School of Earth & Environment, Leeds University. Visitors welcome. Details: www. leedsga.org.uk

Speakability Regular gettogether for people who live with ‘aphasia’. Visits, outings, speakers etc.

Third Thurs every month, 2pm at Otley Community Centre, Cross Green, Otley.

Details: Ray Rundle, 0113

Royal Meteorological Society Yorkshire Are you interested in weather & atmospheric phenomenon?

Monthly informal public talks on all aspects, from extreme weather to climate change, at School of Earth

& Environment, University of Leeds. Free & open to all. Thurs 19 April: Two Perspectives of Weather forecasting. Details: snorris@env.leeds.ac.uk, http://tinyurl.com/rmetsyc

Baby Rascals Are you a new Mum? Would you like to meet others & enjoy a cup of coffee? Come to Otley Parish Church Wed 1 – 2.45pm (term time) Details: 01943 463 815.

The Thoresby Society, Leeds local history society. Meets 1st Tues (Feb – Apr & Oct – Dec), 7.15pm at Friends Meeting House, Woodhouse Lane.

Non-members welcome at monthly lectures.

Fascinating library at Claremont, 23 Clarendon Rd, LS2 9NZ, open 10am – 2pm Tues & Thurs. Details: 0113 247 0704, www. thoresby.org.uk

Ben Rhydding Women’s Institute Meets 2nd Thurs of each month, 2pm at B.R. Methodist Church Hall.

All welcome.

Yorkshire Archaeological Society (Family History Section) Sat 14 April, 2pm at 23, Clarendon Rd, Leeds – a lecture by Di Drummond entitled ‘Railway Ancestors’. Free drop-in sessions Tues 2 – 4pm for anyone needing help with family history research. Details: Mrs J. Butler 0113 263 9540 WOMEN’S GROUPS Adel Ladies Luncheon Club meets 1st Wed of month at Castle Grove Masonic Hall, Castle Grove Dr. LS6.

Wed 4 April: ‘Chatsworth: a Personal View’ with Christine Robinson, Visitor Services Manager. Wed 2 May: Sue Woodcock from Yorkshire Post presents ‘From Copper to Shepherd’.

Details: Muriel Huntley 230 1584 Aireborough Soroptimist International meets 1st & 3rd Wed of month, 7.30pm at Guiseley Methodist Church, Oxford Road, Guiseley Organisation for professional women addressing issues of importance to women worldwide. If you would like to volunteer in an atmosphere of support, friendship & fun, contact them. Details: Janet Lockwood 07947 695093.

Ilkley Soroptimist International Meet 2nd & 4th Thurs, 7.30pm at the Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Rd Ilkley.

Speakers, projects, networking & socialising for professional & community minded women. Details: Loraine Powell 07966 247152 Otley Townswomen’s Guild promotes the interests of women & raises money for charities. It meets 1st Thurs of each month, 7.30pm in the Lecture Room, Otley Methodist Church. Speakers plus wide variety of interest groups. Visitors welcome.

Details: S. Herbert 01943 468741 Otley Women’s Forum meets 2nd Thurs, 9.45 – 11.45am in Room 2 Methodist Church Hall. £2 incl. refreshments.

19 April: A special meeting with Sylvia Wright, whose fantastic work in Africa is well known.

Reaching Out Group for widowed women young at heart & in years who would like to meet others in similar position. Meets Thurs 6.30 – 8.30pm, St John Ambulance Hut, Gaye Lane, Otley. A safe place for friendship & support.

Details: Lesley 07931 892747.

COMMUNITY NOTICES University of Leeds Ladies’ Club welcomes women connected to the Uni as either serving or former staff members, partners of staff, or grads of the Uni. Regular events. Details: uleedslc@gmail.com The Women’s Fellowship meets Wed, 2pm at Pool Methodist Church. Variety of interesting speakers.

White Rose Ladies Speakers Club meets 2nd & 4th Mon, 7.45pm at Farsley Library, Old Rd. Farsley, LS28. Friendly environment in which to find your voice & improve your presentation skills, including Powerpoint, while having fun. Details: Stephanie Hanson 0113 255 0824, or just turn up.

MISC/EVENTS Bee Swarms will be collected free of charge.

Details: Terry 0113 268 8231 Guiseley & District Lions Club Charity Beer Festival Fri 18 & Sat 19 May at Coopers Bar Guiseley.

Tickets (£5), available from Coopers or www. wegottickets.com, include souvenir glass, 2 half pints & programme. Sessions 7 – 11pm & 1 – 4pm Sat. Details: www.guiseley. co.uk/lions Otley Museum Documentary & Photographic Archive Wellcroft House, (The Cycle Club) Otley. Open Mon, Tues, Fri, & 1st Sat of each month 9.45am – 12.15pm (excl bank holidays). Research Otley’s heritage – call in or phone

for an appointment.

Details: 01943 468181, otleymuseum@btconnect. com, www.otleymuseum. org Pool Village Hall Hire this excellent facility with hall, kitchen & meeting room.

Ideal venue for children’s parties, receptions, leisure activities, dances & fundraising events.

Large car park & access to a private bar if required.

Details: Tim Robson 0113 284 3437 tim.robson@ yahoo.co.uk Rodley Nature Reserve Summer Fair Sat 18 Aug. Book your stall now & help raise funds for this beautiful Reserve which provides a free haven for families & wildlife. Just £10 a table. Details: Amy 204 0441.

The Big Jump 2012 Wanted! novice parachute jumpers to jump in aid of Leeds Children’s Hospital, at the LGI. Sun 22 July at Bridlington Airfield. Details: Stephanie 392 5140, fundraising@leedsth.nhs. uk Two Function Rooms for Hire at Yarnbury RFC, Brownberrie Lane, Horsforth. Ideal for parties, naming ceremonies, receptions, funeral gatherings, meetings, exercise/dance classes etc. Bar & kitchen available. Ample parking.

Details: 258 1346/ 07792 2762248

Volunteer at Otley Children’s Centre If you enjoy working with children under five, would like to share your skills and receive professional volunteer training from Homestart, call Otley Children’s Centre on 01943 467379 & book an informal chat about volunteering. All candidates will complete an enhanced CRB check. www.otleychildrenscentre. co.uk Volunteer for Scope Otley! Scope is looking for volunteer shop assistants. Perfect for anyone, especially if you are looking to learn new skills, have fun & meet new people. Training provided & travel expenses paid. Details: Carol 01943 467676 or just pop in.

Volunteering Opportunities in Cancer Wing at St. James’s Hospital Kind & friendly volunteers needed to assist patients who need help at mealtimes.

Details: Vicki James 206 7646, Vicki.James@ leedsth.nhs.uk Wesley Hall at Otley Methodist Church Available to local organisations & charities for fundraising purposes every Fri, 9.3011.30am. Cost: £20.

Details: Pauline Dobson 01943 466 751.

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