We are proud to announce our brand new, purpose-built luxurious residential care home, The Manor House Roundhay. Our home o�ers a wide range of impressive �ve-star accommodation and provides exceptional compassionate residential and residential dementia care.
If you are considering care for yourself or a loved one, we’re happy to discuss our care and any questions you may have.
Please call on 0113 537 3344 or visit ManorHouseRoundhay.org.uk
6/6A Park Avenue, Roundhay, Leeds, LS8 2JH
Get ready to party with our top fits, picks for winter scents, and a look at how to transform your home into a party pad with bespoke lighting and sound systems. Starts page 24.
Check in at trendsetting Street Lane, boasting a wealth of food, shopping and business, and a Brazilian Ju-Jitsu academy. Starts page 40.
As Chanukah approaches, check out our top gift guide, some DIY crafts, a look at how to make your celebrations more sustainable, and some thoughts from Rabbi Ozer and Leah Moszkowski. Starts page 64.
Start 2025 with a healthier you! We explore the benefits of Dry January, look at the best ways to look after your mental health, and find out why resistance training is growing. Starts page 69.
PUBLISHER
Elliot Landy
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Richard Shawcross
FEATURES EDITOR
Emily Stone
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Ellie Tyson
DIGITAL MARKETING
Tracey Cleminson
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Andy Hollingworth
Alan Benstock
Claire Bartfield Photography
David Cole Photography
Howard Barnett Photography IDF
James Hale
Jonathan Adler
Jules Lister
Simon Marcus at Addictive Media
CONTRIBUTORS
Austen Garth
Chris Cooper
Dan Cohen
ES Motors
Gary Don
James Daly
Opticians
Juliet Shenderey
Manning Stainton
Max Goldberg
Director of Our Neighbour’s Ass, Max Goldberg, tells us about his comedy-drama film that follows a widow and a bothersome donkey. Page 18.
Daniel Berke, Director of UK Lawyers for Israel, chats to us about his advocacy and his recent visit to Gaza. Page 20.
Leeds-based artist Pippa Hale about her latest work, Ribbons, and why it was so important for the city. Page 58.
Austen Garth and Naomi Griffiths of The Anne Frank Trust discuss how the organisation empowers young people to challenge prejudice. Page 90.
Check out some useful car accessories designed to make your life easier when you’re on the road. Page 55.
Turn milk into magic this National Cheese Lovers Day (20th January) with our recipes to make tasty cheese from the comfort of your own home. Page 59.
Take a look at the best products to improve your mood in the colder British winter months. Page 70.
Take a break and boost your wellbeing with these picks of retreats across Europe, and closer to home. Page 78.
JLife returns for December with a host of fantastic community and social events, including this year’s Leeds Jewish Pride Awards 2024 winners. An amazing evening raising funds for LJWB, showing what community spirit is all about.
Aside from our usual features, it’s party fever here at JLife HQ as we slide into the festive season and Chanukah, we take a look at what’s new down Street Lane, where you can also win vouchers for the new
Keep the kids entertained with events around the area during the school holidays. Page 85.
Enjoy a tasty meal for two worth £70 at Sukhothai Chapel Allerton. Page 22
Bag a £100 voucher for the new Hesco Lounge on Street Lane. Page 42.
Ayur Mantra Ayurvedic Spa is offering two vouchers for a full body massage and steam bath for our readers to win, worth £50 each. Page 45.
Win a delicious afternoon tea for two worth £70 at Pudding Lab. Page 60.
Mike Bates
Naomi Griffths
Pippa Hale
Rabbi Eli Pink
Rabbi Ozer and Leah Moszkowski
Roundhay Aesthetics
Simply Hearing
Steve Chambers
Winson Solicitors
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Hesco Lounge and Ayur Mantra Spa and find out about the Brazilian Ju-Jitsu academy which has been quietly building its profile since opening during the pandemic. We cover January as well, so that means new year health and wellbeing, including some wellness retreats to give you some well-earned R&R and tips and trends to improve your mental and physical health.
You can also win a trip to Pudding Lab’s new Harrogate patisserie.
Our thoughts are still with the hostages and their families; we hope for an end to the war and peace around the world.
PICK UP YOUR COPY OF JLIFE AT: Marks & Spencer, Headfirst, Tesco Express King Lane, Sainsbury’s Moor Allerton, Sainsbury’s Local Slaid Hill, Sainsbury’s Local Stainburn Parade, The Zone, MAZCC and Gourmet. Or call 0845 052 2911 to subscribe for FREE!
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For up-to-date Jewish community activities visit Leedsjewishcommunity.com. All Community Diary details are correct at the time of going to press. For full event information, please contact the organisers directly.
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Menswear retailer Skopes’ repertoire is constantly
growing with new
stores
popping up across Yorkshire, but the core values of the company supporting local charities remain.
Skopes – one of the UK’s leading and longestestablished menswear brands – has recently opened two new stores at the White Rose Centre in Leeds and York Designer Outlet. The York opening marks the 21st bricks-and-mortar store from the company.
Skopes was established in Leeds in 1948 by Sydney Cope, and is now run by his grandson, Simon Cope. The brand was born when Sydney set up two manufacturing productions near Sheepscar Interchange and on Coal Road where he would sell bespoke trousers to wholesalers. The factory produced trousers using fabrics from Yorkshire mills and quickly became renowned for its twills and corduroy from Hebden Bridge.
In stores and online today, customers can expect a full range of suiting, shirts, footwear, and accessories in a range of styles, sizes, and colours – with sizing up to a 62-inch chest. There’s also a range of smart-casual wear on offer, including blazers and outerwear. So, whether you’re looking for an outfit for a special occasion or just want to elevate your everyday wardrobe, Skopes has got you covered.
As part of its commitment to sustainability, Skopes is working with sustainable clothes sourcing group Lyfcycle to tackle fast fashion. The brand has produced a range of eco-suits, made from recycled plastic. In each suit, 45 recycled plastic bottles will be used. The suits launched in 2020 and since then the eco range has led to over 1.5 million plastic bottles being recycled to create the polyester content for the suits. As part of Skopes’ ongoing commitment to transparency, you can track the entire supply chain of each suit by scanning its QR code, allowing you to see its journey from raw material to finished product.
CEO Simon Cope believes that a business should be about much more than just making money. He tells us: “A business has to have soul; it has to look after its staff and give back to the community. In my mind, it’s more than a clinical entity and it needs a level of conscience.
“Family values are incredibly important to us, and we love to make our staff feel appreciated. Before COVID we celebrated a guy who’d been
with us for 50 years! We threw him a little party and bought him a Rolex watch that was engraved from the family. It’s so vital to big up the staff and their longevity, it’s them who make the company.”
Simon and the Skopes team are passionate about supporting the community, with the company helping several charities across Leeds including the Motor Neurone Disease Association, The Zone, PhysCap, Leeds Jewish Welfare Board (LJWB), Homeless Street Angels, and St Gemma’s Hospice. Skopes has sponsored the Hospice’s Winter Ball for the last two years and has donated a van for the retail team to use.
Its continued generosity helps the hospice to provide high quality care for those at the end of their life and their families across Leeds. From connecting the charity to potential supporters to helping it make the Winter Ball one of the key events in the Leeds calendar, Skopes has played a pivotal role in the vital fundraising.
Kerry Jackson, Chief Executive of St Gemma’s Hospice, commented: “Skopes have very generously been supporting St Gemma’s Hospice for the past two years. They have been a great advocate of the work of the hospice and supported us in our fundraising, particularly through its sponsorship of our Winter Ball. It is only thanks to the support of companies, like Skopes, that we can continue to be here for local patients at the end of their lives. We are very grateful for their continued support, and it’s
been great to be there to support them in the opening of their new flagship store.”
Deputy CEO of LJWB, Becky Teiger, tells us about Simon’s work with the charity over the last six years: “Simon has generously supported our unique subsidised travel service, reducing the life-threatening impact of social isolation and improving wellbeing for over 50 members of our community. His support has enabled the purchase of two adapted vehicles for people with mobility and access issues – allowing us to offer over 200 journeys this year alone – enabling our service users to attend the MAZCC where they can access a wide range of classes, therapeutic activities, and subsidised meals.
“His generosity is also demonstrated through contributions to our Family Support team, providing one-to-one support for our most vulnerable families alongside our culturally specific daily learning and development activities for under-fives and their families. Without Simon’s ongoing support we wouldn’t be unable to offer our inclusive art group or our holiday and teatime clubs, which enable families to enjoy valuable social time, a warm meal, and peer support.”
Elizabeth Bradbury, CEO of LJWB, says: “Simon’s ongoing financial support has profoundly changed lives in our community, providing critical resources and opportunities that have empowered individuals and strengthened our collective future.”
Chairman of PhysCap, Dan Gray, also comments on Simon’s generosity: “Simon approached our charity to find out how Skopes could help us. Through becoming headline sponsor of our corporate football events, it outlined a commitment to helping children with disabilities across the region receive vital equipment they could not afford. We are so grateful to Simon and Skopes for their ongoing support allowing us to help even more families. We know how generous Simon is with many charities, and his love of giving back to the community holds no limit.”
Skopes.co.uk
Homeless Street Angels celebrated the opening of its new support centre with an Open Day on 29th November.
On 29th November Homeless Street Angels proudly opened the doors to Abi House, its new support centre located at 6 Sheepscar Court, Northside Business Park, Leeds, LS7 2BB. The Open Day had run from 12PM to 4PM, and everyone is invited to celebrate this significant milestone in the charity’s journey.
After seven years of tireless fundraising efforts, the dream of establishing a dedicated support centre has finally become a reality. The team at Homeless Street Angels have gone above and beyond to raise funds, engaging
in activities ranging from jumping out of planes and swimming with sharks to tackling the world’s longest zipline and even wing walking. They even released a Christmas single, showcasing their commitment and creativity in supporting their mission.
This Open Day is not just a celebration of the new facility; it is also a heartfelt opportunity to thank the many donors and supporters who have contributed to making Abi House possible. The support received has been invaluable, and the organisation is eager to
share the impact of these contributions with the community.
Visitors ran the chance to tour the new centre, meet the dedicated team, and learn about the vital services that will be offered to those experiencing homelessness in Leeds.
The welcoming environment of Abi House is designed to provide essential support and resources, helping individuals on their path to stability and independence.
Homelessstreetangels.co.uk
The Grammar School at Leeds has announced a new partnership with Leeds Community Foundation, the region’s largest independent grant-maker.
The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) has supported Leeds Community Foundation’s core work as members since 2013, but this new partnership signals a new and exciting way of working together. GSAL students will engage in fundraising and volunteering to support the foundation’s Leeds Fund, which has awarded £2.8 million to causes across the city and directly benefited 12,000 people since its inception in 2016. Students will also have the opportunity to learn more about their city through engaging panels, interactive workshops and other opportunities that encourage active participation.
Steph Taylor, CEO at Leeds Community
Foundation, said: “GSAL’s commitment to raising funds for local community organisations across Leeds is truly inspiring. Through our new partnership, we hope to engage students to understand the importance of social impact and to embrace values of generosity, empathy, and community awareness. In short, we’re encouraging them to become the next generation of philanthropists.”
Sue Woodroofe, Principal at GSAL, said: “Although Leeds is considered a prosperous and successful place by many, 23% of young people in our city live in poverty. Leeds Community Foundation is committed to
tackling this inequity head-on and building a fairer Leeds for everyone, and we’re excited to support their vital work through our partnership.”
As the first independent school to have partnered with Leeds Community Foundation, GSAL has a long history of supporting charitable causes. Mrs Woodroofe added: “This partnership is a fantastic opportunity for our students to give back and to feel fully engaged in their Leeds community. We hope this is the beginning of a long and fruitful partnership.”
Gsal.org.uk
United Hebrew Congregation will once again be taking part in a Christmas Day initiative: A Time to Say Thank You. The synagogue will deliver chocolate bouquets to blue light workers who are working on Christmas Day, to bring cheer and thank them for keeping the lights on during a day when most are at home. Volunteers will visit hospices, residential homes, care homes, pharmacies, women’s shelters, children’s care services, and homeless shelters.
What is now a yearly tradition began in 2018 as Rabbi Alby Chait, together with his wife and their three children decided to visit their local fire station, police station, and the maternity ward at St James’ Hospital to deliver a big hamper of cakes and goodies, good wishes, and thanksgiving for the incredible and dedicated service that they provide over the holiday period.
Since then, #ATimetoSayThankYou has continued to grow across the UK and abroad, attracting thousands of volunteers across Leeds, Manchester, London, and Melbourne.
Register for this year’s initiative at Atimetosaythankyou.com
A Year After October 7: British Jewish Views on Israel, Antisemitism and Jewish Life is a report that’s been published by the Institute for Jewish Policy Research (JPR). The report looks at how the October 7th attacks on Israel and the war in Gaza have impacted the British Jewish community one year on.
The report has analysed the responses of over 4,500 adult British Jews to the JPR Jewish Current Affairs Survey in July of this year. It found that over three quarters of the community feel they are less safe living in the UK and that levels of anxiety in the community are higher than they were before October 7th – and are also notably higher than they are among the general population of Britain.
Other findings from the report concluded that almost two in three members of the community that were surveyed feel less confident displaying their Jewishness since the attacks. As well as 83% defining antisemitism as a problem in Britain, which is the highest proportion found since records began over a decade ago.
Leeds Jewish Representative Council (LJRC) is seeking donations to help to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Leeds City Council, Holocaust Centre North, Holocaust Survivors Friendship Association, and LJRC are working together to plan a series of commemorative lamppost banners from the city centre through Harrogate Road to Harewood. There’ll be a maximum of 28 banners which will each show an image of a local Holocaust survivor to pay tribute to this significant historical event.
If you’re able to donate, email info@ljrc.org.
Advertisers in the magazine are not necessarily associated with images of events in the magazine.
A Co-op funded charity is running drop-ins with games, fish and chip suppers, film afternoons, and trips out to local places for older people living in LS17.
Since 1995, Moor Allerton Everyone Cares (MAEC) has been working in the Alwoodley, Moortown, and Shadwell areas with people aged 60+ to support them in having a good quality of life. MAEC focuses on reducing social isolation through groups and events that enable people to meet others, and befriending for those who are housebound. The charity also helps to improve health and wellbeing through physical activity classes and groups that support mental wellbeing through activities ranging from art to Zumba.
Maecare.org.uk
To mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, new figures from Chai Cancer Care were released which show an increase in the number of clients affected by breast cancer.
Over the past year, 17% of all appointments at Chai were for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Between 1st October 2023 and 30th September 2024, Chai facilitated a total of 22,046 appointments for those impacted by cancer, with 3,834 of those being for individuals with breast cancer. This represents a nearly 2% increase from the previous year, when Chai supported 3,766 breast cancer patients.
Lisa Steele, Chief Executive of Chai Cancer Care, said: “The rising number of women affected by breast cancer, and the increased awareness around the BRCA gene mutation, remind us how crucial it is for people to seek support early.”
Board of Deputies President, Phil Rosenberg, had a jam-packed weekend at the beginning of November when he visited Leeds on his first trip to the city in the role.
Phil’s visit started with political and interfaith meetings with the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Abigail Marshall Katung, Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, and Leeds MPs Alex Sobel, Dan Cohen, and James Lewis. The meeting also included councillors and faith leaders from Bradford. Phil visited BHH Synagogue, Street Lane Bakery, the United Hebrew Congregation, and the Marjorie and Arnold Ziff Community Centre during his time in Leeds. He also spent time with Leeds Kollel to learn about how the Charedi community is supporting and expanding Jewish life in Leeds, and met students from the University of Leeds’ Jewish society.
The weekend was rounded off at Sinai Synagogue where Phil joined the induction of Cantor Rachel Weston and a meeting with Board of Deputies members from across Yorkshire including Leeds, Sheffield, Harrogate, York, and Hull.
Phil documented his visit on X (formerly known as Twitter), where he said that the visit saw key national and local challenges and opportunities discussed that helped the Board of Deputies to deepen its ties with Jewish Leeds.
THE UHC HOSTED THE LEEDS JEWISH PRIDE AWARDS FOR THE FIRST TIME, RAISING FUNDS FOR THE LEEDS JEWISH WELFARE BOARD. WINNERS WERE CHOSEN BY A PANEL FROM HUNDREDS OF NOMINATIONS AND ANNOUNCED AT A GALA DINNER CATERED BY LEEDS KOSHER KITCHEN. COMMITTEE (LEFT TO RIGHT) JADE SELLMAN, GILLIAN COHEN, JONNY JEROME, MEL ROSENBERG,
The Leeds Jewish Community joined together once again to celebrate and recognise our unsung heroes. What is wonderful is that the Award winners were not in seek of publicity and often operated ‘underneath the radar’ with their dedication to raising funds and helping people in need. We truly are a small community with big hearts, and in spite of other devastating issues affecting our lives both here and abroad, we can still enjoy the warmth and togetherness of this celebration.
Committee Chair, Jane Clynes
We delve into the world of hygge with Melissa Denham, Interior Design Expert at Hammonds Fitted Furniture, and explore how you can bring the cosy Scandinavian concept into your own home.
Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah for those wondering) is a Danish word that loosely translates to cosiness and is a concept that provides a feeling of warmth and being content. A hygge home helps you to enjoy life’s simple pleasures through minimal interior design choices that focus on enhancing the cosiness of your home – perfect for the cold, miserable winter months.
Focusing on one colour when choosing a colour scheme will give you clean and simple surroundings that place emphasis on effortless style and easy living. This is a great place to start when introducing hygge into your home as it acts as a base for the rest of your interior.
“Rooms covered in just one shade are becoming even more popular as they serve as a refuge from the busy modern world outside. Many Danish interiors follow a pattern of using one dominant colour – with just a little bit of accent detail within the room – throughout their living space. This colour is typically one from a neutral or pastel colour palette, with sage, beige, and putty being popular shades. A monochrome interior can give a space a calming, positive energy.”
Beige 07 is a mid-beige with warm white and yellow undertones that’s the perfect hygge colour. It’s a rich and optimistic colour that brings a touch of golden hour into your space, making it feel comforting and warm. Lick.com
Sustainability has been a key aspect of Danish interior design for some time, and the UK is
quickly following suit – it’s now easier than ever before to incorporate sustainability into your home.
“With the discussion about environmentally friendly design and minimal impact on the planet having gone on for a very long time in Scandinavia, many British designers are now also taking sustainability to the next level here. Think recycled wooden floors, hessian place mats, jute rugs, and bamboo kitchen shelves. These are all things that look visually attractive but are also minimally processed to reduce damage to the environment. Incorporating natural light into
Snake plant | Soto Gardens | £12
Braided-rug.co.uk
Bring the outdoors in
Even though a neutral or monochrome colour scheme is a defining feature of a hygge home, unexpected colours can be used to mix things up.
“Houseplants add a vibrant pop of green into a kitchen; they play a significant role in a hygge lifestyle. Lush greenery not only splashes colour into a minimal kitchen but also contributes to that sense of calm and zen by connecting with nature and blurring the lines between the indoors and outdoors.”
If you don’t have green fingers and often kill your houseplants, a snake plant is the perfect choice for you as it requires very little maintenance. It will bring the outdoors inside and connect you to nature from the comfort of your own home. Sotogardens.com
Contrast old and new
Danish interior design often incorporates a mix of vintage and modern elements, creating a unique and eclectic look that’s easy to replicate.
“Keeping artisanal techniques alive is important to traditional Danish craftspeople, and there’s a good chance that buying vintage Danish-style furniture could land you with some high-quality pieces that can be easily upcycled. When combined with a few of the convenient features found in a modern interior, the results can be both beautiful and functional.”
Mid-century Danish teak vintage vanity bureau | & VNTG | £895
Produced in the 1960s for Danish retailer Illums Bolighus – a renowned design store known for high quality furniture, décor, and lifestyle products – this vanity is the perfect piece to bring hygge into your home. Andvntg.com
In 1903, the Remington Typewriter Company – based in New York – issued the first Yiddish typewriter which became the standard Yiddish keyboard layout in the early 20th century. The 1928 version had the words ‘Remington Writing Machine’ painted in Hebrew above the carriage and at the bottom of the frame, and shift keys labelled in Yiddish.
Other companies such as Underwood made Yiddish typewriters with over 2000 parts making them too bulky and impractical to use. Corona of Croton New York managed to reduce them to 690 component parts which meant it was much simpler and had less parts to go wrong. They only retained the ‘komets alef’ key located in the upper left-hand corner. Despite the omission of the other keys, it was designed
With Mark Manning, Managing Director of Manning Stainton
October continued recent trends, with high levels of new property listings and strong buyer demand keeping activity well above last year. We’re seeing early signs of price increases in some segments of the market. The Land Registry’s latest report (which typically runs a few months behind) showed a monthly rise of 1.5%, resulting in an annual change of 2.8%. Regionally, Yorkshire and the Humber showed growth, with a 2.7% monthly rise and 4.4% over
to be a Yiddish typewriter as the carriage moved right to left.
These Yiddish typewriters have now become collectable and often museum pieces. An early Corona version from 1918 with its original housing, all its keys, and original box was recently sold in a Judaica auction for £3650.
A more complicated typewriter was the Hammond Multiplex which had a trilingual keyboard built for typing in English, Yiddish, and vocalised Hebrew. Unfortunately this model never became popular as falling typewriter prices allowed consumers to simply buy separate typewriters for each language.
The value of a typewriter is often dictated by who used it. The Corona XC-R was used by the Yiddish playwright Abish Meisels and the Jewish Daily Courier journalist Morris Indritz. The Philadelphia war correspondents used it for the New York based The Jewish Morning Journal during the Second World War.
The sleek and stylish Remington Rand Deluxe was owned and used by Yiddish writer Blume Lempel and was donated to
the Yiddish book centre in New York. The poems of Malka Lee, the autobiography of Marc Chagall, the famed Russian-Jewish artist, and the works of Chaim Grade, a Yiddish writer of the post-Holocaust period were all typed on Yiddish typewriters.
There are lots of other examples of early typewriters with high values. Rare typewriters such as ‘The Waverley Type Writer’ from the late 19th century sold for £23,000 and a Ford Typewriter from 1895 sold for over £24,000. Famous owners have sold theirs for some amazing prices. William Kentridge, a South African celebrated contemporary artist, who dedicated his fight against apartheid sold his typewriter for an incredible £550,000. Sir Roger Moore’s standard Olympia SM3 DeLuxe 1958 sold for £4,000.
Has anyone famous in your family used a typewriter? Please get in touch, you never know how much it could bring!
Garydon.co.uk
the year – adding an impressive average of £10,000 to property values.
Looking ahead to 2025, both domestic and global events could influence the property market in significant ways. The recent UK budget, for instance, could impact housing in various ways over the coming months. While Capital Gains Tax on property remained unchanged, new increases to national insurance and the minimum wage may place additional pressure on businesses, their employees, and the broader economy.
Changes in stamp duty could also have immediate repercussions. The additional rate for second homes has risen from 3% to 5%, which may further reduce the already limited supply of rental properties, potentially driving rents even higher. Data from TwentyEA shows that tenants
already spend 32% of their pre-tax income on rent – an unsustainable level for many households.
Moreover, the decision not to extend stamp duty relief for properties under £250,000 may create a short-term spike in demand, potentially pushing prices up temporarily and disrupting market stability in the near term.
Overall, the property market remains active, though we may see shifts as new policies and market pressures take effect. Activity is expected to stay strong through the coming months, with buyer demand supporting continued growth in many areas. We will monitor trends closely to keep you informed on what’s ahead for the property market across our region and beyond.
Manningstainton.co.uk
Don’t
Don’t
With many of us spending plenty of time in front of the TV this festive season, we’ve rounded up our top tech picks to enhance your viewing experience.
Showcase sofa by Cinesound | DFS | from £1,899
Cinesound brings the silver screen to your home with sofas that are packed with impressive smart features to deliver an immersive experience to your living room. There are hidden Bluetooth speakers that deliver clear surround sound, 4D cinema seats that vibrate in time with music and sound effects, a wireless charging pad for quick and easy charging, handy built-in storage to keep devices, remotes, and snacks where you need them, and USB and USB-C ports that offer charging for additional devices. With multiple size and colour options, the Showcase sofa is a must-have for your at home cinema. Dfs.co.uk
Ariete party time retro popcorn maker | Wayfair | £44.99
What’s a movie marathon or boxset binge without a snack to enjoy? This retro popcorn maker by Ariete brings a fun and nostalgic touch to your movie nights with its unique 1950s American diner-inspired design. Using hot air cooking, it quickly makes your popcorn in under two minutes — without the need for any oil or fat — so you can indulge in a healthier, yet still delicious snack. The included removable bowl makes it even more convenient, just pop it off and carry your freshly made popcorn straight to the sofa. Whether you’re hosting friends or unwinding solo, this popcorn maker adds a touch of vintage charm while serving up tasty, effortless snacks. Wayfair.co.uk
Electric heating cushion | Online Home Shop | £29
This electric cushion from Online Home Shop is an ideal companion for in front of the TV as it’s the perfect blend of comfort, warmth, and functionality that’s designed to improve relaxation. It provides soothing warmth and targeted support for various parts of the body, helping to melt away any tension and keep you cosy for as long as you’re engrossed in the latest blockbuster or must-see show. The cushion’s plush, soft fabric cover feels gentle against the skin which adds an extra layer of comfort while you relax. Onlinehomeshop.com
Philips Hue Play smart light bars and Hue Bridge
John Lewis | £165
Philips Hue’s light bars are a simple introduction into smart lighting without breaking the bank. Controlled remotely by an app, you can choose preset scenes, set timers, and more. Play with over 16 million colour variations and create an ambience that suits any mood, you can even match it to the vibe of your TV show or film! This pack includes a Hue Bridge to make your devices compatible, as well as two light bars and a power supply that connects to three lights, can be stood upright, laid down, or placed onto the back of your TV. For more advice on adding smart lighting to your home, visit page 26. Johnlewis.com
Transform any room in your home into a cinema with this compact projector that’s designed to take your home entertainment setup to the next level. Featuring 720p resolution, it will deliver sharp, vibrant images to bring your favourite films and TV shows to life. With built-in WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, you’ll enjoy fast, uninterrupted streaming, while the integrated HiFi speakers provide immersive surround sound. Lightweight and portable, this projector is easy to set up – just plug it in and enjoy!
Gb.evolvedchargers.com
Director of Our Neighbour’s Ass, Max Goldberg, tells us about his comedy-drama film which follows a widow and a bothersome donkey.
Our Neighbour’s Ass is a short film, co-written and directed by Max Goldberg, that sees a widow left with the responsibility of caring for her late husband’s donkey who comes up against her neighbours’ frustrations as the donkey becomes a local nuisance. The film has just been announced as the winner of the Young Jury Award for Best Short Film 2024 at the UK Jewish Film Festival and will be shown at Hyde Park Picture House on 3rd December.
Leeds-based Max has worked in the film and television industry for eight years, with dreams of furthering his career into directing: “I’ve worked with pretty much all the major broadcaster and streaming sites as an assistant director, but I’ve always had aspirations to direct my own stuff. I’ve won the UK Jewish Film Short Doc Fund twice and worked my way up the ladder to be able to direct my first scripted piece with Our Neighbour’s Ass.”
Together with Richard Knight, Max wrote the script for the film: “Richard came with the first draft – it came from his personal life and experiences – and then we developed it together. I wrote some dialogue and scenes to inject some Jewishness into it, to make sure that it was all authentic, and that it felt real. It’s a film about loss, grief, and loneliness that has a beautiful balance of comedy and pathos, so it’s still entertaining while tackling some of the harder subjects.”
The crew behind Our Neighbour’s Ass were passionate about keeping the filming Yorkshire based: “We shot it at the end of June over four days, mainly in Alwoodley. We also filmed at UHC cemetery, Etz Chaim Synagogue, and in Cleethorpes, we really wanted to keep everything in Yorkshire. I like to describe it as a British Yorkshire Jewish film.”
Dame Maureen Lipman plays the starring role in the film, which came about from a personal approach by Max and his producer, Melissa Sorrell: “We were invited to a gala to announce ourselves as the winners of the Pears
Short Film Fund and we knew that she’d be there. We pitched it to her in our Q&A and she was very responsive to it, which was really exciting. Once the gala had ended, Melissa had wandered off and came back 10 minutes later arm in arm with Maureen, and the rest is history!”
Maureen wasn’t the only star of Our Neighbour’s Ass; Max tells us why the phrase ‘never work with animals’ wasn’t true with Maureen’s co-star, George the donkey: “With my previous history of working in film and TV, I managed to hire the amazing team of animal handlers – First Choice Animals – from All Creatures Great and Small to supply us with the donkey. George played the starring role as Pablo, and he was unbelievably well behaved. He would bray at times, but it was more cute than a hindrance, and he was definitely driven by food!”
On 11th November at the UK Jewish Film Festival in London, Our Neighbour’s Ass had its world premiere: “It was received well; the laughs and applauses were in the right places. Everyone said they loved the film and their feedback was positive, which is always reassuring! We also had some surprise guests; comedians David Mitchell and David Baddiel were there with their respective partners. Baddiel came up to me and said he loved the film, that was amazing.”
Our Neighbour’s Ass has a Crowdfunder page to raise funds to pay for the postproduction crew and raise money for film festival submissions, with incentives such as film posters and masterclasses available for those that are able to support.
Crowdfunder.co.uk/our-neighbours-assshort-film or donate privately via email at ourneighboursassfilm@gmail.com
For tickets to the screening in Leeds, visit Hpph.co.uk
SINAI SYNAGOGUE RECENTLY CELEBRATED ITS 80TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A CIVIC CEREMONY.
SIMONMARCUS@ADDICTIVE.MEDIA
THE EVENT WAS ATTENDED BY PHIL ROSENBERG, PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DEPUTIES OF BRITISH JEWS; RABBI JOSH LEVY, CEO OF THE MOVEMENT FOR REFORM JUDAISM; REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE LEEDS JEWISH REP COUNCIL; MP FAMIAN HAMILTON; COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE NORTH OF ENGLAND; AND INTERFAITH FRIENDS.
THE EVENING ALSO SAW THE INAUGURATION OF CANTOR RACHEL WESTON, THE UK’S FIRST PROGRESSIVE CANTOR APPOINTED AS SOLE SPIRITUAL LEADER OF A PROGRESSIVE CONGREGATION.
200 PEOPLE ATTENDED THE EVENT WHICH ALSO HAD
AND A
A
A FUNDRAISING FIRE WALK RECENTLY TOOK PLACE TO BENEFIT LJWB, THE ZONE, AND SCOUTS AND GIRLGUIDING.
THERE WAS ALSO A LEGO WALK AVAILABLE FOR THE YOUNGER KIDS TO PARTICIPATE IN!
Daniel Berke, Director of UK Lawyers for Israel, chats to us about his advocacy and his recent visit to Gaza.
Manchester lawyer Daniel Berke has dedicated the past 20 years to advocating for Israel in various capacities. He serves as the Director of UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI) and holds a diplomatic position with the World Jewish Congress. Additionally, he is one of the founders of the Military Expert Panel, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting Israel through legal and diplomatic efforts.
Daniel explains why it is so important to him: “Antisemitism is a light sleeper. The reason I’m involved in pro-Israel work is largely to challenge antisemitism, which so often manifests itself through unfair attacks on Israel. While it may be argued by some there are differences between antisemitism and anti-Zionism, I’ve never seen it in practice, nor do I believe it in theory –Zionism is the emancipation movement of the Jewish people.”
Having been founded in 2011, UK Lawyers for Israel provides legal support including advocacy, research, advice, and campaigning in combating attempts to undermine, attack or delegitimise Israel, Israeli organisations, Israelis, and supporters of Israel. UKLFI uses the law to challenge organisations and individuals which are showing bias of, and unfair treatment to, Israel and supporters of Israel.
Sadly, the organisation had plenty to do even before the on-set of the current war: “Prior to October 7th, there were already
The immediate rush of reports we had has calmed down, but there is still just as much abuse out there.
huge problems with antisemitism. There were the Corbyn years, and there were already large protests against Israel, during the Second Lebanon War for example. We started to see antisemitism become more acceptable and prevalent. At UK Lawyers for Israel, the reason that we were so well placed to help students dealing with antisemitism after October 7th, is because we’ve dealt with it before time and time again.
“We had already sued Leeds University on behalf of a young journalist, then a student, forcing them to pay a sum in settlement. We had already had to deal with the University of London Institute in Paris. We’ve successfully caused a withdrawal of a motion by Manchester Student Union because they wanted to twin with AnNadjah university in the West Bank, which I believe is a hotbed of terrorism."
As may be expected, since the Hamas atrocities the demand for the association’s services has skyrocketed: “I knew there were going to be more problems. On 7th and
8th October, when countries were lighting up landmarks in Israeli colours and people were expressing horror, I remember saying to my wife, give it a day. I sent a message to a WhatsApp group saying: ‘If anybody knows any students, I have a feeling they’re going to face problems. If they need assistance reporting to the police, please contact me.’ I turned my phone on the next morning to hundreds of notifications. We had to take on teams of volunteers from our membership at UKLFI.”
Much of UKLFI’s work in the past year has centered on universities: “I think it’s safe to say we have had to make numerous reports to universities, and it’s regrettable that with some of them, we’ve had to really spell out what antisemitism is. It’s infuriating to receiving responses from universities saying: ‘We’ve adopted IHRA (International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance)’. But adopting it and actually making sure that people read it, and understand it, and that they have proper training, are very different things. The conduct of many lecturers has been appalling. We had a case at Manchester University where an Israeli student remonstrated with a student who had posted an image of a bulldozer being driven by members of Hamas going through the Erez crossing, and called her a terrorist. Perhaps she ought to have said supporter of terrorism, because what the student had posted was likely to be an offence under Section 12 (1)(A) of the Terrorism Act 2000. It expressed support for a terrorist organisation. The university took no action against the student who had posted that, and instead took
action against the Jewish Israeli student.”
As time has gone on, the number of new reports UKLFI has received has decreased, but this doesn’t mean the problem is solved: “The immediate rush of reports we had has calmed down, but there is still just as much abuse out there. I think that those that were drawing these posts to our attention just don’t have the energy to keep looking for it anymore, because the abuse Jews are facing is relentless.”
Daniel has also been involved with bringing military veterans to Israel to see the situation firsthand, having made several trips over the past year. On one of the trips Daniel was joined by Chris Ryan, a former Special Air Service Sergeant and author: “He said that when he was watching the 47-minute Hamas atrocity film, he looked around the room at some of the veterans who were with us in that room, with hundreds of years of service between them, and saw them visibly age.”
The group also had the opportunity to sit down with Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu: “We met with Netanyahu, and our group wasn’t without criticism. They did say that they thought that journalists should be allowed into Gaza and should be given better access to the military, so they understand what’s going on.”
Daniel has even ventured into Gaza under escort by IDF special forces, leading senior officers from Canada, Australia, France, Romania and with former special forces from the UK and US, including veterans of airborne divisions, the SAS and Delta Force. They also met with families of hostages and visited communities which were attacked on
October 7th: “When you go in there, there is destruction. Huge numbers of buildings have been destroyed in Rafah. Hamas has learned from Israel, and Israel has learned from Hamas. They’re fighting a war overground, with boots on the ground, and they’re fighting a war underground. General Sir John McColl, Former Deputy Supreme Allied Commander of Allied Forces in Eurpoe said this is the most complex theatre of war he’s ever seen. With the Military Expert Panel, as well as travelling to Gaza, General McColl spoke with senior commanders and the head of the IDF legal department. He subsequently commented in the Times that the IDF does all Britain does in terms of rules of engagement, and more.
“We went down the Philadelphi corridor in Rafah under the protection of a special forces team. We went into one of the tunnels, which was large enough to drive a pick-up truck through, and they had, because there was soot on the wall. There were 300 miles of tunnels underneath – larger than the London Underground, and I’ll dare say better run. It was quite an incredible and terrible thing to see. When I got to the end of the Philadelphi corridor I stood on the edge of the Mediterranean. I looked down on to what should have been a beach where Palestinian families could have enjoyed themselves, but for Hamas and their supporters in the civilian population.They built down instead of up. Instead of building a future for their children, they built a terror base to kill Jewish children."
Chapel Allerton’s favourite
Sukhothai Chapel Allerton, a cherished destination for authentic Thai cuisine, has cemented itself as a staple in Leeds since it was established by Owner Ban Kaewkraikhot in 2002. Located in the heart of Chapel Allerton, the restaurant has expanded over the years, offering a spacious and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy the bold, fresh flavours of traditional Thai dishes. Sukhothai also has locations in Leeds City Centre and Harrogate, offering its renowned recipes and commitment to quality ingredients in three unique locations. This festive season, Sukhothai invites guests with warm open arms to indulge in three specially crafted Christmas party menus.
The Krungthep menu offers a mix of Sukhothai classics, perfect for those seeking
a variety of bold flavours, such as the mouthwatering starters which include tender Satay Gai (Grilled chicken skewers with peanut sauce) and other grilled delights. This is followed by spicy Pad Nam Prik Pao Gai (Chili paste stir-fried chicken), and Pad Prik Yourk Nua (Black-bean stir-fried beef).
For a more indulgent option, choose the Sukhothai menu, featuring premium ingredients. Phed Mango (Grilled duck breast in mango sauce) and Khanom Jeeb (Steamed dumplings) make a feature among other
flavoursome starters. For delectable mains, enjoy Massaman Nua (8 oz sirloin steak in a creamy massaman curry), and Pla Tod Mamuang Himmaparn (Crispy seabass pieces in a cashews and pineapple sauce).
The Chiang Mai menu offers a vegetarianfriendly option with rich, vibrant flavours. Start with Poh Piah Hed Horm (Vegetarian spring rolls), Makhua Tod Mango (Crispy aubergine with mango sauce) and Khanom Pang Na Pak (Vegetarian toasts). For mains, savour Tofu Gang Panaeng (Creamy tofu curry), Pad Broccoli Gratium Prik Thai (Broccoli stir-fried in garlic and black pepper), and Pad Nam Prik Pao Pak (Chili paste stir-fried vegetables).
All three menus come with an accompaniment side dish of your choice, as well as a decadent dessert choice between Profiteroles, Chocolate Fudge Cake, or Mango Sorbet.
The restaurant will also be serving a select menu of winter specials which are not to be missed! This range of premium dishes is perfect for warming up on a cold winter night, offering an elegant and vibrant take on traditional Thai flavours combined into a selection of delicious new favourites. We definitely recommend tucking into the Gai Tod Sam Rod: deep fried
chicken breast stir-fried into a sweet chili sauce with peppers and onions, served in a delicate nest of crispy egg noodles, but there is an assortment of other sophisticated delights on the seasonal menu.
Sukhothai offers a multitude of delicacies to suit all palates. Known for its warm atmosphere, outstanding service, and commitment to authentic Thai cuisine, Sukhothai Chapel Allerton provides the perfect setting for a memorable Christmas dinner.
To have a chance at winning a meal for two priced at £70 at Sukhothai Chapel Allerton, please answer the following question…
When was Sukhothai first opened?
Enter online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/ competitions-5 or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. Please ensure your entry includes your name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date: 2nd January 2025
Terms and conditions apply: One entry per person. Prize must be redeemed before the end of January. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in JLife Magazine and Sukhothai’s databases to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.
An elegant take on a range of well-loved Thai classics, all with the usual Sukhothai sophistication – as beautiful to look at as they are delicious.
person at Leeds and Harrogate throughout December.
Three extravagant set menu options, all including a variety of starters, three delectable main courses with side dishes, and your choice of dessert, ideal to share with your loved ones.
The party season is upon us, meaning you need to be looking your best! Check our top pick of fits to impress at your next shindig.
This sophisticated wool-rich suit jacket from M&S’s Sartorial collection is a perfect pick for any party. Crafted in Italy, it features a sleek singlebreasted design with rounded lapels and a refined one-button closure, complete with matching cuff details. The smooth lining adds comfort and makes it easy to slip on and off, while twin rear vents allow for effortless movement. The jetted breast pocket and two welt side pockets offer practical and stylish finishing touches to this impeccably tailored jacket, ensuring you look sharp for any special occasion.
Marksandspencer.com
A classic Oxford shirt, with a distinctive twist, that’s full of personality and unique details. It comes in a beautiful shade of blue, with stylish long sleeves and a smart button-down collar for a polished look. What really sets it apart is the subtle flower-patterned trim that adds a touch of flair, along with two-tone buttons for fastening. The contrast tape provides an additional pop of character. The shirt is easy to style — wear it buttoned up for a sharp appearance at a more formal get-together or roll back the cuffs for a more relaxed feel.
Joebrowns.co.uk
Step into glamour with this vibrant midi dress that guarantees you’ll feel fabulous. Featuring a fit-and-flare silhouette, short sleeves, and a flattering v-neckline with a twisted detail at the bust, this dress is designed to impress. The ornate lace fabric, adorned with subtle sequin detailing throughout adds a touch of luxury, letting you shine. Pair it with a faux fur coat and heels for an effortlessly timeless, glamorous look. Roman.co.uk
These heeled sandals, crafted from a variety of metallic-coloured leathers, feature a striking debossed snake print pattern and a chic buckle ankle strap. Designed with a flared block heel for added style, they include a charming bow detail and a silver logo sole with comfortable padding, making them both fashionable and comfortable for any occasion. Oliverbonas.com
Created by imprinting vintage ribbon in wax, casting in recycled sterling silver and then gold-plating to enhance the fine woven pattern, these delicate textured earrings will surely impress. The designer, Emma Calvert, was inspired by the intricate beauty of remnants and offcuts of vintage ribbons, from 1920s art deco hat trims to 16th-century Florentine ribbons, antique French passementerie to military braid. Each piece is handcrafted in the UK from the highest quality materials, with the aim of having the smallest possible impact on people and the planet. Vam.ac.uk/shop
Cranberry no-jito Ingredients
• 60ml white rum alternative
• 25ml cranberry syrup
• Soda water
• Juice of 1 lime
• Small handful of mint
• Mint leaves and fresh cranberries as optional garnish
Method
1. If you’re feeling extra creative, make your own cranberry syrup by heating up a 1:1:1 ratio of water, sugar, and cranberries, then straining.
2. Muddle the mint with the lime juice.
3. Pour over the cranberry syrup and your white rum alternative.
4. Strain.
5. Top up with soda water.
6. Make it look the part with a sprig of mind and a few fresh berries.
Our lo-no pick White cane spirit Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic | £23.99
Using a sugar cane spirit such as this one from Lyre’s will capture the essence of a gently aged white rum and its distinct flavours, making it impossible to tell the difference between a nojito and mojito!
Lyres.co.uk
Alcohol-free eggnog Ingredients (makes four)
• 120ml no-lo spirit
• 1tsp vanilla essence
• 3 eggs
• 120ml double cream
• 100ml whole milk
• 100ml condensed milk
• 50g caster sugar
Method
1. Whisk your eggs with vanilla essence and caster sugar until creamy.
2. Slowly whisk in the milk in 25ml intervals.
3. Do the same with the cream and condensed milk.
4. Cover and refrigerate for over two hours.
5. Pour into your glasses or mugs and slowly stir in your spirit.
6. Garnish with whatever you like! It could be grated nutmeg, cinnamon, or even whipped cream.
Our lo-no pick Non-alcoholic brandy spirit
Best Regards | £22
There are many spirit alternatives that work well in eggnog. We chose this brandy because of its delicious flavours of fig, dark chocolate, almond, cherry, and vanilla that will marry perfectly with the rich, creamy eggnog. Enjoymocktails.com
As more people delve into the world of sobriety, the non-alcoholic beverage industry is bigger than ever. Here are our picks of the best winter inspired mocktails to serve up this party season.
Non-alcoholic apple pie sangria Ingredients (for a jug)
• 40ml wine alternative (preferably white)
• 40ml apple juice
• 20ml lemon juice
• Dash of vanilla syrup
• Honey
• Cinnamon sugar
• Apple cubes or slices
• Ice
Method
1. Heat up equal parts sugar and water and add vanilla pods or vanilla essence to make a simple and delicious vanilla syrup.
2. Shake the ice, juices, wine, and syrup in a cocktail shaker until thoroughly cold and mixed.
3. Pour the mixture into a jug and add the cranberries and any other garnish you’d like to include.
4. Roll the rim of the glasses you’ll be serving the sangria in honey and cinnamon sugar so its evenly distributed all the way round.
Our lo-no pick
Alcohol free Chardonnay Eisberg | £4
Sangria doesn’t have to be reserved for summer, sweet apple and sour lemon in this Chardonnay from Eisberg will work perfectly in this elevated wintery white wine spritzer. Eisberg.co.uk
Hot gin-less toddy (makes four) Ingredients
• 100ml gin
• 100ml orange juice
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 4 cloves
• 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 4 juniper berries, lightly crushed
• 4 tsp runny honey
Method
1. Divide the gin between four small heatproof glasses or mugs.
2. Pour 200ml of water into a saucepan with the rest of the ingredients, reserving two lemon slices, and heat gently on a low setting until simmering.
3. Strain the mixture into a jug and discard the fruits and spices.
4. Pour the toddy mixture over the gin in the glasses and stir gently to combine.
5. Cut the reserved lemon slices in half and use these to garnish the drinks and serve warm.
Our lo-no pick
Clean g | Clean Co. | £16
A hot toddy is a classic winter drink, and it doesn’t have to be boozy. This ‘clean gin’ from Clean Co is made to be mixed just as you would a classic gin, with notes of juniper, lemon, orange, grapefruit, and rosemary. Clean.co
What’s a party without groovy music and great lighting? We speak to Hestia Smart Living’s Pasha Melli about installing sound systems and smart lights to create the perfect party atmosphere.
Hosting a memorable party at home requires more than just good food and drinks; the right atmosphere is crucial. With the advancements in smart lighting and sound systems, creating that perfect ambiance has never been easier, though getting the right systems installed can be a bit of a daunting prospect.
Pasha Melli, Owner of Hestia Smart Living, believes that a good sound system should be ideal for day-to-day as well as a special occasion: “The best system for parties is SONOS. You can place them in different rooms throughout the house, and they can all play the same music at the same time.” This feature is particularly advantageous for hosting larger events where music is essential to maintain energy and engagement. Imagine moving from the kitchen, where friends are mixing drinks, to the living room, where laughter and conversation abound – all while enjoying a consistent sound experience: “If you have a couple of them around the house, for example in the living
room and kitchen, day to day people can listen to different music, but then you can put them in party mode and they all connect together. The house becomes like a massive speaker.”
However, it’s not just about sound; lighting plays an equally pivotal role in setting the mood. Being able to control the atmosphere of any gathering at the touch of a button – or even with your voice – is a dream, and the installation may be easier than you’d think: “It depends on the size of the room and the complexity of the system. Adding smart lighting isn’t easy. It would take an entire day to perfect the lighting system in one room. Different components need to be installed, including the controller, the drivers, and the power unit. These have to be connected together and then installed. It’s simple, but time-consuming.”
For the truly tech-savvy host, new lights are emerging that can pulse and change with the music thanks to built-in microphones. This synchronisation creates a visually stunning environment that responds dynamically to the beats, further elevating the party atmosphere.
While many may wonder about the investment involved, Pasha provides insight into the costs: “Because we are a high-end company, it is difficult to give a price for one room. Lighting shouldn’t be that costly; it would be around £600 to £700. The sound systems would be a bit more: around £1,200 to £1,300.”
For those looking to create a fully customised experience with all the bells and whistles, prices can be up to £4,000 to £5,000.
LEDs or all the speakers. Get them installed professionally by the engineers. They are experts, and know what they’re doing, so you can save a lot of hassle.”
Investing in smart lighting and sound systems can transform your home into a captivating party venue, ensuring that your gatherings are not only fun but also memorable. With the right setup, you’ll be ready to impress your guests and create an atmosphere that keeps
As with all advanced technology, there is potential for mishaps if you attempt the installation yourself: “With all of this tech, which is advancing all the time, it is very easy to get one thing wrong and blow all the
subwoofer.
“This combination will create a Dolby Atmos system and can feel like a cinema.” Sonos.com
Get ready to impress your party guests with delicious offerings as we speak to Reuven Banay from Niru Catering about trends and his top tips for whipping up your own memorable dishes.
As we all get together with friends, families, and loved ones during party season, the food that’s served can take any event from drab to fab. In recent years, party food trends have shifted towards creative, shareable, and instagrammable options that delight both the palate and the eyes. From gourmet finger food to interactive food stations and vibrant charcuterie boards, the party food world is all about innovation and personalisation.
Local ingredients with global flavour is a trend that’s more popular than ever as we make more eco-friendly decisions in our everyday lives. Bringing together influences from cuisines from across the globe using locally sourced ingredients will bring your favourite destination to you and your guests, without damaging the planet.
At Niru Catering, the team specialises in Middle Eastern food but will often combine other cuisines into their offerings, as Co-founder, Reuven Banay, tells us: “We incorporate many different cuisines into our menus, with everything from South American to European. We like to invent our own menu items or upgrade and change up classic dishes from all over the world. Typical Israeli and Jewish food takes influence from all over the world as Israeli’s brought dishes from a different number of countries and gave them a new, unique twist. Things like salt beef sandwiches, schnitzel, sliders, and falafels are particularly popular.”
Combining classic dishes with modern twists and flavours is always going to be a trend, as people look for ways to honour their heritage while keeping things fresh: “I like to take a classic dish and change it up. For example, a client asked for latkes with a twist, so I made them using the traditional ingredients but make them floppy, to make them a bit different.”
A huge trend that has made its way into the mainstream in recent years is the rise in health and wellness, with more people making conscious choices about their
We like to invent our own menu items or upgrade and change up classic dishes from all over the world.
diets and lifestyles. Reuven tells us about his experience of this: “A lot of people are veering towards more healthier options, especially in the last few years. There’s been a huge rise in veganism and vegetarianism, along with clients asking for less fried dishes and more vegetables. We try to incorporate dishes that are healthier into the menu and
make sure our clients have more options – if that’s what they’re looking for – with things such as plenty of salads and foods with a lot less oil, fat, and salt in them.”
Struggling to think of ideas for creating your own party menu? Reuven believes you can’t go wrong with roast chicken: “In my experience, roast chicken is always a hit at Jewish events, everyone loves it! For a party vibe I put a twist on what would usually be served as meal, for example once we did a ‘Friday night roast’ where we put all the elements of a roast chicken dinner into a ramekin sized portion to ensure our Jewish clients can still get the foods they enjoy.”
With more and more people are looking to cut down on costs by making their own food, it requires a lot of planning, and budgeting, as Reuben advises: “There are so many elements and costs that go into hosting a party. My main piece of advice on the food is to be organised. Sit down and make a list of everything you want to include on your menu before you start and have a very clear idea of it. If not, it will quickly become a headache! You have to keep your budget in mind and stick to it! If you go off path, things will get confusing, and the budget will quickly fly out of the window.”
On Instagram @Nirucatering | Nirucateringinfo@gmail.com
Bring some sparkle to your celebrations with our guide to this party season’s must have jewellery.
Make a statement at your next party with this elegant necklace featuring a single star charm crafted from recycled sterling silver. Its minimalist design offers a touch of sophistication, making it the perfect accessory to showcase. Whether worn alone or layered with other pieces, this necklace captures attention without overpowering your look. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate simple yet meaningful jewellery, ensuring you stand out in a crowd. A thoughtful gift for someone special, this necklace sparks conversations about sustainability and style, making it a delightful addition to any festive celebration or social gathering.
Cocobellejewellery.co.uk
Show off your inner star with these stunning dangly star drop earrings in gold vermeil, a truly eye-catching accessory. The dazzling design features multiple stars cascading elegantly from a secure stud back, creating a captivating movement that draws the eye. Each star is highly polished, allowing light to dance and reflect beautifully with every motion, ensuring you shine at any event. Perfect for special occasions, these earrings add a touch of celestial charm to your ensemble.
Foolsgoldjewellery.co.uk
These elegant Burberry cufflinks are the perfect accessory to showcase at any gathering. Crafted in gold-tone metal, they exude sophistication and style, instantly elevating your attire. The centre features the iconic camel check Burberry print, a timeless design that captures attention, while the black enamel outline adds a touch of refinement. When worn, they not only reflect your keen sense of fashion but also spark conversation among guests as they are one of a kind. Whether it’s a formal event or a casual get-together, these cufflinks are sure to impress, making you the centre of attention and showcasing your taste for luxury and classic design.
Annabeljames.co.uk
This stunning brooch, available in silver or gold plating over bronze, is the perfect finishing touch to your glad rags. Crafted by the talented Elisabeth Riveiro, a passionate jeweller who hand-makes her pieces in her French studio, this brooch embodies a unique blend of artistry and tradition. With over thirty years of experience, Elisabeth employs ancient techniques like lost wax casting, planishing, chiselling, and enamelling, ensuring each piece is a small, wearable sculpture.
Nataliawillmott.co.uk
Elevate your party look with the enchanting Annie Haak ‘Daisy Chain’ Bracelet, a dazzling addition to your accessory collection. Crafted from luxurious 925 Sterling Silver and adorned with shimmering Preciosa crystals, this bracelet is designed to catch the light and draw attention, looking fabulous under disco lighting. With its delicate flower spacers, this elegantly crafted piece is versatile enough to complement any outfit, making it perfect for stacking alongside your other bracelets. Hand-threaded in the UK on premium jewellery elastic, it ensures a comfortable stretch fit for any wrist.
Sharejewellers.com
Be the talk of the town at any party with our selection of the best evening scents.
The Replica collection by Maison Margiela has been formulated especially to relive personal memories through scents by creating fragrances that instantly evoke emotions. Jazz Club is an elegant, masculine, and smoky scent with rich a woody profile that has notes of tobacco leaf and pink pepper designed to replicate the intimate ambiance of a private jazz club. It’s intriguing and complex profile paired with its long-lasting scent makes Jazz Club a statement fragrance to wear and its appealing notes will draw compliments throughout the night.
Sephora.co.uk
Designed as a unisex fragrance, Tobacco Vanille by Tom Ford is a great option for everyone. Its top notes are tobacco and spices that pair amazingly with its heart notes of tonka beans, tobacco flower, cocoa, and vanilla. The blend of sweetness and warmth make this scent versatile for whatever festive gathering you may be attending, from an extravagant party to intimate celebrations. Its warm notes are particularly appealing during the winter months as they provide an element of comfort while still making a statement.
Spacenk.com
Although it has many floral notes, the rich and gourmand profile of La Vie est Belle makes it perfect for a festive party fragrance. Iris is the key ingredient, and it’s surrounded by orange blossoms and jasmine, with other notes comprised of warm vanilla and patchouli essence. This fragrance embodies elegance and has a broad and timeless appeal that will last throughout the evening, so is the perfect accompaniment to any party this season.
Lancome.co.uk
YSL’s Black Opium is a cult classic, and for very good reason. Its addictive scent features black coffee and sensual vanilla as warm notes that are very distinctive. Other notes are comprised of pear accord, mandarin essence, orange blossom, cedarwood essence, white musk, and patchouli make up a bold and striking fragrance that will allow you to showcase your own unique style. Not only is the scent perfect for party season, but its bottle also won’t look out of place at a festive gathering with its glamourous black sequin decorations.
Lookfantastic.com
Huda Beauty’s fragrance line – Kayali – is inspired by the rich heritage of the Middle East and has many scents in its range that are a great addition to any party get up. Lovefest Burning Cherry 48 has rich notes of woody spices with an uplifting fruity twist. Key notes include black cherry, raspberry, Palo Santo, and bergamot that evolve into heart notes of rose, jasmine sambac, and caramelised praline. The scent is a playful and uplifting aroma that perfectly matches the joyful energy of a celebration.
Cultbeauty.co.uk
We’ve got your winter watches and reads sorted with our round up of some of the best upcoming TV shows, films, and books.
Star Wars: Skeleton Crew | Disney+ 3rd December
Skeleton Crew follows the journey of four children who make a mysterious discovery on their seemingly safe home planet. They get lost in a strange and dangerous galaxy, crossing paths with the likes of the mysterious characters such as Jod Na Nawood (Jude Law). Finding their way home – and meeting unlikely allies and enemies – will be a greater adventure than they ever imagined.
No Good Deed | Netflix 10th December
When Lydia (Lisa Kudrow) and Paul (Ray Romano) decide to move on from their empty nest to build a new life, they list their 1920s Spanish-style villa – that’s located in one of Los Angeles’ most desirable neighbourhoods – for sale. No Good Deed is a dark comedy series that follows three very different families as they race to buy Lydia and Paul’s house as they all think it will solve their problems. As they struggle to hide the dark and dangerous secrets that linger inside their home, Paul and Lydia begin to realise that the only way they’ll escape the past is to finally face it.
Dr Julie Smith | 2nd January
This book contains a series of ‘open when’ style letters from Dr Julie Smith to help navigate the moments of overwhelm, confusion, or self-doubt. Offering calm, clarity, and a laser focus on the best way forward, each personal letter is followed by real-time tools that will help you re-frame the situation and decide on your next move. Every chapter covers a new scenario so whether you’re experiencing stress, pressure to perform, trying to fit in, making big decisions, or dealing with emotions that are causing anxiety, Open When... brings the words you need to hear to get back on the front foot.
We Live in Time In cinemas 1st January
Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield star in A24’s latest romance offering where Almut (Pugh) and Tobias (Garfield) are brought together in a surprise encounter that changes their lives. Through snapshots of their life together, a difficult truth is revealed that rocks its foundation. As they embark on a path challenged by the limits of time, they learn to cherish each moment of the unconventional route their love story has taken.
A Real Pain In cinemas 10th January
Jesse Eisenberg’s road-trip drama sees David (Eisenberg), and his cousin Benji (Kieran Culkin), hoping to repair their once close relationship by visiting the Polish birthplace of their beloved grandmother. Joined by an eclectic group of fellow Jewish travellers and an overly enthusiastic British tour guide (Will Sharpe), they quickly form an unusually close bond. What starts as a quick-witted and clever comedy blossoms into a nuanced and sometimes painful exploration of family relationships, love, and loss.
We round up some of the best new food and drink offerings that have recently made a home in Leeds.
Hoc Loco | Horsforth | Coming soon
Hoc Loco is a new independent bar on New Road Side in Horsforth that serves craft beer, artisan wines, and natural ciders. The bar also doubles as a bottle shop where you can buy the drinks on offer and enjoy them from the comfort of your own home. Expect a cosy atmosphere with top tipples and there’s even cicchetti-style nibbles available, which are small Italian snack plates that pair perfectly with the drink offerings. The brain behind the project is Emma Bond, who has documented the entire renovation process on the bar’s Instagram account.
On Instagram @Hoc.horsforth
Brasserie | Chapel Allerton Open now
A local institution since the 1990s, Bengal Brasserie has a new location on Stainbeck Road in Chapel Allerton. It’s the fourth familyrun restaurant to open in Leeds and diners can expect all the usual Indian and Bangladeshi food that it’s known and loved for. Whether it’s house specials like the nawabi khana that comprises of 21 individually roasted ingredients or classics like a tikka masala that’s cooked with the restaurant’s own special tandoori sauce, there’s something for everyone to sink their teeth into.
Bengal-brasserie.com
Woodside | City Centre | Open now
The team behind The Brunswick and The Melbourne have opened a new bar, eatery, and social space on Crown Point Road in the city centre. Whether you’re looking for a chilled space to get work done accompanied by a coffee or catching up with friends over a couple of drinks while watching live sport, Woodside has got you covered. There’s also a menu of classics dishes available, including a delicious roast with all the trimmings on Sundays.
Woodsidelds.co.uk
The Old Police Station by Montgomery House | Headingley Open now
In a first for Headingley, Montgomery House is an aparthotel that features an atrium bar packed with snacks, a meeting room, and five luxury spacious bedrooms complete with bathrooms and kitchens. It aims to combine the intimate feel of a boutique hotel with the freedom and privacy of apartment living. The high-end accommodation is packed with luxury mixed with local charm, from Dyson hairdryers and Marshall speakers in the rooms to tipples from Kirkstall Brewery and tasty treats from Yorkshire Crisps at the bar.
Montgomery-house.co.uk
Nyla’s | City Centre | Open now
The latest edition to the city centre’s bustling bar and restaurant scene has come in the shape of Nyla’s on New Briggate. Expect urban-chic décor and live DJs and entertainment throughout the week, whether you’re looking for a cosy catch up or out for a little dance. The cocktail bar serves all your favourite cocktails, as well as a menu packed with a whole range of dishes. There are small plates such as salt and pepper squid and chicken satay skewers or burgers, steak, and salads if you’re feeling a bit more peckish.
Visitnylas.com
Winston Solicitors has once again been ranked in Legal 500, one of the most well-known and respected independent legal directories in the world.
The Leeds-based law firm has been ranked as a Leading Firm, two partners have been ranked as Leading Partners, and the firm has also been recognised with a new accreditation as a Leading Firm for Outstanding Customer Service.
Teresa Daviston, Partner and Head of Family, and Harriet Reid, Partner and Family Solicitor, have both been named as Leading Partners. Legal 500 gives this ranking to ‘the strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.’
Managing Partner at Winston Solicitors, Johnathan Winston, said: “Our focus has always been on delivering exceptional client service and achieving the best possible outcomes. These achievements reflect that commitment. I’m immensely proud of our team and grateful to our clients for their continued trust and support.”
Despite Israel’s current economic challenges, the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange 35 Index rose by 14% since October 7th, with bank stocks and real estate stocks showing a positive year-end.
After the sharp declines as an initial reaction to the October 7th attack, there was a recovery, which later turned to stocks rising. As the war was still ongoing, a cautious optimism was shown despite the negative effects the situation is having on the economy.
In the year that has passed since the outbreak of the war, the Tel Aviv 35 index rose by 14.1%, TA 125 recorded an increase of 12.2% during this period, and TA 90 index recorded an increase of 8.5%.
In the last 12 months, the Tel Aviv Banks Index – which includes the five largest banks in the country – registered an increase of 9.3%. In the real estate industry, Tel Aviv Real Estate index registered an increase of 14.2%, TA construction rose 14.7%, TA-investment properties in Israel rose 12.3%, and TA-investment properties abroad rose 17.2%.
The Yorkshire Children of Courage Awards were held at New Dock Hall and welcomed over 600 guests. Ten young people and a Leeds children’s charity were celebrated for their bravery and resilience.
Founded in 2011 by the St. James’s Place (SJP) Charitable Foundation, the awards highlight the courage of the region’s young people but also raises essential funds for hundreds of charities. This year’s event raised over £65,000 for the SJP Charitable Foundation –which supports many Yorkshire charities – with a silent auction and charity raffle.
This year, a new award category was introduced in memory of the late Rob Burrow. The Dare to Dream Award was presented by last year’s winners of the Compassionate Carer award, Rob’s daughters Maya and Macy – who were joined by their mother, Lindsey, and brother, Jackson. Freddie McDonald, who was born with a condition called Alagille Syndrome and had 2 open heart surgeries before his fifth birthday, was presented with the Dare to Dream Award.
Stream.Security, the leading provider of real-time cloud security solutions, has announced the closing of a $30 million Series B funding round led by US Venture Partners. This new round of funding brings the total investment in Stream.Security to $55 million.
Tel Aviv based Stream.Security’s technology provides security operations (secOps) teams with real-time cloud threat and exposure modelling to accelerate response. Stream.Security’s Cloud Twin technology quickly identifies attack paths across all elements of rapidly changing cloud infrastructure, assesses the potential impact of breaches, and eliminates false positives.
Or Shsohani, CEO of Stream.Security, said: “SecOps teams need a cloud solution they can trust, and without the ability to continuously assess and manage threat and exposure in real time, they are securing the cloud through a rear-view mirror. This funding validates our fundamentally superior approach to cloud security and will play an important role in bringing our Cloud Twin technology to enterprises worldwide.”
Helping graduates start their own businesses and upskilling partner companies has boosted Leeds’ placing in this year’s Knowledge Exchange Framework. The University of Leeds has long held a strong position in the framework, which measures how the education sector has a positive effect on the wider world.
Areas examined range from the numbers of members of the public attending events to income from research partnerships with business, public sector organisations, and charities.
The university has also maintained its position in the top 20% for income from consultancy work, contract research, and use of facilities by the public and other sectors in the framework published by Research England, which is part of UK Research and Innovation – the country’s largest public research funder.
Professor Nick Plant, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation at the University of Leeds, said: “The results of this year’s KEF are testament to how the strength of our collaborations with partners and communities across the region, nationally and internationally enable the dissemination of our world-leading research, innovation, and knowledge for significant socio-economic benefit.”
Israeli based AI speech technology company, aiOla, has announced that Professor Dr Bhiksha Raj – a renowned automatic speech recognition researcher – is joining the company as its Distinguished Scientist.
Dr Raj will work closely with aiOla’s Chief Scientist, Professor Dr Yossi Keshet. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, setting the stage for major advancements in AI-powered speech innovation.
Dr Raj has over 30 years of experience in the field and is a pioneer in speech recognition. He said: “We’re entering a new era of AI built on the foundation laid by academia, with industries now accelerating AI’s advancement and delivering its benefits directly to the public. It’s exciting times and I couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of aiOla. aiOla is at the forefront of this transformation, consistently delivering impactful research and innovative products that are setting new standards in industries from manufacturing to aviation and beyond.”
Dr Yossi Keshet said: “I am excited to welcome Bhiksha to aiOla. As one of the field’s most published AI speech researchers, Bhiksha’s extensive knowledge and background are invaluable, and our friendship will serve as a constant source of motivation and inspiration. Together, we will push the limits of what AI speech technology can do and take aiOla to new heights.”
November’s UKIB meeting included a talk by Daniel Burger, Magen David Adom UK’s Chief Executive about the organisation’s UK work, and an introduction from breakfast sponsor, Astonish.
The most recent UK Israel Business breakfast meeting was kicked off by its breakfast sponsors, Astonish. Daniel Gray, Business Development Director was introduced by Marshall Frieze, and took the audience on a trip down memory lane: “Alan Moss set up the company in 1969 and began selling at trades shows. Manufacturing a few products by hand on Meanwood Road started and by the late 1990s when Alan had established a household range of cleaners, he bought a lubricants company that had gone by the wayside called LORCO – London Oil Refining Company. We aren’t in London, and we certainly don’t refine oil, but the name sounds very impressive! When I joined back in 2005, we were turning over circa £4 million and in the blink of an eye it’s 2024 and we are on track to exit our fiscal year in May at approximately £75 million. From the days, we are still extremely proud of our Jewish heritage here in Leeds.”
Despite current challenges, the Israeli distributor of Astonish remains busier than ever and is determined to mirror the UK sales growth: “We are extremely proud to be the number one kitchen cleaning product brand in Israel. Giving the ongoing conflict across the Middle East, our prayers and thoughts go out to all the citizens of Israel, and we all wish for a peaceful resolution.”
Magen David Adom (MDA) – which translates to the red Star of David – is Israel’s national emergency medical, disaster, ambulance, and blood bank service which has been running for over 70 years. MDA UK was established primarily to assist MDA in Israel. However, the UK sector also gives aid to other equivalent organisations around the world, providing urgent medical care to civilians irrespective of their nationality, religion, ethnic origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or political affiliation.
Daniel Burger, Chief Executive of MDA UK, took to the mic and explained MDA’s main roles: “Firstly, MDA is the national medical emergency service in Israel, the ambulances are the first responders and they’re the government mandated emergency service. There are also its blood services. MDA is responsible for 98% of Israel’s blood supplies and 100% of the IDF’s blood supplies.”
“And thirdly, since 2006, MDA has been a member of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
(IFRC). This is particularly significant because for decades, MDA wanted to be part of the IFRC as it has been on the world stage saving lives for many years. The reason it didn’t join is partly because of itself, it didn’t want to accept the label of the inverted red cross flag, it wanted the red Star of David to be another protected emblem. Chair of the governing body of the Red Cross, Dr Mohammed AlHadid, adopted the red Star of David to be a protected emblem that’s recognised under international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions.”
MDA’s blood work in Israel has been more important than ever since October 7th 2023 “We’ve just been involved in building a new $120 million underground blood centre, it’s the worlds most protected blood centre and the core of the building can withstand direct hits from ballistic missiles. Ironically, it opened and became fully functioning on 9th October. It’s been about 20 years in conversation and about five years in building. The opening date had been in the diary for two years, and after the massacre there were questions about whether it should still be opened. Professor Shinar, Director of MDA’s Blood Services Division, said that if ever there was a time to move from an above ground, unprotected blood centre, to a below ground, protected centre, it’s now!”
“We’ve lost 36 of our own medics since the conflict began, some of which were brutally murdered on October 7th. That was a very difficult day for MDA, hearing that three of our own had been murdered in their ambulances going to save lives was incredibly tough. What we weren’t prepared for was the outpouring of financial support that we received after October 7th, that’s what’s been so remarkable. It’s testament to the amazing, life-saving work of those in the field. Hearing about the love and support for MDA and Israel really is not something that we take for granted.”
Donating money to MDA isn’t the only way to help the charity: “The types of blood in that part of the world are incredibly rare. Since January last year, Israeli’s are now able to accept British blood under the World Health Organisation, so when people ask how they can help, we always say to give blood.”
Mdauk.org
Tax Specialist Helen Booth from Leon & Co gives a rundown of some of the ways the latest budget is most likely to affect you.
Nearly four months after the general election, and 14 years after the last Labour budget, Rachel Reeves has delivered one of the most anticipated budgets of recent times.
Businesses and individuals alike had been braced for the “painful budget” that will raise taxes by £40 billion. We have highlighted the impact of the key points to help you.
Increases to employers’ national insurance costs
The biggest revenue raiser came in the form of changes to employers’ National Insurance contributions (NIC). With effect from April 2025:
• The rate of employers’ NIC will rise to 15%
from the current 13.8%; and the secondary threshold, above which employers’ NIC is payable will drop from £9,100 annually to £5,000, resulting in an additional £4,100 potentially subject to charge at the new higher rate.
• On a positive note, there has been an increase in employment allowance from £5,000 to £10,500 from April 2025 which insulates smaller employers from these additional costs.
The lower and higher main rates of Capital Gains Tax (CGT) will increase to 18% and 24% respectively for disposals made on or after 30th October 2024. These new rates will match the residential property tax rates, which are not changing.
The rate for Business Asset Disposal Relief (previously known as Entrepreneurs Relief) and Investors’ Relief will increase to 14% from 6th April 2025 and will increase again to match the lower rate of 18% from 6th April 2026. The rate of CGT that applies to trustees and personal representatives will also
be increased from 20% to 24% for disposals made on or after 30th October 2024.
VAT on private school fees
From 1st January 2025, all education services and vocational training provided by a private school in the UK for a charge will be subject to VAT at the standard rate of 20%.
The government has published a Corporate Tax Roadmap. The roadmap includes a commitment to cap the Corporation Tax rate at 25%; maintain the small profits rate and marginal relief at current rates and thresholds; and maintain key features as such as Full Expensing, the Annual Investment Allowance, R&D relief rates, and the Patent Box.
If the budget has left you in a spin and you need some professional advice, do not hesitate to contact Leon and Company Chartered Accountants; and let us be your financial ally in this ever changing tax battlefield.
Leonandcompany.co.uk
Councillor for Alwoodley, Dan Cohen, recaps some of the changes we’ve seen this year in our area and announces a very special visitor for December.
If you blinked, you might just have missed it, but here we are with most of 2024 in the rearview mirror and 2025 approaching faster than a speeding monkey (if that’s not yet a term, it should be).
As we rush headlong into December it is staggering to think we’ve seen England lose in the final of the Euros, Leeds fail to climb out of the championship (obviously in the play offs – because we are Leeds), our Olympians and Paralympians showing us all what pride, resilience, and excellence look like, local elections here in Leeds (and mayoral elections too – though many missed them!) followed all too quickly by a General Election and of course, a small election across the pond, which will see the return of a certain President Trump.
None of this mentions the myriad local events, news stories (both good and bad) and issues that have impacted so many of us, in so many different ways. In short, it’s no great shock that the year has flown past.
There is still time for a last hurrah with Chanukah and Christmas soon with us (in fact this year is one of the rare occasions that the festivals both happen at exactly the same time).
It wouldn’t be Christmas in Alwoodley without the actual, genuine, Santa Claus visiting the ward. This year is no different and Santa advised me just yesterday that he is planning to come to Alwoodley on 8th December, together of course, with Mrs Claus and the elves.
Santa will be at the Alwoodley Community Association from 11am to 3pm. Every child visiting will receive a free gift (and of course as this is the real Santa there will be no charge to visit). Please do come along to see him – it’s doubly worth visiting because the Alwoodley Christmas Craft and Produce Market will be taking place at the Alwoodley Community Association at the same time.
It also wouldn’t be Chanukah without a full range of Chanukah Menorah lightings and
Chanukah Parties across the ward and the city. I will put details of all that is planned on the Alwoodley Ward Residents Facebook Group as soon as they are available.
That almost wraps up my JLife columns for 2024, do make sure that you look out for my first column of 2025 (out in February) for a big announcement and update.
On behalf of Lyn, Neil, and myself we want to wish every single JLife reader the very fondest of seasonal wishes and to every one of us a happy, healthy, prosperous and above all else peaceful 2025.
Cllr Dan Cohen
07711 647 849
dan.cohen@leeds.gov.uk
Leeds City Councillor for Alwoodley
Scrutiny Chair Children and Families
Deputy Leader Conservative Group
The October UKIB meeting featured guest speaker Mike Bates, a counter terrorism, covert operations leader within the Intelligence and Security fields of the Ministry of Defence.
The latest UK Israel Business breakfast began with a word from Colin Glass OBE, who shared the work that the organisation has been doing with Michelle Cooper at the Department of Business and Trade, to support Israeli businesses visiting Leeds.
The meeting’s main speaker was Mike Bates, a former Covert Ops Leader, Commando, Motivational Speaker, and Co-Founder of Gracie Barra Roundhay Leeds, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy. Mike started off by discussing how he got into the military and working in counterterrorism: “I think the first thing to say here is that I’m just a normal guy. I’m from Doncaster, the oldest of three kids, and I always say it was a very normal upbringing up until the age of 10, when my dad left. It really turned my life upside down, not that I realised it at the time. At age 15, I was arrested for dancing on top of a car in Doncaster town centre. All of a sudden, I was 19 years old, wondering who I’m going to be and what am I going to do? I met a guy who was in the Navy, who said I should consider joining the Royal Marines. So, I joined up at age 19, and when I got there, I was surrounded by people like me.
“In 2002, I was shipped out to Afghanistan with one mission: to find a guy called Osama Bin Laden. It was an experience, to understand what high performance and great teamwork looked like. I spent six months in Afghanistan, came back home and had 12 weeks of leave. Then the war in Iraq kicked off. The year after I deployed to bandit country, South Armargh in Northern Ireland. Three years, three operational tours, three amazing opportunities to discover the art of leadership.
“At one point we were in the mountains that sit between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The air was very thin. They actually had to weigh us, because they were worried that the helicopters wouldn’t be able to take off in the thin air with too much weight.”
Mike then explained how his career moved into intelligence: “I got pneumonia, spent some time in hospital, and asked myself if I wanted to be in the military for another 10 years. I knew I wanted a family, but
I wanted to continue to serve my country. I applied for a job I didn’t even know existed – they had just started advertising it openly – and I was plucked out of obscurity and placed into what I’m only allowed to refer to as the Intelligence and Security field in the MOD. I became the first person at the MOD to pass all the courses to work undercover at the highest level.”
Living a double life was understandably a strange experience for Mike: “It was a weird life to live. I’d take my son to school, drop him off, and then deploy on operations. This involved living a double life and all that comes with pretending to be a different person in order to be attractive to terrorists. I worked against various emerging threats throughout my career including; ISIS, Al Qaeda, State Actors, and the Extreme Right Wing. The emergence of that as a threat about four or five years ago, was significant. My job was to go into those organisations, and credibly pose as someone who shared their views.”
The conversation then turned to the emotional difficulties of such high-stake work: “I felt we had the moral high ground. But it’s quite hard to compartmentalise your life. Because actually, if I’m being honest, the life that any of us are living now isn’t a million miles away from the life of a terrorist. These guys are enigmatic figures. They’re good people in their communities, and that’s how they’re able to pull people in.”
The meeting took place shortly after the IDF’s operation on exploding pagers used by Hezbollah to communicate, and Mike was asked what he thought of this strategy: “I think it’s an interesting attack, because quite clearly it required the use of human sources of intelligence to get those pagers. Having been in that world so long you can see the power of it, because that will hurt Hezbollah way more than a rocket in the sky. They’ll be looking over their shoulder for the next 10 years.”
Find out more about Mike’s Jiu-Jitsu Academy in our Street Lane feature.
Ukisraelbusiness.co.uk
UK Israel Business offers a huge thanks to all its sponsors and partners this year and looks forward to more great speakers and collaborations in 2025.
Town Centre Securities PLC
Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS) is a property investment and development company founded in 1959 by Arnold Ziff, with current assets of approximately £375 million.
With 60 years’ experience, a commitment to sustainable development, and a reputation for quality and innovation, TCS create mixed-use developments close to transport hubs in major cities across the UK. In addition, CitiPark, a subsidiary of TCS, is
Blacks Solicitors Blackstonesolicitorsltd.co.uk
Berry’s Jewellers Berrysjewellers.co.uk
Manning Stainton Manningstainton.co.uk
Chamber International Chamber-international.com
Jonny Ross Jonnyross.com
Boost Drinks Boostdrinks.com
a thriving car park business with branches in Leeds, Manchester, London, and Watford.
Current chairman and chief executive, Edward Ziff OBE DL, and the next generation of the Ziff family are active in consistently evolving the family business and continuing to nurture the growth and development of TCS.
Tcs-plc.co.uk
Port Growth Partners
Port Growth Partners was established in 2022 to provide funding and consultancy services to
Embassy of Israel London New.embassies.gov.il/england/en
West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce Wnychamber.co.uk
Headrow Gallery Headrowgallery.co.uk
Mitchell Wealth Management Mitchellwm.co.uk
The One Solution Theonesolution.biz
innovative technology companies looking to accelerate their growth.
Port Growth is based in Leeds, and led by Martin Port, an entrepreneur and business adviser who is on a mission to support and grow businesses with the potential to hit unicorn status of a $1 billion valuation. Martin is passionate about supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs. He hopes to help UK entrepreneurs and directors bring their ideas to life and build extraordinary businesses. Portgrowthpartners.com
Leon & Company Leonandcompany.co.uk
The Business Desk Thebusinessdesk.com
Chef Works Chefworks.co.uk
Department for International Trade Gov.uk/government/organisations/ department-for-international-trade
Yorkshire Asian Business Association Yabauk.com
David Cole Photography Davidcolephotography.co.uk
Equals One Equalsone.co.uk
Andel Ltd Andel.co.uk
Care2Care Care2care.uk
World Mobile Worldmobile.io
JLife Magazine Jlifemagazine.co.uk
Check in at trendsetting Street Lane, boasting a wealth of food, shopping, and culture to delight.
A captivating area that effortlessly blends traditional charm with modern flair, Street Lane is known for an eclectic mix of eateries, health and legal services, top notch shops, and cultural spots.
With some of the big names on the food circuit, it’s a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options from cosy cafés to upscale restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every palate. If it’s some hot fresh bread you are after, of course Street Lane Bakery, a charming artisan bakery located by the synagogue, is dedicated to crafting high-quality, kosher bagels and confectionary. From crusty sourdough breads and delectable pastries to mouthwatering cakes and treats, the inviting atmosphere and friendly service make it a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a warm cup of coffee alongside their favourite baked delicacies.
The area is also home to an array of independent shops and boutiques that cater to a variety of tastes. Here, you can find everything from vintage clothing to unique homeware and boutique jewellery, providing a refreshing alternative to the mainstream shopping experience. We locals also often forget the beauty of Roundhay Park and the vibrant collection of exotic plants and animals, featuring lush rainforest environments and fascinating wildlife exhibits at Tropical World, both just down the street. Together, these attractions enhance the community’s cultural landscape, providing a perfect blend of nature and creativity.
The area is buzzing with excitement thanks to several new openings that bring a delightful blend of dining and wellness to the area. First up is Kofi & Co, an independent café known to visitors of Wetherby dedicated to serving specialty coffee, wholesome dishes, and sweet treats, with a focus on quality Yorkshire
ingredients. Adding to the vibrant scene is Hesco Lounge, which opened its doors in the former Banyan site. Part of the West Countrybased Loungers group, Hesco Lounge aims to be a cosy retreat for everyone, featuring a diverse all-day menu that includes everything from tapas and salads to hearty burgers and buttermilk fried chicken. With vegan and gluten-free options available, it caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Worth of mention are a couple of established businesses with positive impacts. At Gracie Barra Roundhay, those of you seeking some more physical activity can engage in professional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for both beginners and those with more experience. Co-owned by former Intelligence Officer Mike Bates (see our recap of his recent talk at the UK Israel Breakfast on page 38), the academy focuses on building strength, confidence, and real-world class self-defence skills where members can push their limits and thrive both physically and mentally. And, if you happened to have missed it, the iconic San Carlo Flying Pizza underwent a stunning refurb back in January. A fixture in Leeds since 1974, the restaurant boasts a beautifully appointed interior and a spectacular dining terrace that features a fully retractable roof, allowing patrons to enjoy their dining under the sun or stars.
The menu highlights classic Italian cuisine, from comforting pastas to exquisite seafood dishes and a curated selection of Italian wines.
Street Lane offers so much more. Keep your eyes peeled on Facebook’s Roundhay Community Chat for news on businesses and local events, with exhibitions, and performances that highlight local talent planned throughout the calendar.
Since 2002 Winston Solicitors has been advising on complex legal matters and creating client focused solutions.
Rankings, reviews and recommendations equal one message - legal advice from solicitors who put their clients first.
Centrally located on Street Lane, with client parking, and a welcoming team.
Talk to Winston Solicitors for legal advice for you and your business.
Win a £100 voucher for the new Hesco Lounge on
Street Lane, serving delicious food and drinks in a family-friendly setting.
Hesco Lounge, the latest addition to the Loungers family, has opened its doors on Street Lane in the space formerly occupied by Banyan. Named after the popular HESCO garden at the Chelsea Flower Show, which celebrates the industrial heritage and green spaces around the city, the new venue brings a fresh and vibrant atmosphere to the area, blending stylish design with a warm, welcoming feel.
The interior of Hesco Lounge is a feast for the eyes, with its striking patterned wallpapers, vintage-inspired furniture, and eclectic artwork creating a cosy yet elegant environment.
Oversized sofas, upholstered lounge chairs, and statement lighting set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable experience, whether you’re meeting friends for a coffee or enjoying a long, lazy brunch with family.
The menu at the lounge is just as inviting,
offering a wide range of options for all tastes. From tapas and fresh salads to hearty burgers and buttermilk fried chicken, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The venue also caters to vegans and gluten-free diets with dedicated menus, ensuring that all guests can find something they love.
The new venue is also designed with families in mind, offering a selection of games, books, and colouring materials for children, as well as high chairs and baby-changing facilities. It’s a true “home from home,” with an emphasis on comfort and convenience for all guests.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee, a relaxed dinner, or a celebration, the lounge promises a welcoming environment and a menu that caters to everyone.
Thelounges.co.uk/hesco
Having been a number of times since the new owners took over in January 2023, the food and service has been excellent every time. Veggie and GF aplenty, there’s always excellent choice for your party, and the portions are great too, whether it’s Eggs Benedict for breakfast a delicious pasta or pizza for lunch or a steak or fish dinner with a lovely glass of wine. Its also a great place for a coffee and a chat!
In December there’s a great festive menu, and a new outdoor heated area is coming, so head down to La Petite on Street Lane, and tell them we sent you!
Team JLife
Read the latest reviews!
We frequently visit here, as a couple or with friends and it’s always really good. The food is always tasty, well-seasoned and full of flavour, and the portions are always reasonable.
I highly recommend the saganaki and the bruschetta pomodrini. Both have lovely flavours.
One of the best restaurants in the area . The food and service were excellent and the prices were reasonable too. We will no doubt be back, really worth a visit.
To have a chance at winning a £100 voucher to spend at Hesco Lounge, please answer the following question…
What is the lounge named after?
Enter online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/ competitions-5 or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. Please ensure your entry includes your name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date: 24th January 2025
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Street Lane’s La Petite is fast becoming North Leeds’ favourite, with its tasty mediterranean menu and great service. Breakfast | Lunch
|
| Bar
We serve delicious pasta, risotto, pizza, and meat and fish dishes.
3 Course | Choice of 6 options | Tea/coffee £39.95 per person | Under 12 half price Available through December Christmas Menu
Private Parties, Allergens and Vegetarian very welcome
39 Street Lane, Roundhay, LS8 1AP Open weekdays
8.30am – 10pm, to 11pm Sat, 9pm Sun Book on 07448 551196 lapetiteroundhay@gmail.com www.lapetiteleeds.co.uk COMING SOON,
Discover the health and wellbeing benefits of joining Gracie Barra Roundhay Leeds, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy on Street Lane.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a growing martial art that originated in Brazil and is based on the principles of ground fighting and grappling.
One of the earliest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors in the UK was Mauricio Gomes, who arrived in London in the 1990s. Gomes is a black belt under the legendary Gracie family and was one of the first to introduce BJJ to the UK. He founded the Roger Gracie Academy in London with Roger Gracie, who is the son of Carlos Gracie Jr. and one of the most successful competitors in the sport’s history. Roger Gracie also founded the Roger Gracie Academy in London and played a significant role in spreading BJJ throughout the UK.
BJJ has grown to become popular as a competitive sport in the UK, with a number of national and international competitions taking place each year. The British Open is one of the largest BJJ competitions in the UK, attracting competitors from around the world.
Sitting above the Olive Branch Roundhay, Gracie Barra Roundhay Leeds, Brazilian JiuJitsu (BJJ) is one of the neighbourhood’s lesser known businesses, but one that has grown exponentially since opening during COVID. Co-owned by black belt Mike Bates, this dynamic academy boasts an impressive roster of 550 students and 40 dedicated coaches, many of whom have honed their skills through the academy itself. With a diverse age range from as young as three to seasoned practitioners of 66, the club truly embodies the inclusive spirit of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
The club of choice for many of the Leeds Rhinos, Gracie Barra Roundhay takes pride in its world-class training environment. As Mike emphasises: “The mat is a mirror,” suggesting that the training space reflects one’s true persona, allowing individuals to discover their strengths and areas for growth. This philosophy encourages students to engage deeply with their practice, fostering personal development both on and off the mat.
BJJ is a tactile sport, requiring partners to train together, which promotes social interaction and development. In a world increasingly dominated by screens, Mike takes a refreshing stance: no phones allowed during training. This rule cultivates an atmosphere of
form of self-defence against larger opponents. But beyond the technical skills and self-defence techniques, the benefits of training in Brazilian Jui-Jitsu extend into the realms of health and wellbeing. Regular practice not only enhances physical fitness but also boosts mental health, providing a powerful outlet for stress reduction and confidence building. The supportive community environment helps foster lifelong friendships and camaraderie among members, making the academy a home away from home.
As may be expected, the practice will also improve your physical health as well. BJJ provides an intense full-body workout that elevates your heart rate and enhances cardiovascular endurance. As you push your limits during drills and sparring, you develop the stamina needed to go for longer durations. The constant movement and resistance training – through drills focused on takedowns, sweeps, submissions, and defence – help strengthen your muscles. Practicing these techniques involves a lot of twisting and turning, which boosts your agility. Over time, you’ll notice increased flexibility and improved mobility, both of which have practical benefits in everyday life.
The club is more than just a martial arts academy, it is a community hub that actively sponsors local events and engages with the neighbourhood. This commitment to giving back strengthens the bonds within the community and highlights the club’s dedication to not only its students but also to the wider area.
focus and connection, ensuring that students fully immerse themselves in the experience. One of the many reasons for its rising popularity is its practicality as a self-defence system. BJJ techniques focus on grappling and ground fighting, making it a highly effective
Whether you’re looking to enhance your physical fitness, develop self-defence skills, or simply find a supportive community, Gracie Barra Roundhay offers an unparalleled environment for growth and learning. Join the ranks of dedicated practitioners and discover the transformative power of the mat – where your journey begins.
Book a free trail class and join GBRL as a member before the end of 2024 to receive your first uniform free of charge –a saving of over £110 for children and over £157 for adults. Contact Sara on 07950 485 592 and mention JLife when arranging your free trial to claim.
Treat your taste buds with a selection of delicious Chinese dishes from Canton Flavour. All the usual favourites are on offer, as well as some house specialties, including Port Sauce Rump Steaks.
Canton Flavour makes a point not to offer delivery, preferring to focus on the quality of dishes rather than churning them out quickly. It’s well worth the trip to the restaurant to collect, with the kitchen using only the finest highquality ingredients. A standard which Canton Flavour has maintained even as its suppliers have raised prices in the last few years. As the restaurant’s motto states: “Why just eat? Eat the best!”
Canton-flavour.co.uk
Specialising in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of neuro-musculoskeletal conditions in joints and muscles, the team at Roundhay Chiropractic Clinic can relieve pain in every part of the body from head to toe.
Dealing with symptoms including migraine, back problems, stiffness, stress, sports injuries, and neck pain, the trigger point therapy and chiropractic manipulation helps to relieve muscle spasms, reduce nerve irritation, and allow joints to move freely.
Suitable for any age, the chiropractic treatment gives a general sense of wellbeing as the body balances itself, and the team will advise you on the necessary precautions to prevent recurrence and how to stay well long after your visit.
Leeds-chiropractic.co.uk
Ayur Mantra Ayurvedic Spa
This fabulous new spa opened on Street Lane in October, offering a holistic approach to wellness rooted in the ancient Indian science of Ayurveda. The new branch focuses on balancing body and mind through a range of treatments, including diets, massages, and herbal therapies, and won Best Holistic Spa Award 2023 to 24. With its emphasis on healing and rejuvenation, Ayur Mantra provides not just treatments but also valuable insights into living a balanced life, making it a perfect for those seeking relaxation and renewal, and is also an excellent treatment for a number of ailments, including arthritis.
As well as healing, the spa has a range of beauty and relaxation treatments available. Aromatherapy massages have all the benefits of a traditional massage, while also stimulating your sense of smell through essential oils. The benefits of these oils soak in through your skin and as you inhale the molecules in the air. Also on offer is a rejuvenating facial which cleanses pores and exfoliates dead skin, and reflexology treatments. Ayurmantra.co.uk
Ayur Mantra Ayurvedic Spa is offering two vouchers for a full body massage and steam bath for our readers to win, worth £50 each. To be in with a chance of winning, please answer the following question…
The ancient science that Ayur Mantra Ayurvedic Spa offer is from which country?
Enter online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/competitions-5 or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. Please ensure your entry includes your name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date: 24th January 2025
Terms and conditions apply: One entry per person. Prize must be redeemed before 31st May 2025. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in JLife Magazine and Ayur Mantra Ayurvedic Spa databases to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.
Nestled on Street Lane, Leeds, Share Jewellers offers more than just luxury jewellery—it’s the go-to destination for fine jewellery and thoughtful gifts to be cherished. Founded by brothers David and Richard Share, Share Jewellers embodies a rich legacy of personal service, deep-rooted connections to the local community,
and an exceptional level of craftsmanship. With over 60 years of combined experience, David and Richard have fulfilled their vision of creating an exclusive space that blends luxury jewellery and giftware with a warm, personalised shopping experience—both in-store and online.
For the Share brothers, jewellery is more than an accessory; it’s a deeply personal piece of a person’s life. “We’re often part of a customer’s journey, from engagements and anniversaries to graduations and special birthdays,” Richard shares. “Today, we’re now seeing children and grandchildren of original customers, and many have become friends over the years. To see people wearing jewellery we’ve designed or repaired, even years later, is incredibly rewarding.”
Customers also enjoy Share’s convenient free parking and free gift wrapping with every purchase.
David and Richard look forward to many more years of helping customers celebrate their most cherished moments. The store remains a family-owned business that thrives on creativity, community, and dedication.
David opened his first jeweller’s shop in Leeds city centre in 1977, and in 1984, Richard followed suit. The brothers later merged their businesses, running several jewellers across the North before consolidating to the much-loved Roundhay store, which opened over 18 years ago
The skilled team at Share brings expertise not only in design and retail but also in custom creation and repair services. Customers are often drawn to the store’s one-ofa-kind pieces, sourced with specific clients in mind or crafted uniquely for them.
The bespoke experience is something David and Richard take great pride in, helping customers bring their visions to life with custom designs. “It’s fantastic when a customer has an idea in mind, and we can bring it to life on paper, and then as a finished piece,” Richard says. “Seeing their reaction when they receive a piece designed just for them is priceless.”
Share Jewellers
Leeds Leads Against Antisemitism will hold a silent vigil in Leeds city centre to raise awareness for British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari.
On 8th December, Leeds Leads Against Antisemitism is set to host a silent vigil to raise awareness and advocate for the release of Emily Damari, a 28-year-old UK citizen, and the only remaining British national held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. Emily’s story is one of unimaginable suffering, resilience, and hope as she remains trapped in a dark underground tunnel in Gaza, a victim of the brutal Hamas assault on Kibbutz Kfar Azza on October 7th. Emily, who was born and raised on the
kibbutz, was shot and severely injured that fateful morning before being taken hostage. In the wake of the attack, 64 men, women, children, and the elderly were murdered, and 19 individuals, including Emily, were abducted. While some hostages have been released, Emily, alongside four others, remains in captivity, over a year later.
Known for her infectious smile, cheeky humour, and unwavering warmth, Emily is the heart of her family and community. Her
mother, Mandy Damari, has passionately called for action, stating: “We must all stand on the side of humanity, life, justice and freedom and act with urgency and determination to obtain the release of Emily and the other 100 hostages now.”
The vigil is a chance for the people of Leeds and beyond to stand in solidarity with Emily and the other hostages still held by Hamas, shining a light on their plight and demanding their release.
Chanukah brings us together to support Jewish Child’s Day and The Zone, raising funds for children suffering in Israel.
The community has once again come together in a remarkable show of solidarity and support for a meaningful cause. The Zone partnered with Jewish Child’s Day (JCD) for its Chanukah candle initiative. Through this initiative, the Leeds community has helped raise funds for children in Israel who are in need, while also bringing a special touch of Chanukah cheer.
The project involved ordering boxes of
blue and white Chanukah candles, with all proceeds going directly to support JCD’s vital work. Each box, priced at £8, contains a set of candles to help brighten the Chanukah season for children facing hardship in Israel. In an overwhelming show of generosity, the Leeds Jewish community responded enthusiastically to the initiative, with orders pouring in before the deadline.
As a result of this collective effort, orders are
now closed, as the candles have sold out. Those who have ordered will soon receive payment and collection details. The Zone will provide further updates on when the candles will be ready for pickup.
This initiative is a beautiful example of how a small act, like purchasing Chanukah candles, can have a profound impact. The funds raised will directly benefit children in Israel, providing them with much-needed support and care.
After an incredible first season, Sunday’s will be taking a winter break from 6th January to 26th March, giving our hardworking team some well earned rest. With the quieter winter months ahead, it’s the perfect time for us to reflect on your feedback and make some exciting changes.
When we return, you can expect a refreshed menu with more Italian gelato flavors, new hot food options, daily prepared and freshly cooked fish and chips, plus some fantastic new products. We’re thrilled to make your experience with us even better, and we can’t wait to welcome you back in the spring.
In the meantime, we’d love to hear your thoughts! Please forward any feedback, likes, dislikes, or menu suggestions for next season to hello@sundaysleeds.co.uk
Our team wishes everyone a joyful festive season and extends a huge thank you for your incredible support of both Sunday’s and Fryday’s!
Remember, Fryday’s will remain open throughout winter, serving the best fish and chips in North Leeds every day except Christmas and Boxing Day.
Mon to Thurs: 3:30 - 9pm Fri to Sat: 12 - 9:30pm Open every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
in
0113 266 7733
ICE CREAM PARLOUR FRESH FISH AND CHIPS EAT IN OR TAKEAWAY
Without it we wouldn’t be able to provide our services to the community. We will be closed for the winter season from January 6th to March 26th. When we reopen, we’ll have a refreshed menu featuring new Italian gelato flavors, including gluten-free and vegan options, as well as a revised hot menu with freshly cooked We thank
372 Harrogate Rd, Moortown, Leeds, LS17 6PY hello@sundaysleeds.co.uk sundaysleeds.co.uk 0113 513 1888
Offering a broad curriculum, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive community, The Grammar School at Leeds, in the heart of LS17, empowers students to achieve their best.
The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) creates an inspiring learning atmosphere, providing students with a dynamic academic experience within a respectful, diverse, and caring community. Its dedicated and wellqualified staff nurture each pupil’s interests, abilities, and talents, emphasising personal and academic integrity.
The school’s strong reputation for excellence in academics, sports, and the arts is complemented by a blend of tradition and innovation. With a generous staff-tostudent ratio, it delivers a rich curriculum and a supportive pastoral system that fosters social skills and self-esteem through academic challenge and mutual respect.
The school’s extensive 140-acre campus at Alwoodley Gates offers superb facilities, including a 25m indoor swimming pool, 3G pitch, two astro hockey pitches, and expansive playing fields. Pupils also have access to an art and design centre, 16 fully-equipped science laboratories, and over 60,000 library books to help them explore their passions – and to discover some new ones. Not to mention a brand-new performing arts centre opening in the new year, with an incredible 350-seat auditorium, a studio theatre, classrooms, and the latest sound and light technology. The breadth of academic and co-curricular activities is breathtaking, with pupils typically taking part in four to five hours of enhanced provision every week.
At GSAL, students learn in co-educational classes up to age 11 and again from 16 to 18 in the sixth form. Between ages 11 and 16 (Years 7 to 11), students experience single-sex classes for their academic subjects, following the diamond model of education, while enjoying co-educational pastoral support, social interactions, and extracurricular activities. This structure ensures equal access to the curriculum and mitigates gender-based stereotypes in subject choices, allowing all pupils to excel academically and personally.
The school’s fantastic offering is exemplified by its most recent set of exam results. Last year’s cohort achieved remarkable GCSE results, with 71% of all grades at 7, 8, or 9 (A/A*). Notably, 52% of entries were awarded grade 8 or above, and 28% earned a grade 9.
In A-levels, students also excelled, with 51% earning top A/A* grades. Nine students secured places at Oxbridge to study subjects such as history, economics, and English, while nearly a third of the cohort (67 students) achieved three A grades or more. Fifteen pupils received at least three A*s, and two students earned an impressive four A*s plus A*s in their Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
To truly understand the breadth of what GSAL offers, visiting the school is essential. The school hosts several open days and taster events throughout the year, enabling families to explore the facilities and meet both staff and students. Open Doors events provide a unique opportunity to witness the school in action on a regular school day. Visitors can tour the campus, observe lessons, and engage with staff and students. The next open event for both primary and senior school is Tuesday 11th February 2025, from 8.45am to 12 noon.
Visit Gsal.org.uk/visit to sign up or call 0113 228 5121 for further information.
Escape to the shores of Brighton & Hove this winter for a unique seaside getaway.
Just moments from the beach and a quick trip from London, our holiday homes offer a cosy retreat. Secure parking, an on-site gym, and daily synagogue services are just steps away. Plus, enjoy delicious meals at our Kosher restaurant & deli throughout Chanukah and New Year’s.
Looking for your home away from home?
Enjoy a Kosher restaurant, deli & catered Shabbat meals
Choose cosy apartments, spacious houses, or penthouses.
Go to bnjc.co.uk/stay or scan here for more information @bnjcbrighton stay@bnjc.co.uk
With Raffaele Saccoccio from ES Motors Moortown
• The red battery light on your dashboard flickers when you’re driving.
• The red battery light takes longer than usual to go out after you’ve started the engine. As a rule of thumb, try to change your car battery every three years, or sooner if it’s causing you problems in the cold weather.
With the cold weather here and many roads hazardous, make sure you and your car are prepped for challenging conditions. In wintry weather, you can find yourself stranded for several hours so it’s important to plan ahead. If there’s any likelihood of frost, ice, or snow, make sure you don’t leave home without a winter emergency kit.
Test your car battery
Top of our winter car maintenance checklist is your battery. A flat or faulty battery is the number one cause of vehicle breakdowns. The risk of battery failure is greater in cold, wet, and icy weather.
Warning signs of battery failure include:
• The engine turning over more slowly than usual when you start.
With Teresa Davidson, Head of Family and Harriet Reid, Family Solicitor at Winston Solicitors
As experienced family solicitors we know that the festive season can be a difficult time for those going through a divorce or separation. Navigating child arrangements over holidays often leads to disagreements, resulting in heightened levels of tension between parents.
Don’t ignore dashboard warning lights
A surprising number of people don’t know what the warning lights on their dashboard mean, so take some time to understand them. You can find this info in your vehicle’s manual. And, if an alert appears on your dashboard, get it checked out as soon as possible.
Check your oil and fuel levels
Your vehicle oil level should be between the minimum and maximum mark on the dipstick, or you risk engine damage and breakdown. In fact, RAC patrols report that 1 in 3 vehicles they attend are running dangerously low on oil. Check the oil level when your car is fully warmed up as a cold car will look low on oil. But remember, too much oil can be dangerous too.
Check your brakes
Another essential check for your winter car maintenance, is your brakes.
Your brakes need to be in tip-top condition, especially in winter. Get them checked if they squeal, make other noises, or generate unusual sensations.
If you’re taking your car out after a few days left unused in the cold, set off gently in case the discs, callipers, or handbrake have frozen up.
Check wiper blades and windscreen wash
Before driving in winter, check your wipers are in good condition, with no tears or holes, and that they can clean your windscreen properly.
You can give them a wipe with a clean cloth now and then. However, don’t pull the wiper blades off frozen glass or turn them on if your windscreen is iced over, as the rubber may tear.
You may need to wash your windscreen more often in the winter as wet, muddy or salty roads increase the amount of spray hitting your windscreen.
Esgarageleeds.co.uk
There are cases where parents have a legally binding Order, which details the living arrangements and time that children spend with each parent. This often includes specific arrangements for Christmas, birthdays, and even wider family events. However, if there is no agreement in place, there can be conflict as each event arises.
The welfare of a child will always be the court’s paramount consideration. Any arrangements that parents reach when discussing holidays, and shared contact in general, need to be made with the children’s welfare at the forefront of their minds. Flexibility is encouraged, where possible, as even the best laid plans go awry!
The court will ideally expect parents to discuss and agree the division of a child’s time during holiday periods between them. Our advice is to open the lines of communication early and when parents can reach an agreement, keep a note of
the details. If this is unattainable there are several forms of dispute resolution available for parents to consider including mediation or solicitor negotiation although that can be difficult when time is short. As a last resort, the family court does have the power to decide the arrangements, but this process is costly, time consuming, and other forms of resolution are usually advisable before engaging the court process.
Everyone has high hopes for the festive season but for some families it can also be a challenging time. If you or someone you know needs advice, chat to the Winston Solicitors Family Team about your options and how to navigate child arrangements.
Winstonsolicitors.co.uk
We have numerous Board of Management, Sub Boards and Co-optee Vacancies.
Would you like to be part of a well renowned, ambitious and progressive housing association delivering homes primarily for the Jewish Community in North Leeds?
At Leeds Jewish Housing Association we’re passionate about being the best that we can be, delivering excellent services, supporting our residents, building new homes and providing a vibrant organisation that will be here for generations to come. To help us achieve this we need diverse, talented and passionate people who hold similar aspirations to us to join the organisation on our Board of Management.
Are you passionate out supporting people, neighbourhoods and the whole community? If yes, then please speak to us, you could put this passion to great use.
Application packs are available from info@ljha.co.uk, if you would like to have an informal discussion about the role or organisation or if you have any questions please contact Mark Grandfield, Chief Executive on 0113 320 7777 or contact mark.grandfield@ljha.co.uk.
It was last February that I was diagnosed with high risk Neuroblastoma. The diagnosis was a real shock as I had no symptoms apart from a tummy ache.
I knew about Chai because they’d helped us when my grandpa was unwell, so it felt really good to know that they would be able to help us all again.
For Dad it was counselling, for Mum it was therapeutic massage and for me and my siblings, a combination of talking, music, art and play therapy.
Thank you Chai.
Ari, 13
To fi nd out more about Chai’s specialised services, please call our freephone helpline on 0808 808 4567 or visit chaicancercare.org or scan the QR code
Driving home for Christmas (or Chanukah)? Check out these useful car accessories designed to make your life easier when you’re on the road.
St John Ambulance Medium Motor Vehicle First Aid Kit | £18
In an ideal world, every journey would be stress free and go ahead without incident, but it’s best to be prepared for anything. This comprehensive first aid kit has been specifically designed by St John Ambulance to be kept in vehicles in case of emergency. The kit is fully stocked with everything you might need in an crisis, including two sets of dressing, plasters, cleansing wipes, a resuscitation face shield, and a foil blanket, among other useful items.
Sja.org.uk
| £22.49
Is there anything more annoying that dropping something down the side of your car seat and having to grope around blindly in the cramped space to try and retrieve it? This handy storage filler conveniently fills the gap with extra space to store your phone, wallet, or keys, and it contains a cup holder to boot. Stylishly coated in leather and design to fit any make of car, it’s a must have for any frequent traveller.
Diversionstores.co.uk
Dashboard cameras, more commonly known as dash cams, are excellent for settling disputes about liability or mishaps on the road. This offering from Nextbase has a lot to recommend it, including precise location sharing enabled by what3words, which tells the emergency services exactly where you are in an emergency, even if you don’t know. The camera has impressive 4K image quality and advanced image stabilisation means no detail is missed, no matter how bumpy the road you’re driving along.
Nextbase.co.uk
A flat car battery is one of the most common problems a car can be afflicted with, and one of the simplest to deal with. Avoid having to wait around for a recovery vehicle to come out to you by carrying your own charger in your boot. The NOCO GENIUS5 is designed to charge and maintain any type of vehicle without risk of overcharge, and is simple to set up and use, meaning you don’t need to be a mechanic to operate it.
No.co
We’re not suggesting that you should go digging around under the bonnet of your car if you don’t know what you’re doing, but for problems that are as simple as a loose bolt or a screw that needs tightening, this handy portable toolkit can save you a costly call-out. With a whopping 256 pieces inside, you’ll find everything you need to tackle a simple repair, conveniently collected in a handy carrying case.
Vonhaus.com
Whether you’re ready to party or celebrate with simplicity, let’s take a look at some of the main trends growing in popularity ahead of 2025:
Go green
There’s been a huge upward tick towards couples asking for weddings planned with sustainability at heart. Environmental footprint is at the forefront of many couple’s minds. Think biodegradable decor, recyclable stationery, plasticfree events, and locally sourced menus. Many guests are receiving a packet of seeds with their wedding invitations, with couples asking them to plant a tree to mark their big day. Eco friendly practices and celebrating responsibly while creating your special memories is an excellent way to mark the day.
There’s also a big emphasis on ‘no wastage’, with one of our latest couples kindly donating all their leftover wedding breakfast food to a local homeless shelter.
Go bold with style…
Bold colours are creating a statement, with décor chosen so that everything is seen, enjoyed, and remembered. Big, bright style marks the true party spirit that many are deciding to embrace on their special day. Vibrant colours are a huge trend for 2025.
…or choose simple statements
For some, the at-home garden wedding is here to stay, with open air marquees decorated with beautiful fairytale lights for a sophisticated celebration at your family home.
You can also take ideas from traditional, simple, and classic wedding styles. Consider natural colour schemes and dried flowers, making the focus truly all about the happy couple and the marriage itself.
Out of the box
Where you choose to hold your wedding
has changed in recent years. Couples are now enjoying much more unique venues including warehouses, vineyards, and barns. These spaces offer blank canvases for creative flourishes meaning you can transform the venues to reflect your own individual style. This is often reflected in the decorations. The use of lush foliage and using the surroundings as inspiration adds both elegance and individuality whilst complementing many types of wedding themes from minimal to rustic.
At Shenderey Events, we take that weight off your mind, with everything from formal details to finishing touches handled to perfection. Whether you’re ready to party or looking for simple sophistication, with us at the helm all that’s left for you to do is celebrate your marriage in the way you truly deserve.
Shenderey-events.com
8th December 2024
The Engine Shed
York Road, Wetherby LS22 7SU
Evening performance 7.30pm
Guests of Honour
Norma and Jack Abrahams
Belinda & Russell Gilmore
Star Performance
sponsored by
Hosted by Rebecca Skolnick & Daniel Gray
Judges
Alex Ullmann, Raina Sheaf, Charlie Rosenberg
Keep yourself entertained this winter with our round up of some of the best events happening in and around the city.
Paul ‘Silky’ White returns to Seven Arts in Chapel Allerton for the final time in 2024, hosting an evening of comedy with headline performances from After Life and This Time with Alan Partridge’s Colin Hoult and Maisie Adam, who has appeared on multiple comedy panel TV shows. Expect a night full of laughs with triple threat Silky: comedian, musician, and improviser who has been performing internationally since 1994.
Sevenleeds.co.uk
Candlelight concerts offer an enchanting way to experience live music, combining a multi-sensory musical experience with the stunning ambience of Leeds City Museum. This festive special will capture the magical spirit of the season where the Northern String Quartet perform a selection of holiday classics – from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker to Ma’oz Tzur – under the gentle glow of flickering candlelight. Feverup.com
Thor’s Tipi is back for another winter, this time at a new location right outside Leeds Art Gallery. There’s a classic Thor’s Tipi style set up with roaring fires, windows to take in the hustle and bustle, and some of the best classic cocktails and mulled wine to choose from. Every week there’s live music from local artists, as well as food provided by YUZU Street Food. Fancy loaded fries packed with delicious flavours such as katsu curry, roasted duck, and sriracha? YUZU has got you covered! Thorstipi.com
In the Victorian era, in the shadow of Darwin’s ideas about evolution, a controversial new idea began to grow in the clubs, salons, and offices of the powerful. Enjoying huge popular support for over 60 years, the legacy of eugenics persists in our language and literature. This evening will explore how popular narratives around science have been used to separate and control us and how this powerful legacy still shapes us today. There’ll be talks from Dr Adam Rutherford and Professor Gregory Radick as well as a chance to explore Thackary Museum after hours.
Thackarymuseum.co.uk
Embrace the spirit of winter as Ice Cube returns to Leeds City Centre throughout Millennium Square, Victoria Gardens, and Cookridge Street, offering an array of winter themed activities and attractions. Strap on your skates and take to the ice with the 400 sq. metre covered rink, where you’ll find daily skating sessions, beginner-friendly one-to-one lessons, and Penguin Club – which offers parents and younger children ice skating sessions in a safe and fun environment.
Icecubeleeds.co.uk
Ribbons is the newest permanent art feature in Leeds, created by artist Pippa Hale, who has lived in the city for over 30 years. The sculpture is located at the top of the gardens between Leeds City College’s Quarry Hill campus and Leeds Playhouse and has been created to celebrate the women of Leeds and their achievements in making the city what it is today.
Ribbons comprises of five steel ribbons each carrying the names of 383 nominated Leeds women. As they rise up out of the ground, they become intertwined and tied together over space and time in a celebration of womanhood that is embedded into the fabric of the city.
Pippa was chosen to create the sculpture after responding to a callout in the Yorkshire Evening Post, she tells us: “The path was beaten by MP Rachel Reeves working with Leeds Arts University – with Leeds City Council and Leeds City College coming on board as partners. Ribbons was born to address the gender disparity in public art in the city; there was an acknowledgement that what we had in Leeds wasn’t balanced and representative of the contemporary city.
“Rather than me deciding who the women should be, there was a nomination process which was opened up to the public for them to choose a woman with a connection to Leeds to be on the sculpture. We received over 600 nominations, but once we’d narrowed down those who had received multiple, we were able
We spoke to Leeds-based artist Pippa Hale about her latest work, Ribbons, and why it was needed in the city.
to include every woman that was put forward which is fantastic. There’s such a breadth and depth of inspiring women included, it’s gobsmacking!”
With statues usually created to honour historical figures, Pippa wanted Leeds to be different and give recognition to the women from both the past and present: “When I was selected to produce Ribbons in 2018, there were a lot of sculptures going up in other cities to celebrate women. However, they were usually a figurative statue that generally focused on a single woman from history and that statue
The challenges that everyday women have overcome to do what they do is so inspiring. Acknowledgement of the contribution they’ve made to the city – no matter how big or small – is really important.
came to represent all women. The challenges that everyday women have overcome to do what they do is so inspiring. Acknowledgement of the contribution they’ve made to the city – no matter how big or small – is really important.”
There are women from the community that are represented in Ribbons for a whole range of reasons, whether it’s for their inspiring stories or making a difference to others. There are Homeless Street Angels founders, Becky and Shelly Joyce; refugee and member of
Holocaust Survivors’ Friendship Association, Liesel Carter; lifelong volunteer, Reeva Gordon; authors of From the Leylands to Leeds 17, Philippa Lester and Diane Saunders, and many more!
The structure is constructed of five Corten steel ribbons, a material choice which was a conscious decision for Pippa for more than one reason: “On the one hand, it’s an artwork that’s in the public realm and needed to be extremely robust, so it had to be able to withstand the public, weather, and general city life. But on the other hand, it was a feminist decision to use a material which is often used in the construction industry. Taking a material that is extremely strong – but also very beautiful – to represent the resilience and strength of women was very important. It was both a practical and philosophical choice!”
Pippa believes that public art is a key contributor in helping to give a more balanced representation of history: “We walk past statues all the time, and you might think that people don’t really care about them or don’t notice them anymore. When the Black Lives Matter movement was happening and people began tearing down statues, what that demonstrated to me is that people really do care. Public art says a lot about who we are as a city, and I think it’s important that the historic statuary of men, by men is preserved as that’s what inspired Ribbons in a way – it was created as a counteractive response. If you take away the reference points, it will potentially lower the meaning of the piece.”
For a list and biography of all the women included, visit Ribbons-sculpture-leeds.co.uk
Want to try your hand at a cheese that’s a bit more challenging? Mozzarella is the perfect option – remember, practice makes perfect! This will be a great addition to pizza, pasta dishes, or even battered and fried to make homemade mozzarella bites.
• 1 teaspoon of citric acid
Turn milk into magic this National Cheese Lovers Day (20th January) with our recipes to make tasty cheese from the comfort of your own home.
The art of cheesemaking might seem like a daunting prospect, but whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just curious about the craft, making your own cheese at home offers a unique blend of science and art where you can experiment with textures and flavours to suit your palate. Elevate your cheese game and indulge in homemade decadence by creating your own cheesy creations that will impress your loved ones, taste amazing, and be completely free of additives and preservatives!
Farmhouse
This recipe for farmhouse cheese is a great place to start for novice cheesemakers as you don’t need any specialist ingredients or equipment, just simple techniques and everyday cupboard staples! Great for sandwich fillings, on crackers, or as a side to main dishes.
Ingredients
• 4.5 litres of full fat whole milk
• Half a cup of lemon juice (four to six lemons)
• Salt and herbs to taste
Method
1. Pour the milk into a large pot and heat it up to just below boiling point.
2. Add the lemon juice and stir well.
3. Cover the pot and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the curds to separate from the whey.
4. Pour the curds into a colander and drain from the whey.
5. Place the curds into a bowl and add salt and herbs of your choice to taste.
6. Transfer the curds into a muslin cheesecloth, tie it, and hang it to drain for two hours.
7. Remove the cheese from the bag and enjoy for up to two weeks!
This cheese is a step up from the farmhouse cheese that only requires a couple of specialist ingredients. The taste, texture, and flavour are similar to that of ricotta, so use this fresh curd creation in its place.
Ingredients
• 2 litres of whole organic milk
• A pinch of salt
• 2 teaspoons of rennet
Method
1. Pour the milk into a clean, non-reactive saucepan, add the salt, heat gently, and immediately remove it from the heat when it reaches 38°C.
2. Stir in the rennet until well combined and leave for 15 minutes.
3. Line a colander with a double-layered piece of muslin.
4. Use a small sieve to gently scoop up the curds in as large pieces as possible and put them into the muslin.
5. Tie the muslin and hang to drip above a bowl or sink for three hours.
6. The cheese will stay fresh and sweet for around three days, before turning tangier and cheesier and still good to use for up to a week.
• 2 litres of whole organic milk
• ¼ teaspoon of rennet
• 2 tablespoons of salt
Method
1. Dissolve the citric acid in 60ml of warm water.
2. Pour the milk into a large saucepan and heat it gently – until it reaches around 13°C – add the citric acid, and heat it to 30°C.
3. Dilute the rennet in a tablespoon of boiled water that’s been cooled and add it immediately to the milk.
4. Warm gently to 39°C and stir it from time to time – it will begin to separate.
5. Remove from the heat and leave it for 15 minutes.
6. Carefully scoop the curds out of the pan with a slotted spoon and place them in a sieve.
7. Press the curds gently to remove some of the whey (but be careful – they need to be dripping a little as if you remove too much, the mozzarella will be tough.)
8. Add the salt to the whey in the pan and heat it to 80°C.
9. Put the curds on a chopping board and cut them into four 2cm-thick slices and have a bowl of ice water ready.
10. One at a time, dip the curds into the hot whey for a minute until they begin to soften and stretch.
11. Remove a piece of curd from the whey with a slotted spoon, dip your hands in the iced water, and gently stretch out the cheese. Fold it back on itself and work it until it’s stretchy, shiny, and smooth.
12. Mould and pinch the cheese into a ball, then drop it into a bowl of chilled water.
13. Repeat with the remaining curds, refrigerate, and use within two days.
Popular Boston Spa patisserie, Pudding Lab, recently opened its second location in Harrogate, and is offering one of our readers the chance to win a delicious afternoon tea for two.
It’s onwards and upwards for Owners of Pudding Lab, Ashley Close and Kian Lian, who some of our readers may recognise from their run on Channel 4’s Bake-Off: The Professionals. The pair have just opened a second location of their popular patisserie in Harrogate. The new eatery sits on Cold Bath Road, in the midst of an area known for its trendy boutiques and independent businesses, so Pudding Lab will fit right in.
Since the shop’s premiere in 2021, it has been making a splash in the local dessert scene with its artisan patisserie treats. Fans of the Boston Spa shop can rejoice, as they will find the same familiar favourites in the new location and can expect all of Ashley and Kian’s newest confectionary concoctions to be found there too. Even better, the new shop will seat 32 guests compared to the Boston Spa shop’s 14, so you can enjoy your favourite cakes without fighting for a table.
One of the stand-out menu items is the everpopular afternoon tea, coming in at £35 per
person. Pudding Lab’s afternoon tea is set apart from the crowd by its even balance between savoury and sweet morsels. The specific selection is ever-changing, so you can indulge time and again and be served something different each time.
The current selection of savoury bites features chicken and green pesto finger sandwiches, a croque monsieur, a goat’s cheese and spiced butternut pithivier (two disks of puff pastry enclosing a filling), and a savoury ParisBrest (circles of piped choux pastry sandwiching smoked salmon and herb cream cheese, topped with a fresh green pea shoot garnish).
Those with a sweet tooth will also be delighted with the selection of sweet treats provided in the afternoon tea. These include a classic macaron, a mini tart (currently a carrot cake flavoured one), a blackberry and pistachio petit gateau, and a financier (a small French almond cake).
With the party and festive season coming up, Pudding Lab has the perfect gift, with
its treat boxes and vouchers available at both locations. Those with dietary restrictions can rest easy with gluten-free and vegetarian options always available.
On Instagram @puddinglab_bostonspa
To be in a chance of winning an afternoon tea for two worth £70, simply answer the following question:
Which TV programme have owners Ashley and Kian been seen on recently?
Enter online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/ competitions-5 or by post to JLife Ltd, Unit 7, Gemini Business Park, Sheepscar Way, Leeds, LS7 3JB. Please ensure your entry includes your name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address. The winners will be randomly selected on the closing date: 24th January 2025
Terms and conditions apply: One entry per person. Prize must be booked with owner. When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in JLife Magazine and Pudding Lab’s databases to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.
MAHON RECENTLY HAD HIS BAT MITZVAH.
A BASKETBALL THEMED PARTY WAS HELD AT THORNER VICTORY HALL.
CHARLIE’S MUM AND STEPDAD, MANDY AND DANIEL MYERS, CELEBRATED TOGETHER.
GRANDPARENTS WENDY AND DAVID BENEDICT JOINED IN THE FESTIVITIES.
Bat Mitzvah Jessica-Lily Rosenberg has raised over £3,300 for Pancreatic Cancer UK by running the length of a marathon.
Jessica-Lily, daughter of Melissa and James Rosenberg, is a member of the community who decided to fundraise for Pancreatic Cancer UK for her Bat Mitzvah by running the 26.2 miles of a marathon over the course of a month in October.
She chose this cause as her grandfather, Peter Rosenberg, died 32 years ago from pancreatic cancer, so it is a cause close to her heart.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the few cancers for which the survival rate has not improved over the last 40 years and around 9,600 people are diagnosed with it each year in the UK. Unfortunately, half of people with the illness die within three months of diagnosis. Pancreatic Cancer UK works to bring more breakthroughs through research, more change through campaigning, and more support through its expert nurses.
You can still donate to the cause, visit Justgiving.com and search for Jessica-Lily’s fundraiser for Pancreatic Cancer UK.
A charity Padel tournament recently raised £5,500 that will benefit The Zone and Friends of Brodetsky Primary School.
Friends of Brodetsky Primary School and The Zone will share the £5,500 that was raised from a charity padel day.
Padel – a racquet sport that takes inspiration from squash, tennis, and badminton – is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK and now has its first permanent Leeds home at the Slazenger Padel Club in Seacroft where the event was held.
24 duos in four groups took part across the 12 state-of-the-art courts. Ali Gray and Philippa Goldstone came out on top from groups one and two, and Ollie Buck and Steve Cohen were the champions of groups three and four.
The day saw five hours of relentless rallies, cheers, and nail-biting moments all for an excellent cause of raising money for the charities.
PhysCap and The Robert Sinclair Davidson Foundation are also running a padel tournament in January. For further details Daniel Gray 07946 463461
As Chanukah approaches, get inspired by our top picks of must-have gifts for the kids.
It’s a familiar scene: the first night of Chanukah, the light outside has faded, the first branch of the Menorah has been lit, and the excitement from the kids is palpable as they wait for present time! We all know how difficult it can be to come up with gifts that won’t be discarded after an hour, never to be played with again, but never fear! We’ve got some ideas to make light work of your present buying, conveniently tailored across a span of age ranges and price points.
UNDER £20
Stacking rings | £9.99
An excellent toy for curious little ones, allowing them to learn how to put them in size order on the bendable stick. As well as being a fun activity, this game also develops hand-eye coordination and perception skills. The rings are made of rubber wood in a range of colours which manage to be both bright and stylish.
Pocketkids.co.uk
UNDER £50
Gantosaurus in egg | £41
This cuddly dinosaur offers a fun surprise for younger children, allowing them to uncover a new friend from inside the egg exterior. The dino – a Gantosaurus – is made of the softest cotton and linen, so as not to irritate delicate young skin, while the plastic eggshell features a realistic egg-like texture.
Pocketkids.co.uk
UNDER £100
Liberty House Toys slide | £56.99
Let your little ones shoot for the moon with this fun rocket slide. The modern design of the slide means it has safer softened edges and a handrail to give your child extra security. The steps on the slide have a pebble texture to help little feet grip easier. Even better, it can be folded down so it can be stored away quickly and easily, freeing up space when it’s not playtime.
Wayfair.co.uk
UNDER £20
This Minecraft-themed deck is the UNO you love, with some extra gameplay added in. UNO Minecraft gameplay still has players racing to get rid of all their cards, but this version features cards with Minecraft characters and images and a special rule.
You want to match a card in your hand with the current card shown on top of the deck, and you'll score points for the cards your opponents are left holding. There's also a new type of action card; when you draw the Creeper card, show it to the other players and they'll have to draw three more cards! The first player to reach 500 points wins.
Very.co.uk
Lego Groot | £39.99
Featuring the beloved character, this Lego Groot is the perfect gift for any young Marvel fan. As well as the fun of getting to put the toy together, once it’s complete it features a movable head and posable arms. When kids turn the handle at the back of the flowerpot, the jointed Groot starts dancing. The figure can be customised with additional leaves, buildable headphones, and sunglasses, and kids can personalise Groot’s pot by adding one of three different nameplates to the front.
Very.co.uk
UNDER £100
Teepee | £74.99
Available in dusk blue, platinum, and baby pink, from durable, washable fabric, this teepee gives your children a space to let their imaginations run wild. The teepee is easy to put up and store, coming with four high quality wooden poles, a pole tie, and instructions, making it super easy to have adventures on the go.
Rucomfybeanbags.co.uk
UNDER £20
Coca-Cola headphones | £8.24
For older kids, these Coca-Cola headphones allow them to listen to their music in style. The officially licensed genuine Coca-Cola collectable headphones are designed with a Coke bottle on the left and right, and the inner side of the headband carries the official Coca-Cola logo. The slider parts are extendable and can be adjusted easily according to the shape of the head, while the cushioning material for the padded headband and polyurethane for the ear pads all for comfortable listening for extended periods of time.
Thedesigngiftshop.com
UNDER £50
National Geographic 40mm children’s telescope | £39.99
Budding young astronomers will adore this Nat Geo 50 / 400 telescope, which boasts fully covered optics, giving good levels of brightness while maintaining a compact size. The focal length of 400mm offers magnification up to 66x which gives excellent views of the moon, planets, and distant stars, which keeping the telescope compact and easily transportable.
Robertdyas.co.uk
UNDER £100
Yoto Mini | £59.99
The Yoto Mini allows children to listen to music and audiobooks without exposing them to screens, ads, or requiring an internet connection. Simply insert a smartcard containing the audio you’d like to listen to, and you’re ready to go. There are plenty of smartcards available, from the newest Disney soundtracks to classic stories such as The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe or Little Women. The Mini version comes with a smaller interface and speaker, which is great for use on the go.
Uk.yotoplay.com
Local author Grace Olson launched her new book, Merlin Finds His Magic, telling the story of a lost lamb trying to find his flock.
Readers may recognise Grace Olson and her flock of therapy sheep from their regular features on Channel 5’s popular show The Yorkshire Vet. Inspired by her own experiences in livery yards and the eclectic cast of characters she met, the Alwoodley local decided to document her adventures: first in a blog, and then in her first book, The Yard.
Since then, Grace has written a sequel, and produced a children’s book, Merlin Finds His Magic. The book tells the story of a lost lamb named Merlin, who is separated from his flock
and desperate to return home, while holding on to the thought that his mother told him he was magic…
The book’s launch event, which took place in March, was featured on the programme. Once the programme had aired, Grace was able to share photos from the event on Facebook. She wrote: “My big dream is to one day earn my income from my book sales so I can treat terminally ill people for free. So it was amazing that my book launch was aired on such a massively popular TV series! Every book sale
IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY
helps me to help others and as we are fast approaching Christmas and Chanukah, I hope that you will consider buying my books as gifts.”
Grace is also set to release a fourth book, Galahad Finds His Voice, with further details to be announced soon.
Graceolsonauthor.com
Allerton Church of England Primary School in Alwoodley has recently opened its doors to provide a new community space named Room 17. The space will offer a range of classes to locals, focused around arts and crafts. In addition, artists are encouraged to use the space as a place to work. Room 17 was designed in partnership with graphic design students at Leeds Beckett University, who worked with Year 3 students to form an idea of how the room could reflect its status as a space not just for the school, but the wider community as well.
The space officially launched with an open event on 14th November, which saw the school’s children perform a song with local songwriter Christella Litras. The song was put together by Christella with the children’s help in creating the theme and lyrics. The evening also featured a selection of creative workshops and a dance performance from pupils.
Allertonceprimary.com
Rabbi Ozer and Leah Moszkowski of Etz Chaim ponder the miracle of everyday existence as Chanukah approaches.
Chanukah, the festival of miracles. The oil surviving among the apocalyptic rubble, and then burning longer than scientifically or naturally possible, the tiny clan of outnumbered Judean warriors, being victorious over the massive Greek military forces. What are we supposed to make of all of this?
Is the miraculous a Band-Aid for weakminded, doe-eyed souls, clutching onto paper-mache parachutes, hurtling towards the hard bedrock of reality, soon to pulverise into a million tiny shards of painful truth? The clucking Yiddishe Mama, wiping cholent stained sweat on a threadbare paisley apron, with a toothless, greasy grin, as she counts three eggs under her tired hen who has only ever laid one, raising eyes and arms to the angry black clouds in endless murmured supplications of praise.
But speak to the rational, logical, calculated, educated mind, and you’ll be laughed out of every reputable institution, in a flurried heap of glasses, papers, and spoiled eggs. So I ask again, is it foolish to believe in miracles? Can a rational, logical, calculated, and educated person believe in miracles? Well, wait, you’ve used the word belief. Doesn’t that immediately denote a leap of faith, an airy wispy thing with no substance?
Mathematically, the probability of the universe occurring spontaneously is less than one in 10^(10^30). In mathematics, probabilities of less than one part in 10^30 to 10^50 are typically written off as being zero. (Roger Penrose, British mathematician, mathematical physicist, philosopher of science, and Nobel Laureate in Physics). So, through logical balance of probability, we posit that a force not limited by time or space, caused the chain of events which resulted in our known universe. This
force then revealed itself as G-D in a mass revelation and gave us a text describing the creation of the universe.
We then understand from this text, that when G-D created the world, two sets of systems were put in place. A physical set of systems – drop an egg from height and it will splat all over your clean floor – gravity, and a spiritual set of systems – do a kindness for another, and you have increased forces of goodness in the world.
G-D is the one with the override key for both of these systems – the physical and the spiritual. Physically, G-D can make the
measure of oil meant for one night, last for eight, and make a well-meaning motley band of Levites and priests, with no military background or experience, achieve a miracle. Is it foolish to believe in miracles? Military victory over a highly-skilled, well-trained, massive army. But miracles are not to be relied upon, G-D wants us to live lives based on these two systems of cause and effect. But sometimes, G-D reaches for the override button to help us out, to bolster our efforts, or because it is not yet our time to pass over to the world of souls.
The Greek takeover threatened the very fabric of Judaism, by outlawing our core practices. The Maccabees recognised the need for immediate action – they weren’t going to sit back and wait for miracles, they were proactive in protecting and defending Judaism from spiritual annihilation, so G-D ensured their success and physical protection.
So, using our very logical, educated minds, we celebrate the miraculous, but do not rely on it for the everyday running of our lives. We recognise that there were times in our history where the miraculous was the order of the day. In Temple times, anyone could trek to the city of Jerusalem and have a little gander at the miracle of the column of smoke pointing skyward, unwavering through storm and rain, or sniff the bread, warm and fresh on Thursday as if it had just come out of the oven, when in reality it was almost a week old. But in our lives of exile, the miraculous is not the order of the day. Rather we trek on through the bitterly crisp winter months, guided by our nonmiraculous menorah candelabras, in our non-miraculous cities. And feel the warmth of the constant, the reliable, the predictable systems, and know that these too are crafted by G-D for our good.
From choosing eco-friendly decorations to opting for more sustainable gifts, we explore the practical solutions to enjoy the spirit of Chanukah
Chanukah is a time for reflection, gratitude, and togetherness that offers an opportunity to incorporate more sustainable practices into your celebrations. It’s more important than ever to consider how festive celebrations can be adapted to honour both heritage and the environment, to ensure traditions can shine brightly for generations to come.
PETA has a great selection of recipes on its website that cover Chanukah menus with everything from vegan latkes to egg-free doughnuts that will delight your loved ones and their tastebuds this holiday.
Greener gifting
Look for items that are handmade, locally sourced, or eco-friendly from small businesses.
Start the new year fresh with our guide to cutting out the drinks for Dry January.
As the confetti settles from your New Year’s bash, many of us are waking up with a sore head, wondering why we keep doing this to ourselves… Enter Dry January, the month-long challenge where folks everywhere are swapping cocktails for mocktails, and the results are downright dazzling. So, let’s dive into the health benefits and tips for making this month not just bearable, but a load of fun.
Ever noticed how a little too much wine can leave you feeling foggy? Ditching the drinks helps clear that mental haze. Many people report increased focus, sharper thinking. Not to mention, alcohol is a depressant. By ditching the booze, you can expect a mood boost that’ll make you feel like you’re on cloud nine.
Say goodbye to restless nights! While you might feel sleepy after a glass or two, alcohol can disrupt your sleep cycle, giving lower quality sleep, and making it hard to stay knocked out. By cutting it out, you’ll find yourself snoozing more soundly. That means more energy for those dreary January mornings.
Your skin will also thank you. Alcohol dehydrates and can lead to breakouts. By giving your body a break, you’ll notice a radiant glow and maybe even a few compliments on your fresh-faced beauty.
Not to mention, those hidden calories in high sugars beers, wines, and cocktails can add
up pretty fast. With Dry January, you might just shed a few stone without even trying. Let’s talk money! Cutting out those expensive drinks can save you a small fortune. Use that extra cash to treat yourself to something special.
Now, you might be wondering how to cruise through this month without feeling like you’re missing out. Fear not! Here’s how to make Dry January fun and fabulous:
Who says you can’t still enjoy a fun drink? Mix up some sparkling water with fresh fruits, herbs, or a splash of your favourite juice. Think of it as a party in a glass – without the hangover! Check out our picks of alcohol free tipples on page 25.
Keep the fun rolling by planning activities that don’t revolve around drinking. Game nights, movie marathons, or even a dance-off can fill your social calendar with excitement!
Team up with friends who want to join the Dry January journey. You can motivate each other, swap mocktail recipes, and create a support system that makes it easier to stick to your goals.
The internet is buzzing with Dry January groups and challenges. Join a community online or in your area to share experiences, tips, and cheer each other on.
Take it one step at a time. Instead of looking at the whole month, focus on one week at a time. Celebrate your mini victories, and reward yourself with non-alcoholic treats!
Keep your calendar packed with fun activities, whether it’s trying out a new fitness class, volunteering, or exploring local attractions. The more you stay engaged, the less you’ll miss the booze!
So there you have it! Dry January isn’t just about saying no to alcohol; it’s a chance to embrace a healthier, happier you. With a little creativity and a positive mindset, you’ll be strutting through this month with a smile and maybe even a new habit that lasts beyond January. Cheers to a vibrant, dry, and delightful start to the year!
We take a look at the best products to improve your mood in the colder British winter months.
Seasonal affective disorder – also known as SAD – is a form of low mood or depression that occurs in seasonal cycles and usually begins at the onset of autumn and stays throughout the winter. If you’re struggling with SAD, it might be worth speaking to a GP about treatment options. However, there are ways to help combat feelings associated with SAD that can be incorporated into your everyday life to keep the winter blues at bay…
Instead of being rudely awoken from sleep by an aggressive alarm, the Lumie Bodyclock lights are like a personal sunrise that will gradually brighten your room so that you feel naturally wide awake and more energised for the day ahead. At bedtime a fading sunset will create an environment where sleep comes easily, leaving you rested for the next day. The light produced by the lamp will replicate the sunlight that’s missing during the winter months and is thought to encourage your brain to increase the production of serotonin as well as reduce the production of melatonin.
Lumie.com
A recent study found a link between SAD and low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D is synthesised by the body when sunlight hits your skin, which is why so many people are thought to have a deficiency in the vitamin during the winter months. The NHS recommends taking a 10-microgram vitamin D supplement every day between October and March to ensure you’re getting enough. These supplements from Holland & Barrett also contribute towards the maintenance of normal bones, muscle function, and the immune system.
Hollandandbarrett.com
Air-purifying bundle | The Little Botanical
Bringing a little bit of the outside, inside by having potted plants around your home will not only look good but looking after plants can help to lift a low mood. This bundle from The Little Botanical that will purify the air around you includes a Sansevieria Punk, Ficus Benjamina, and Sansevieria that require minimal effort to keep them alive, even in winter. Not only will the plants improve air quality, but they can also reduce noise pollution, stress, and improve both physical and mental wellbeing. This is linked to the natural desire of humans to connect with the natural world, a phenomenon called biophilia.
Thelittlebotanical.com
Self-care is one of the best things you can do when experiencing feelings associated with SAD. This set from NEOM is formulated with natural fragrance that not only smells great but can also have an uplifting effect on the mind and body. The fragrance is a complex blend of the purest possible essential oils including wild mint and mandarin, purposefully blended to help lift your mood and brighten your day. Included in this set is a candle, reed diffuser, hand and body wash, hand and body lotion, and hand balm to life your spirits.
Neomwellbeing.com
Studies have shown that essential oils could reduce symptoms of depression and other psychological issues such as anxiety and sleep problems. These oils from NUHR come in four different scent profiles that will help to improve wellbeing, mood, sleep, and peace so there’ll be something for whatever issue you’re wanting to tackle. They’re designed for use in oil burner or electric diffuser and can be used by simply dropping few drops of oil into your device with water and allowing the fragrance to disburse in your room.
Nuhrhome.com
We find out why resistance training –exercising with weights
– is overtaking cardio as the go-to exercise for fitness fanatics to stay in shape.
In recent years, weight training has become increasingly popular, especially among those looking to improve their overall health and fitness. Once seen as something reserved for bodybuilders or elite athletes, the exercise, more commonly referred to as resistance training, is now recognised for its numerous benefits across all age groups and fitness levels
Historically, cardio exercises like running, cycling, and swimming have been the go-to workouts for fitness enthusiasts, especially those aiming to lose weight or improve endurance. However, there has been a notable shift in recent years, with more people turning to weight or resistance training for its multifaceted benefits.
Personal trainer Steve Chambers, based at Ultimate Power Gym, believes resistance training is gaining traction due to benefits on both the body and the mind.
According to Steve, one of the major advantages of resistance training is its versatility: “Depending on the type of weight training you do, you can tweak the benefits,” he explains. For example, higher rep ranges with lighter weights can help improve endurance, while lower reps with heavier weights focus more on strength. Regardless of the approach, weight training also improves overall appearance by building lean muscle mass.”
The benefits extend far beyond just aesthetics though, the impact of resistance training on bone density, ligaments, and tendons are often overlooked when people think about weightlifting: “There’s never going to be a scenario in life where being slightly stronger is not useful. Whether it’s lifting
groceries, picking up children, or carrying heavy furniture, increased strength from resistance training enhances everyday tasks.”
One of the most significant advantages of weight training is its ability to improve and maintain muscle mass, which becomes increasingly important as we age. As people get older, muscle mass naturally decreases, leading to a loss of strength and mobility. For older adults, this can result in a higher risk of falls and injuries, particularly when stepping off curbs or navigating stairs. Steve points out that resistance training helps combat this age-related decline in strength: “If people continue weight training, they’ll maintain more muscle mass, which means more strength and less risk of injury later in life.”
In fact, research supports the notion that older adults who engage in resistance training have a reduced risk of falls and a higher quality of life due to their preserved strength and mobility. With more muscle mass, individuals are better equipped to handle physical challenges and remain active, reducing the chances of frailty and the associated health problems that often come with aging. Steve also emphasises that resistance training offers more than just physical benefits; it’s also crucial
for improving power, which is often one of the first things people lose as they age: “Weight training requires an element of power, as you’re moving weights quickly depending on the lift. By engaging in weight training, individuals can preserve and even increase their power, ensuring they stay functional and strong throughout their lives.”
It’s also good news for those who are trying to lose weight. Building muscle through resistance training has the added benefit of boosting metabolism. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn at rest so you can afford to eat a little more: “Having more muscle mass means you can burn more calories even when you’re not working out.”
While resistance training offers numerous benefits, it’s not without its complexities. Proper technique is essential for avoiding injury, and for those new to lifting, it’s important to start slowly and learn the correct form. To minimise risk and maximize results, Steve recommends that beginners seek guidance from a personal trainer, especially when starting out: “Going to the gym and doing something is always going to be better than doing nothing, but knowing that what you’re doing is actually relevant to your goals will save you time and frustration.”
Whether your goal is to improve strength, enhance endurance, or simply look and feel better, weight training offers a host of benefits, both physical and mental.
With Meharban Singh Riyat, Clinical Audiologist and Director of Simply Hearing
If you’ve been struggling with hearing loss, you know how impactful even minor difficulties can be, affecting conversations with loved ones or diminishing enjoyment of everyday sounds. Hearing well is integral to living life to the fullest, which is why choosing the right hearing device is crucial. The good news is that recent advances have made hearing technology more discreet and effective than ever before.
Simply Hearing is pleased to offer a revolutionary – completely 100% invisible –hearing aid system, the Phonak Lyric.
The Lyric device is designed for continuous use, allowing you to experience 24/7 hearing for up to three months at a time. After this
With James Daly, Founder of James Daly Opticians
There are lots of sayings, myths, and misconceptions about eyes and eyesight. We’re here to help sort the real facts about eyecare.
Reading in the dark or dim light will damage your eyes
Fiction: It is more difficult to see in the dark or in dim light than in brighter light, so you may get a headache if you read in the dark, but you will not cause yourself any harm.
Contact lenses can get lost behind your eyes
Fiction: The membrane that covers the white of your eye (the conjunctiva) also lines your eyelids, so it is impossible for a contact lens to get lost behind your eyes.
Wearing someone else’s glasses may damage your eyes
Fiction: Although you may not be able to see
period, it is professionally removed and replaced by a trained audiologist. The device is completely invisible and can be worn through all daily activities, including exercising, sleeping, and even showering.
Key benefits
• 100% invisibility: One of the most appealing aspects of Lyric is its total discretion. Once inserted, the device remains out of sight, meaning no one will know you’re wearing it.
• Clear, natural sound: By sitting deep in the ear canal, Lyric uses the ear’s natural shape to provide a rich, immersive listening experience, giving you the most authentic sound possible.
• Round-the-clock hearing: Lyric is designed for continuous wear, so there’s no need to remove it for daily tasks. The ease of always being able to hear, even in the shower, is a game-changer for many.
For those who experience tinnitus, the persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears, relief
can be life changing. While there’s no outright cure for tinnitus, devices like Lyric have shown to be highly effective. The continuous amplification provided by Lyric has been proven to reduce tinnitus annoyance more rapidly than traditional hearing aids, while also enhancing overall sound quality.
Simply Hearing invites you to experience the difference of Phonak Lyric through a no-obligation 28-day trial. This period lets you discover how the device integrates seamlessly into your life and improves your overall soundscape. Since Lyric is provided on a subscription basis, your yearly plan will cover regular replacements, servicing, and technology updates.
Hearing loss can be isolating, but with advancements like Lyric, you can reconnect with the world in a natural and discreet way. To learn more or to book your trial, contact Simply Hearing. You deserve to hear life fully – on your terms.
Simply-hearing.com
Hvery well with them and may get a headache or double vision, you won’t come to any harm from wearing glasses that are not your prescription. However, you should only ever wear your prescription when you drive.
Watching TV too much or too closely will damage your eyes
Fiction: Watching too much TV or sitting very close to it may make your eyes tired or give you a headache – particularly if you are watching TV in the dark – but won’t cause any permanent damage.
Exercising the eye muscles can allow you to ‘throw away your glasses’
Fiction: People normally need glasses because of the shape and size of their eye. Exercises won’t help this.
Studying the iris in a person’s eye, reveals their health problems
Fiction: There is no scientific proof for this. However, when optometrists carry out eye examinations, they not only test your sight, but also check the health of your eyes and look for signs of some general health problems.
Using your eyes too much can wear them out
Fiction: The health of your eyes has nothing to do with the number of hours you use them.
Holding books up close will damage your child’s eyes
Fiction: How your child holds a book has no effect on the health of their eyes and doesn’t necessarily mean they need glasses. Sometimes children find it more comfortable to read closeup and their very good focusing ability makes it easy for them to do so. However, if your child sits too close to the television, it may mean that they have difficulty seeing further away. Get them checked out at your optometrist.
Eating carrots will improve your eyesight
Some fact: Carrots are a source of vitamin A, which is important for the eyes – and should be part of a well–balanced diet that supports your all-round health. Poor nutrition has been implicated in eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Jamesdalyopticians.co.uk
The festive period and the following weeks can be a tough time for many reasons. Whether it’s dealing with loneliness and grief or the pressure to create the ‘perfect’ holiday experience, these feelings can be heightened during a time that’s centred around family and togetherness. This paired with the pressure of getting swept up in new year’s resolutions can mean January is a difficult time for a lot of people. To start 2025 on a positive note, we’ve crafted a guide of simple, more unconventional resolutions designed to nurture your mental wellbeing and promote a healthier outlook for the year ahead.
The concept of Blue Monday was first coined in 2004 by psychologist Cliff Arnall who came up with a ‘formula’ for the January blues that took into account seven variables that affect us in January such as low motivational levels, debt, and the weather to create a date for the so-called most depressing day of the year. It was later revealed that this was a part of a marketing ploy by Sky Travel to encourage people to book their summer holidays. Arnall has since confessed that the formula is essentially pseudoscience and urges people to refute the whole notion of Blue Monday. Despite this, it has become a yearly event often designed to promote wellness products and trivialise what can be a period of hardship for those feeling most vulnerable. But it’s not all doom and gloom, as following these simple steps this new year will not only give you a more positive outlook, but also help to apply healthy habits into your everyday life.
nWith Blue Monday approaching on 20th January, we look at some of the best ways to look after your mental health and wellbeing this new year.
They say a problem shared is a problem halved, so one of the best ways to deal with periods of feeling low is to reach out and connect with others. Although it may be hard at first, finding time to share your feelings with friends and family will improve feelings of loneliness and form deeper connections with those you care about the most.
Arrange a call, walk, coffee date, or even trip to the shops with someone once every couple of weeks to enhance your connections and get you talking.
Establishing a consistent sleep routine is essential for improving brain performance, mood, and overall mental and physical health. Prioritising a good sleep schedule can lead to numerous benefits that positively impact your daily life.
Sleep consistency boosts cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problemsolving skills, so as your brain becomes more well-rested, you’ll be more productive and creative throughout the day.
A sleep schedule will make you better equipped to handle the challenges and pressures that may arise in everyday life and you’re less likely to be affected by minor irritations or setbacks, allowing you to maintain a more positive outlook.
While new year’s resolutions can have positive effects, the pressure of trying to keep them up can be draining and damaging if they fail. Combat this by breaking up your resolutions to monthly ones; simple rules with a smaller commitment time frame allows for faster iteration and continuous success. If you’re successful one month, roll it over to the next one – but if not, that’s okay!
An example of this is picking up a new skill or hobby, a month is a perfect time frame to evaluate.
Mindfulness is a technique in which you focus on being intensely aware of what you’re feeling in the moment that can involve breathing methods, positive affirmations, and meditation. Mindfulness can help you become more self-aware, feel calmer, and help you cope with difficult thoughts.
An easy introduction to the concept is journalling. The beauty of journalling is that there are no rules, and you can tailor it to your own preferences. You could create a gratitude journal where each day you write down a few things to help appreciate the small things in life that often go unnoticed. If you’re looking for a creative approach, doodling and mindfulness colouring are two useful techniques for a super simple distraction from everyday life.
Pharmacy+Health in Alwoodley is set to roll out brand-new health services for patients – giving quick, convenient access to more bookable NHS and private appointments.
One year on, after the Pharmacy+Health group rolled out HubRx – centralised automated dispensing of patient prescriptions that gives pharmacists’ time to focus on patient care – the system has been such a success that a range of new services for LS17 are now being introduced.
Pharmacy Manager, Kostas Iliadis, has been working as a pharmacist for 13 years since graduating from Bradford University. For the last five years, he has been a fully qualified Independent Prescriber, which enables him to provide a broader range of clinical services and supply prescription-only treatments.
Kostas is spearheading the set-up of the new services and shares why the Alwoodley pharmacy is often the first to trial any new scheme:
We’re one of the biggest Pharmacy+Health branches, and already offer a range of clinical services to our local community. As patient awareness grows, these NHS and private services are becoming increasingly popular. HubRx does the heavy lifting for us, by dispensing around 70% of our regular prescriptions, so we are able and available to trial new services. I am always enthusiastic to be the lead pharmacist for the launch of new services that NHS commissioners or the Pharmacy+Health group want to trial and it is fascinating to then monitor what is popular with patients.
Pharmacy+Health lets patients book online a convenient appointment, attend the appointment with our pharmacist and, where appropriate, receive prescription-only treatment. All without having to see a GP. The NHS Pharmacy First scheme is for seven common conditions, where a trained pharmacist can assess your symptoms and supply prescription medicines in one of our recently refitted consultation rooms. The scheme has been a massive success, with talk of expanding the range of conditions pharmacies can treat in the future. The service also helps by taking some pressure off busy GPs. Other NHS services that we provide include blood pressure checks, contraception services, COVID-19 and flu jabs, and a smoking cessation service.
HAlongside our NHS offering, Pharmacy+Health-Alwoodley offers a range of private health services. The most popular is the Weight Management Service. Patients book a 25-minute appointment with the trained pharmacist to discuss their plan for weight loss, diet and exercise, and if they’ve tried any medications. After this discussion, if both the patient and pharmacist are happy to proceed, the pharmacy can provide injections to aid with weight loss.
Other paid-for private services on offer include COVID-19 and flu jabs for those who don’t qualify for NHS vaccinations, and Travel Health for vaccinations, medications, and advice when planning to go abroad. Kostas is also looking to roll out wellbeing services – diagnostic blood testing and treatments, as well as ear health and wax removal services, in the coming weeks.
Our new private Common Conditions+ service has just launched. This service is provided by a qualified Pharmacist Independent Prescriber and offers convenient appointments and treatment
supply, for a wider range of ailments than those covered by the free NHS Pharmacy First service. Initially being offered one day a week, this will become more available across Pharmacy+Health branches as more of the pharmacists are trained.
Kostas concludes:
We’re focused on ensuring that in addition to the dispensing of our patients’ NHS medications, we offer a useful range of NHS and private health services that meet their needs, ensuring they get the treatment they need, when they need it.
We want you to rethink what your local pharmacy can do so if anybody needs anything, please do visit our website, pick up the phone or just walk in.
Pharmacyplushealth.co.uk
Take a break and boost your wellbeing with these picks of retreats across Europe, and closer to home.
In an ever more stressful world, wellbeing retreats have become more popular as we desire to escape the chaos of modern life and slow down, focusing on health betterment. These retreats provide a sanctuary where guests can focus on self-care, whether through yoga, meditation, or simply enjoying nature.
You will enjoy the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering a chance to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with yourselves, and each other. Whether you choose to bask in the beauty of Cornwall, unwind in the hills of Spain, or savour the charm of a French château, these wellness retreats promise a rejuvenating experience at beautiful destinations across UK and Europe.
HSitting proudly on the stunning cliffs of North Cornwall, The Scarlet is a luxury eco-hotel that harmoniously blends breathtaking sea views with holistic wellness practices. With its unique cliff-top hot tubs and an award-winning spa, it’s a haven for those seeking serenity.
Kickstart your mornings with yoga on the terrace, followed by a refreshing dip in the ocean or a walk along the beautiful coastline. The Scarlet also offers a variety of holistic treatments, from Ayurvedic massages to rejuvenating facials, ensuring the body and mind feel pampered. Their focus on locally sourced, organic cuisine means you’ll be nourishing yourself from the inside out.
Scarlethotel.co.uk
For those looking to blend relaxation with a touch of detoxification, Grayshott Health Spa is the perfect escape. Located in the picturesque Surrey Hills, this spa offers a holistic approach to health and wellness.
With a menu of treatments ranging from spa therapies to health-focused cooking classes, Grayshott helps cultivate a balanced lifestyle. Their three-day detox programme is particularly popular, combining spa treatments with healthy meals and fitness classes. Plus, the tranquil gardens and serene setting make it easy for guests to find their zen.
Homewoodpark.co.uk
The Lifehouse Spa & Hotel is a serene sanctuary set within 12 acres of beautiful gardens. This contemporary retreat combines modern wellness with traditional techniques, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The extensive spa menu includes everything from aromatherapy to reflexology, and the thermal spa offers a blissful escape with saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. You can unwind while getting the heart rate up, join one of their fitness classes or take a leisurely stroll through the tranquil grounds. The focus on wellness cuisine ensures that you’ll leave feeling nourished both physically and mentally.
Lifehouse.co.uk
For thise dreaming of a tranquil escape in the French countryside, look no further than Château de la Couronne. Set in a charming castle surrounded by lush gardens, this retreat offers a unique blend of relaxation and rejuvenation.
You can partake in yoga sessions, mindfulness workshops, and nature walks, all designed to promote inner peace and wellbeing. The château’s wellness menu includes treatments inspired by traditional French techniques, using local ingredients to enhance your experience. And of course, no retreat in France would be complete without a touch of gourmet cuisine, that’s healthy, delicious, and nourishing.
Chateaudelacouronne.com
Perched in the hills of Alicante, SHA Wellness Clinic is a luxury health resort that combines Eastern and Western wellness philosophies. This retreat is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive approach to wellness, offering everything from nutritional advice to holistic therapies.
At SHA, you have access to a wide range of activities, including yoga, meditation, and even detox programs. The cuisine is designed to support a wellness journey, featuring organic, plant-based meals that will leave you feeling revitalised. With stunning views of the Mediterranean and a serene atmosphere, SHA is perfect for those looking to find balance in a beautiful setting.
Shawellness.com/en
For a truly unique wellness experience, head to Therme Erding, one of the largest thermal spas in Europe, located just outside Munich. This oasis combines relaxation with fun, offering a vast array of thermal pools, saunas, and wellness treatments.
Spend your days soaking in the thermal waters or indulging in a variety of spa treatments. Therme Erding also features a tropical area with waterslides and relaxation zones, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and leisure. The focus on wellness extends to their cuisine, with healthy dining options available throughout the resort.
Therme-erding.de/en
Traveling to a wellness retreat offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from everyday distractions, allowing you to reconnect with yourself. In a world that often prioritises productivity over wellbeing, these retreats encourage us to slow down and take a breath, reminding us that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity.
Turn your living spaces into an oasis of healing with these fantastic at home wellness products.
Cleaner air is an excellent way to improve your overall health, removing dust particles and harmful pollution from your home’s environment. The upgraded Blue Max series features HEPASilent technology, delivering up to 83% faster cleaning and operating at just 18 dB – quieter than a whisper – making it perfect for bedrooms, and stylish for any room. With the ability to filter 99.97% of airborne particles, including viruses, smoke, and allergens, it ensures a healthier living environment. Its smart features, like app connectivity and energy-efficient design, allow you to effortlessly monitor and control your air quality while saving energy.
Blueair.com
Transform your space into a serene oasis with this exquisite ceramic aroma diffuser set, featuring a beautiful blue crackle glaze and an elegant swirl gift box designed in the OB creative studios. This diffuser not only infuses your room with calming fragrances, like revitalising neroli and lemon or soothing lavender and jasmine, but also offers customizable time settings for 30 minutes to three hours, allowing you to tailor your experience. With a selection of colour light settings – white, blue, green, yellow, and more – you can effortlessly adjust the ambience to suit your mood.
Oliverbonas.com
Enjoy the luxury of the spa at home with the Nurecover Tropic Home Steam Sauna, designed to bring the rejuvenating benefits of a spa right to your living space. This innovative sauna promotes relaxation, enhances circulation, and aids in detoxification, all while providing a soothing steam experience. Its sleek, portable design allows for easy setup in any room, making it a perfect addition to your self-care regimen. Enjoy customisable temperature settings and a user-friendly interface and indulge in the therapeutic benefits of steam therapy, and transform your home into a tranquil retreat that supports your overall wellbeing.
Nurecover.com
Create unforgettable moments with the ultimate Lay-Z-Spa hot tub designed for family and friends to unwind in comfort. With ample space for up to six people, you can indulge in a blissful escape, without leaving the comfort of your home, and surrounded by 140 invigorating air jets that soothe both body and mind. Its convenient compatibility with the Lay-Z-Spa WiFi app allows you to control the hot tub from your smart device, ensuring it’s always ready for you when you return home. Built with durable circular beam construction and an added leatheroid outer cover for extra protection, this hot tub is designed to withstand the elements. Plus, the included multicolour floating LED light sets the perfect nighttime ambiance, making every soak a luxurious experience.
Lay-z-spa.co.uk
A good night’s sleep is the basis of a healthy lifestyle. Experience the future of sleep with the Hybrid Premier mattress, the only bed that combines the comfort and support of a traditional mattress with innovative dual-sided adjustability. Featuring adjustable foam technology and premium pocket coils, this mattress ensures you enjoy customised comfort tailored to your unique needs. The cooling iSense® open-cell foam promotes a refreshing sleep environment, while the patented Comfort Control™ Technology allows both you and your partner to personalise your sleep experience. With integrated real-time sleep tracking, the Hybrid Premier mattress provides valuable insights into your sleep quality, empowering you to optimise your rest.
Sleep8.uk
Are you feeling weighed down by your breast size? You’re not alone! Many women experience discomfort and self-consciousness due to large breasts, but there’s a liberating solution: breast reduction surgery. Under the expert care of Philip Turton, a Consultant Specialist Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon with over 20 years of experience at the Leeds Nuffield Hospital, you can take the first step toward a more comfortable and confident version of yourself.
Breast reduction surgery is Mr Turton’s main specialty operation and he is a nationally recognised expert in his field. He reduces the size of the breasts, and gets rid of the elongated shape and sag, elevates and reshapes the nipple, while providing his depth of knowledge to keep you safe and optimise the results. This specialist procedure not only alleviates physical discomfort but also enhances your overall quality of life.
1. To reduce back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as skin irritation beneath the breasts.
2. Boosted self-esteem: Large breasts can sometimes lead to feelings of self-consciousness. After surgery, many women report a newfound confidence in their appearance.
3. Improved posture and mobility: With reduced weight on your chest, you may find it easier to maintain better posture, which can further alleviate back pain. Additionally, many women experience improved mobility, even improved breathing, making it easier to partake in physical activities, from yoga to dancing.
When considering breast reduction surgery, choosing the right surgeon is crucial. Philip Turton brings over two decades of cosmetic breast surgery experience and a wealth of expertise to the table. He is not just a skilled breast surgeon; he’s a compassionate professional who understands the emotional and physical intricacies involved in this procedure. His commitment to personalised care ensures that each patient feels heard and understood throughout their journey.
Philip says: “I really feel and connect with what other people feel and therefore want to give them the absolute best outcome. My background in reconstructive breast cancer work is the foundation of my training. One of the most glorious aspects of my job is being able to see people in clinic who have expressed, sometimes in tears, the stress that they’ve carried for many years, and produce beautiful
results. It’s very fulfilling to see them afterwards and having been able to help them.”
If you’re considering breast reduction surgery, here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect:
1. Consultation: Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. This is your opportunity to discuss your concerns, goals, and medical history, and receive a thorough evaluation to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure.
2. Customised plan: Philip will create a personalised surgical plan tailored to your starting shape and optimising the safest approach.
3. The surgery: The procedure itself typically lasts two to four hours, depending on individual circumstances. You are discharged the following morning and have clinic reviews for the first few weeks to check your healing. Most patients are back in the gym by six weeks! Philip uses advanced techniques to ensure optimal scarring and a smoother recovery process.
It’s natural to have questions and concerns before undergoing any surgical procedure. Here are a few common worries and how Philip addresses them:
• Will I lose sensation in my breasts? While some women may experience temporary changes in sensation after surgery, most regain full sensation over time, though not always in the nipple itself. Philip will discuss any potential risks during your consultation.
• What about scarring? Scarring varies from person to person, but Philip employs techniques that minimise visible scars. They typically reduce significantly by three months and continue improving over 18-months. He’ll guide you on how to care for your incisions post-surgery to promote the best healing.
• Costs for this surgery are around £12,500 including after care.
So why wait? If you’re ready to embrace a more confident and liberated you, take that first step today! Contact Philip Turton’s secretary Viki Short to schedule your consultation and start your journey towards comfort and self-love. Victoria.Short@Nuffieldhealth.com Web links: Linktr.ee/turtonp Cosmeticbreastsurgeon.co.uk 07944 888 611
I went for a mammogram early 2022, with severe pain in my breasts. The consultant said I needed a breast reduction. My GP was very supportive, but she warned it is extremely difficult get funding for a breast reduction on the NHS. I met Mr Turton in May 2024 after doing research on surgeons. He put me at ease and gave me breathing time to make my own decision. But I remember after an examination, drawing on my breasts, and explaining what I can expect during and after surgery: the risks and hopefully the good outcome. It is time ladies were listened to, and our health problems are taken seriously.
– Lynn
I would just like you to know that this surgery has been lifesaving for me. I know now that I will no longer be in daily pain caused by stretching and shoulder pain. The fact that I can go into a bra shop without feeling embarrassed about my size and that they don’t have any to fit. From the first consultation you and your staff have been wonderful giving me so much advice and support. This really is life changing for me and I can’t thank you enough.
– Lisa Over 350 5-star
The change in weather has a big impact on our skin. Colder temperatures, reduced humidity, and central heating plays havoc with our skin barrier, drying it out and leaving it looking dull and lacklustre. But fear not, there’s so much that you can do to put your skin to work and regain your healthy glow!
So much can be achieved by using advanced skincare at home. We often tell our clients what they do at home is just as important as what we do in-clinic. Imagine visiting the dentist regularly but not brushing your teeth at home – it’s the same principle.
Here are our top tips for switching up your winter skincare to keep it looking and feeling its best:
• Sun protection: don’t be fooled into thinking that sun protection is just for summer. Your skin is at risk of damage all year round, with UVA penetrating clouds and glass. Daily sun protection is a non-negotiable for healthy skin.
• Vitamin C: introducing a good Vitamin C serum into your regime not only boosts your skin health but also brightens your skin – it’s a great addition to your winter regime.
• Gentle cleanser: make sure your daily cleanser is gentle and doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils – something that the cold weather will already be doing.
• Hydrator: choose a rich, intensely hydrating moisturiser to quench your skin and help to replace any water-loss caused by a compromised skin barrier and the change in temperature.
• Retinol: If you’re looking to combat the signs of ageing, retinol is the perfect skincare choice as it helps to normalise your skin cell turnover, reducing lines and wrinkles and brightening the complexion. Build up usage slowly so that you don’t cause any additional dryness.
Professional facial treatments can target different skin concerns including fine lines, a dry rough texture, open pores and a dull uneven complexion. Not only that, but they give you much needed pamper time!
Here are our top recommendations for skin treatments to help you get your glow on:
• LED phototherapy: relaxing and highly effective, specific wavelengths of light help to stimulate your skin cells leaving you with a radiant complexion. Suffer with redness in the winter? We can switch your combination of light therapy to help reduce that too!
• Chemical peels: The perfect winter treatment as we gently encourage old skin cells to fall away and reveal fresh new cells!
• Facial massage: Facial massage and lymphatic drainage helps to reduce puffiness and bring blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the skin surface to give you a healthy glow.
• Micro-needling: perfect for skin regeneration and fine line reduction, micro-needling stimulates the skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and fresh skin cells.
At Roundhay Aesthetics we offer bespoke Signature Facials tailored to your skin and your needs.
Each of our Signature Facials combines treatments like the ones mentioned above to give you beautiful results, without any downtime afterwards.
Book in for a free consultation and leave it to us to find the best winter workout for your skin! Hurry, JLife readers get a 35% discount on our Signature Facials before the end of December!
Roundhayaesthetics.co.uk
Treat yourself and your skin to one of our bespoke Signature Facials.
Our Signature Facials are tailored to your skin and combine advanced mini-treatments and techniques to help enhance your skin health and appearance.
Following a thorough, complimentary consultation we'll create a treatment that will best target your concerns: Dull, lacklustre skin
Fine lines
Uneven complexion
Rough texture
Open pores
Our Signature Facials range from £130 to £175 for an hour-long treatment and are currently discounted by 35% for JLIFE readers!
By PETER ROWE Director ROB SALMON
Eureka! is an exciting and fun-filled museum that boasts hundreds of interactive exhibits for children aged 0 to 11. With six unique zones to explore, young visitors can engage their imaginations and discover more about themselves and the world around them by the magic of learning through play.
The museum is packed full of interactive events activities designed to captivate young minds such as PixelPlay – a mesmerising digital sandbox where pixels come to life as dancing projections, playful creatures, and dot-based creations.
For the littlest explorers, Eureka! has festive activities running throughout December for babies and toddlers to enjoy. Families can explore the museum without school bookings, so its spaces and staff will be available for inquisitive minds explore.
Eureka! also prioritises inclusivity with SEN days with reduced visitor numbers, flexible scheduling, calming chill-out rooms, and ear defenders, so every child can join in the fun.
Play.eureka.org.uk
Shoot your shot | Monday to Sunday
There’s an exciting new crossbow challenge at the Royal Armouries Museum that’s bound to captivate and entertain the kids.
Test your steady hand and sharp aim as you take aim at the targets. With eight bolts at your disposal, see how many points you can rack up and discover if you have what it takes to join the royal ranks as a Master of the Crossbow.
Crossbow Challenge is managed by an expert team, who will provide guidance and full instructions on operating the crossbow to make sure you’re safe while having fun.
Royalarmouries.org
Light it up | until 31st December
At Temple Newsam throughout December, you’ll find Northern Lights – Yorkshire’s newest festive attraction that has transformed the grounds of the house into an enchanted wonderland.
Take a stroll through an enchanted world of illumination that’s uniquely crafted by world leading lighting designers. The trails include a spectrum of lights including art installations, interactive elements, and special effects that have been designed with all ages, abilities, and backgrounds in mind to ensure that they can be enjoyed by all.
In the historic courtyard of the stables outside the Temple Newsam house, you’ll find a variety of street food vendors providing fresh, high-quality food to fuel your evening. With everything from hot dogs and loaded fries to marshmallows and authentic Spanish churros, there’ll be something for everyone to sink their teeth into.
Northernlightsleeds.com
He’s behind you! | until 12th January
What’s a festive period without a pantomime? The Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto is back for another year at City Varieties Music Hall.
In a slightly different format to what you’d expect from a conventional pantomime, these shows mix traditional elements of audience participation and corny jokes with a jukebox of classic rock anthems and chart-toppers, all performed live on stage by a cast of actor-musicians.
This year’s edition is a re-imagined version of Jack and the Beanstalk where you’ll follow Jack on his magical journey up the beanstalk to the giant’s castle, soundtracked by a wide range of feel-good songs that will get the whole family moving.
Leedsheritagetheatres.com
Curtain call | until 25th January
Leeds Playhouse has plenty to keep the kids happy this holiday with its productions of Mr Snow and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Mr Snow – which is running until 4th January – follows Blessyou, who lives in a magical icy land with his polar explorer dad and his best friend Beartie. Join Blessyou on a quest round Penguin Corner, over Polar Bear Hill, through Icicle Valley, and out to the Middle of Nowhere, where he ultimately discovers there’s snow place like home.
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is coming to Leeds until 25th January, following a UK tour and run in the West End. Step through the wardrobe into the kingdom of Narnia as C.S. Lewis’ classic novel is brought to the stage for mystical adventures in a faraway land. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and hello to Mr Tumnus the faun, Aslan the lion, and the White Witch.
Leedsplayhouse.org.uk
Keep the kids entertained with events around the area during the school holidays.
Leeds Jewish Welfare Board has been busy as ever with a range of activities to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, as well as hosting Moortown Primary School.
It’s been an action-packed few months at Leeds Jewish Welfare Board (LJWB), with a wide range of exciting activities bringing the community together. One of the highlights was the hugely popular ‘Stay & Play Sessions @ the MAZCC,’ where children and their carers gathered to celebrate the Jewish Festivals. The themed crafts and displays set up for Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot created a festive atmosphere, allowing the little ones to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. The playgroup runs every weekday morning from 9.30 am to 11.30 am and offers an exciting mix of activities, including sensory play, messy play, and challah baking, providing a fun and educational environment for pre-school aged children. The sessions have proven to be a hit with both children and parents, and advance booking is essential to secure a place.
In addition to the playgroup sessions, LJWB organised the sale of beautiful Rosh Hashanah cards, designed by members of the MAZCC art classes. These cards were sold in the run-up to the Jewish New Year, raising over £900 for the charity. The proceeds will go towards supporting the charity’s vital work in the local community, helping to provide essential services for those in need. Many of LJWB’s dedicated volunteers played a key role in selling the cards, helping to raise funds and spread festive cheer throughout the community.
The charity also showed its commitment to supporting older members of the community with the creation of over 50 Rosh Hashanah
gift packs. These thoughtful packs, which included challah, grape juice, and fresh fruit, were delivered to local care homes and elderly residents, ensuring that those who may not be able to join in the celebrations still felt part of the Jewish New Year festivities. This initiative was much appreciated by both the recipients and their families, highlighting LJWB’s dedication to inclusivity and community spirit. Another special event took place when LJWB welcomed Year 4 pupils from Moortown Primary School for an inter-generational morning. The children, accompanied by their teachers, visited the MAZCC to learn about the important work LJWB does in the local community. The children enjoyed a couple of rounds of bingo and some fun colouring activities alongside LJWB service users. The event left everyone with huge smiles on their
faces, having shared a memorable, joyful experience that strengthened the bonds between different generations within the community.
Looking ahead, LJWB will be holding a Chanukah party on 30th December, with candle lighting, musical entertainment, and refreshments. Booking is essential.
For those interested in volunteering, LJWB welcomes new volunteers and can be contacted at 0113 268 4111.
RACHEL AND EVA CELEBRATED THEIR B’NEI MITZVAH AT SINAI SYNAGOGUE ON 19TH OCTOBER.
SOME FAMILY MEMBERS EVEN CAME FROM AS FAR AS AMERICA TO CELEBRATE WITH THE GIRLS.
THEY WERE SURROUNDED BY FAMILY, INCLUDING MUM JEN, DAD JIM, BIG BROTHER EZRA, AND LITTLE SISTER NAOMI.
THE PARTY TOOK PLACE AT THE QUEEN’S HOTEL ON HARROGATE ROAD, WHERE GUESTS WERE TREATED TO FOOD BY SHOUK, AS WELL AS FRESH WAFFLES, POPCORN, AND A CHOCOLATE FONDUE STATION.
THE LORD MAYOR, ABIGAIL MARSHALL KATUNG (3RD FROM LEFT) OPENED THE NEW LEEDS OFFICE OF PAPERWEIGHT, A CHARITY PROVIDING FREE, PRACTICAL SUPPORT ACROSS A SPECTRUM OF LEGAL, FINANCIAL, WELFARE, POST-BEREAVEMENT AND ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS. ALSO PRESENT WERE CEO BAYLA BERRIN AND CHAIRMAN BEN CONWAY (FAR RIGHT) TOGETHER WITH LEEDS CO-ORDINATORS AND PARTNERS.
Israeli airline Arkia – which recently started operating two flights per week from Manchester to Ben Gurion Airport – has made changes to its schedule to better cater to Shabbat-observant travellers.
From 1st November, flights from Manchester to Tel Aviv now depart on Mondays and Thursdays at 10.30pm, while flights from Tel Aviv to Manchester now leave at 2pm also on Mondays and Thursdays.
Michael Ben Baruch, Director UK and Ireland at Israel Government Tourist Office (IGTO) said: “IGTO would like to express full support for Arkia’s recent decision to adjust its Friday flight schedule in consideration of passengers observing Shabbat. This thoughtful move further demonstrates Arkia’s commitment to the Jewish community in both Manchester and Israel, and respect for the traditions of the communities it serves.”
Liat Bell Sommer, Head of Communications and Government Relations at Arkia Airline, said: “By making it easier for our Shabbat-observant customers to reach their destinations before the onset of the holy day, Arkia is not only enhancing its customer service but also reinforcing the values of mutual respect and understanding. The change acknowledges the significance of Shabbat for many families and individuals who wish to travel without compromising their religious practices.”
At the beginning of November, 200 people had an amazing afternoon at the Friendship Club’s luncheon. The room was beautifully decorated, and lunch was served by the hardworking volunteers. After food, they were entertained by a Buddy Holly tribute act which had people joining in and reminiscing about their youth.
Another Friendship Club afternoon was held which was attended by 140 people, both new and old members. There was a moment held to acknowledge Remembrance Day where everyone joined in with the national anthem and entertainment came from Patti Gold who spoke about her life as a singer and had people joining in with her medley of songs.
Chairman of The Zone, Paul Shafar, has surpassed his fundraising target and raised over £5,000 for the youth centre by walking part of the Coast-to-Coast route from Kirby Stephen to Robin Hood’s Bay.
Paul was accompanied by his friend Robert and together they tackled 108 miles of the route. Terrible weather, gruelling conditions, and getting lost a couple of times didn’t stop the determined pair, who finished the route in six days.
The Coast-to-Coast walk isn’t the first time Paul has done an impressive trek to raise funds for the youth centre; in 2020 he walked The Cleveland Way and The Speyside Way in 2022.
The money raised by Paul and Robert will go towards The Zone continuing to offer a vibrant activity centre for the young Jewish community in Leeds and beyond, providing a safe space, educational programmes, and volunteer opportunities.
LJWB will be celebrating Chanukah at its annual Chanukah party from 2pm to 4pm on 30th December at MAZCC, and entry is only £3 per person.
There’ll be candle-lighting, songs and prayers, live musical entertainment, and Chanukah refreshments.
Booking is essential, call 0113 268 4211
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced in the budget that the government will pledge an additional £2 million towards Holocaust education.
In her speech in the Commons, Rachel paid tribute to Holocaust survivor Lily Ebert who passed away aged 100 earlier this year. The money will contribute towards charities such as the Holocaust Education Trust (HET) being able to continue their work to ensure testimonies aren’t lost and are preserved for the future.
HET said on X (formerly known as Twitter): “This is fantastic news. We are hugely grateful to the Chancellor for recognising our work. We are at a crucial juncture as Holocaust survivors become fewer and frailer, and the importance of ensuring their testimony is preserved and accessible for generations to come cannot be underestimated. With the surge in antisemitism today and as the Holocaust moves from living history to history, this work is vital and urgent.”
Working together with Homeless Street Angels, a former MasterChef: The Professionals finalist is providing cooking lessons for those affected by homelessness.
Matt Healy – who is from Horsforth and runs Forde – will deliver a series of classes from December and will show the charity’s clients basic cooking skills that will help them to increase their talents as well as boosting their confidence. He joins a series of other well-known figures that are working with Homeless Street Angels, including journalist Christina Ackroyd who will run a writing workshop and fitness enthusiast Sophie Mei Lan Malin who will be running belly dancing sessions as a way for the charity’s clients to have fun and keep fit.
Matt has also said that he is willing to provide employment opportunities for anyone who impresses with their culinary skills.
There could be a men’s fashion archive created as part of plans to build 500 homes on the site of the historic Burton’s factory in Burmantofts.
The factory was one of the headquarters for Burton – which was founded by Lithuanian Jew Montague Baurice Burton (born Meshe David Osinsky) – and began producing suits in the 1920s. At one time, it was the biggest clothing factory in the world.
Developer Avant Home wants to redevelop the former factory but has confirmed that there will be a memorabilia archive included on the site if the plans go ahead. Avant Homes recognises the importance of the social heritage that’s associated with the site and plans to keep and restore some of the original features.
Leeds Jewish Representative Council’s (LJRC) Chairman, Simon Myerson, and Chief Operations Officer, Susie Gordon, met with the acting Chief Executive of Leeds City Council, Mariana Pexton, to discuss communal issues.
Simon and Susie discussed the distress the community has felt about particular events in Leeds and how the LJRC represents the community to the political leadership of the city.
Topics covered in the meeting included Leeds City Council’s policy towards equality, statistics of antisemitic crime and incidents, the problem of extremist perspectives from every viewpoint, the personal ways in which the community feels linked to Israel, and many more.
Join the Leeds Jewish Welfare Board on 12th December at 5pm to celebrate the charity and find out about the impact it makes in the community.
Refreshments will be provided at the review that will also include a round-up of the busy and rewarding year LJWB has had.
RSVP by 2nd December to victoria.sandler@ljwb.co.uk
Rabbi
Eli Pink
of Chabad Lubavitch considers the power of social media and encourages the community to share the light over Chanukah.
The role of a Rabbi and Rebbetzin has changed over the years, even just in the 18 years that we have lived in Leeds. Whereas in the past the must-have accessory for a Rabbi was a guitar and the ability to lead a kumzitz, now it is an active social media profile.
After Chanukah last year, my nephew, who was starting his own social media business, encouraged me to start making weekly video thoughts that he would share across our social media channels, including ones we hadn’t previously used such as TikTok.
I’ve followed with interest the news from Australia where there are plans to ban social media for anyone under the age of 16. I don’t envy them the challenge. For many years people have looked askance at the more observant Jewish community and their
eschewing of smart phones and social media, but now experts from all stripes are starting to understand their logic.
Since October 7th, social media has really brought out the worst from people and those in positions of power have shown an ambivalence to anti-Jewish rhetoric. But part of the problem is certainly our addiction to it. If I never went on social media or followed the news, I would never know that there was so much hatred out there.
Social media isn’t going anywhere, however, and while we should all monitor our own usage and that of our children, it provides an opportunity to reach out to people and share positive messages and occasions. Being openly Jewish on social media, even if only within our own community and circle
of friends, changes the narrative and gives everyone a moment of positivity.
No festival is more suited to this that Chanukah when we can literally “share the light.” The public Menorah lightings that Chabad Lubavitch has become known for, are opportunities to bring us together to share the light beyond our homes. Social media gives each another way to share the light and joy of Chanukah. This year, each night as you gather your family and light your Menorah, take a picture and share it with your family and friends.
Happy Chanukah #sharethelights Judaismlive.com
The Anne Frank Trust UK is a vital organisation dedicated to preserving the legacy of Anne Frank, the Jewish girl who became a symbol of resilience and hope during the Holocaust. Established in 1990, the trust seeks to educate individuals about the dangers of discrimination, racism, and antisemitism, drawing on Anne's powerful story as a vehicle for promoting tolerance and understanding.
The trust's core mission revolves around fostering respect and acceptance within diverse communities. By using Anne Frank’s life and writings as a foundation, the organisation aims to inspire young people to reflect on their values and actions, encouraging them to stand up against prejudice. The trust believes that by educating future generations, they can contribute to a society that upholds equality and human rights for all.
Naomi Griffiths, Assistant Director of Education at the trust, details how the
We speak with two key figures from the Anne Frank Trust UK about how the organisation is educating young people about the dangers of prejudice and discrimination.
that we look at antisemitism and other forms of prejudice today.”
Beyond education, the Anne Frank Trust UK is committed to community outreach. The organisation collaborates with local communities, fostering dialogue and understanding among different cultural and ethnic groups. This outreach is particularly important in a time when social division and hostility can threaten community cohesion.
Naturally, the events of October 7th and the subsequent war in Gaza and Lebanon, have had an effect on how the trust teaches, as Naomi explains: “Previously, Israel-Palestine or Israel-Hamas wouldn’t always come up as a particularly strong topic, whereas now quite often we are asked about it quite early on and we’re having conversations about it. Do work in schools with predominantly Muslim students where we having conversations about: ‘Was Anne Frank a Zionist?’ and
organisation works with schools: “We have three strands of learning that we offer schools. We offer in-person programmes, online courses, and an ambassador programme for students who are really invested in the topics we cover. All of our education programmes start with Anne Frank, and the Holocaust, and challenging antisemitism. And then from
other challenging questions like that. We’re really working on training and working with other organisations to make sure our staff are equipped to talk about these things more confidently.”
The trust recently held an event at Allerton High School, attended by members of the community and Leeds City Council,
which Austen Garth, Jewish Community Engagement Manager, discusses: “We’re very keen that the Jewish community should have better knowledge about what we do as an organisation. So we chose to hold an event at Allerton High, because that’s right in the heart of the Jewish community and is a school that we’ve done a lot of work within the last few years. Together with the pupils we created an exhibition there of the work we do.”
The Anne Frank Trust also produces an
track the effect it has
students it teaches. The latest report showed that 83.8% of the young people taught progress in their knowledge of prejudice, and this increased knowledge drives a significant improvement in their social attitudes. The report also showed that 87.6% become more positive towards people from at least one of 12 social groups (Black, Christian, disabled, female, Gypsy Roma Traveller, Jewish, LGBTQ, male, Muslim, old, refugee, and white). The greatest progress is towards Jewish people, with 59.8% of the young people becoming more positive. Among Muslim young people, the proportion making proJewish progress is even higher – at 65.7%.
Find out more about Anne Frank’s story and the work of the trust at Annefrank.org.uk
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