JLife Leeds October 2025

IN THISISSUE CONTENTS: OCT / NOV 2025

Light Up

Leeds Light Night will illuminate our amazing city in the coming weeks. Page 11.

Yom Tov

Celebrate the New Year period with your announcements, our guides to the best apple themed décor and tasty tipples, as well as finding out about the process of making honey from a local supplier. Starts page 26.

Chapel Allerton

We’re back in the bustling village full of character and spirit after another successful arts festival. Page 61.

Autumn Homestyle

Welcome cosy season with trend predictions, autumn décor suggestions, our tips on how to keep your home warm, and more! Starts page 83.

PUBLISHER

Elliot Landy

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Richard Shawcross

FEATURES EDITOR

Brendan Campbell

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Ellie Tyson

DIGITAL MARKETING

Tracey Cleminson

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Claire Flegg

David Cole

Photography

David Pullum

Photography

Photography

Sarah

CONTRIBUTORS

Al Bruce

Chris Holmes CST

Emma Bestley Forward Arts Foundation

Gary Don

Helen Booth

Jacqueline Passman

James Daly

Juliet Shenderey

Kirsty Barton

Kostas Iliadis

Leasa Foster

Lisa Cutcliffe

YOUR REGULARFEATURES

JLife Meets…

Artist Sarah Doerfler explains how she’s transformed feelings of grief into beautiful glass art. Page 10.

Executive Director of Lev Tov Match, Naomi Goldman, gives us the lowdown on the online matchmaking service for Jewish adults with various disabilities. Page 18.

Jacqueline Passman discusses her new book, A Cool Head in Hell. Page 39.

What’s On?

A double helping of some upcoming events for you and the kids this half term. Starts page 15.

Travel

Discover Marrakesh, the jewel of Morrocco. Page 20.

Set Point

For World TV Day (21st November), we’re taking you on a tour of real-life sets where you can step straight into the shoes of your favourite characters. Page 34.

Fashion

Eco-conscious consumers are thinking beyond fast fashion towards more quality over quantity and we take a look at a few stylish timepieces. Starts page 36.

Taste of the Wild

To mark Wild Foods Day on 28th October, Lisa Cutcliffe talks about the joy of foraging, seeking out wild foods, and rediscovering our ancestral diet. Page 40.

PUBLISHER'S NOTE

Our October edition celebrates Jewish New Year (to those that do) with family announcements and sweet features, but that’s not all. We have Autumn Homestyle, a look around Chapel Allerton with a review of the recent festival, Leeds Light Night, the International Festival of Ideas… the list goes on!

We don’t have specific religious or political views here and try to give positivity and enjoyment to all; what we want for everyone though is peace, friendship, and not living in fear. I’m pleased to have made new acquaintances from businesses run by multi-

Lord Mayor Dan Cohen

Mark Grandfield

Mark Manning Meharban Singh

Michael Ben Baruch

Michelle Ayres Moshe Merel

Naomi Goldman Natasha Williams

Nici Wertheim

Rabbi Eli Pink

Raffaele Saccoccio

Sarah Doerfler

Eat Your Greens

Get ready to celebrate National Vegetarian Week from 1st to 7th October! Page 70.

What’s the Big Idea?

Leeds International Festival of Ideas returns with another blockbuster event. Page 71.

Win Win Win!

a

worth £295! Page 51.

There are two adult tickets or one family ticket up for

faiths hoping to welcome business from our community.

We thank our competition donors; we’d love you to win a trip to Harewood’s Festive Market, or even a free Health Check at Leeds Clinic, but you must be in it to win it! Talking of which, see some of your latest pooch pics and the winner on pxx!

Wishing those that do celebrate a happy, healthy, reflective, and relaxing Yom Tov period, and praying for the remaining hostages.

Shanah Tovah!

One lucky reader has the chance to win

platinum health check at The Leeds Clinic

grabs for Harewood Christmas Market. Page 57.

LEEDS UNITES

Hundreds of people gathered in Millenium

Square on 31st August to stand together against the rise of antisemitism.

The event, which was jointly organised by Leeds Jewish Representative Council (LJRC) and Leeds Leads Against Antisemitism (LLAA), was in direct response to the recent wave of antisemitism in the city.

Simon Myerson KC, Chair of LJRC, and Susie Gordon, CEO of LJRC, opened the event together, emphasising the urgent need to call out antisemitism in all its forms: “Antisemitism wears many faces, but century-old stereotypes are racism when used against Jewish people by any thug, whether that thug is a doctor or not. It must be called out, and it must be removed from our streets,” said Simon.

The rally brought together voices from different faiths and across the political spectrum including Cllr Dan Cohen, Lord Mayor of Leeds; Cllr James Lewis, Leader of Leeds City Council; Cllr Sam Firth, Conservative Representative; Bishop Arun Arora, Bishop of Leeds; Jeremy Michelson, Board of Deputies of British Jews; Debbie Addlestone, Co-Founder

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

of LLAA, and Ben Frais, community activist with LLAA.

Ben spoke at the event, saying: “Antisemitism is, sadly, something not consigned to history. It is happening here in our own city and in many others. Jews in Leeds are proud to call this city our home, but home needs to feel secure for all of us. Right now, for too many Jewish families, it doesn’t.”

Debbie added: “It was good to see so many people here today to support us, from across all faiths, political beliefs, and backgrounds, to help spread the message that all hate is wrong and support us in combatting the rise in antisemitism that we are seeing across Yorkshire and beyond.”

The rally closed with a message of unity and determination, underlining that hatred and prejudice have no place on the streets of Leeds.

HALL OF FAME

Michael Rashman, former Manchester Jewish Soccer League (MJSL) player, has launched the MJSL Hall of Fame to be celebrated at a dinner in November.

Although the MJSL may have come to an end in 2023, Mike Rashman is hoping to bring back its spirit and honour those who graced the league, including the many players from Leeds.

The MJSL Hall of Fame will be unveiled at a charity dinner on November 27th at the Hilton Suite in Prestwich. Mike is calling out for MJSL ‘old boys’ from Manchester, Broughton Park, Liverpool, Leeds, Blackpool, Southport, and Sheffield who played, managed, coached, refereed, or played a part in the league from the 1960s onwards.

Mike was inspired to create the hall of fame after a conversation with family: “One of my grandchildren asked me if I’d ever played football and I realised that they only know me as I am today, not the young sportsman I once was. If that was happening to me, it must be happening to my ex-teammates.

“Sadly, many of my ex-teammates and opponents are no longer with us but I saw an opportunity for players and managers of years gone by to come together for an evening of

memories, entertainment, and fun while we’re still here to tell the tales.”

At the dinner, there will be 24 tables of 10 at a cost of £50 per person which will include a three-course meal and welcome drink. There’ll be entertainment and a sports memorabilia auction and raffle will be held, raising money for Bury Hospice, Focus Foundation, and Manchester Maccabi.

Individuals or businesses wishing to sponsor the event or advertise in the brochure can contact Mike at mdrashman@hotmail.com or on 07710 226 350.

PHOTO: SIMON@ADDICTIVE.MEDIA

THE WHITEFIELD TEAM WHO WON THE MJSL CUP IN THE 1970S. MIKE IS PICTURED FRONT SECOND RIGHT.

ALL PHOTOS: DAVID STUBBS PHOTOGRAPHY

MAZEL TOV TO LUCY ADLER AND DAVID LEE WHO RECENTLY TIED THE KNOT!

THE SPECIAL DAY WAS HELD AT THE QUEENS HOTEL IN THE CITY CENTRE. THERE WASN’T A DRY EYE IN THE HOUSE!

IT WAS A BEAUTIFUL CEREMONY UNDER THE CHUPPAH WITH RABBI JASON KLEIMAN, RECENTLY MOVED TO LONDON, BACK IN LEEDS TO OFFICIATE.

THE GROOM’S FRIENDS WERE MARCHING ON TOGETHER.

ALL EYES WERE ON THE COUPLE FOR THEIR FIRST DANCE.

LOVED ONES ALL CAME TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Visit Harrogate Shul

With an eclectic mix of officiants each week, our services are fresh and enjoyable. However, our copious kiddushim remain the same warm and friendly atmosphere where you can enjoy meeting new and old friends.

Our doors are open to members, friends, and all newcomers. Give us a try – you won’t be disappointed! We have services on Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and all the Chagim as well as every shabbat morning. Please let us know if you would like to come.

For more information on what we have to offer in Harrogate please call the shul administration on 07496 358 224, email harrogateshul@gmail.com, or visit our website Harrogateshul.co.uk

Homeless Street Angels Dinner

Homelessness charity, Homeless Street Angels, is throwing its annual gala dinner to raise much needed funds on 22nd November at the Marriott Hotel in Leeds.

Sponsored by JLife partner Skopes, this year’s dinner will be themed around The Greatest Showman film. There’ll be a threecourse sit down meal, entertainment from Hypnotist Dave Rawson and dance troupe Musical Theatre Life will be performing the charity’s latest Christmas single.

The evening will be hosted by Journalist and TV Presenter, Christa Ackroyd, and ‘Rate My Takeaway’ star Danny Malin and his wife Sophie will be holding the evening’s auction.

Tickets are available from homelessstreetangels@outlook.com

UHC Civic Guests

Members of the United Hebrew Congregation’s (UHC) Wednesday Club were guests of honour at Leeds Civic Hall in August.

32 members were greeted by Sergeantat-Mace, Mark Lenon, who spoke about Leeds’ Mace and the many gifts the city has received, some of which are on display outside the Banquet Hall.

The visit ended with tea and coffee in the Ark Royal Room, with members enjoying a chat with Lord Mayor Dan Cohen and Lady Mayoress Elayna Cohen.

Israeli Clients Turn to Chai

A rising number of Israelis living in the UK are turning to Chai Cancer Care, as the UK Jewish community’s leading cancer support organisation for people and their families affected by a diagnosis.

Today, there are an estimated 60,000 UK-based Israelis. Chai is calling for more awareness of its expanded services among the community for those as young as three-years-old, including its Hebrew-speaking counsellors who allow Israel-born clients to express themselves in their native tongue. Chai provides multi-faceted support to those living away from relatives in Israel, including explaining the mechanics of the GP and NHS system to anyone that needs extra guidance.

The charity is reporting an increase in the number of Israel-born clients coming to the charity in recent years. With the ongoing conflict possibly affecting loved ones in Israel, they value Chai as a safe and understanding space where they can share their story, without risk of judgment or prejudice.

CEO of Chai, Victoria Portnoi, said: “At Chai, we are committed to providing a safe space where Israeli families can find added layers of understanding and support. Our Hebrew-speaking therapists and services offer a vital sense of community, allowing families to stay in the UK while navigating their cancer journey with the care and compassion they need.”

WLTW Anniversary

In September, Women Leading the Way (WLTW) celebrates its second anniversary. A WIZO initiative, this innovative collective holds networking workshops, focusing on personal growth and self-development led by inspiring women from the community.

Earlier this year, Poet Rebecca Parker facilitated how writing can release emotions and capture moments, and Podcaster Dahlia Stroud explored how clothes can improve confidence and change mindset.

WLTW taps into WIZO’s rich history of championing women’s rights and advancing gender equality in Israel with proceeds to WIZO’s Emergency Appeal, to provide psychological support, trauma management, and practical help for displaced families, at-risk students, and children in crisis.

LLAA Upcoming Events

Alongside its weekly advocacy sessions, Leeds Leads Against Antisemitism has plenty of events happening in the coming months. Be sure to check these out!

On 28th September, there’ll be an evening with Lisa and Mike Marlowe, the parents of Jake Marlowe who was tragically killed at the Nova music festival. All proceeds from the event will go to MDA UK.

12th October will see a memorial service for October 7th in Leeds city centre. On 1st November, an interfaith shabbat will be held by LLAA, the Board of Deputies, and Leeds Jewish Representative Council. And finally, in December (date TBC) at Carriage Works Theatre, Brendan O’Neil, Chief Politics Writer of Spiked, will host a talk.

For more details and information on where to buy tickets, visit LLAA’s Facebook page.

Israeli Couple Donate $180 Million

Anat and Dr Shmuel Harlap have recently donated $180 million to the Rabin Medical Centre/ Beilinson Hospital. The gift is said to be the largest ever donation to the Israeli healthcare system.

The donation will enable the construction of a new heart and brain centre at the Petach Tikva hospital complex. The Harlap family have announced that the new facility will be named ‘The Tower of Hope’, symbolising their desire to help healing divisions within Israeli society.

The couple said: “There is no place more fitting than a central public hospital to symbolise the healing of divisions within Israeli society. The Tower of Hope will serve all sectors of the Israeli public – secular, religious, ultra-Orthodox, Muslim, Christian, Druze, and Circassian. It will be a lighthouse of hope for all, and if we are fortunate to bask in its light, that will be our reward.”

ArtGlassof

Sarah Doerfler explains how she’s transformed feelings of grief into beautiful glass art.

For Sarah Doerfler, glass is more than just a medium – it’s a source of healing, beauty, and connection. What started as a way to cope with an unimaginable loss has grown into a meaningful and creative journey via her business, Kitty Maya – Glass Designs from the Heart. Through this vibrant art, Sarah not only finds peace and joy in making but also keeps Kitty’s memory alive. Today, her pieces bring light, colour, and comfort to others, through handcrafted, completely unique pieces of jewellery, gifts, homewares, and more!

Sarah’s connection with glass all started from an unforgettable exhibition: “I’ve always found glass to be so beautiful and sort of captivating; the colours, the shine, the intensity, everything! It was on a holiday to Jerusalem where I saw an exhibition of an artist called Dale Chihuly and it was breathtaking; this really sparked my love for the art.”

When Sarah’s daughter, Kitty Maya, passed away, art quickly became an important part of her healing: “Kitty was born with an incredibly rare type of leukaemia, and she died when she was 15 months old. About a year after, I was having a hard time, so I started attending a mental health day unit and they had an art therapy room.

“I’ve never been artistic; I didn’t even do art at GCSE! But I just found this art therapy room to be so peaceful and calming. The magic of glass is that everything looks beautiful, no matter what you do with it, and it just brought me so much joy to be able to create beautiful things.

“I never really thought of it as something I could do because I always assumed you needed a huge workshop where you had to blow glass. It wasn’t until one of my colleagues showed me a beautiful glass necklace that she’d made herself that I realised I could do it from home! I bought a microwave kiln and quickly fell in love with it so I invested in a proper kiln; I can now make pieces that are up to 50x50cm.”

What started as a personal art therapy for Sarah has now grown into a business: “Glass is expensive, and I couldn’t afford to keep buying it. In the beginning, it was never my plan to sell my work, I was just doing it for my own joy. I started selling my pieces so I could buy more materials, but I also wanted to be able to give something to charity in Kitty’s name. I make sure that 10% of everything I make goes to The Zone because it’s such a wonderful charity.”

The response from Sarah’s art is something she never takes for granted: “Photography and glass do not go hand in

hand, it’s difficult to get decent pictures! So, when people see their pieces in real life, it’s amazing seeing their faces and hearing their responses. I love knowing that everything has this link to Kitty – it makes my heart swell.

“One of my most popular pieces has been the Yahrzeit candle holders, and the feedback has been incredible. Someone once told me that lighting a candle used to feel only sad, but now, with these holders, it helps them reflect and remember with joy.”

Ex-Primary School Teacher Sarah has now started to combine her teaching experience with her love of glass art: “I’ve started running workshops because I love sharing with people just how mindful, therapeutic, and amazing it is.”

On Facebook

@kittymaya.glassdesignsfromtheheart

A stunning collection of illuminated artworks is set to transform the city this October as Light Night returns.

Taking place 22nd to 23rd October, the hugely popular cultural showcase will be lighting up some of the city’s most recognisable buildings and locations with creations by artists from around the world.

This year’s theme is ‘Landmarks’ and the event will celebrate some of the city’s historic civic buildings, modern architecture, and public spaces, as well as asking visitors to contemplate their own personal landmarks and the places which are important and memorable to them.

Key pieces will include an enchanting projection on the face of the iconic Queens Hotel celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. Created by German Artist, Dirk Rauscher, the artwork entitled One Second Lovestory captures the romantic moment when two people’s eyes meet at a busy train station.

Leeds Civic Hall will also host a mesmerising

new commission by Portuguese Artists Ocubo, co-produced by the British Library. Portals: The Machine of Worlds, incorporates fantastical imagery from books in the library’s collection, inviting visitors to explore universes of science, illusion, and discovery.

“At the British Library we are thrilled to again be involved with Light Night – a unique festival that brings art into public spaces in the city, brightening up dark autumn evenings,” said Jamie Andrews, Director of Public Engagement at the British Library: “We’re delighted that Ocubo has taken inspiration from science fiction texts in our collection, including classics by H.G. Wells and Jules Verne. We hope visitors of all ages are inspired by Light Night and the immersive, fantastical visions of other worlds that Ocubo’s artwork will conjure.

“Our collaboration with Light Night Leeds is part of a wider commitment, as we work towards establishing a major new public space for the British Library in Leeds, to engage with local people and partners by opening up our collection through events in the city.”

Working with cultural venues all over the city to create an inclusive, citywide festival, other installations will include large-scale projections, light artworks, performance, and interactive pieces by international, national, and Yorkshirebased artists.

Since it began in 2005, the event has grown in size, scope, and popularity, with a record 210,400 people estimated to have attended last

year, boosting the local economy by generating an estimated £5.46 million.

The festival is organised and supported by Leeds City Council and funded by Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grant funding, and sponsors from the city’s business community.

“Light Night is an event which truly exemplifies the very best of culture and life in the city, bringing thousands of people together for a collective experience which celebrates artistic ingenuity and the power of the arts to unite,” said Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s Executive Member for Adult Social Care, Active Lifestyles and Culture: “The impact the event has on the city in terms of boosting our reputation as a cultural destination, supporting the local economy, and promoting local and regional artists cannot be overstated, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to what will be an occasion like no other.”

Lightnightleeds.co.uk

With James Daly, Founder of James Daly Opticians

Smoking, and exposure to smoke, significantly increases your chances of developing eye diseases and suffering sight loss. It’s never too late to benefit from stopping. But the sooner you stop, the better the outcome is likely to be. Below is a list of five eye conditions that are related to smoking.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) AMD is the most common cause of sight loss in the UK and mainly affects older people. Smokers are up to four times more likely to develop the condition. AMD affects the central part of your vision and can make everyday activities, such as reading or even recognising faces, difficult or impossible.

There are two types of AMD; wet AMD –which can often be treated with injections in

With Meharban Singh Riyat, Clinical Audiologist and Director of Simply Hearing

Auracast is a new Bluetooth audio broadcasting technology introduced by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) and is expected to become widely adopted in consumer electronics, public infrastructure, and assistive technologies over the next few years. It allows a single audio source (e.g. phones, TVs, and public announcement systems) to broadcast audio to multiple Bluetooth receivers (e.g. earbuds, hearing aids, and speakers) simultaneously.

Auracast is built on Bluetooth LE Audio, which is the next generation of Bluetooth audio. It uses the LC3 codec for better sound quality at lower bitrates and more efficient energy usage.

Key features

• Broadcast audio: Share audio from one device to many (e.g. one phone to many headphones)

Give It Up OPTICAL

the eye if caught early enough – and dry AMD, for which there is currently very little effective treatment. Stopping smoking is the best way to reduce your risk of developing AMD.

Cataracts

Smoking doubles your risk of developing cataracts, which cause the lens inside your eyes to become cloudy. Smokers tend to develop cataracts at an earlier age than usual. The cataracts develop more rapidly than normal and usually affect the central part of the lens.

Dry eye

Dry eye can make your eyes feel sore and itchy and cause them to water. Smoking often causes this condition or makes it worse.

Uveitis

Smokers are at least twice as likely to develop uveitis – a condition where the middle layer of the eyeball becomes inflamed, causing eye pain and changes to your vision. The condition can also lead to secondary eye conditions, such as glaucoma.

Diabetic retinopathy

If you suffer from diabetes, smoking increases your risk of developing retinopathy, where the blood vessels in the retina at the back of the eye become damaged. This often causes blurred vision and dark spots and can lead to permanent loss of vision.

For more info and advice talk to Jamesdalyopticians.co.uk

BETTER HEARING

New Technology

• Public audio sharing: Places like airports, gyms, or theatres can broadcast audio that people can tune into

• Personal audio sharing: Share your phones or TV’s audio with friends nearby

• Syncs audio in real-time with low delay

• Support for hearing aids: Enhances accessibility for those with hearing impairments

Requirements to use

• A Bluetooth LE Audio-compatible device

• Auracast support on the OS and device firmware

• Devices must support the LC3 codec

Note: Not all current Bluetooth devices support Auracast – it’s rolling out with newer hardware (2023 and beyond).

Starkey hearing aids and Auracast

Starkey’s hearing aids, particularly its Edge AI series, are designed to work with Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) audio, and they support the Auracast feature for audio streaming. Auracast enables Starkey hearing aids to directly stream audio from smartphones, TVs, or other Bluetooth LE Audioenabled devices without the need for intermediate accessories like Bluetooth neck loops.

Multiple hearing aids can connect to a single Auracast-enabled device, allowing several people to hear the same audio without interfering with each other.

If you’d like more info or if you're considering upgrading your hearing aids to take advantage of this feature, please contact us.

0113 267 0000 | Simply-hearing.com

Consultant Knee Surgeon

at The Leeds Knee Clinic, Owen Wall, discusses how you can optimise your knee health for the upcoming ski season.

With autumn upon us and the start of winter ski season just around the corner, many of you may be booking trips to the fresh white peaks of the world’s ski centres for a week or two of healthy outdoor winter activities. A summer of running and cycling may have primed your cardiovascular fitness, but trading these for specific gym and conditioning routines for the muscles around the knee joint can unfortunately unmask niggles and problems.

Whether you are a keen skier or just enjoy the cold, crisp, clean outdoor air that winter resorts can provide, and prefer to indulge in the apres-ski activities, having optimal knee joint health will help you enjoy yourself to your full potential. Snowshoeing, hiking, and climbing are alternatives to skiing but still need good knee health.

Whatever your winter plans, try to undertake a six-to-eight-week plan of specific strengthening and conditioning work for the muscles of the legs before you go to minimise your risk of injury or the risk of exacerbating existing knee niggles, this should consist of…

Bon Ski!

• Developing your gluteus muscle power; this muscle group is the biggest and most powerful in the body and really helps co-ordination.

• Concentrating on quadricep/hamstring strength, aiming for balance between each muscle group.

• Developing calf and lower leg muscle conditioning using wobble boards or balance balls.

• Working on joint flexibility and tendon stretching for the hip, knee, and ankle joints. The complex arrangements of the four major knee ligaments provide significant signalling to the brain to maintain balance and whereabouts in space and thus plyometric exercises can enhance this feedback and ‘strengthen’ the ability of the individual to avoid knee problems. Many gyms and sports clubs now offer specific pre-ski exercise classes where these conditioning exercises are taught, supervised, and encouraged. If you haven’t got access to a gym, then a quick Google search will bring everything to your fingertips.

Be honest with yourself about your ability if you are a skier. If you’re hiring ski equipment, go to a five-star rated hire centre where the equipment will be new and well maintained. Ability honesty also means that your ski bindings will have been adjusted correctly and will release when they should for your expertise level and body weight, thus minimising the risk of injury to your knees. Ensure that your ski boots are fastened snugly and not loose.

The modern development of skis to have increasingly shapely profiles has brought edge ‘carving’ to within reach of nearly all skiers. The sensation of turning upon rails simply cannot be beaten but unfortunately, there can be a ‘sting in the tail’. The last few years has witnessed an increasing number of skiers suffering ‘double ligament’ injuries to their knees because of incorrectly adjusted ski bindings not releasing the skier beyond the limit of their ability. These injuries require a significant amount of rehabilitation and often surgery to provide long term knee stability.

Enjoy an adventure and love to explore off-piste? Hire an off-piste guide. Your guide will

not only know where all the best conditions are – thus giving you a fantastic experience – but will probably also have great ‘lift chat’ (I speak from personal experience). If you’re not a skier and want to instead explore the natural wildlife at a more sedentary pace via snowshoeing or hiking, ensure you have well-fitted equipment, sturdy boots with outdoor soles, and most importantly, when on snow, have two hiking poles. These will help you traverse slippy surfaces and help you prevent twists to the knees.

If you are unfortunate enough to suffer a knee injury or suffer an exacerbation of an existing knee condition, remember to apply the basic principles of first aid. Extend the joint if you can, apply ice and/or compression bandaging, keep weight bearing to a minimum, and seek expert opinion. Most ski centres have dedicated injury clinics where the basics can be undertaken such as provision of a splint or an x-ray, and some even have more sophisticated imaging such as MRI. The important point to remember is to rest and upon your return seek expert clinical assessment and treatment so that you can return to an active lifestyle as soon as possible.

Should you wish to get any ongoing or new problems with your knees sorted before the ski season begins, don’t hesitate to make contact with myself, either by calling my Secretary, Elaine Ingham, directly or making contact via the website. Bon Ski!

0113 3882 009

elaine.ingham@nuffieldhealth.com Leedskneeclinic.com

EVENTS It’s All Going On

A round-up of what’s happening to keep you entertained this month.

Authors

at the Armouries | Leeds Royal Armouries | 24th to 25th October

A vibrant and exuberant festival of genre fiction, Authors at the Armouries gives you the opportunity to meet over 200 authors and vendors over an unforgettable festival weekend. This is your chance to buy signed books, chat to authors and party the night away with them at the Gothic Ball. Don’t miss this must-attend occasion for literary lovers of all genres. Authorsatthearmouries.online

Music Leeds Us: Celebrating 60 Years of Music in Leeds | Leeds City Museum | 10th October 2025 – 28th June 2026

Marking 60 years of Leeds Conservatoire, this special exhibition celebrates the people, places and magic moments that have shaped the city’s musical identity across six vibrant decades.

From legendary gigs and local heroes to grassroots movements and global sounds, this is a celebration of the voices, venues and vibrant genres that make up Leeds’ powerful, proud — and often overlooked — musical legacy. Museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

Live at Leeds in the City | Various venues

15th

November

The city-based iteration of the Live at Leeds festival will take place at over 20 venues across Leeds such as Brudenell Social Club, Headrow House, Belgrave Music Hall, and Hyde Park Book Club, among others, allowing you to gig-hop your way around the city. This year’s stellar line-up includes Jalen Ngonda, Warmduscher, Katy J Pearson, Fat Dog, and Panic Shack, plus a plethora of over 150 artists ready to become your new favourite act. Liveatleeds.com/city

The

Book of Mormon | Leeds Grand Theatre 11th November to 29th November

Hailed as ‘the best musical of this century’ by The New York Times, this hilarious, outrageous musical comedy from the creators of South Park follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent on a mission to a place that’s about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get.

Thebookofmormonmusical.com/leeds

Thought

Bubble | Harrogate Convention Centre 15th to 16th November

The Yorkshire Comic Art Festival! A week-long celebration of comics, illustration and more spread across the whole of Yorkshire, finishing in a huge two-day comic convention in Harrogate. Thought Bubble week promotes the power of comics and the belief they can inspire, educate and bring people together like no other medium, so whether you’re a long-time fan of comic art or have never picked up a graphic novel before, you’ll find something for you.

Thoughtbubblefestival.com

To Kill a Mockingbird | Leeds Playhouse |8th September – 4th October

Aaron Sorkin’s riveting, award-winning stage adaptation of the seminal American novel about racial injustice and childhood innocence opens at Leeds Playhouse ahead of a national tour.

Successful lawyer, Atticus Finch, encourages kindness and empathy in his children, but is pushed to the limits of these qualities himself when he resolves to uncover the truth in a town that seems determined to hide it. Leedsplayhouse.org.uk

PHOTO: SARAH OGLESBY

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Call: 01135 130 924

I found out I had lymphoma on 9th February 2024. I was in shock. At 35, how could I have cancer? I didn’t know anyone my age who had been through it.

Making that first call to Chai was difficult, but everyone there was either in the same boat as me or was there to help people like me.

What an amazing place. Chai truly cares for everyone and helped me get my life back on track

Over the last 10 years, the number of young people supported by Chai has increased by more than 200%.

For more information on our extensive range of specialised services and care across the UK, please call our Freephone helpline on 0808 808 4567 or visit www.chaicancercare.org

FOOT OR ANKLE PAIN?

One of the most senior orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeons in Leeds

Expert and comprehensive treatment for all foot and ankle problems

A painful ankle has many possible causes ranging from joint instability to arthritis. It is possible to treat almost every problem, relieve pain and restore function. Mr Monkhouse treats the entire range of foot and ankle problems, with a special interest in sports injuries, persistent pain after an ankle injury or just exercise, joint instability, mid-foot pain or pain in the ball of the foot when standing.

The Girls

Riding into a new chapter

Coastal Walks

L'Chaim with Mum Night Out!

Beginnings Charlotte in Paris

Mr Ray Monkhouse Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon

Situated just outside M&S Moortown’s car park, fit20’s studio has been under the radar to many locals since it opened in 2020. The business, which took over the shop occupied for years as a bookmaker, is where Personal Trainer and Owner Kieran has been helping 100s of members achieve substantial strength gains with just one 20-minute session per week.

Kieran has worked in the fitness industry for 20 years as a personal trainer, but it was eight years ago that he was introduced to what would transform his approach to exercise completely.

When someone first told him about fit20, Kieran admits he was sceptical: “Someone mentioned 20-minute workouts once a week. I was thinking – we see people three times a week, train for an hour minimum, and get great results. I couldn’t see how once a week for 20 minutes would make any difference. It sounded like just another fitness fad.”

Kieran’s transformation from sceptic to believer came after visiting the head office in Stocksbridge: “I saw the studio – a really slick, calm environment. It’s a private space with maximum two people training with a personal trainer,” he recalls. “The guy who’d brought the franchise to the UK coached me through exercises, and I’d never felt as challenged in such a short period in such a controlled way.”

Convinced to give it a proper trial, Kieran abandoned his regular gym routine and drove to Stocksbridge once a week. The results were remarkable: “Within three months, I was as

Short and Sweet

Kieran Igwe, Owner of fit20 in Moortown, chats with us about revolutionising fitness with weekly 20-minute workouts that deliver remarkable results without breaking a sweat.

strong as I’d ever been, moving much better, and I had more time back because I wasn’t dragging myself to the gym for hour-long sessions.”

What sets fit20 apart from other fitness trends, Kieran says, is its evidence-based approach: “It’s focusing exclusively on strength training. We know that if you don’t do strength training, you lose muscle, lose bone density, and your joints start hurting. This is the most elegant and efficient way to do strength exercise – you don’t even have to change into gym clothes.”

The environment particularly appeals to people who find traditional gyms intimidating. Kieran currently runs a campaign for women over 60 and has discovered that gym anxiety is

a significant barrier: “When I chat with them about what’s holding them back, what I often hear is ‘I’ve never been to a gym, I don’t want to be surrounded by people in Lycra.’ Coming into a private space where they can focus on exercise safely under supervision is much more appealing.”

The air-conditioned studio keeps temperatures cool so members don’t sweat during training, meaning they can visit on their work break without needing special gym equipment or post-workout showers. fit20 has carefully curated its equipment, using what Kieran describes as: “the best version of strength equipment, customised so you can see

the rate you’re lifting and range of movement.”

The technology allows the personal trainer to measure the quality of every repetition, ensuring maximum effectiveness: “Because we only have 20 minutes, we need to get a week’s worth of value out of that time,” he explains.

Despite the brief duration, it’s a comprehensive workout: “I was amazed that in such a short training session you still get a full body work out – incredible!” Kieran enthuses. “It’s one of those things that sounds too good to be true – you have to try it for yourself.”

The Moortown studio opened at the beginning of 2020 and has just renewed its lease for another five years. Most long-term members are in their 50s and 60s, though the age range spans from 40s to 90s: “Earlier this week, a lady came in who’s 91 years young and signed up – our eldest member in the Leeds area,” Kieran marvels. “Because it’s so tailored, it can challenge me at 42 to my limit and also challenge Mrs Jones in her 90s to her limit.”

Getting started involves an initial trial session, with memberships ranging from £120 to £170 per month depending on commitment length and whether clients prefer one-to-one or one-to-two training.

For those who may still have doubts, Kieran points to the convincing research: “The fit20 concept is backed by the largest study ever conducted in sports science history, using fit20’s data from nearly 15,000 members over seven years. Regardless of age, within the first year, members achieved 30 to 50% improvement in strength. If you imagine losing 50% of your strength overnight – you’d be struggling to get up from a chair, getting breathless going upstairs – adding that back gives you stamina and endurance to do things you want to do, keeping up with family, kids, grandkids. And that can be done with once-aweek training.”

fit20.co.uk

Lev Tov Match is a free online platform dedicated to creating connections between Jewish adults with autism, disabilities, and learning difficulties around the world. The initiative is the brainchild of Amanda and Martin Port, who are also campaigners on behalf of adults with disabilities. The couple has seen through their own family the challenges that adults with additional needs face when finding friendships, love, and companionship which inspired them to create the website.

Having spent time doing outreach work in the Jewish community and with a career

Executive Director of Lev Tov Match, Naomi Goldman, gives us the lowdown on the online matchmaking service for Jewish adults with various disabilities.

background in therapeutic work with children and safeguarding, Naomi Goldman was the perfect person to jump on board with the Lev Tov – which translates from ‘good heart’ in Hebrew – journey: “Finding a companion can be a real problem for Jewish people anyway, but when you’ve got additional needs – whether that’s a physical disability, mental health issue, or neurodiversity – it makes it doubly hard. You don't need to have be diagnosed to apply to Lev Tov; you can be self-diagnosed and just see and feel the world differently.”

The main priority of the website is the safety and accessibility for its users, as Naomi explains: “We looked into an app at first, but it didn’t give the personal touch that was needed. We’ve made sure that the website is completely accessible, covering everything from voice to text capabilities to making the forms simple to fill in. We also ask for a reference so I can check that they are who they say they are and if there’s any additional information that I need to know that isn’t on the forms.”

Personalisation is a huge part of Naomi’s role at Lev Tov: “I make connections with the people themselves by chatting to them and really getting a grasp of who they are, what their soul's like, and what their whole being is like, so that I can make a match accordingly to that as well.”

The application process is easy for all abilities, with extra help on hand if necessary: “You can apply via the website and there are a few simple questions such as name, age, location, etc, then a verification form. Once that’s been filled out, applicants get a match form which asks about

religion level; it doesn’t matter what level of observance they follow! We match accordingly to what religious level they want to be matched with as well as asking about their values and interests to help us find the best match.

“Once they’ve filled in the match form, we get onto matching. We use an algorithm set up by Israeli-based Johnathan Kramer for some matches but sometimes it’s really obvious and we don’t need to use it. Once I’ve found a match, I contact each of the individuals separately to tell them about their match. If they like the sound of what they hear, I organise a Zoom meeting with them both to meet each other and offer any support that they’d like.

“Their level of need depends on how involved I get in that conversation, sometimes I’ll navigate the conversation more heavily – it’s a really personalised service. Once they’ve met online, if they don’t want to see each other again, I’ll tell the other person for them, so there’s no embarrassment or awkwardness for them.

“If they decide to exchange numbers and communicate out of the Lev Tov remit, we back off and they then navigate that themselves. We’re always there at the end of the phone, but we haven’t got capacity to chaperone or to do long term support. We’re always on hand for queries or if they just want some advice.”

Since launching earlier this year, Lev Tov has received many positive reactions from its users and their loved ones: “We’ve been blown away by the support and the feedback has been brilliant. One parent was extremely anxious when his son started his Lev Tov journey, so I had to reassure him that it’s a slow and careful process. I recently had a message from him thanking me for everything that we’ve done. This is why it’s more than just matching somebody, it’s really getting to know them and the families!”

Levtovmatch.com

With Kostas Iliadis, Pharmacist and Branch Manager at Pharmacy+Health Alwoodley

As the chill of winter sets in, it’s vital to prioritise your health and wellbeing. Winter brings unique challenges, and our health is at greater risk during the winter as we all spend more time indoors and viruses and bugs spread more easily.

The colder weather can also aggravate many existing health problems, increase the risk of falling, and make us more vulnerable to respiratory winter illnesses. People over 65 or with long-term health conditions are at higher risk and being cold can also cause blood pressure to rise, increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

Vaccinations are critical for winter healthcare and getting vaccinated is one of the most important things we can do to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. Every year, thousands of

Winter Vaccinations HEALTH MATTERS

people need hospital care and many sadly die of these preventable diseases.

The NHS offers free vaccines to those most at risk and as these viruses continually change and protection can decrease over time, it’s important to come forward every year if you are eligible to top up your protection – even if you’ve had the vaccinations previously.

To manage winter illnesses you should keep warm, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and have at least one hot meal a day. Many over-the-counter medicines are also available to relieve the symptoms of common winter illnesses such as colds, sinusitis, or earache.

At Pharmacy+Health, we offer both NHS and private winter vaccinations so if you’re not eligible under the NHS, you can still get winter

protection using our private vaccination service.

Our pharmacists can help you book an appointment, check your blood pressure, provide any winter advice, and even refer you to our free Pharmacy First Service for certain conditions. You can book online on our website or by using Nhs.uk/wintervaccinations. If you can’t get online, you can also call 119.

Shanah Tovah!

Pharmacyplushealth.co.uk

Jewel of Morocco

Discover Marrakesh, where a feast for the senses, breathtaking architecture, and centuries of history blend to create an unforgettable adventure.

Escaping the chill this winter has never been easier for Leeds travellers. Jet2 has recently launched a brand-new, direct route from Leeds Bradford Airport to the vibrant city of Marrakesh, running from 3rd October 2025 to 28th April 2026. Just a few hours’ flight will transport you from grey skies to the warm glow of Moroccan sunshine, where bustling souks, fragrant spice markets, and a city steeped in history await.

Lying west of the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is the fourth largest city in Morocco and the first of the four imperial cities of the country. If you’re looking for more than a city break, the Marrakesh-Safi region, located in central-western Morocco, offers a variety of breathtaking landscapes from the Atlantic shores of Essaouira to the peaks of the High Atlas – there’s something for everyone!

An average flight time of just four hours offers the magic of stepping into a whole new world without the commitment of a long-haul journey. And the best part? It operates on Greenwich Mean Time, so you can skip the jet lag and start exploring straight away. The recommended best times to visit are between September and November – with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C – or between March and May, when the days are warm but not unbearably hot, rainfall is low, and the conditions are perfect for wandering the streets.

street performers, and exotic food stalls, all surrounded by a rich history dating back to the 11th century.

If you’re a dedicated shopaholic or simply a curious wanderer, Marrakesh’s souks are an unmissable experience. Nestled within the are a sensory adventure from the moment you enter. A maze-like network of narrow alleys reveals stalls piled high with colourful spices, aromatic teas, handcrafted leather goods, handmade garments, carpets, jewellery, and so much more. Walking these streets is like stepping back in time – artisans hammer away at copper lanterns, the scent of saffron, cedarwood, and rosewater perfumes the air, and friendly shopkeepers beckon you to try their wares.

Prices aren’t fixed so don’t be shy; embrace the art of

haggling and you might just walk away with a treasure for a bargain!

History buffs will be right at home here. Since the city was founded in the 11th century by the Almoravids, it’s passed through dynasties and has become an imperial capital and cultural crossroads. The Menara Gardens is one of the oldest gardens in the Muslim west, with ancient authors attributing its first development to the 1100s. The verdant oasis offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the main city, featuring expansive olive groves, a large reflective pool, and a stunning pavilion that has stood since the 12th century. The Saadian Tombs are another example of breathtaking architecture with hundreds of years of history behind them. The tombs are located in one of the oldest mosques in

Perhaps the most famous attraction in the city – and a definite must-visit – is the main square, Jemma el-Fnaa, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The bustling plaza has been in the city’s cultural hub for centuries and visitors can enjoy a melting pot of traditions, arts, and commerce by experiencing snake charmers, musicians,

Morocco, the Kasbah Mosque, and contain several chambers that are beautifully decorated with intricate stucco carvings and colourful tiles.

The city is also home to a selection of fascinating museums that showcase the city’s history and vibrant arts scene. The Museum of Marrakesh, set in a beautifully restored palace, displays traditional Moroccan art, ceramics, and textiles, and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum offers a glimpse into the legendary designer’s creative world and his deep connection to the city. Marrakesh isn’t all about shopping and history – it’s also an ideal place to unwind. It’s dotted with traditional hammams, where the centuries-old bathing ritual combines hot steam with cleansing treatments for a deep, rejuvenating refresh. The tradition of bathing is an integral part of Middle Eastern and North African culture, often taking place in beautiful bathhouses. Throughout history, hammams were favoured as patrons could keep themselves clean and their skin nourished, all while being able to chat with friends, neighbours, and loved ones. Today, the hammam bath is still highly prevalent in Morocco, with many Moroccans attending baths weekly – it’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture!

Morocco is a foodie’s dream, renowned

for its aromatic cuisine that’s bursting with flavour in every bite. Fragrant spices like cumin, coriander, saffron, and paprika mingle with fresh herbs and preserved lemons to create dishes that are as colourful as they are delicious. The rich and hearty tagine is probably the thing you associate with this part of the world; soft, almost butter-like meat that’s been slow-cooked in a clay pot with zesty spices and fresh vegetables – what could be better? Tanjia is a dish that’s specific to Marrakesh, so is definitely worth trying! The dish is prepared with meat, spices, and preserved lemon and roasted over eight hours for ultimate flavour – find this in restaurants in and around the back of souks that are often serving workers and merchants.

For dessert, try m’hancha, a typical sweet Moroccan pastry that’s filled with almond paste, or chebakia, a pastry made of dough that’s deep fried and coated with a syrup made from honey and orange blossom. Wash all of these down with a traditional mint tea – prepared with fresh mint leaves, Chinese gunpowder tea, and plenty of sugar, it’s the quintessential taste of Moroccan hospitality. Marrakesh caters to every palate, offering everything from refined fine dining to authentic, traditional local eateries.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, relaxation, or simply a sunny escape from the winter blues, Marrakesh offers it all and every corner of this vibrant city is filled with experiences that awaken the senses.

With Raffaele Saccoccio from ES Motors Moortown

Driving affects people differently; some of us take to driving as if we were born with a steering wheel in our hands, while others find even short journeys nerve-racking.

It’s perfectly natural to feel nervous behind the wheel if you’ve just passed your test or you haven’t driven for a long time. Confidence comes with practice, but you can also take proactive steps to make driving safer and less stressful, so we’ve gathered 15 driving tips to help you become more confident on the road…

Plan your journey

Even short trips benefit from preparation so check your route, traffic, and weather so you know what to expect.

With Mark Manning, Managing Director of Manning Stainton

As we celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the property market is experiencing its own ‘new year’ with change in the air, greater balance, and new opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

According to Nationwide, affordability is currently at its best level in more than a decade. Now, new figures show that the number of homes for sale is 10% higher than this time last year. At Manning Stainton, we’re seeing the same trend: more properties available than at any point in recent memory.

For buyers, this is welcome news. Greater choice means more opportunity to find the right home at the right price. For sellers,

Stay Calm MOTORING

Learn your controls

Familiarise yourself with headlights, hazards, and wipers so you don’t waste time searching mid-drive.

Do basic car checks

Oil, coolant, brakes, and tyres should be in good order – peace of mind matters.

Adjust your seating

A comfortable, well-supported position improves both safety and control.

Minimise distractions

Clear clutter, silence your phone, and avoid unnecessary fiddling with screens.

Keep scanning

Constantly observe mirrors and the road ahead; moving your eyes regularly helps spot hazards early.

Don’t rush

Give yourself time at junctions and obey the twosecond rule for safe stopping distances.

Maintain space

Protect yourself and others by keeping a safe buffer around your car.

Ignore intimidation

Tailgaters and aggressive drivers are common –stay calm, steady, and in control.

Know your regular roads

Familiarity reduces uncertainty, especially on tricky junctions or commutes.

Practice new areas when quiet

Exploring at off-peak times helps build skills without added pressure.

Take breaks on long drives

Stop every two hours to refresh your concentration and avoid fatigue.

Experience all conditions

Rain, fog, or night driving – exposure builds resilience and prepares you for surprises.

Revisit the Highway Code

Regularly brushing up removes doubt and reinforces safe habits.

Try an advanced course

Tailored instruction can refine your skills and boost confidence more quickly than practice alone.

Esgarageleeds.co.uk

PROPERTY

A Fresh Start

however, it’s a reminder that pricing and presentation are key.

Rightmove describes today’s market as ‘two-speed’. Homes priced sensibly, supported by proactive estate agents, are still selling quickly, with serious buyers ready to act. But properties listed too ambitiously often linger on the market, eventually leading to reductions. In fact, Rightmove reports that over a third of all homes for sale have already had their price cut – something we’ve not seen since the market shocks of 2008 and 2023.

The lesson? Sellers should work closely with experienced agents to set realistic prices, while ensuring their property is

marketed to its fullest potential. At the same time, buyers can look forward to entering negotiations with more leverage than in recent years.

Manningstainton.co.uk

Coming Soon

Take a look at the new cafés, bars, and restaurants making their way to the city this autumn!

La Fiesta | Merrion Centre | Open now

Leeds’ first all-you-can-eat Mediterranean tapas experience is the newest addition to the Merrion Centre. Diners can expect small plates with big, bold flavours from Spain, Turkey, Greece, and more! There’s also a salad bar which showcases a tasty, fresh selection of crisp salads, marinated vegetables, and Mediterranean dips paired premium with cold meats and artisanal cheeses. Those with a sweet tooth will also be covered as there’s a freshly made churro station for an indulgent finish to your meal.

Lafiestaleeds.co.uk

Madre and Salon Madre | Wellington Place

Autumn 2025

Another company making the trip across the Pennines from Manchester is Madre. The Mexican restaurant and its sister bar and pool hall, Salon Madre, will both be opening this autumn. Madre is founded on the principle of ‘sobremesa’ – a celebration of socialising at the table long after the last dish is cleared – which makes it ideal for long leisurely lunches or dinners with loved ones. Salon Madre will have tequila and mezcal flowing alongside an array of street food favourites to enjoy over a friendly game of pool. Thisismadre.co.uk

Blank Street | City Centre | Coming soon

You’ll probably have heard of global sensation, Blank Street, due to its aesthetically pleasing drinks going viral over the last year. The big brand is finally coming to Leeds and is set to take over the former Starbucks unit on Albion Street. It’s built up a loyal following with its iced matcha drinks, with ever-changing seasonal specials and cult favourites like the blueberry matcha and white chocolate matcha. What started as a humble coffee cart on the streets of New York has become a social media sensation and you’ll soon be able to get a piece of the action. Blankstreet.com

Federal | City Centre | Autumn 2025

Manchester’s Australian inspired café and bar is crossing the Pennines and opening the first location outside of the city right here in Leeds. It will open on the ground floor of 34 Boar Lane, a recently refurbished workspace and cultural hub. If the menu is anything like the one over in Manchester, Leeds is in for a treat! From wholesome nutty granola to indulgent steak sandwiches, it’s sure to have something to satisfy every craving whether you’re after a light morning bite or filling lunch.

Federalcafe.co.uk

Dishoom | City Centre | Coming soon

Taking over the former Flannels site on Vicar Lane, Dishoom will showcase the food of all Bombay – its cafés, grills, street stalls, homes, and everything delicious in between. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, afternoon chai, dinner, or late-night tipples, you’ll soon be able to be transported to the city through the restaurant’s comfort food and first-class drinks. The restaurants are designed to replicate the early and mid-20th century Bombay aesthetic, with features such as family portraits, marble tables, and chequerboardtiled flooring.

Dishoom.com

Leeds City Museum has been enlightening and inspiring the people of our fair city for decades, but many may not be aware of the enthralling events and exhibitions taking place there. More than just housing artifacts, this essential institution is a portal to understanding our city’s rich heritage, the natural world, and diverse cultures from across the globe.

The museum’s six distinct galleries each offer their own unique journey of discovery. The Life on Earth gallery transports visitors through time with centuries-old fossils, extinct animal bones, and fascinating specimens from around the world. The Collector’s Cabinet reveals the intriguing stories behind some of the museum’s most curious objects, tracing their journeys from

Out of the Past

Leeds City Museum is a low-profile cultural gem in the heart of the city.

told through art and objects, and how their discoveries continue to inform our view of the world today.

Among the museum’s most beloved permanent exhibitions are the Leeds Tiger, which has been on display for almost 150 years, and Nesyamun, the Ancient Egyptian mummy.

The museum’s collections span an impressive range of subjects, including natural science, social history, archaeology, geology, world cultures, dress and textiles, industrial history, and decorative and fine art, ensuring that every visit offers something new to discover.

This autumn brings two exciting exhibitions that showcase different aspects of Leeds’ cultural landscape. Music Leeds

the 1700s to the present day, while the World View gallery celebrates cultural diversity that enriches our understanding of humanity.

The first floor houses the Leeds Story galleries, which charts how our city evolved from its earliest archaeological finds to the vibrant metropolis we know today. These galleries also feature regularly changing community displays, co-curated with different local groups.

The Ancient Worlds gallery explores the civilizations of Rome, Greece, and Egypt. Here, you can discover how ancient people lived and worked, the stories they

Us marks 60 years of Leeds Conservatoire with a celebration of the people and places that have shaped Leeds’ musical identity. Whether you lived through the legendary gigs and witnessed local heroes rise, or you’re discovering Leeds’ musical heritage for the first time, this exhibition offers something special.

From goth to jazz, house to punk, the exhibition pays tribute to the venues that became second homes, the grassroots movements that sparked change, and the global sounds that found a home in Leeds. Curated in collaboration with community

partners and supported by local volunteers, it’s a testament to Leeds’ powerful, proud, and often overlooked musical legacy.

The Preservative Party exhibition, created by the museum’s group of volunteer young curators, explores topics close to their hearts and resonant with their lived experience, including modern food poverty, identity, and connection within alternative subcultures, community, and joy through carnival, and the life and work of Alan Bennett.

Alongside the exhibitions, Leeds City Museum offers creative activities for families like the crafting sessions held every Friday morning and monthly Keep Crafting sessions, aimed at adults, taking place on the first Wednesday of every month offering a chance to learn new skills, practice existing ones, and connect with others in a relaxed environment. Inspired by the textures, colours, and shapes found in the museum’s collections and exhibitions, participants can explore textile art while building social connections.

The museum’s dynamic programming continues with exciting special events in the next few weeks. The Spirograph Family Fun Day (28th October) invites visitors to add to a giant Spirograph artwork in the museum’s main hall. Meet artist Lesley Halliwell, discover her dazzling, spiralling artworks, and create a spirograph keepsake to take home.

The Hip Hop History Day (30th November) promises live music, Q&As, workshops, and more, in partnership with the Hip Hop Historian Society. It’s a familyfriendly celebration featuring DJs, MCs, beatboxing, B-boys and B-girls, graffiti art, and production workshops.

Leeds City Museum operates on a 'give what you can' donation basis. Visitors can choose their donation amount or visit for free if unable to contribute.

For more information visit Museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

HONEY SWEET

To celebrate a sweet new year, we spoke to Beekeeper and Founder of Stickeys, Chris Holmes, who tells us about the honey-making process and why buying local is always better.

As Rosh Hashanah approaches, there’s no better time to celebrate local, sustainably produced honey. Meet Chris Holmes, the passionate Beekeeper behind Stickeys, a Leeds based honey manufacturer. What began with just two hives on his smallholding after a career in the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs has grown into a thriving network of around 200 hives, each managed with an unwavering commitment to bee welfare and environmental harmony. Chris’ approach to beekeeping is guided by

nature, not mass production – resulting in honey that is as unique as the seasons and as rich in character as the countryside it comes from.

Chris walks us through the pollen to honey process: “Bees collect nectar from plants, take it back to the hive, and drive off the moisture. When the moisture gets down to around 20%, we put a piece of wax over it to keep it condensed and then it turns into honey nectar.”

“Pollen for bees is protein,” Chris explains.

“They’re driven to collect protein to make baby bees so in the spring, they’re keen to get lots of it as there’s less in the autumn and winter.”

For Chris, his priority is the bees’ health and wellbeing, social structure, behaviour, and the buzz and feeling of satisfaction he gets every day he spends working with them: “Primarily, I’m a beekeeper so I might do my job a little bit different to larger scale beekeepers. If the weather is poor in the spring, I’ll leave all the honey for the bees – I’ll only take it off if there’s a big enough surplus and I’m confident the bees will stay well fed.”

Honey from Stickeys and the honey we see on supermarket shelves are entirely different: “We choose locations for the hives that are clean, don’t have many roads, and have a low population as this is where produces the best honey. We keep all honey grown in different areas separate, so nothing is mixed. From a business perspective, this has positives and negatives as when you buy honey from the supermarket, it always tastes the same but buying from us, for example, if you buy a jar of Stickeys honey in late summer, you might find

that you like it but when you come next time, it might be different.

“Bigger businesses don’t want to take that risk, so they collect honey from many sources and mix it all together to give an outcome that always tastes the same. I refer to it as blending for blandness!” Chris jokes.

Chris loves connecting with customers through personal interaction: “If you come and see us at a farmer’s market, I’ll talk to you about what we’ve got and how and why it’s different from last time. We don’t need honey from South America or China; for 1000s of years, honey has been collected and sold in Leeds, we have an amazing source of honey right here on our doorstep.

“I view honey a little bit like wine; it’s all about the year, weather, and location. I really enjoy educating the people of North Leeds about it and building brand awareness that way – I’m all about provenance.”

If you’re looking to get your hands on some tasty Yom Tov honey, you can find Stickeys at Oakwood and Headingley Farmer’s Markets.

FARMER’S MARKETS

HEADINGLEY

2ND SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH OAKWOOD

3RD SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH

FINDING CLARITY

This past year was not exactly smooth sailing. I failed my MOT, spent plenty on fixing my car, got a speeding ticket, lost £250 (on King Lane – if anyone finds it, let me know!), received a court summons for a missed council tax payment (thankfully now sorted, thanks to Councillor Dan Cohen resolving the misunderstanding with the council tax office), and lost some valuables.

As far as I remember, I prayed pretty well last year. So, what went wrong? The answer is: absolutely nothing. Man plans, G-d laughs. We think we know what’s good for us, when in reality we have no clue – clarification will come in the next world. Rosh Hashanah is when we are judged – everything from life and death down to how long you’ll wait in line at Sainsbury’s. But even in this world, there are moments of clarity. Rosh Hashanah is a time for that clarity.

Are we really going to stand there asking for a Caribbean cruise? Or will we use the opportunity to show gratitude – for our health, A-level results, children, happiness, or anything else we’re blessed with?

Rosh Hashanah is the coronation of G-d as our king. Seeing as we pray for him every Shabbat – many of us probably watched the coronation of King Charles. King Charles is a king, but G-d is the King of Kings. Surely, we should be running with excitement to coronate Him – recognising that He is our Father and our King.

And how do we do that? By working out our next step – how to deepen our connection with him. Hashem is waiting with anticipation for our connection; all we need to do is take a small step forward. There’s a story that illustrates this…

On a Rosh Hashanah afternoon in Miami, hundreds of Jews were walking along the shore to perform Tashlich – a ritual of going to water and symbolically casting sins into it while reciting specific prayers and verses. Among them was an Israeli man who had drifted far from religious practice. Curious, he decided to follow the crowd to see what it was all about. After the ceremony ended and the people dispersed, this Israeli lingered by the water.

A man carrying a shofar approached him and asked in Hebrew: “Did you hear the shofar today?” The Israeli admitted that he hadn’t gone

to shul and hadn’t heard it. The man smiled and said: “Come, I will blow for you.” Right there, on the beach, he blew the full set of shofar blasts. The Israeli felt a stirring deep inside him –something he hadn’t experienced in years. With tears in his eyes, he asked the man his name. “Moshe Katz,” came the reply.

The Israeli went home and told his wife, Zahava, what had happened. When she heard the name of the Shofar blower, she froze. Her face turned pale. “Do you know who my grandfather was? Back in Bialystok, he blew the shofar every year in the Great Synagogue. His name was also Moshe Katz! Do you understand what happened? G-d sent a Moshe Katz to blow shofar for you, the same name as my Zeide, to remind us of who we are and where we come from!”

The couple were shaken to their core. This ‘coincidence’ pierced their hearts. They began a journey back to Torah and mitzvot. Sometime later, they went to ask the world-renowned Rav Chaim Kanievsky, o”h about the extraordinary incident. Rav Chaim listened carefully and then said a powerful line: “From Heaven, they wait for a person to make the first move. Once you took the step of stopping to listen, G-d sent you a shofar from a ‘Moshe Katz’ to awaken your soul. Everything else follows from there.”

Shanah Tovah!

THE BIG APPLE

Celebrate the sweetness of the season with our

Large Bordallo Pinheiro majolica apple jug | £69.99

An eye-catching one-off piece that’s bound to impress your guests, this vintage majolica jug is a wonderful blush apple with a branch forming the handle and leaves the spout. A pretty pink apple blossom sits on the handle and the whole jug is beautifully hand decorated. Made by renowned Portuguese pottery studio, Bordallo Pinheiro, its generous size makes it ideal for serving many loved ones at your new year celebrations – it could even be used as a vase to display flowers once the celebrations are over.

Vintagepieces.co.uk

Red apple oil burner | £8.99

This apple shaped oil burner brings a playful yet elegant touch to any room. Its vibrant hue and whimsical design make it both a functional fragrance diffuser and a conversation-starting décor item that’s perfect for setting a warm, inviting atmosphere as you welcome the new year. To use, simply add your favourite fragrance oil diluted with water to the reservoir, place a tealight candle beneath, and enjoy the soft, aromatic diffusion throughout your home.

Shop.tenovuscancercare.org.uk

McIntosh red apple vintage lithograph print | £14.50

This stunning print of a McIntosh apple is an image taken from the 1900 edition plates of Botanical Specimen, originally published by Rochester Lithographing and Printing Company. The richly detailed botanical illustration will bring a timeless charm to your space while honouring the symbolic apple of the new year. Perfectly suited for framing and displaying in kitchens, dining rooms, or entryways, this print is a fabulous addition to any home, all year round!

Inkanddrop.com

Amuseables Apple | £25

These adorable plush toys are all the rage right now – a hit with both kids and adults – so why not bring the trend to your celebrations with this adorable apple-themed Jellycat? Soft, sweet, and full of personality, this cuddly companion makes a charming addition to your décor or a thoughtful gift for any little ones in your life. Whether perched on a shelf, nestled in a centrepiece, or simply hugged tight, this playful plush is a modern twist on tradition and is sure to bring smiles and sweetness into your home for the new year.

Jellycat.com

Vintage apple collection | starts at £3.95

Rex London has a whole range of products with a vintage apple design for use throughout the home and beyond, with everything from a magnetic shopping list for jotting down ingredients and reminders, to a luxurious feel glass bottle that’ll help you feel good about saying bye to singleuse plastic alternatives. We particularly love this apple printed doormat, which will welcome guests with a cheerful pop of seasonal charm as soon as they step through the door. Functional and fun, it’s a simple way to set a festive tone for Rosh Hashanah while keeping floors clean and spirits high.

Rexlondon.com

Darren, Leigh, Tim and Keren-Or from

NORTH LEEDS BARBERS

King Lane and Shaftsbury Avenue

Wish happy New Year to all our Jewish customers, and thank you for your support!

07710 835959 No appt necessary

ISRAEL AWAITS

Michael Ben Baruch, UK Director of the Israel Ministry of Tourism, explains how travel to Israel offers not just a wonderful holiday but a vital show of solidarity with our people.

As we approach Rosh Hashanah 5786, the shofar’s call reminds us of our ancient connection to Israel and our present responsibility to support it. Since October 7th 2023, that responsibility has taken on profound new meaning.

I moved to London in August 2023 as UK Director of the Israel Ministry of Tourism, optimistic about promoting UK to Israel travel. Like the entire Jewish world, I quickly faced the trauma of post-October 7th reality. Our organisation confronted flight cancellations, travel advisories, and understandable safety concerns amid direct attacks and regional tensions.

Yet something remarkable happened and despite unprecedented challenges, travel to Israel continued. Tens of thousands of people from the UK visited during 2025, welcomed with overwhelming gratitude by Israelis who recognised these visits as powerful acts of solidarity.

The Israeli people have shown remarkable resilience, and our tourism industry stands ready

to welcome you. Hotels, restaurants, tour guides, and attractions operate eagerly, sharing the Israel they love with visitors who choose to come.

This Rosh Hashanah, consider making 5786 your year to return to Israel. Go beyond solidarity, go for sheer fun, unique family memories, and experiences only Israel offers. Walk Jerusalem’s ancient stones, float in the Dead Sea, hike the Galilee, or dive in Eilat’s Red Sea. From worldclass museums and outdoor adventures to spiritual journeys and culinary discoveries, Israel awaits.

When we hear the Tekiah Gedolah in synagogue, that final, long shofar blast, we're called to action. In Rosh Hashanah liturgy, we proclaim “Hayom Harat Olam”, today the world is born anew. Let that include renewed connection to Israel through travel. Rather than waiting for some distant future, make this the year you book that ticket. L'shanah Tovah – and this year in Israel!

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

SPEAKING OUT

UJIA Leeds Ladies Committee recently held an evening with TV’s Rachel Riley MBE.

A recent UJIA event saw Rachel Riley MBE speak openly about her journey, from her television career to her decision to speak out against antisemitism, the personal challenges she has faced, and the importance of Holocaust education and standing up proudly for Jewish life in the UK.

Rachel has recently been at the forefront of the campaign against antisemitism after being targeted on social media. She delivered a

speech at the Holocaust Educational Trust in Parliament which was subsequently published in The Times. In 2023, she was awarded an MBE for her services to Holocaust education and antisemitism awareness.

Interviewed by Journalist Katie Goodman, Rachel also reflected on the ongoing impact of October 7th and why supporting UJIA’s vital work remains so important today.

Committee members Norma Collins, Adele

to welcome Rachel to the community for a fascinating and enjoyable evening.

If you wish to support UJIA, please visit Ujia.org/donate

Manning, Barbara Danon, Judith Black, Linda Jacobs, Lynne Hirschfield, Monica Walton, Suzanne Ziff, Roselyn Manning, and Trish Mack (pictured) were delighted

SEYMOUR BORLAND RECENTLY CELEBRATED HIS 90TH BIRTHDAY WITH A GOLF TOURNAMENT AND MOOR ALLERTON GOLF CLUB – WHERE HE’S BEEN A MEMBER SINCE 1974.

PRIZES AT LJOY’S ARCADE TAKEOVER INCLUDED A SHOFAR, WHICH WAS PROMPTLY BLOWN TO THE DELIGHT OF THE AUDIENCE!

LEEDS COMMUNITY KOLLEL MEMBERS, MICHAEL EHRENTREU AND MOSHE MEREL OF LJOY, RECENTLY LED A TRIP TO GATESHEAD.

UHC SYNAGOGUE AND RABBI ALBY CHAIT HOSTED THE SHUL’S END OF SUMMER BARBEQUE.

THERE WAS PLENTY OF FUN TO BE HAD ON THE BOUNCY CASTLE SLIDE…

… AS WELL AS FACE PAINTING FOR THOSE LOOKING TO SPRUCE UP THEIR LOOK!

THE DAY WAS SPENT WITH LOVED ONES CELEBRATING HIS MILESTONE BIRTHDAY AND RAISING NEARLY £1,000 FOR THE ZONE AND MARTIN HOUSE.

Mind Over Matter

Sports

Psychologist and former University of Leeds student, Natasha Williams, talks about her new role with Bolton Wanderers FC.

Natasha Williams has confidently stepped into her new position as Player Care Officer at Bolton Wanderers Football Club, a role that seems tailor-made for her.

Sport has been a constant throughout Natasha’s life, with football being her passion. Growing up in Prestwich, where she still lives, Natasha played football for Bury FC from age nine to 16, whereupon she joined Wythenshawe Amateur Ladies and participated in the Maccabiah Games. After playing for Maccabi GB and being one of the only Mancunians in the squad, Natasha wanted to give Jewish girls in Manchester more opportunities to play football. It was after this that she began coaching, which would lead to her working for professional football clubs and eventually moving into the field of player care.

Following these early sporting experiences, Natasha moved to Leeds to attend university, where she signed for Harrogate Town Ladies and became known to the community while coaching at Leeds Maccabi Juniors.

Despite her love of the sport and her athletic ability, going professional was never Natasha’s motivation: “I’ve played and coached various sports, but football is where my heart is. I’ve played at quite a high level – including at academies in America and for high-level grassroots teams – I never saw myself becoming a professional player, but I always knew I wanted to stay involved in sport in some capacity.”

Pursuing her academic career, first with her undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Leeds, and then completing her masters in Sports Psychology at Liverpool John Moores University, Natasha found a way to balance and fuse her dual passions: “When I studied at Leeds, I began working at Leeds United and I partnered with the club while working on my final dissertation which covered nutrition, health psychology, and sports psychology. Quite early on in my degree, I knew I wanted to go into this field and the experience of being in the professional football world just made me want to stay in it. I realised that sports psychology would be a perfect way to combine my two interests

– I could remain in football while using my psychology skills and knowledge in that environment.”

Though people often focus on the physical aspects of sport and athleticism, there’s growing awareness of the psychological element: “Sports psychology focuses on two main areas,” Natasha explains. “First is player wellbeing – making sure that athletes in any sport are mentally healthy and dealing with anything that might impact their performance. It’s about ensuring they’re seen as a whole person, not just an athlete. The second aspect is the performance side – using mental skills

to help athletes achieve their best performance and perform optimally at the highest level.”

Attention to mental wellbeing is especially important in elite sport where external factors compound pressure and nerves among myriad different elements that need to be processed to minimise stress and anxiety. Thus, the role of sports psychologist is becoming more valued. Does Natasha think the discipline is more

established in particular sports, or is it gaining traction across the board?

“It’s more common in football, as it’s obviously one of the biggest sports in the world, and they’re the leaders in this area,” she says. “But I also provide sports psychology for GB climbing and sports like England squash. It’s really growing at the national level. At lower levels, it’s not as established yet, but there’s definitely a push to increase it across all sports.”

Natasha appreciates the variety that her new role provides, pointing out a holistic approach that involves more than one might expect: “There’s a lot of life skills work –organising workshops for athletes so that when they come out of the academy, it’s not just about becoming a better footballer, but developing as a person and being able to transition into other fields if football doesn’t work out for them.

“There’s also lots of one-to-one support for players who might be struggling with things in their personal lives or dealing with injuries. I do a lot of work with parents and spend time observing training sessions. It’s quite broad, with many different responsibilities.”

Natasha is excited about applying her knowledge and expertise in her new position in an expansive way – supporting athletes and various processes – while also using the coaching experience she’s gained over the years. Thankfully, Natasha’s new role is flexible enough to allow plenty of time for her to enjoy participating in sports; she regularly runs, goes bouldering, swims, and plays squash.

A core part of her professional life is about thinking beyond physicality and engaging with the humanity that lies at the heart of sporting and cultural pursuits. As such, diversity and representation are values Natasha holds especially dear: “A message I really want to put out there is that you can be a Jewish woman in professional elite sport. It’s a space for everyone, and my advice would be to get as much experience as you can and go for it.”

For World TV Day (21st November), we’re taking you on a tour of real-life sets where you can step straight into the shoes of your favourite characters.

We know there’s no better way to unwind than kicking back and binging a great TV show. Whether you were spellbound by Game of Thrones or dream of a White Lotus-style holiday, you can actually step onto the real-life sets and locations of some of television’s most beloved shows!

Game of Thrones

At Principal Film Studios in Banbridge, Northern Ireland, journey behind the cameras and discover the secrets that made Game of Thrones the world’s most successful TV series. There you can get up close and personal with screen-used costumes, weapons, and authentic film sets from £29.50pp.

If props aren’t enough and you want to see where some of the iconic scenes were actually filmed, there are tours available from Belfast and Dublin – each led by guides who all were extras in the show. These tours start from £45pp and the epic full day experiences visit iconic locations such as the mysterious Dark Hedges, an avenue of serpentine beech trees through which Arya and Gendry escaped King’s Landing, the Iron Islands beach where Theon dedicated his faith to the Drowned God, the Stormlands cave where Melisandre gave birth to a dark spirit, and much more!

Gameofthronesstudiotour.com

Gameofthronestour.com

Set Point

Emmerdale

Right on our doorstep, you can experience a behind-the-scenes tour of Yorkshire’s most famous TV village from just £38pp. The Emmerdale Village Tour offers exclusive, behind-the-scenes access to the small village with big drama. Join expert guides for an exciting 90-minute tour of the outdoor working production set, walk down memory lane in the footsteps of your favourite characters, and feel like part of the action as you visit iconic Emmerdale locations.

There’s even an option for a ‘Star Tour’ which offers the opportunity to not only take a sneak peek behind the curtain of the show but also meet one of the show’s cast members. Fans have previously enjoyed appearances from Emmerdale legends, including Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, Danny Miller (Aaron Dingle), James Hooton (Sam Dingle), Jeff Hordley (Cain Dingle) and Claire King (Kim Tate).

Emmerdalevillagetour.co.uk

The Locationist

Not one particular TV show, but still definitely worth checking out for any boxset binger, The Locationist hosts tours of Manchester which takes you to the places your favourite actors have been as you discover filming locations used in film and TV.

Did you know that the Northern Quarter has doubled up for both London and New York in countless films and TV shows over the years? From The Crown, Morbius, Captain America, It’s A Sin, Ridley Road, to Everything I Know Aout Love, Boiling Point, the forthcoming drama House of Guinness, and new American series Talamasca to name just a few. The Locationist has all the photographs

of scenes with additional content on a tablet to screen match scenes to locations.

The walkable three-hour tour starts at £18pp and also has interactive quizzes to test your television and pop culture knowledge on the way.

Thelocationist.co.uk

White Lotus

If you’re willing to venture a little further afield, why not combine a holiday with a visit to the spots where your favourite White Lotus scenes were filmed? Naturally, it’s going to cost a bit more than a quick trip to Emmerdale, but the memories – and bragging rights – are priceless.

Season one of the hit series unfolds against the lush backdrop of Maui, Hawaii. Filmed at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Maui, one of its most recognisable settings – known onscreen as White Lotus Beach – is called Wailea Beach in real life. Just steps from the hotel, this idyllic stretch of sand witnessed plenty of whispered confessions, wicked truths, and dramatic twists throughout the season.

Season two traded tropical shores for the rich history and romance of Sicily, Italy. The main setting, the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace in Taormina, is as opulent as it appears on screen. Filming also took place at a variety of locations showcasing the island’s cultural treasures, including Palermo’s grand Opera House, the elegant Palazzo Ducezio and Cathedral in Noto, and the stunning neoclassical Villa Tasca in Palermo.

Season three transported the drama to Thailand, weaving its story across Bangkok, Koh Samui, and Phuket. Filming locations included the Four Seasons Koh Samui, the Anantara Mai Khao Phuket, and the private Villa Jacinta in Koh Samui, each bringing their own slice of paradise to the screen.

CHEERS TO NEW YEAR!

What better way to celebrate Rosh Hashanah than with a selection of apple, honey, and pomegranate-flavoured tipples – with alcoholic, low-alcohol, and non-alcoholic options.

APPLE

Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Apple| £26.65

Completely kosher and a twist on the well-loved classic, this tipple is a unique marriage of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey Old No. 7 coupled with an all-natural, crisp green apple liqueur. Tennessee Apple offers caramel and vanilla notes combine with fresh-cut apples. Enjoy neat over ice or mix with ginger ale for a fiery concoction that creates the perfect sweet and spicy dram! Kosherwinecellar.co.uk

Apple pie non-alcoholic bourbon spirit | £26

A great apple alternative for those who aren’t drinking this festive season comes from Enjoy Mocktails. This crisp apple flavour is mixed with cinnamon and brown sugar for some added sweet heat with a warm and smooth finish. There are notes of an autumn day with the smell of apples that makes for a rich, sweet, full bodied, and lightly spiced whiskey alternative. Enjoymocktails.com

POMEGRANATE

Morad pomegranate wine | £23.99

At the foot of lsrael’s Carmel Mountains and amid the beauty of the fertile Galilee, the Morad Winery in Yokneam transforms nature’s harvest into kosher wines and liqueurs. The pomegranate is squeezed when it’s at the peak of its ripeness and undergoes a fermentation process after which it’s aged for a minimum of 12 months to create intense pomegranate notes with a lush, sweet mouth feel and a sour, tart finish. Of course, it can be enjoyed by itself, but why not create a delicious chilled mulled wine by infusing it with savoury flavours such citrus, cinnamon, and fresh rosemary.

Kosherwine.co.uk

Casato aromatised-based drink | £6.99

A great low-alcohol alternative is the Casato red wine which is 100% natural and blends aromas of natural fruit and Spanish red wine, at just 5.5% ABV. Best served chilled, this wine will suit our suggestion of mulled wine perfectly, just add a bit of pomegranate juice or syrup to make it extra festive! Kosherwinecellar.co.uk

HONEY

Milk & Honey classic single malt | £43.95

Crafted at Israel’s Milk & Honey Distillery, this whiskey is aged in ex-bourbon and charred virgin oak casks, enhancing its rich, complex character. It features aromas of vanilla, honey, and lemon zest, with a palate of citrus, vanilla, and spice. The finish is medium to long, with a sweet, spicy linger and it’s recommended that it’s best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water. Areleskosherwine.com

Mixed taster pack | £43

This taster pack from Bemuse includes four bottles of sparkling non-alcoholic honey wine that is sure to impress guests. The Calluna tarragon and basil brut is a herbaceous and aromatic blend of wild heather honey with tarragon, Thai basil, and zesty cascade hops. Pomona ginger and cardamom brut will provide a subtly spiced, gently fiery blend of apple blossom honey with cardamom, ginger, and bitter orange peel. An elegant, delicately floral blend of English meadow borage honey with wild raspberry and rose petals comes from the Fiora wild raspberry rose. Finally, the origo original brut is a crisp and fresh blend of floral spring wildflower honey with cascade, zesty citrus, and aromatic ekuanot hops. Bemusedrinks.com

Time to Shine

Stylish timepieces are having a moment. Here are a few to watch out for.

Whether you're seeking a reliable daily accessory, an elegant dress watch, or a statement piece that reflects your appreciation for fine design, there’s something here to catch the eye.

Citizen | Tsuyosa automatic green dial gold-plated watch | £329

This sleek, ultramodern sports watch embodies sophisticated craftsmanship. With its distinctive green sunray dial and gold-tone stainless steel construction, this watch makes a powerful impression with understated elegance.

Available in a range of brightly coloured dial options, there's a distinctive Tsuyosa watch to suit everyone. The versatile 40mm case in gold tone stainless steel features both brushed and polished finishes, while the green sunray dial is clear and easy to read with bold indexes and hands that contrast beautifully against the dial.

Citizenwatch.co.uk

Seiko 5 | Sports black dial automatic bracelet watch | £300

The Seiko 5 Sports collection represents exceptional value in automatic watchmaking. This model features a striking black dial and bezel combination, housed in a robust stainless steel case. Built for adventure and everyday wear, it offers superior water resistance and reliability. Its colour scheme is designed to match modern street fashion; the grey tone of the dial and deeper grey bezel resemble shades of stonewashed black denim. The gold-coloured accents on the hands and indices have been designed to complement street-style gold accessories.

Seiko 5 Sports is known for over fifty years of reliability, durability, performance and value. '5' represents the original five key features of every Seiko 5 still present today: automatic movement, day-date display, water resistance, recessed crown, and durable case and strap.

Seikoboutique.co.uk

Bulova | Classic brown diamond dial watch | £429

This Bulova classic brown diamond dial watch offers an opulent look with its rich, warm tones and luxurious diamond accents. The 30mm contoured case is perfectly sized for most wrists, while the case frame is set with 16 individually hand-set diamonds that catch the light beautifully.

The chocolate brown dial features a chic textured chapter ring at the centre, complemented by rose gold-tone hands and eight diamond hour markers. Roman numerals at 12 and six o'clock add classical elegance, while the curved sapphire crystal protects the dial from scratches. Bulova.com

Herbelin | Art deco 1925's empire | £410

Minimalist but striking, the Art Déco 1925's Empire features a rectangular stainless steel case that pays homage to the iconic design movement of the 1920s. The lacquered black dial, overlaid with two graphic rectangles, lends a refined, modern aesthetic that bridges past and present.

This French-made timepiece embodies the geometric elegance and sophisticated simplicity that defined the art deco era. The lacquered black case back, paired with a black leather strap, adds a touch of minimalist elegance that makes this watch a true statement piece.

Herbelin.co.uk

Breitling | Top Time BO1 Gino Bartali | £5,950

In the market for something a little more luxurious? Introduced in the 1960s, Breitling’s line of racing-inspired chronographs captured the era’s freewheeling vibe. The Top Time collection channels that adrenaline-fueled energy, blending modern-retro design with cutting-edge performance.

The Top Time B01 Gino Bartali features a blue dial with yellow accents, inspired by the cyclist’s memorable jersey, the chronograph features his nickname on the tachymeter scale: “L’Intramontabile” (The Timeless), and its signature at six o’clock makes the connection even more personal.

The 41mm chronograph runs on Breitling’s Manufacture Caliber 01, offering COSC-certified precision and a 70-hour power reserve. A transparent caseback reveals the intricate movement, its outer ring engraved with “Gino Bartali Tribute” and “One of 750”.

Check out the new Berry’s Leeds store or Berrysjewellers.co.uk

Eco-conscious consumers are thinking beyond fast fashion towards more sustainability, versatility, and quality over quantity.

The fashion industry is undergoing a seismic transformation. Conscious consumers are no longer willing to choose between looking good and doing good. We’re in a pivotal moment where slow fashion matches sustainability with style. The era of fast fashion is coming to an end and style-conscious shoppers are embracing ‘slow fashion’; the act of buying fewer, better pieces that transcend seasonal trends and stand the test of time.

Shoppers today demand more than good looking garments – they want the complete story. Instead of filling wardrobes with disposable trends, today's consumers are more likely to invest in timeless staples. This approach champions quality over quantity and versatility over novelty. With new technology, consumers can now trace their favourite dress from cotton fields to finished piece. Progressive brands now offer complete supply chain visibility, allowing customers to scan product tags and view a garment's entire journey. Those wanting to shop more ethically can look out for QR codes on clothing labels, brands sharing supplier information, and companies with published sustainability reports.

Innovative use of new and different materials is also helping people dress well while reducing harmful impacts. Mushroom leather handbags, apple-derived fabrics, and pineapple fibre textiles are transitioning from experimental curiosities to mainstream must-haves. These cruelty-free alternatives deliver the same luxury feel and durability as traditional materials while dramatically reducing environmental impact.

Many now find satisfaction and reassurance in knowing the story behind their clothes. Consumers are increasingly choosing brands that prioritise small-batch, artisanal production, celebrating traditional craftsmanship while embracing contemporary design. Supporting local makers doesn't just reduce transportation emissions – it strengthens creative communities

and preserves traditional skills.

Creative renewal is also having a major moment. DIY workshops and repair cafes are becoming more popular as people discover the joy of giving old garments new life. Whether transforming vintage finds or refreshing existing pieces, upcycling represents fashion at its most creative and sustainable.

The traditional ‘buy, wear, discard’ model is being replaced by circular systems focused on longevity and reuse. Brands are introducing take-back programmes where consumers return old clothes for repurposing, creating a more responsible consumption model.

This shift towards circularity is driving innovation in recyclable and biodegradable materials, ensuring fashion's future is both stylish and sustainable. Sustainable fashion isn't about compromise – it’s about conscious

choice. By selecting organic materials, supporting transparent brands, embracing innovative alternatives, and caring for what we own, consumers are proving that style and sustainability are natural partners.

Sustainable fashion is also about how we care for our clothes. Proper maintenance can dramatically extend garment lifespan while reducing environmental impact.

Top care tips:

• Wash at 30°C or lower

• Air dry whenever possible

• Learn basic mending skills

• Use eco-friendly detergents

• Invest in quality storage

Don’t su

One Moment in Israel A Lifetime of Memories

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Since October 2023, UJIA has been there for the people of Israel as they look to recover and rebuild. Across the country, from north to south, we have been supporting the hundreds of thousands of civilians whose lives have been torn apart by war. Our work has been wide-ranging in providing support - from those in trauma needing therapy, to the small business owners and farmers who lost everything – and now need to start again.

This Kol Nidre, UJIA is looking to the future with hope and optimism. With your support, those who were hardest hit by the events on and since 7th October will have a chance not only to get back on track, but to exceed their incredible potential.

Please donate now at ujia.org/kn25 or scan the QR code

KOL NIDRE APPEAL

Hi Jacqueline, tell us how this book project came about?

I guess everyone thinks their father is special, but we certainly do. Like many Far East survivors, Dad never talked about his experiences. I discovered when researching they were actually issued with an order forbidding them to talk about their incarceration. The war in Europe was over, people were getting on with their lives and no-one wanted to hear tales of hardship. When you think how many must have been affected by PTSD, it’s appalling. I didn't learn the extent until the 1980s when my parents visited Singapore and toured Changi, where he had been imprisoned.

While Dad was alive, he read excerpts to me about working ‘up country’ on the railway –horrendous times. I sent these to the Imperial War Museum, who were fascinated. Researchers contacted dad, including Yorkshire Television for their Doctors at War programme. After he died, my siblings and I felt the complete diary deserved to be known. I transcribed everything with help from my brother and daughter.

What effect did that visit to Changi have?

It was cathartic. When he returned, he got down a suitcase from the wardrobe, packed with diaries, drawings, sketches, medals, and medical instruments and began reflecting on his experiences. Then his friend Jim Bradley, who'd had a horrific time with an attempted escape, sent Dad his book with a letter saying: "Why don't you write up your diary?" Dad thought only small sections would interest anyone.

When he was a POW, keeping a diary in itself

Preserving Memories

Leeds-based Jacqueline Passman discusses her new book, A Cool Head in Hell, which chronicles her father's extraordinary survival story as a doctor in Japanese POW camps during World War II.

was illegal. Dad occasionally cut out little sections which would have shown the Japanese they had access to an illicit radio, which was an offence punishable by death.

What makes these diaries so historically significant?

Unlike memoirs written afterwards, Dad's diary is contemporaneous – a real-time account spanning three and a half years as a prisoner in Singapore. He was objective, writing only when he had something different to offer as paper was scarce. I think it helped him stay sane, putting experiences down on paper.

And how did your father cope with revisiting these memories?

My father could compartmentalise, saying: "This was the past, now I'm in the present and future." He met my mother six weeks after repatriation, married six months later. He never thought he'd have a family, so having one, a GP practice, normal life – he put the war behind him.

But when interviewed for Yorkshire Television 50 years later, he was clearly upset. He'd never forgotten; he just had the rare ability to compartmentalise.

What role did faith and community play in your father’s story?

Dad was from a traditional family but wasn't particularly orthodox himself, yet there was a need for faith. They managed regular Friday night services in different venues. Dad describes how they made do with what they had – they sang the songs and said the prayers they could remember. Eventually a Dutch rabbi came into the prison camp and organised proper services.

The Japanese provided materials for them to build a small synagogue. A suitably decorated curtain hung in front of an imaginary ark (they had no Torah scrolls) and a representation of the tablets of stone containing the 10 Commandments was painted above.

The Japanese seemed to encourage any activities that kept people occupied. The hardest thing was boredom.

Were other cultural activities allowed to flourish?

The academics among the camp created ‘Changi University’ for those with higher education. There were loads of subjects, plus entertainment including plays and musicals with very talented performers. Ronald Searle, later famous for St Trinian's cartoons, was there and designed scenery. There was even an orchestra – people were encouraged to bring instruments as it was good for morale.

From your research, how does the Far East POW experience compare to Europe?

There's very little known about the Far East compared to Europe. What people don't realise is that only 4% of German POW camp prisoners died, but 27% died in Japanese camps – more than one in four.

Most men who died were on the railway. My father, as camp doctor, faced impossible decisions. The Japanese would demand 60 people for railway work, and when he said they weren't well enough, guards came with bayonets, poking people to get up. Dad knew most would die – they couldn't survive the work.

Finally, what do you hope readers take from the book?

I think a greater understanding of an aspect of the war people are less familiar with. I'm not suggesting it compares to concentration camps – mass murder doesn't compare with anything –but the treatment was also unbelievably horrific.

Yet it's not just about horror. Dad's good humour comes through – his diary is actually quite funny and optimistic. His personality emerges as an engaging, entertaining companion even in those circumstances. It speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope.

A Cool Head in Hell is published by Extraordinary Books and available from 23rd October.

Extraordinarybooks.co.uk

Taste of the Wild

With grocery bills rising, many people are likely to be interested in discovering the delicious food available for free in their local area. That’s what the ancient practice of foraging offers.

Lisa Cutcliffe describes herself as a foraging instructor and wild food specialist, but her journey began with an obsession that took years to satisfy: "I was at university and saw a cooking programme where they were finding porcini mushrooms in the UK and cooking with them," she recalls. "My mind was blown because I thought they only grew on the continent. They're so expensive here, I figured that's why we import them, because they aren't found here. But they grow all over the UK, if you know where to look!”

That moment sparked what would become a life-long passion: "I went on this big mission to find porcini for myself. It took five years to find my first one, because I had no one to help me, this was way before there was the huge range of books and digital resources we have today.”

During those early years, Lisa taught herself through books and exploration: "I know now I was looking in the wrong types of forest. While searching, I got completely obsessed with fungi because now I had the books and information. There's so many when you're actually looking."

Lisa's expertise naturally evolved beyond fungi: "Mushrooms are very unpredictable –they're not out all the time. I started thinking, I'm on these mushroom walks not always

To mark Wild Foods Day on 28th October, Lisa Cutcliffe talks about the joy of foraging, seeking out wild foods, and rediscovering our ancestral diet.

finding anything for dinner, but I'm passing all these plants. I should revisit what I'm pulling out and weeding on the allotment and what my grandmother taught me in her garden." This revelation opened new possibilities: "I realised I knew a lot of plants – I just didn't know they were edible. So, then I got more food every time I went out."

Living in Leeds meant making coastal trips to master seashore foraging: "I started seeing people at the coast getting razor clams and eating samphire and seaweed. I needed to do this." These experiences made up what she calls her ‘tripod’ of knowledge. "Fungi, plants and trees, and the seashore – having those three areas means you can eat pretty well."

Lisa's most ambitious project was participating in the Wild Biome Project: "The idea was to see what would happen to a modern human if you ate only wild species.”

The dietary restrictions yielded revelations about natural nutrition: "In this country, we don't have a lot of wild carbohydrate. We don't have yams or big starchy roots that you can get easily. We do have fruits, but only for a short period in late summer to early autumn. The rest of the time there isn't a lot of carbohydrate around."

Some surprising results came from the experiment: "One person was genetically diabetic, and their blood sugar monitor was off the chart every time they ate anything. That completely normalised within nine days on the wild diet – no diabetic symptoms at all because there weren't sugars."

The Wild Biome Project also revealed how seasonal availability once shaped human migration patterns: "We found we had to do what people historically did – move around

through the year. In winter, you'd be in the woods for shelter. Spring came and you'd go to meadows for greens. Early summer, you'd move to the coast because plants die off inland when it gets too hot. Then back to hedgerows where fruit trees and nuts are, then back to woods for winter."

Through her explorations, Lisa has discovered some unexpected flavours in British wild foods: "There are mushrooms that smell and taste like curry powder when you put them in things ground up – the curry milk cap. You can make a chocolate flavour from linden tree fruit. If you collect the little round fruits green, roast them, and grind them up, it's not unlike cocoa powder with real chocolatey notes."

While more people are discovering wild foods and foraging, Lisa emphasises the importance of proper education: "This is potentially life and death – it's really serious. The most poisonous mushrooms and plants look really innocuous. They don't flash bright colours saying, 'I'm poisonous!' Hemlock water dropwort looks like celery or parsley and smells like it too, but it's really deadly."

For Lisa, foraging is about more than just gathering food – it's about reconnecting with natural cycles: "We're so far from natural animal rhythms. We don't rest with the seasons, don't rest with the light being gone. We're exhausted because we don't stop."

Lisa offers foraging courses throughout the year. Visit her website for upcoming dates and follow her Instagram for seasonal updates and wild food discoveries.

Eduliswildfood.co.uk

On Instagram @eduliswildfood

DIY beauty offers a simple way to care for your hair and skin using ingredients you can trust. If you're looking to reduce exposure to harsh chemicals, personalise your beauty routine, or just enjoy a creative project, crafting your own products at home puts control back into your hands.

HAIR OIL

Is your hair still feeling the effects of the sun, sea, and chlorine from your summer holidays? Or have you accidentally overdone it with harsh, shop-bought products? Fear not! You can make your own hair oil at home that’s completely natural and will have your locks back to their best quality in no time.

Recipe

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp coconut oil

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp Epsom salt

• Up to 2 drops essential oils (optional)

Method

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and blend with an immersion blender. If you don’t have a blender or your ingredients aren’t combining well, heat the ingredients (not the essential oil) on low and whisk to combine.

2. Take it off the heat and add essential oils if using – rosemary oil is proven to help hair growth, tea tree oil helps dandruff, and jojoba, castor, and argan oils are all great to mix in to treat your scalp.

3. Stir or shake the mixture well right before applying. Over a sink or shower, massage the warm (not hot!) oil treatment through your hair and scalp.

4. Put a shower cap or old towel on and leave for up to 30 minutes.

BODY BUTTER

Prepare for the colder weather by making sure your skin stays hydrated with a homemade body butter. Rich, creamy, and deeply moisturising, body butter helps lock in hydration and protect the skin’s barrier and is a simple way to keep your skin soft and smooth.

Ingredients

• 500g shea butter

• 500g coconut oil

• 350ml sweet almond oil

• Essential oils (optional)

Method

1. Pour the shea butter and coconut oil in a bowl and heat together in the microwave in 20 second increments, stopping to stir, and being careful not to burn or overheat the products.

2. Once melted together, add the sweet almond oil and your essential oils if you want the body butter to have a scent.

3. Allow to cool a little, then put the bowl in the fridge or freezer.

4. Once cold, the mixture should start to look like slush, now it’s ready for whipping! Use an electric whisk and whip it until it looks like whipped cream.

5. Once whipped, put it into tubs or jars and apply daily.

FACE MASK

The weather is about to change, and with that comes changes in our skin. Face masks can help your skin transition smoothly between seasons as temperatures begin to drop and humidity levels shift. A well-chosen mask can soothe irritation and boost your natural glow – just be sure to do a patch test first to see how your skin will react!

Recipe

• 4 tbsp rolled oats

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 egg yolk

Method

1. Blend your oats until they’re in powder form.

2. Add honey and mix it through.

3. Stay with us here! Egg yolks are a source of vitamin D, which helps to achieve a fresher and younger looking complexion. Discard the egg white and add the yolk into the mixture, breaking it up to form a paste.

4. Apply the mask to your face – avoiding the delicate eye area – and leave it for up to 15 minutes before washing off.

A lot of shop-bought lip balms can actually make your lips drier! Some use ingredients which may provide a temporary soothing effect but often strip moisture from the lips over time. Making your own lip balm at home uses nourishing, natural ingredients so your lips stay soft and hydrated.

Recipe

• ½ tbsp beeswax (available to buy online for cheap!)

• 1 tbsp coconut oil

• ½ tbsp shea butter

• 10 drops essential oil of your choice

Method

1. Place the beeswax into a glass measuring cup and melt in the microwave by heating in 30 second increments, stirring each time.

2. Add the coconut oil and shea butter once the wax has melted. Put it back in the microwave for 10 seconds if needed to melt further.

3. Allow the mixture to cool for about a minute then stir in the essential oil.

4. Pour the mixture into lip balm tubes or tins and allow to cool until hardened.

With expert Event Planner, Juliet Shenderey

As we welcome the colder weather, more and more clients are now considering planning their events abroad in sunnier climes. Be it a wedding, birthday, Bar/Bat Mitzvah, or corporate event; here is a list of dos and don’ts for planning your destination event.

Don’t's

Forget legal paperwork – this is especially relevant for weddings – as every country has its own requirements. Some require you to be ‘resident’ there for a certain time before being legally allowed to marry. Forget to ensure you get everything in writing before you pay any bills.

EVENT PLANNING

Abroad

Be taken in by very cheap deals. Although it’s often cheaper to have an event abroad, make sure you know what’s included in your package and what extras will need to be paid for.

Do's

Decide your budget and who is paying what. Will you be paying for guest’s accommodation and flights or do you expect them to pay for themselves? Will you be paying for all meals during the event?

Really think about your location before deciding. A beach wedding in Mauritius may be your idea of a dream wedding, but will the

travel costs and time mean many of your guests won’t be able to share your day with you?

Visit before you book – especially at the time of year you want your event. Check out the weather, activities, light, and accommodation for your guests. After all, you would never book a venue at home before visiting!

Use an event planner who’s an expert at enabling you to have the dream event. Here at Shenderey Events, we have years of experience of creating perfect events throughout the UK and worldwide. Shenderey-events.com

The Conveyancing Advantage PROPERTY LAW

scenes is essential to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Don’t skim the small print

Buying a property, whether it’s your first home or a strategic investment, is one of life’s most significant financial decisions. It’s exciting, but it can also be complex and, at times, overwhelming. That’s why having a specialist conveyancer working behind the

Property law is full of technical language and hidden details. If you’ve ever glanced at a property title or legal document, you’ll know how confusing it can be. Your conveyancer will review the legal title, explain any covenants or restrictions, and ensure you fully understand what you’re purchasing. They’ll also carry out thorough checks, including searches you’ve not considered. Is the road adopted? Are public sewers within the boundary? Have all planning permissions and building regulations been properly obtained? These checks protect you from future surprises and help safeguard your investment.

Get the full service

If you’re using a Help to Buy ISA or Lifetime ISA, your conveyancer will handle

the paperwork to ensure you receive your government bonus. They’ll manage the transfer of funds on completion day and take care of your Stamp Duty Land Tax.

Post-completion, they’ll register your ownership with HM Land Registry and liaise with any management companies involved. It’s a comprehensive approach created to protect your interests throughout.

Choose the right team

Your estate agent helps you find the property and your mortgage provider helps you fund it. Your conveyancer ensures the legal title is sound and the transaction is secure.

At Winston Solicitors, our expert conveyancing team make the process clear and accessible. You can contact us with any questions and track each step through our online portal. Speak to our conveyancing team about your next property purchase and give yourself the advantage!

0113 320 5000 | Winstonsolicitors.co.uk

MAZEL TOV TO ZOE GIBBER AND SAM GILMAN WHO RECENTLY GOT MARRIED.

PHOTO: PHILIP WHITE

LANDMARK HOTEL IN LONDON WAS THE LOCATION FOR THEIR SPECIAL DAY.

ALAN MOSS, MARILYN MYERS, JANET AND DEREK MASTERS, SUSAN AND ROBERT MARSHALL, RUTH AND ADRIAN SLESS, GAIL AND MALCOLM TAYLOR, GILL AND FRANK ROSENHEAD, AND LORETTA AND VICTOR LESLIE RECENTLY CAME TOGETHER FOR FLAG’S ANNUAL FUNDRAISING DINNER.

ETZ CHAIM SYNAGOGUE RECENTLY HELD AN END OF SUMMER BARBEQUE; VOLUNTEERS DAVID SILBERSTEIN, NORMAN LITVIN, AND ALAN ROSS WERE ON GRILLING DUTY!

VOLUNTEERS LISA BAKER AND LIANE SILBERSTEIN ALSO HELPED BY MAKING SCRUMPTIOUS SALADS.

THE SHIRES FAMILY WERE JUST SOME OF THE MEMBERS WHO HAD A GREAT DAY RAISING MUCH NEEDED FUNDS FOR THE SHUL!

THE COUPLE TOOK TO THE DANCEFLOOR TO CELEBRATE THEIR MARRIAGE WITH LOVED ONES!

PHOTO: PHILIP WHITE

PHOTO: PHILIP WHITE

SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS IN

THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

Summer was full of activities at Leeds Jewish Welfare Board (LJWB), we take a look at what’s been going on as well as the announcement of some exciting upcoming programmes.

A fantastic intergenerational week was held at the MAZCC where service users were joined by Year 6 pupils from Brodetsky Primary School. The children served lunchtime meals, helped run the Movement to Music class, called out numbers at bingo, and performed a musical number in the music appreciation session!

Brodetsky and LJWB have been running this successful initiative for three years now, enabling pupils to gain an insight into LJWB and delight service users with their

conversation, chatter, and smiles.

A full summer programme took place in the dedicated playroom at the MAZCC. It was filled with everything from arts and crafts, baking, painting, and messy play to sunshine adventures and a special visit from Betty the therapy dog – the children had a blast!

LJWB is excited to announced two new Royal Literary Funded Groups to its timetable of 30+ weekly activities. Reading Round will start on 28th October for four weeks from 2pm

to 3.30pm. It’ll be a weekly short story and poem discussions with Playwright and Writer, Louise Mulvey.

Writing for Self-Expression will explore creativity and culture with awardwinning Author, Tamar Yellin. This is an intergenerational programme that will take place for four weeks starting on 23rd October from 7pm to 8.30pm.

Call to secure your place! 0113 268 4211

PARISIAN NIGHTS

Leeds is set to sparkle on 29th November as St Gemma’s Hospice hosts its annual Winter Ball at New Dock Hall, Royal Armouries.

The St. Gemma’s Winter Ball, sponsored by JLife partner Skopes, has become a muchanticipated highlight of Leeds’ festive calendar, offering the perfect opportunity to celebrate the season with friends, colleagues, or clients. This year, guests will be whisked away to the romance

and glamour of Paris, right in the heart of our city.

Guests will be welcomed with a glass of fizz before sitting down to a delicious three-course meal. The evening will be filled with dazzling live entertainment, a buzzing atmosphere, and plenty

of chances to win prizes in the ever-popular lucky key draw.

Whether you’re looking to host a table for your team or simply enjoy an elegant night out, there are plenty of ways to take part. Individual tickets are priced at £100, while hosted tables start at £1,500, including drinks and entry into the prize draw. For businesses looking to stand out, sponsor tables at £2,000 offer premium seating near the stage and brand promotion throughout the evening.

With last year’s ball a sell-out success, this Paris-themed celebration promises to be just as unforgettable. Most importantly, every ticket sold helps support the vital care provided by the hospice.

For details and booking, contact corporate@st-gemma.co.uk

WINNER!

For National Dog Day, we asked you for your cutest canine pics. Meet our winner Norman the Cockapoo as selected by Mark Nicholls, CEO of Pup & Kit, who sends Norman a new 'boujee' beige Lid-it bowl with matching anti-spill silicone placemat and slow feeder insert worth £70!

Baloo Baxter, Long Haired Dachshund Pablo

Benji Boris, Rough Collie

Brie, German Wirehaired Pointer

Charlie Brewier, Yorkshire Terrier

Dexter Rottie

Faith & Prue

Jacob, Lab Collie Mix

Lola Maffia, Cavapoo Milo

Mister the Yorkie Cross Monty the Morkie Neo, Lhasa Apso

Luna, Cross Pug Oscar, Yorkshire Terrier Otis

Pep,half Chihuahua and half French Bulldog

Ziggy, Parsons Jack Russell

Bailey Long Haired Dachshund

MALC POOLE DOG PHOTOGRAPHY

IN THE

HEART

OF

THE

COMMUNITY LIONS OF JUDAH

UJIA Trustee Nici Wertheim writes about her recent trip to Israel.

In April, I travelled to Israel with a UJIA group of Lions of Judah – women from across the world who believe, as I do, that women’s philanthropy is a special gift. Given with thought and insight, it not only empowers but restores confidence and self-worth.

Our two-day itinerary was packed, but I was ready to absorb it all and bring home one message: even though life is tough here, we must continue to help our Israeli cousins rebuild their lives, livelihoods, and homes. Their resilience is extraordinary – but they cannot do it alone.

Our journey took us south to sites of the massacres at the Nova festival and Kibbutz Be’eri, then north to Kiryat Shmona, with many stops in between. The first day was raw with emotion. In Nahal Oz, we met an incredible soldier who shared her story.

At 6.29am, she was woken by sirens –routine, she thought – and went to the shelter in her pyjamas. But the sounds changed: gunfire, shouting in Arabic, chaos. She and a friend managed to reach the observation room, locking the door. Hours later, a text told them it was safe – but something felt wrong. They hesitated. Next door, others opened their door, only to be killed in a trap. “They are dead. I am here. I owe it to them,” she said. Her resilience was staggering.

We met Rita, who survived the Nova festival attack. She described dancing all night with her husband and sister before rockets interrupted

the music. Thinking it was routine, they stayed at their tent – until they heard Kalashnikov fire. They fled to the ticket booth, where her sister worked. Her husband was shot but survived. They lay on the ground for hours and hours before rescue. Rita spoke candidly about survivor’s guilt and therapy, sharing words I’ll never forget: “You have to have the awful moments in order to know which moments are great and appreciate them.”

From Nova, we visited Hagal Sheli, a surftherapy programme for young people suffering from trauma. Through learning to work with the sea, they discover that while some things cannot be controlled, they can still be navigated. It was inspiring to see such innovation in healing.

The next day, we went north to see a different kind of trauma – not from direct terror, but from displacement. At Heartbeats in the Galil, young mothers supported by UJIA gathered with their babies. With husbands away on reserve duty, they faced the daily struggle of parenting alone, shortages in shops, and navigating sirens and bomb shelters. The centre’s social workers are a lifeline.

In Kiryat Shmona, the northernmost town on the Lebanese border, the streets were eerily quiet. Residents are only now returning after 18 months, often to mouldy, damaged homes – or no home at all. Before October 7th, the town brimmed with hope and friendship. Now,

rebuilding will take immense effort, but the determination is clear.

Throughout this trip, one truth echoed: their resilience is incredible. My message: if you can, give support in your own right. Whatever you can offer, it will make a difference – and you will learn from every person you meet.

UJIA is launching Lions of Judah North. For more information, please contact anat. caspikaivanto@ujia.org

CELEBRATIONS CONTINUED LONG INTO THE EVENING AT NUNSMERE

MAZEL TOV TO NATASHA KRISTALL AND JO MEISEL WHO RECENTLY GOT MARRIED.

NATASHA’S BROTHERS DANIEL, ADAM, AND OLIVER WERE BY HER SIDE FOR THE SPECIAL (AND EMOTIONAL!) DAY.

HALL.

FRIENDS AND FAMILY OF THE HAPPY COUPLE CAME TOGETHER FOR THE CELEBRATIONS.

INCLUDING NATASHA’S MUM GILLIAN.

Health is Wealth

One lucky reader has the

chance to win a platinum health check at The Leeds Clinic worth £295!

The Leeds Clinic is an accessible private GP and skin clinic led by Dr Harry Rashid and his dedicated team, who provide care with a personal, family-style approach, priding themselves on going above and beyond to support every patient.

Registered with the Care Quality Commission, the clinic upholds the highest standards of safety, effectiveness, compassion, and quality – giving you complete confidence that your health is in expert hands. Its former owner was Dr Gould, well-known in LS17 circles for just that.

At the practice, patients have access to a wide range of private medical services. From same-day GP appointments, health checks, and prescriptions, through to specialist testing such as blood work, fertility, and visa medicals, the clinic provides care tailored to your needs.

The skin clinic offers advanced treatments including laser hair removal, HydraFacial,

ClearLift laser, and medical-grade skincare, alongside aesthetic options such as dermal fillers, skin boosters, and anti-wrinkle injections to help patients look and feel their best.

There are also health check packages on offer at the clinic that are all carried out by trained clinical staff and one reader will win one of the platinum health checks by entering our competition!

This in-depth assessment includes a personal health report, full consultation, and a wide range of screenings such as blood pressure, BMI, cholesterol, liver and kidney function, diabetes, and thyroid health. You’ll also benefit from advanced blood testing covering essential vitamins, iron, hormone levels, and more, alongside an ECG to assess heart function and a Q-Risk cardiovascular evaluation as well as tailored checks for both men and women.

Leeds-clinic.co.uk

Checking In

Feeling tired? Don’t ignore the signs!

Have you been feeling unusually tired, sluggish, or low on energy lately?

Struggling to stay focused, or noticing changes in your body that don’t feel quite right? It could be more than just a busy lifestyle and your body might be trying to tell you something important.

At The Leeds Clinic, we’re here to help you take charge of your health with our comprehensive health check, specially designed for anyone concerned about their prostate health, vitamin & mineral levels, cholesterol, and persistent fatigue. We MOT our cars annually, I believe we should have regular health checks.

Your body is your most valuable asset. Regular check-ups are essential for catching silent issues early, before they become serious health problems. Many men ignore the warning signs, thinking it’s just ‘getting older’, but fatigue, low mood, or changes in urination or

energy can be linked to real medical conditions that can be managed or even reversed when caught early.

Prostate health screening

Prostate issues are common in men, especially over the age of 40. Early detection of prostate problems can be lifesaving. Our health check includes a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test and symptom review to monitor for any changes or early signs that need attention.

Vitamin and mineral deficiency testing

Low levels of key nutrients like vitamin D, B12, iron, zinc, and magnesium can leave you feeling drained, depressed, or foggy headed. Deficiencies can affect everything from your immune system to your heart and brain function. We test for a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals to identify imbalances and help you feel your best.

COMPETITION

We’re offering our readers the chance to win a platinum health check at The Leeds Clinic, worth £295. Simply answer the following question…

Who is the Leeds Clinic now led by?

Enter online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/ competitions-5, via JLife’s social media, 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 winner will be randomly selected on the closing date: 31st October 2025

When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in JLife Magazine and The Leeds Clinic’s databases to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.

Cholesterol and heart health check

High cholesterol often has no symptoms but is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Our health check includes a full lipid profile, assessing your total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides – giving you a clear picture of your heart health.

Don’t wait for a wake-up call

Most health conditions are easier to treat when caught early – and many are preventable. Whether you’re proactive about your health or you’ve noticed changes recently, our health checks can give you the answers and peace of mind you deserve.

Have you been thinking of getting a complete health check/body MOT? Contact The Leeds Clinic – helping you live better, longer.

Email any questions directly to Dr Harry at reception@leeds-clinic.co.uk | Leeds-clinic. co.uk/health-checks-leeds-gp

• Wart & Tag Removal

• Pigmentation Treatment

• Laser hair (Using Award Winning Soprano Laser)

• Acne Scarring Treatment

• Anti-ageing Laser Facials

• Advance Nutrient Peogramme (Supplier of Leading Skincare Supplement)

• Medical Aesthetic

HEALTH IS WEALTH

• Private GP

• Bespoke IV Drips

• Health Checks

• Blood Testing

• And Much Much More on Our Amazing Website

A Good View

There’s a huge variety of books, TV shows, and films being released soon; we’ve found some of the best to whet your appetite.

The Impossible Fortune Richard Osman | 25th September

The geriatric gang are back in the fifth instalment of Richard Osman’s bestselling phenomenon. It’s been a quiet year for the Thursday Murder Club. Joyce is busy with table plans and first dances, Elizabeth is grieving, Ron is dealing with family troubles, and Ibrahim is still providing therapy to his favourite criminal. But when Elizabeth meets a wedding guest who’s in trouble, kidnap and death are hot on the gang’s heels once more. A villain wants access to an uncrackable code and will stop at nothing to get it. Plunged back into action once more, can the gang solve the puzzle and a murder in time?

Mr. Scorsese | Apple TV+ 17th October

A portrait of Martin Scorsese through the lens of his work, Mr. Scorsese will explore the many facets of a visionary who redefined filmmaking and examine how his colourful life experiences informed his artistic vision. The documentary series is anchored by conversations with Scorsese himself and never-before-seen interview with friends, family, and creative collaborators including Robert De Niro, Daniel Day-Lewis, Sharon Stone, Leonardo DiCaprio, Mick Jagger, Margot Robbie, Steven Spielberg, and many more giants from the industry.

Nobody Wants This | Netflix 23rd October

This comedy centred on the unlikely relationship between an outspoken agnostic woman and an unconventional rabbi is back for a second series. Joanne (Kristen Bell) and Noah (Adam Brody) are an unlikely match, and the new series will follow them trying to navigate their relationship while dealing with differing outlooks on life, all the modern obstacles to love, and their families that are sometimes well-meaning, sometimes sabotaging.

TRON: Ares | In cinemas from 10th October

TRON: Ares is the third instalment of the Tron franchise and will serve as a direct sequel to the previous film, Legacy. The film follows a highly sophisticated programme, Ares, who is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission, marking humankind’s first encounter with AI beings.

Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere In cinemas from 24th October

The latest addition to the growing trend of musician biopics will be a film centred on Bruce Springsteen. Played by Jeremy Allen White, Deliver Me from Nowhere will follow the chronicles of making the musician’s 1982 Nebraska album when he was a young musician on the cusp of global superstardom, struggling to reconcile the pressures of success with the ghosts of his past. Recorded on a 4-track recorder in his New Jersey bedroom, the album marked a pivotal time in his life and is considered one of his most enduring works.

When Jane Ingleby decided she wanted to pursue family law from her university days, she was drawn to something many might find daunting – the deeply personal nature of working with families during their most vulnerable moments.

“What drew me in were the personal dimensions of the work,” Jane reflects. “It’s a demanding field and you need a deep and broad understanding of the law. No two cases are alike, and advising clients properly means drawing on everything from corporate and employment law to private client matters. That complexity is what makes it so rewarding.”

As a partner heading up the family team at the Leeds office, Jane has built a team focused on helping clients protect and preserve the wealth they’ve worked hard to create. Her expertise spans complex financial matters, children’s cases, and wealth management, bringing clarity to issues that can feel overwhelming for those encountering family law for the first time.

Supporting families through separation or divorce demands a high level of emotional intelligence which is something Jane has honed over the course of her career: “Empathy is essential. You need to connect with people who are facing incredibly tough circumstances. While we’re not trained counsellors, we do play a vital role in helping clients feel heard and supported. It’s about building trust and rapport with vulnerable individuals, while maintaining professionalism. Over time, we’ve become very skilled at gathering the right information quickly and sensitively.”

Jane’s approach is particularly valuable when dealing with clients who require sophisticated wealth protection strategies. She advises on pre- and post- nuptial agreements, ensuring the future security of clients’ success, and navigates complex financial separations involving business interests and trusts.

Law of the Land

Jane Ingleby of Mills & Reeve Solicitors shares why she's passionate about helping families navigate life's most challenging moments.

The firm has deep expertise across its seven offices, including one in Leeds. Jane sees this as a key strength in delivering a highly personalised service to clients: “We deliver the same level of expertise as the larger firms in Leeds, but with a more personal, agile approach. As a full-service office, we collaborate closely across teams including corporate, private client, and beyond, so that our clients benefit from tailored, joined-up advice that reflects every aspect of their lives and businesses.”

Our job is to help people find the best path forward for their families, and often that means thinking beyond traditional solutions.

What truly sets Mills & Reeve apart is its innovative approach to family law, particularly its focus on keeping disputes out of court wherever possible. Jane is clear-eyed about the challenges facing the traditional court system: “Delays and last-minute cancellations are common, even when barristers are already instructed and outcomes can be unpredictable,” she explains. “Family law gives judges wide discretion, which means if you had 10 judges deciding the same case, you could easily get 10 different decisions. That uncertainty can be incredibly difficult for clients.”

This reality has led Mills & Reeve to develop alternative approaches. It offers mediation, arbitration, collaborative law,

and a ‘separate well’ service where, when appropriate, one solicitor can act for both parties.

“This kind of service is rare at present, I am only aware of one other family law firm in Leeds offering it,” Jane explains. “It is based on a resolution initiative, but we’ve tailored it with strong safeguarding to ensure it’s right for each client. Many people want the simplicity of working with just one solicitor, and this approach makes the process more efficient, less stressful, and easier to manage during what’s often a very emotional time.”

Jane herself is a qualified children arbitrator and member of CIARB (Chartered Institute of Arbitrators), offering clients private hearings as an alternative to court.

While Mills & Reeve handles all types of family matters, it is especially recognised for complex and sensitive matters: “We’re trusted with the most challenging issues such as domestic abuse, high-conflict child arrangements, international relocations, surrogacy, and cases involving complex financial arrangements like trusts, business assets, offshore holdings, and pensions."

For Jane, the future lies in helping clients move beyond immediate challenges to build lasting legacies: “Our role is to guide people toward the best path forward for their families. That often means thinking creatively and going beyond traditional solutions. Court has its place, but it should always be the last resort.”

Mills & Reeve’s priority is excellence in client service, which is consistently recognised: “Our reputation in private wealth and family law speaks volumes, we are really highly regarded.”

Contact Jane.Ingleby@mills-reeve.com Mills-reeve.com

NURSERY CHILDREN HAVE HAD A FANTASTIC START TO THE NEW ACADEMIC YEAR!

BRODETSKY’S

Love your coffee? UK Coffee Week returns this October, helping Project Waterfall, the charity providing funds for clean water and sanitation in coffee growing communities worldwide.

UK Coffee Week is back from 13th to 19th October, uniting coffee lovers, cafés, and roasters nationwide for a week-long celebration of all things coffee, helping to change lives.

Since its launch in 2011, UK Coffee Week has raised over £900,000 for Project Waterfall, bringing clean water, sanitation, and education to coffee-growing communities across the globe.

“UK Coffee Week is all about celebrating coffee, while making a difference to the communities that support our livelihood,’’ says Campaign Manager Bethan Shaw.

“We’re excited to already have some amazing coffee operators signed up, such as Insomnia Coffee Company, Clifton Coffee Roasters, The Turntable Coffee & Vinyl, Magnetic North Coffee, and Holme Coffee House. Friends of the campaign so far include Oatly and Sanremo – with more to be announced soon.”

From independent coffee shops donating money from coffees sold to roasters contributing from coffee bag sales and coffee businesses hosting their own fundraising events, there are countless ways to take part. Whether you’re a roaster, coffee shop or coffee business, everyone can make a difference.

Today, 703 million people around the world don’t have access to clean water. The majority live in isolated, rural areas – the same areas growing our coffee. UK Coffee Week funding helped bring clean water to the town of Haro Dumal in Ethiopia.

Asrat Areda, a shop owner and mother of three, now has clean water just outside her home.

"Having clean water near our house means everything to me," says Asrat. "When I was my children's age, we had to collect water from a river. But now, my children won't have to do that. This makes me really happy, it's what every parent wants, to see their children living a better life.

"Now we have a public tap right in front of our compound. We no longer waste time walking to the river. We can keep clean, take baths, and use the water without hesitation. It’s been over a month since we started collecting water from the new tap, and it has changed our lives."

Improved access to water leads to increased productivity and consequently, local economic growth. Plus, the construction of new water supply systems, using materials that take into account the anticipated effects of climate change, will also create new jobs and other economic opportunities, ensuring that the community will continue to have access to safe, clean water well into the future.

Women in the community will no longer have to spend large amounts of time collecting water and so can pursue economically productive pursuits, helping break them and their families free from poverty.

By funding sustainable and safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene projects in partnership with delivery partners, Project Waterfall has changed over 90,000 lives to date.

Projectwaterfall.org | Ukcoffeeweek.com

Half Term Heroes

Whatever the weather, keep the kids entertained this half term with our selection of some of the best events going on in and around the city.

The Art of Brick | The Headrow | until February

The Art of the Brick is the best-known LEGO art exhibition in the world and after touring several cities, it’s finally arrived in Leeds. Critically acclaimed, the collection features work by Artist, Nathan Saway, which are made from millions of LEGO bricks. The collection includes original sculptures by the artist and new versions of great masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s ‘David’, Van Gogh’s ‘The Starry Night’, and Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’. It also features an innovative LEGO multimedia collection produced together with award-winning Photographer Dean West. Theartofbrickexpo.com/leeds

Super Spirographs | Leeds City Museum | 25th October to 1st November

Did you know the Spirograph was invented right here in Leeds by Engineer Denys Fisher? This half term, Leeds City Museum will be hosting a nostalgic and fun-filled week with activities inspired by the drawing device. There’ll be a trail around the museum which will also give you a chance to explore the galleries, as well as opportunities to create your own designs. On 28th October, there’ll be a family fun day hosted by Lesley Halliwell, the artist behind the museum's 2025 Light Night installation. Museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk

The Big Opera Mystery | Leeds Grand Theatre | 25th October

A family-friendly show for children aged five to 12 years old; an expert thief is on the loose, and only you can catch them! Bring your thinking-caps, magnifying glasses, and all your crime-solving skills. This is a mystery like no other, where the suspects are some of the greatest opera characters of all time – and the detective is you! From the team behind 2024’s hit family show The Big Opera Adventure comes a brand-new musical extravaganza. Featuring live music from the orchestra of Opera North, this is the perfect first encounter with opera for the whole family.

Operanorth.co.uk

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show | Carriageworks Theatre | 29th October to 2nd November

The critically acclaimed production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, created by Jonathan Rockefeller, features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets. The production faithfully adapts four stories by Author and Illustrator Eric Carle: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?; 10 Little Rubber Ducks; The Very Busy Spider; and, of course, the star of the show –The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The show is a vibrant celebration of Eric Carle’s adored classics and the perfect introduction to live theatre.

Carriageworkstheatre.co.uk

Anything Could Happen | Seven Arts | 30th October

Anything Could Happen is an improv group that turns children’s ideas into unforgettable live theatre. Using only the children’s input, actors improvise wild characters, imaginative worlds, and hilarious plot twists. The company believes that ‘anything could happen’ are inspiring words, because when anything is possible, there’s no right or wrong answer. Children who may feel they have no ‘good’ ideas begin to see endless possibilities. Through the unique lens of comedy, it aims to reawaken their confidence in creative writing – engaging them with joy, spontaneity, and imagination.

Anythingcouldhappenleeds.com

In the Market

Harewood Christmas Market returns to LS17 this autumn with an artisan market, street food, and interior design exhibition.

From 8th to 11th November, Harewood House will welcome over 160 makers, crafters, and producers to its annual festive market along the North Park Walk. It’s more than just Christmas though, you’ll find unique gifts from some of Yorkshire’s finest independent traders and indulge in the region’s best street food exhibition by TV Actress and Interior Designer Siobhan Murphy, hosted inside the house.

Among the many wares on offer from a plethora of traders and craftspeople you’ll be able to find ceramics, pet treats and accessories, homewares, beauty products, woodwork, jewellery, clothing, plants and flowers, and unique toys, as well as a mouthwatering selection of delectable street food bites. Plus, lots of sweets, alcohol, and coffee for a pick-me-up!

The Little Bird Made Artisan Market offers a diverse, quality shopping experience that celebrates independent producers and makers. But more than that, it’s about people and the community; meeting the artisan makers, conversation with friends, and getting the social back into shopping.

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Harewood once again for the fourth annual Christmas Market,” said Little Bird Made MD, Jackie Crozier: “This event is a fantastic

opportunity for our artisans to showcase their creativity and talent to thousands of visitors. Each year, the market grows in scale and excitement, and we can’t wait to launch the festive season in such a stunning and inspiring setting.”

Tickets are available with upgrades to visit the exhibition in the house at Harewood.org | Littlebirdmade.com

COMPETITION

To win two adult tickets or one family ticket (two adults and two children) for the Harewood Christmas Market, simply answer the following question:

Where on the Harewood House grounds will the artisan market take place?

Enter online at Jlifemagazine.co.uk/ competitions-5, via JLife’s social media, 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 winner will be randomly selected on the closing date: 31st October 2025.

When entering the competition online you have the option to not be entered in JLife Magazine and Harewood House’s databases to be contacted about news, promotions, and special offers. Postal entry data will not be saved. Publisher’s decision is final.

ABLEMANRUSSO

Irene and Steve in Florida wish all our family, relatives, and friends a happy and healthy New Year and an easy fast!

FISHER

Linda, Simon, Sophie, Louie & Danielle wish family & friends a happy, healthy & peaceful New Year. Thinking of those unable to celebrate with their families. #bringthemhomenow

JEROME

Wishing all our family and friends a happy and healthy New Year and well over the fast. Amanda, Jonny, Louis and Jacob Jerome.

LANDY

Gillian, Elliot, Oliver, Harry, Alistair, and Lennie Loboss wish family and friends a fabulous Yom Tov!

LYONS

Happy New Year from Charlene, Ben, Josh, Sophie & Archie Lyons.

CLAYMAN

Mavis and Martin wish their family and friends happy New Year and well over the fast.

DAVIDSON

Wishing our dear parents a happy New Year and well over the fast. All our love always Elissa, Sara, and families xxx

HARRIS

Wishing all my lovely family and friends a very happy, healthy and peaceful New Year and well over the fast. Phillip.

ISRAEL

Yafeh, Carolanne, and David wish the whole community G'Mar Chatima Tovah (a good and final seal) and Shanah Tovah (happy New Year).

KAY

Linda and Stuart wish all their family and friends a very happy New Year and well over the fast.

KILLEN

Simone, John, Nathan, and Tyler wish all our friends and family a happy New Year and well over the fast xx

LESTER

Good wishes from Lazeryankel – Lester Jack, Harvey Silver, Tony Shiffer, and the shucks.

LINTON

Diane and Graham wish their dear family and friends a very happy and healthy New Year and hope that they fast well.

MILLER

Angela and Chazan Harvey wish all our dear children and grandchildren, family, and friends a very happy and healthy New Year.

RICHMAN

Stephanie and Howard wish our dear family and friends a healthy, happy, and contented New Year.

With Mark Grandfield, Chief Executive at Leeds Jewish Housing Association

This time of the year is for celebration and reflection, so as we dip into our apple and honey, I thought it would be appropriate to give you a picture of the sweet things Leeds Jewish Housing Association (LJHA) are doing that separates us from those regular landlords…

• Our social isolation project gathers pace helping isolated residents rediscover their confidence and independence.

• We launched our new ‘Thoughts for Thursdays’ meeting, a monthly session focused on topics of Jewish interest. The first session was led by Rabbi Eli Pink and Lord Mayor Dan Cohen.

• In August, we held a Community Day focused on the Queenshill Estate when around half of our staff joined a team of committed residents

COMMUNITY HOUSING

More Than Just a Landlord

to paint and repair fencing and sheds, replant raised beds, and have a great autumn clear up.

• We’ve been preparing for our first disability welcome and social group which will happen soon.

• Our second LJHA Shabbat took place recently, attended by a record number of people from across the community and included heartfelt speeches from some of our residents.

• We are celebrating International Day of Older People with help from friends at The Zone. This will involve a collaborative arts and crafts and poetry project which will see teenagers and older people working together.

• The new 'Time Out' women’s group, a monthly arts, crafts, and educational safe space, continues to be successful in attracting residents of all ages.

• We have launched a new fortnightly men’s wellbeing group, which compliments the current Men’s Den which continues to take place one evening a month.

• We’re also working with friends at Gourmet Deli to better enable our residents access to purchase kosher food.

… and finally, as in previous years, we will be helping our residents to celebrate the High Holy Days by organising shofar blowings, erecting the communal sukkah on Queenshill Drive, and delivering honey cakes from the Street Lane Bakery, because we understand being the community landlord isn’t just about bricks and mortar.

Ljha.co.uk

LOOKING AHEAD

Lord Mayor Cllr. Dan Cohen welcomes the Jewish New Year with a focus on education, responsible parking,

and shared community values.

Well, summer has been and gone, and all the schools are back. Even if it wasn’t the case that I knew schools were back because of my own children, I would know because I’ve had calls and emails from local residents, very frustrated by some shocking examples of inconsiderate –and in other cases unlawful – parking by parents and carers that I can only assume aren’t local residents (as I’m sure they wouldn’t park that way).

I’m reiterating the plea that I recently made on our Alwoodley Ward Facebook Group. Please could parents and carers make every effort park lawfully and as considerately as possible. I know how busy mornings are (you’d only have to come to our house on any weekday morning to see an example of chaos in action), but the world would be a happier place if everyone had the care and consideration that they’d like to receive themselves at drop off and pick up times. I’m always careful not to be too ‘preachy’ but this

isn’t a challenge I can fix myself – I really need to help and support of every parent and carer.

I also want to take this opportunity to say a huge congratulations to all who got their GCSE and A-level results this summer. I hope everyone has their next destination locked in and can look forward to a very successful year ahead. For those heading to university, do remember wherever you may travel, Leeds is unequivocally the best city in the UK, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon.

This year, I’ll be visiting three synagogues in Leeds over the High Holidays, not only to have the privilege of sharing the festival with different congregations, but also an opportunity to ask for the community’s help with a charitable campaign to raise money for Brodetsky Primary and LJFS. These two schools are the mainstream providers of Jewish education in our community and do a phenomenal job in ensuring that all our students (whatever their background) get a

first-class education and the help and support to be the best person they can be. I hope our schools can count on your responsible and generous support.

Remember that for any and all local issues, myself and my fantastic ward colleagues Cllrs Lyn and Neil Buckley are always available to assist help and support you.

Finally, I wish every one of us who’ll be celebrating Shanah Tovah U’metuka ve G’mar Chatima Tovah (a happy and sweet new year and a good and meaningful Yom Kippur fast). May this new year bring all of us (whatever our faith) health, happiness, peace, prosperity, and success in all our endeavours. May all conflict around the world come to an end, all hostages are returned to their families, and may there be true and lasting peace for all.

Dan.cohen@leeds.gov.uk | 07711 647849

PHOTO: LEE CALL PHOTOGRAPHY

Chapel Allerton celebrates local, homegrown culture with another fantastic arts festival.

Chapel Allerton, or 'Chapel A', as it's affectionately known by its residents, remains a buzzing, eclectic North Leeds enclave with a cohesive community vibe. Known for its charming streets, independent shops, and lush green spaces, this thriving and diverse neighbourhood has become one of our city's most sought-after places to live and visit.

There have been a few changes to the place since we last shone a spotlight on the village, so we thought it high time we checked in. The area's charm is undiminished with its popular independents, coffee shops, and bars happily humming away and doing a brisk trade.

Fitting for an area with such a creative community, art lovers are well catered for and now have several galleries to explore, with stalwarts like Smart Gallery and Glasshouse being joined by event space and arts venue, Northlight, showcasing contemporary works and scrappy upstart Mr Bragshaw's array of alternative and outsider art arriving soon. Those bolstering their art collections may want to avail themselves of the expertise of Yorks Framing further up Harrogate Road. The food and drink scene has evolved too, with Beer + Bao now serving up a varied

selection of ales with Asian-inspired flavours in the old Black Sheep site. Café culture remains well represented; newcomer bikethemed café, Paria, sells cycling clothing and accessories as well as delicious Hard Lines coffee. Paria has recently become home to Nøt Bakehouse which serves Scandinavian style pastries and breads – even more reason to pay a visit.

A highlight of the neighbourhood’s cultural calendar, Chapel Allerton Arts Festival was founded in 1998 and has blossomed into an annual celebration of local art, music, and community. Organised by volunteers and run as a charity, this inclusive festival brings together local performers, artists, businesses, and families.

The Chapel Allerton Festival Picnic, a familyfriendly event held in Chapel Allerton Park,

ALL PHOTOS: CLAIRE FLEGG

marked the start of festival week.

This year, the festival organisers were delighted to introduce new events including a poetry workshop at the Little Book Shop, poetry reading by Chemistry's Joe Williams at Beer + Bao, and even willow weaving, together with folk and jazz fringe events at Seven Arts.

Over the main three-day street festival weekend, Regent Street and Well Lane transformed into a buzzing hub. Friday night was 'Tea on the Street' and locals visited the wide range of food stalls and the festival bar while enjoying music on the Main Stage where community school bands were followed by a range of local acts such as Wedgy conjuring atmospheric art-rock and the edgy post-punk stylings of Mince.

Saturday on the Main Stage had a diverse

Your Local Solicitors

Ison Harrison is Yorkshire’s most accredited law firm, boasting 23 branches locally and across the county. More than just a legal practice, it’s a trusted name in the community.

Step into our Chapel Allerton branch and you’ll immediately sense the atmosphere: friendly, efficient, and full of charm. Whether you’re here for legal advice or just passing by, there’s something special about the team that sets us apart.

Some of our team members have been here for years, including one of our longest-standing colleagues, Geraldine Levison, who’s been with the Chapel Allerton branch for over eight years. That longevity speaks volumes about our culture. It’s a place people love to work, and it shows in how we support one another and our clients.

When it comes to complex or emotionally charged matters, our approach is simple but powerful. We put ourselves in our client’s shoes. We combine compassion with clear, proactive guidance to help our clients feel supported and in control throughout the process.

Our team dynamic? It’s like family. We laugh a lot, support one another, and genuinely enjoy working together. Clients often comment on the relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and yes, we do receive a lot of thank you flowers and chocolates!

Something you might not expect from a law firm is how funny we are. Seriously, humour is part of how we connect, de-stress, and make even the most difficult situations feel a little lighter for our clients.

Our core areas of expertise are conveyancing, family law, and wills and probate – but we’re also proud to be part of a fully serviced law firm, which means our clients have access to a wide range of legal support across all areas. Whether it’s personal or business-related, we can connect clients to the right specialist within

the firm, ensuring a seamless and trusted service from start to finish.

What makes the Chapel Allerton branch different from other firms in the area? Quite simply, we know what we’re doing. The experience and teamwork allow us to work quickly and confidently, even under pressure and we put extra emphasis on the personal touch. It’s a stressful time, and we’re there to make sure that aspect is minimised.

One recent example of a proud moment for us came when the stamp duty deadline was looming. We worked tirelessly to ensure every client who needed to complete their transaction on time was able to do so. It really showcased our commitment and teamwork.

We’re not just a law firm; we’re part of the Chapel Allerton fabric. We shop local, eat local, and often represent local residents in their legal matters. We also love getting involved in community events, whether that’s sponsoring a local fundraiser or simply being a familiar, friendly face in the neighbourhood.

Looking ahead, we’ve got plenty to look forward to this year, including the arrival of Matt’s baby! But professionally, we’re also excited to continue growing our impact in the local community and delivering the kind of service that makes clients feel truly cared for.

Above all, we hope every client walks away feeling like we genuinely did a great job for them. That’s always our goal: to make legal matters feel a little less daunting, and to leave clients feeling heard, supported, and in good hands.

Ison Harrison Chapel Allerton, 120 Harrogate Rd, Leeds, LS7 4NY 0113 200 7444

chapel.allerton@isonharrison.co.uk

Debbie

30th November 2025

The

committee

Jane Clynes, Rebecca Skolnick, Jonny Marshall, Claudine Berson, Emma Portugal, Susan Lindemann

The Refilling Station

The Refilling Station provides customers with an easy way to break free from plastic packaging. Shoppers can bring their own reusable containers, have them weighed, and fill them with exactly what they need. This simple process helps reduce waste and lessen environmental impact.

The zero-waste store supports the transition from disposable, single-use plastics to reusable or zero-waste alternatives. The shop sells pantry staples like rice, oats, and pasta as well as local honey, laundry liquid, and more that are designed to minimise waste. By purchasing only what is needed, customers can save money while contributing to a healthier planet.

Refillingstation.co.uk | 176 Harrogate Road, Leeds, LS7 4NZ

Elite Curtains

Elite Curtains, a beacon of quality and craftsmanship in North Leeds, has been a trusted name for over 33 years. Under the expert ownership of Joanne Adams for more than a decade, the business has continually upheld a reputation for offering premium curtains and blinds.

Customisation is key. Joanne has perfected the craft of fashioning curtains and blinds that not only meet but consistently surpass customer expectations.

Incorporating the prestige of brands like Ashley Wilde, William Morris, Laura Ashley, and Somfy motors, Elite Curtains is the ultimate destination for homeowners and businesses seeking exquisite, bespoke curtains and blinds that elevate any space.

Elite-curtains.co.uk

BLOC STUDIO

Two best friends from Leeds, Katie and Hannah, have transformed an old, tired office building into a beautiful wellness space, BLOC STUDIO. The studio has top quality equipment – including eight reformers – and a team of passionate, knowledgeable instructors who are committed to helping you feeling good and moving well, on and off the reformer.

Reformer Pilates is incredible at helping to enhance posture, build core strength, as well as improving stability, balance, and mobility – classes will strengthen muscles you didn’t know you had! The studio’s welcoming environment invites people of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds to explore the life-changing benefits of mindful movement.

It also hosts private sessions such as corporate events, hen dos, and birthdays, as well as wellness events. Coming up soon, the studio will host a NEOM wellbeing event, ballet reformer masterclass, and an autumn wreath making and hot chocolate event.

BLOC STUDIO has a special promo code for JLife readers JLIFEMEMBER15, where you can get 15% off your first three months membership.

Blocstudio.co.uk

De Baga

Elegant and nostalgic, De Baga offers a contemporary take on traditional Indian cuisine, celebrating both Goan and regional specialties. Since opening its first location in Headingley in 2019 to great acclaim, the restaurant expanded with a second branch in Chapel Allerton in 2022.

De Baga combines the finest, impeccably sourced British ingredients with bold Indian Flavors to craft a modern and inventive menu – redefining the way diners experience Indian cuisine.

Ranked among the best Indian restaurants in Leeds, and for good reason, De Baga’s team of Michelin-experienced chefs bring exceptional skill, creativity, and passion to every dish and ensure every dining experience is unforgettable.

Debaga.co.uk

The Cat’s Pyjamas

For thousands of years, street food culture has enriched the towns and cities of India with vibrant colours, heady aromas, and unforgettable flavours. At The Cat’s Pyjamas, the team brings the authentic Indian experience to Chapel Allerton.

The menu is a parade of Indian favourites that are made with sustainably sourced ingredients and infused with passion. Hot or mild, light bites or hearty curries – the restaurant has it all. It also offers an abundance of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options so everyone can get involved!

Washed down with a fantastic range of craft beers, wines, or even a traditional mango lassi, The Cats Pyjama’s provides the perfect recipe for an unforgettable dining experience.

Catspjs.co.uk

Bricklebank’s Café & Bar

Founded by Adam Bricklebank when he was just 22 years old, Bricklebank’s is a warm, inviting, and cosy space where you’ll feel right at home – whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely brunch, a midday pick-me-up, or a lively evening drink in Chapel Allerton.

Having recently celebrated its second birthday, the venue continues to thrive! Guests can enjoy the vibrant energy of a café seamlessly blended with the charm and excitement of a bar, creating a truly unforgettable and award-winning experience.

The menu is thoughtfully designed to suit every mood and craving, offering an array of breakfasts, brunches, small bites, and sharers – each perfectly paired with a delicious coffee, refreshing smoothie, or expertly crafted cocktail.

Bricklebanks.com

Malcolm Jones & Co

At Malcolm Jones & Co, the team provides outstanding accountancy services, business development, and specialist tax services.

Established over 25 years ago, it continues to be one of the leading independent accountancy practices in Yorkshire and has the same philosophy now as it did at the beginning – putting clients first.

The company is committed to providing friendly and efficient service, listening to your needs, offering proactive business advice, exceeding expectations, being honest and transparent, communicating promptly and thoroughly, and ensuring you pay the least amount of tax possible within the law, without unexpected surprises.

Covering many sectors ranging from construction to design and marketing – and everything in between – get in touch today for a free initial consultation.

Malcolmjones.co.uk

Leading Light

Creativity and community flourish in a dynamic Chapel Allerton venue.

Nestled on Potternewton Lane in Chapel Allerton, Northlight Arts Centre stands as a beacon for the area’s creative community. This not-for-profit organisation has become one of Leeds' most welcoming and inclusive creative hubs. More than just a gallery or studio, it’s a place where people of all backgrounds can explore their artistic potential, share skills, and find inspiration.

Northlight's mission is founded on the belief that art and creativity can be instrumental in building confidence, connection, and resilience – both in individuals and across communities. As a Community Interest Company, every pound invested here serves the community, ensuring that creative opportunities remain accessible to all.

The centre runs on the belief that art should never be limited by finances. Many workshops and activities are offered on a pay-as-you-feel basis, ensuring that anyone who wants to take part can do so. From life drawing to craft sessions, creative writing to digital arts, Northlight welcomes complete beginners alongside experienced artists, making it a space where everyone is supported to grow.

Weekly classes include pottery, life drawing, jewellery making, and painting. Professional artists from across the UK deliver dynamic workshops suitable for all abilities. Northlight’s tutored evening classes have become particularly popular, offering structured learning in a

supportive environment. For those seeking intellectual stimulation alongside creative practice, the bi-monthly art history talks feature engaging lectures from art historians, professors, and academics.

Northlight is also home to the North Art Gallery, artist studio spaces, and specialist picture framing and printing services. Its flexible venue is available for private bookings, with a bar, gallery backdrop, and creative atmosphere that make it a unique choice for events. The centre’s multi-disciplined team can provide music, videography, and photography services, offering comprehensive support for events that require creative expertise.

Exhibitions often highlight voices and experiences that might otherwise go unheard, with recent shows exploring themes of wellbeing, identity, and resilience. Alongside public workshops, Northlight is building partnerships with schools, community groups, and organisations across Leeds, ensuring that more people have the chance to experience the benefits of creativity.

More than just a display space, the gallery serves as an incubator for local talent, offering emerging artists the opportunity to connect with audiences while providing the community with access to contemporary Northern art.

The centre is also invested in nurturing creativity from an early age, with an excellent programme for families. Weekly soft play and story and creative sessions for babies and toddlers ensure that even the youngest members of the community can begin their creative journey in supportive surroundings. Whether it's a weekend workshop where parents and children can create together or family-friendly exhibitions that spark intergenerational conversations, Northlight creates spaces where families can bond through shared creative experiences.

The hub is also a venue for live music with

So whether you need a quiet place during the day for a cup of coffee, an artist studio, or if you want to enjoy the garden and terrace, this space is a haven where community and inspiration come together.

“Our vision is simple,” explains Artistic Director Boris Cruse. “We want Northlight to be a place where anyone can walk through the door, feel welcome, and discover what creativity can bring to their life. Whether that’s learning a new skill, meeting new people, or exhibiting for the very first time – when you’re given the opportunity to create, remarkable things happen.”

See the full programme at Northlightartscentre.org.uk

jazz choir sessions welcoming all styles and levels, acoustic nights, and live jazz on Sunday mornings.

www.debaga.co.uk

DeBaga Mehfil - Chapel Allerton | 8b Stainbeck Lane.

Ongoing Support

Accountancy needs are an ongoing process, so we feel it best to always be accessible, phone calls, emails, meetings, help and advice are always available.

Relationships

You will be assigned a member of the team who will be responsible for your ongoing business requirements, so you always have a point of contact.

Planning

We have a wealth of experience in providing personal and business tax planning to meet your needs.

line-up spanning folk, jazz, funk, Afro fusion, and the Festival Choir, while side streets hosted food vendors, craft stalls, and local makers. Families enjoyed crafts, parades, circus workshops, and a designated quiet zone, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all. The festival's Café Run brought live acoustic music into local cafés and courtyards, creating an intimate contrast to the big-stage buzz. As the sun set, upbeat bands like the Late Arrivals Club and The Pat Fulgoni Blues Experience got the crowd moving and grooving.

Jazz and Blues Sunday is always a musical

feast, and this year was no exception. Featuring Leeds Youth Jazz Rock Orchestra, the electrifying sounds of John Taylor’s Blues Spectrum, calypso rhythms from Dudley Nesbit and Pan Jumby, and the theatrical bigband spectacle of Fergus Quill's Imaginary Big Band. A mingling of local bands and fresh acts brought both tradition and innovation to the stage and, for the first time this year, also to the Willow Tree Stage in the Chapel Allerton Square.

The festival parade this year was led by disco queens, Decodance, who gave a free dance masterclass beforehand to help people

get their groove on, and was pedal powered by the amazing Roadblock Soundsystem, with their PA on a tricycle.

This year's festival was a terrific celebration of creativity and community. Local artists, designers, musicians, dancers, circus performers, and more filled the streets, bringing people together to experience incredible art and culture on their doorstep.

One of Chapel Allerton's most remarkable features is its strong sense of community. The residents take pride in their neighbourhood, fostering a feeling of camaraderie that’s hard to find elsewhere. This sense of belonging was on full display during the festival, where locals and visitors alike came together to celebrate the area. The community relies on donations to make the event possible – with costs running to £70,000 annually – and it continues to thrive, sustained by local passion and audience generosity.

Chapel A's artistic spirit doesn’t diminish just because the festival is over. The monthly market, held on the first Sunday of every month, features around 40 local makers selling everything from homeware to jewellery, art, clothing, and food.

While the local galleries provide opportunities to discover local talent, Seven Arts continues to host JazzLeeds events and theatrical performances throughout the year.

Chapel Allerton Village is a truly special place to live, work, and visit, where the spirit of togetherness continues to flourish.

ALL PHOTOS: CLAIRE FLEGG

Continued from 61

Eat Your Greens!

Kicking off on World Vegetarian Day, this exciting campaign invites everyone to explore the delicious world of veggie food. National Vegetarian Week is the perfect reason to give vegetarian food a go!

Be it for health reasons, ethical, or ecological concerns, more and more people are switching to a plant-based diet.

For those in the Jewish community, the prohibitive cost of kosher meat may be a persuasive factor in steering people towards veggie eating habits.

So, how might you choose to observe National Vegetarian Week? If you’re a carnivore, you could challenge yourself to go meat-free for a week or at least attempt to eat no more than one meaty meal a day or not eating meat two days in a row.

You could make a point of learning a new vegetarian recipe; to make this easier, there’s a good number of veggie cook-at-home recipe box services out there to try, and lots of recipes available from the Vegetarian Society website. If you’re not so much of a dab hand in the kitchen, no problem! Check out the Leeds Vegans & Vegetarians Facebook group for some handy tips , recipes, and recommendations (On Facebook @Leeds Vegans & Vegetarians). Also, Leeds residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to great vegetarian options while eating out.

And, whether it’s going veggie all week or just adding a few more veggie meals in – you’ll still be making a big difference because small swaps here and there can have a real and positive impact on the planet.

National Vegetarian Week is perfect timing

for those with post-summer holiday aspirations, when travel and relaxation allow time for reflection, and often the desire to make positive lifestyle changes.

National Vegetarian Week is also a fantastic platform for businesses, restaurants, supermarkets, and brands to promote veggie products, menus, and offers, and these will be popping up on socials too, so do keep an eye out!

Celebrities helping to share the veggie message include Chris Packham, Dame Joanna Lumley, Olympic Open-Water Marathon Swimmer Hector Pardoe, Team GB Powerlifter Sophia Ellis, Comedians Stevie Martin and Dave Spikey, and TV Presenter Michaela Strachan. With this growing support, National Vegetarian Week 2025 is set to make a significant impact.

There will be a free digital booklet jam-packed with delicious recipes from best-selling chefs and authors, including plant-based legends BOSH!, MasterChef finalist Jackie Kearney, and award-winning Chef, Eddie Shepherd –plus Meera Sodha, Katy Beskow, Gaz Oakley, Rukmini Iyer… and more! “Expect a week filled with delicious recipes, veggie cooking tips and fabulous activities that will inspire everyone to try marvellous meat-free dishes,” says Vegetarian Society Campaigns Manager, Louise Goodwin.

“Join us in making National Vegetarian Week 2025 a memorable celebration of vegetarian food!”

Nationalvegetarianweek.org

What’s the Big Idea?!

Leeds International Festival of Ideas returns with another blockbuster event.

Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI) returns 14th to 18th October with an unmissable programme of ideas, impact, and inspiration, featuring a thought-provoking blend of panels, talks, and performances tackling society’s biggest questions, from power and politics to parenthood, identity, and resilience.

Now in its fifth year, LIFI was conceived to showcase Leeds as a vibrant, creative hub bringing inspiring voices to the heart of the city. The festival has featured more than 150 thought leaders, from renowned authors and cultural figures to experts in science, sport, health, politics, and the arts.

This year’s festival welcomes globally renowned names including Jewish Comedian

fearless writers and world-class campaigners, the programme boasts a superabundance of events to fire the mind and stir the soul.

“LIFI25 is the most urgent and exciting edition yet. In an increasingly polarised world, we need safe spaces to explore difficult topics with empathy, expertise, and a sense of hope,” says Festival Director, Martin Dickson: “This year’s line-up reflects the richness of public discourse, from legendary cultural icons to everyday change-makers, all ready to challenge ideas, share truths, and spark curiosity. Leeds has always been a city of voices. LIFI is where they come together.”

Among the many highlights will be Public Enemy’s Chuck D discussing how hip-hop changed the world in terms of activism, justice,

David Baddiel, Chuck D, Victoria Derbyshire, Myleene Klass MBE, Vicky McClure MBE, Caitlin Moran, Sally Wainwright OBE, Fara Williams MBE, and many more. Taking place at Leeds Playhouse, panel discussions will delve into major issues facing society today, taking in domestic abuse and toxic masculinity, geopolitics, overtourism, and motherhood. From hip-hop legends and comedy icons to

Other topics for discussion will include power, influence, misinformation, and the reshaping of the global order, interrogating contemporary masculinity – tackling toxic traits, modern manhood and male mental health, and top athletes on the state of equality in sport today, from pay gaps to prejudice.

New this year, Young LIFI is a festival strand created to inspire and educate younger audiences, co-curated with The Ruth Gorse Academy. The debut event on 17th October asks: How do young people acquire bouncebackability? In a world flooded with negative noise, from social media and the news to pressures at school, how can they tackle challenges, defy stereotypes, and recover stronger from setbacks?

and seismic social change. David Baddiel explores faith, identity, and division, asking: “is religion the ultimate culture war?” The lifechanging and healing power of music will be explored with Vicky McClure’s Our Dementia Choir and Sally Wainwright and Tamsin Greig will talk about smashing cliches and female stereotypes from Riot Grrrls to rebellious storytelling.

With its varied and prestigious programme, LIFI continues to prove itself as a space for inspiring talks, challenging questions, and dynamic debates that open minds and spark new perspectives.

For full programme information, dates, and tickets visit: Leedsinternationalfestival.com

DAVID BADDIEL CHUCK D MYLEENE KLASS MBE

CAITLIN MORAN

SAIPE

Jo, Rob, and family wish friends and family a lovely Yom Tov.

SALAMA

Warm wishes to all who have supported me through my loss. I am so very grateful.

SCHOFIELD

Annette Schofield and Graham Nills wish their family and friends a happy New Year and well over the fast.

SCOTT

Wendy wishes her dear family, relatives, and friends a happy and healthy New Year and well over the fast.

SMAGE

Marion and Elliot wish family and friends a happy and healthy New Year and well over the fast.

SCOTT

Emma, Anthony, Elana, and Gaby wish all their family and friends a happy, healthy, and sweet New Year.

SHERNE

Jacky, Zoe, Antony, Danny, and Jordan wish their family and friends a happy and healthy year ahead.

SOLTS

Loretta and Frank wish their dear friends and family wherever they are in the world a lovely Yom Tov and fast well.

STONE

Wishing family and friends a sweet New Year and well over the fast. From Janey, Darren, and Abigail.

TENENBAUM

Happy New Year and well over the fast to all our family and friends.

STONE

Gloria wishes her dear family and friends a healthy and happy New Year and well over the fast.

TOPP/ SCHWARTZ

Wishing all our friends and family a happy and healthy New Year, Shanah Tovah from Deirdre and Jack, Cassandra, Joseph, and Eva-Rose x

VOSK

Ena wishes her family and friends happy New Year and well over the fast.

WERTER

Wishing all our family and friends a happy and healthy sweet New Year. Love Joy and Geoff.

WINDSOR

Pauline and Brian wish their dear family and friends a happy, healthy New Year and well over the fast.

BRADIE LEWIS AND JACK BOCKING RECENTLY GOT MARRIED AT TITHE BARN.

BRADIE’S DAD MICHAEL WALKED HER DOWN THE AISLE, BEAMING WITH PRIDE.

THE COUPLE DIDN’T LET RAIN DAMPEN THEIR SPIRITS!

THE PICTURESQUE VENUE IN BOLTON ABBEY WAS ALSO THE LOCATION OF THEIR RECEPTION.

THE FUN-FILLED EVENING HAD EVERYONE ON THEIR FEET…

… AND JUMPING FOR JOY!

CAMP RETREAT

Camp Simcha recently delivered its annual family retreat, providing much-needed respite for families.

The sound of laughter in the air, the whir of helicopter blades overhead, and the magic of seeing parents finally exhale set the scene in the Oxfordshire countryside, as families supported by Camp Simcha came together for its biggest annual summer residential retreat.

126 members from London, Manchester, and Essex were brought together for three days of respite, peer support, and an action-packed programme, with all medical needs catered for.

The retreat kicked off with helicopter flights over the scenic countryside. With feet firmly back on the ground, children and adults alike enjoyed therapeutic animal-time at the petting zoo, followed by a welcome dinner in which the families enjoyed an evening of bingo, the perfect icebreaker for all!

Day two did not disappoint; trips to LEGOLAND Windsor and Thorpe Park with carers, volunteers, and medical experts overseeing the children, while parents enjoyed a trip to Bicester Village or a relaxing spa treatment at the hotel.

The evening brought a rare opportunity for parents to enjoy ‘dinner for two’, while staff and volunteers supervised the children playing games and arts and craft activities. The red carpet was rolled out on the last day for an Oscar-themed breakfast and awards ceremony.

For Michaela and Ruby Abenson (pictured), seeing both their children being cared for and

TRUST IN US

IN THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY

happy meant they were able to relax. Their fiveyear-old son, Saul, is currently receiving treatment for leukaemia and has been supported by Camp Simcha for this past year.

Michaela said: “The energy, the joy, the spirit that Camp Simcha creates – it was as though it breathed life into him. Within minutes he was smiling, laughing, exploring, and playing. For the next two and a half days, he was filled with a kind of energy we hadn’t seen in months. It was the opposite to what we had been watching for last eight months in hospital, instead of draining his life, retreat poured life back into him.”

Our amazing Community Security Trust (CST) wishes you a Chag Sameach and a better year ahead.

This Yom Tov we want to thank you for the trust and the support you have given to CST over the years as we do our utmost to give you safety and security.

We want to thank you for being determined to lead the Jewish lives of your choice: because that’s why CST does our work. If we’ve helped to give you strength, that is our privilege.

Security begins with the partnership between you, your communities, and CST. We know that security measures can be annoying, but they need to be there for when times are tough.

The last two years have shown the need for security. There has been far too much anti-Jewish hatred, including the threat of terrorism. Even if Israel somehow finds peace, it will take a very

long time for the hatred and the terrorist threat across Britain to meaningfully decline.

Our partnership is with you, every member of our Jewish community. Your reports of antisemitism and suspicious behaviour give us what we need to best organise our security and to get the support of police and politicians. When you follow our security advice, it also helps the safety of your family, friends, and fellow congregants.

Our community is strong and so is CST. You give us our personnel, and we give the training, teamwork, and skillset. That’s how we’ve more than doubled the number of events we’re guarding in the last two years.

A deep thank you to all of our volunteer

security personnel. Some of you have protected our communities for a long time and then, after October 7th 2023, you stepped it up to another level. We still need more people to help in this vital work, so if you’re physically able to, please do so and don’t leave it up to others.

From all of us, we wish you a Happy New Year, and a safe and meaningful fast.

Cst.org.uk

Time for Rhyme

Since 1994, National Poetry Day, a day-long mass celebration of all things poetical, has taken place on the first Thursday in October. The brainchild of Forward Arts Foundation Creator and poetry lover, William Sieghart CBE, the initiative has been enthusiastically taken up by schools, libraries, the media, and even railway stations.

Over the last 30 years, the campaign has increased its impact, working closely with schools, libraries, booksellers, and retailers. National Poetry Day now reaches over 500 million people annually, through its book trade promotion of new poetry, NPD ambassadors, publications, posters, badges, bookmarks, educational resources, live events, and a dedicated network of partner organisations and activists.

It is particularly popular on social media, where the hashtag #NationalPoetryDay and the invitation to share a line of poetry generates a good deal of participation and engagement.

Since 2015, the anthology Poems of the Decade has been on the A-level syllabus, studied by around 8,000 English Literature students each year.

Forward Arts Foundation was created in 1991 by life-long poetry-lover Sieghart, who wanted an anthology containing the best poetry of the year. Since none existed, in 1992, he published one himself. The first Forward Prizes were awarded in 1992, with the Best First Collection that year going to a working-class Northern Poet, Simon Armitage. The future UK Poet Laureate was joined on the stage by Thom Gunn (winner, Best Collection) and future Scottish Makar Jackie Kay (winner, Best Single Poem). The Forward Book and Forward Prizes attracted both people who did not know where to begin with contemporary poetry, and die-hard poetry readers. Recent

chairs have included Bernadine Evaristo, Craig Charles, and Andrew Marr.

In 2019, Forward Arts Foundation worked with Cerys Matthews to produce Tell Me the Truth About Life, a book of 100 poems to celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Poetry Day. The following year the foundation supported poet Liv Torc with her #haiflu

project, creating a powerful and deeply moving social history of the beginning of the COVID pandemic.

The Jerwood Prize for Best Single Poem – Performed is the first nationally significant spoken word prize, launched in 2022. This category celebrates the vitality of the spoken word scene, integrating poetry in the oral form to the national awards stage, removing traditional

It’s National Poetry Day on 2nd October; we check out how you can take part.

gatekeepers and showcasing new talent to publishers and audiences alike.

How to take part

There are so many ways to celebrate National Poetry Day. From enjoying your favourite poets to creating something yourself. Maybe you even have your own unique way of celebrating! If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out these suggestions for how to make the most of National Poetry Day.

• Return to your favourites, reach for a book, or have a look at Forward Arts Foundation’s collection.

• If music is more your thing, try to notice the words in a song you love.

• Poetic language is all around us. What captures your imagination when you’re listening to someone speak?

• There are so many ways to make poetry. Pen to paper, voice notes, with images or music, or movement. Anything goes!

Celebrating with friends, family, or fellow writers? Maybe you’re a book group or an open mic lover?

Visit Forward Arts Foundation’s website to check out their selection of poems and school resources on this year’s theme to get you inspired. You can also view the events map to see what’s going on, or to register your own event. Inspired by this year’s theme? Share what you create in response to ‘Counting’ on social media. Use #NationalPoetryDay so you can share what you’re up to.

Forwardartsfoundation.org

MAIN SPONSORS

BUSINESS NEWS

Leeds Tops List

Leeds hosts the highest number of large corporate firms outside of London, according to a new biannual survey analysing the health and location of the UK’s largest companies.

The first HSBC UK Corporate Tracker, which records the location and activity of the UK’s 13,544 large corporates, shows that Leeds hosts 203 large companies, more than any other city or local authority region on the list. Together those companies employ over 400,000 people in the city and their collective turnover is over £72 billion.

The financial services sector makes up the largest proportion of large corporates in Leeds, followed by professional, scientific, and technical companies. Leeds is home to one of the UK’s most substantial financial services clusters, hosting more than 30 national and international banks, over 150 accountancy firms, and a growing cohort of insurance providers.

Fundraising Success

Leeds-based Roomzzz Aparthotels has announced the success of its annual Charity Week 2025, raising an incredible £56,173 in support of mental health and wellbeing initiatives.

The three-week event brought together Roomzzz teams, guests, and partners in a mix of fundraising activities. The highlight came on 19th July, when all profits from one night’s stays across every Roomzzz Aparthotel were donated.

Guests joined in through fun and interactive activities including a golden ticket raffle which offered the chance to win 10 overnight stays at Roomzzz, free late check outs, pamper packs, room upgrades, discounts, or mystery treats.

Funds will be donated via the Parklane Foundation to charities such as Young Minds, Getting Clean, Recovery Runners, and more.

Israeli Startups Raise Over

$1 Billion

According to IVC-LeumiTech, Israeli privatelyheld tech companies raised over $1 billion in July 2025 – bringing the total to $5.8 billion in the first seven months of the year.

In 2024, Israeli privately held tech companies raised $9.58 billion, according to IVC-LeumiTech, up 38% from 2023 when $6.9 billion was raised.

In July, the biggest financing round was completed by clinical AI company Aidoc, which raised $150 million. AI emergency response company Carbyne and AI and agent security company Noma raised $100 million each, underground mapping company Exodigo raised $96 million. Fibre-to-chip company Teramount and micro-agents security company BlinkOps raised $50 million each.

Largest Export Deal in Israel’s History

NewMed Energy and the partners of the Leviathan project have announced the signing of a landmark deal for the sale of natural gas from the Leviathan reservoir – the largest natural gas field in the Mediterranean Sea and one of the largest in the world – to the Egyptian market. The deal has an estimated financial value of around $35 billion.

The agreement signifies the largest export deal ever signed in Israel’s history and the larges deal since the discovery of the natural gas reservoirs in the country.

Yossi Abu, CEO of NewMed Energy, said: “This is the most strategically important export deal to ever occur in the eastern Mediterranean, and strengthens Egypt’s position as the most significant hub in the region. Since it begun production, Leviathan has brought many benefits both domestically and internationally, and the reservoir’s expansion has been NewMed’s key priority for years. The deal will unlock further regional export opportunities, once again proving that natural gas and the wider energy industry can be an anchor for collaboration.”

Elbit Systems in Space

Israeli-based Elbit Systems has successfully launched its advanced JUPITER space camera aboard the National Advanced Optical System (NAOS) satellite, supporting a wide span of Earth observation missions, including military operations, environmental monitoring, and scientific research.

Developed by Elbit Systems ISTAR&EW – ELOP, JUPITER is one of the world’s most advanced space cameras, featuring a large aperture and an exceptionally lightweight design.

The camera is multispectral, offering a combination of imaging channels. There’s a high-resolution panchromatic channel (black and white) which captures find spatial details across the full visible spectrum, RGB channels (red, green, and blue) for true colour imaging, and a NIR channel (nearinfrared) which enables analysis of vegetation health, water content, and material properties.

In addition to the camera, the company developed and supplied advanced algorithms to support the ground segment of the NAOS mission, enhancing image analysis capabilities.

Recognition for Gi Group

Leading Leeds recruiter, Gi Group UK, has been awarded gold by the Armed Forces Covenant’s Employer Recognition Scheme for pledging, demonstrating, and advocating support to the defence and armed forces community. This is the highest accolade awarded to independent businesses for this cause.

After signing the Armed Forces Covenant in 2021, Gi Group has continued its internal and external efforts to support ex-service men and women as they travel into civilian work-life.

Latest government data shows that in the 12-month period ending March 2025, 14,590 individuals left the UK Armed Forces. On average, most ex-service personnel are employed six months after leaving the service (87%).

Pete Taylor, Managing Director of Gi Group, commented: “This recognition illustrates our active support for ex-service men and women within the workplace at the highest level. Our support shows our gratitude for armed forces leavers for the sacrifices they have made for our country and our collective safety, as well as furthering our commitment to equal opportunities and a level playing field for all candidates and our own teams.”

With Tax

The summer holidays have come and gone, and exhausted parents have seen their bank accounts rinsed dry by their little cherubs. With rising living costs and the increasing need for childcare for working parents, the government has made key changes to child benefits and childcare funding. Here’s how this may impact you.

Child Benefit

From this April, the income threshold for the high-income Child Benefit tax charge rose from £50,000 to £60,000. Additionally, the upper limit for losing entitlement completely will increase from £60,000 to £80,000.

Child’s Play FINANCE

Government funded childcare

From this September, you may be able to get up to 30 hours of free childcare a week through the Free Childcare for Working Parents scheme. You can apply for this from when your child is 23 weeks old – check the deadlines for applying. It’s important to consider that the 30 hours only covers 38 weeks of the year (22/23 hours a week over 52 weeks of the year), your child must be aged nine months to four years old, and the childcare must be provided by a registered provider.

To qualify for free childcare for working parents, you and your partner need to both be in work or about to start a new job, earn over a certain amount, and have a National Insurance number.

To apply, set up a childcare account and if your application is approved, you’ll get an 11-digit code that proves you’re eligible to get

free childcare. You’ll need to give this to your childcare provider.

If you’re already getting 15 hours of free childcare, you’ll automatically get 30 hours from September, as long as you’re still eligible. You’ll need to confirm your details are up to date in the usual way and give the code to your childcare provider.

To keep getting free childcare for working parents, you must confirm your details are up to date by signing in to your childcare account every three months. In addition to receiving free childcare for working parents, you may be eligible for further help in the form of Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit childcare.

If this has left your head fuzzy, get in touch with Leon and Company Chartered Accountants… We do maths so you don’t have to.

Leonandcompany.co.uk

MEETING OF MINDS

September’s UKIB breakfast meeting saw Lord Mayor Councillor Dan Cohen and UJIA CEO Mandie Winston deliver captivating and optimistic remarks on perseverance, growth, and innovation.

The latest UK Israel Business breakfast brought together Leeds' business community for an inspiring morning that captured the spirit of collaboration and resilience in both local and international partnerships. Lord Mayor Dan Cohen and UJIA (United Jewish Israel Appeal) CEO Mandie Winston delivered powerful messages about the importance of innovation, partnership, and looking towards a brighter future.

Lord Mayor Councillor Dan Cohen, the self-described ‘TikTok Lord Mayor of Leeds', painted an impressive picture of a city primed for global success as he outlined Leeds' formidable business credentials: "Leeds is a £29 billion powerhouse driving a £70 billion regional economy, and we're one of only two cities in the UK that is a net contributor to the exchequer. We have over 3,000 tech companies helping to shape the future of health tech, FinTech, and financial services. It's no great surprise that so many can see future partnerships with Israel, the country that leads the way in high tech and health tech development.

"We have a strategic ambition to make Leeds a globally recognised centre for innovation that genuinely delivers meaningful impact towards a healthier, greener, and more inclusive future for all," Dan explained.

The Lord Mayor addressed the uncertainty many are feeling in today's world: "We are living in a time of change and challenge. We have seen the world shift from a rules-based order to a power-based system, bringing huge geopolitical uncertainty."

In the face of such upheaval, Dan argued for embracing opportunity: "When we harness change and see it as a period of transformation, it becomes less of a

challenge and more of an opportunity to let our uniqueness, our special qualities, our innovation shine through and prosper."

Sharing his vision for collaborative leadership he continued: "There is no one individual company, no one initiative or intervention, or even one single council or country that is going to conquer the wider challenges we face. It's going to take collaboration, partnerships, working together. Future generations are going to judge us on how we harness the opportunities at our feet and tackle the challenges we face. I have no doubt Leeds is well placed for this.”

His closing words captured the spirit perfectly: "The more partners we can bring with us on this journey, both from Leeds and beyond, the better the outcomes will be for all of us. May we all step forward together confidently into a brighter, if undoubtedly more complex and challenging, but nonetheless transformational future."

UJIA CEO Mandie Winston pointed to her international development experience to elucidate her organisation's evolution from traditional charity to impact-focused partnership model: "We see the world of business and charitable sectors as so divided, when actually by working together, we can achieve much more."

Describing her background, Winston explained: "Most of my career was working internationally. I very quickly moved from community work to the international development sector, working in Sri Lanka after the Indian Ocean tsunami, leading a £5 million development and recovery programme."

This experience shaped her approach to combining business principles with charitable objectives: "We started looking at businesses and thinking, if we can't talk about the impact

we're having both short term and long term, then what business do we have taking money from institutions and donors to do our work?"

Speaking of UJIA's focus areas, Mandie pointed out the importance of: “empowering young people in the Jewish community to make sure they will be exceptional leaders, both in our community and in wider society. We do this as an apolitical organisation, working across the religious and political spectrum."

Mandie was particularly passionate about economic development's role in building resilience, sharing successful partnership models from her international work: "We did a deal with a large Ethiopian bank, the Israeli government, and private philanthropy, creating a fund of £15 million to invest in agricultural technology for smallholder farmers. People started sending their children to school, breaking the cycle of poverty. We really started to see impact on the ground. What people were missing was skills and money – if you can provide those through partnership, you can make real change."

This model now operates through UJIA's Social Impact Investment fund, managing $3 million across 30 Israeli projects designed to reduce inequality: "After COVID, we made zero-interest loans available for over 2,000 businesses so they could recover.”

Her message to the business community was heartfelt: "The connection at this difficult time, particularly allies who are not necessarily embedded in the Jewish community, is so important for us. This is a time when we feel really isolated, and that sense of partnership and togetherness is really valued."

For more information about UKIB, contact jane.clynes@ukisraelbusiness.co.uk 07703 271 238

LORD MAYOR CLLR DAN COHEN ADDRESSES THE AUDIENCE.

UK ISRAEL BUSINESS PARTNERS, MEMBERS, AND GUESTS JOINED CHAIRMAN COLIN GLASS, LORD MAYOR CLLR DAN COHEN, AND MANDIE WINSTON.

ALL PHOTOS: DAVID COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

PERFECT PARTNERS

We highlight some of the partners who have teamed up with UKIB this year.

Jonny Ross

Jonny Ross is a Fractional CMO and founder of Fleek Marketing, an award-winning agency with 26 years’ experience in business and digital strategy. He helps founder-led and owner-managed businesses grow through smarter SEO, AI-powered marketing, and clear, practical strategy. Jonny also leads the 90-Day Marketing Mastery Programme, giving teams confidence and control over their marketing. Known for cutting through the fluff, he’s focused on real results: more visibility, better leads, and marketing that works.

Jonnyross.com | 90daymarketingmastery.com

The Institute of Directors (IoD)

The IoD is the UK’s number one organisation for directors, providing support, events, professional development, and a lobbying voice for all types of business.

Iod.com

David Cole Photography

David Cole Photography specialises in photographing people for business. His ability to make you feel relaxed, comfortable, and on brand is his strength. Whether it’s business headshots for your online profile or a portrait for editorial purposes, David will capture you at your best, on brand, and with a smile. David also is a very experienced events photographer and covers business conferences, corporate parties, awards ceremonies, and charity functions. Working with both large corporates and small business for more than 15 years, David is highly professional, friendly, and easy to get on with. Davidcolephotography.co.uk

WPA Health

The most trusted health insurer in the UK. Number one in the Fairer Finance Trust in PMI index, topping the Which? Best Private Health Insurance Survey 2025 and continuing an “Excellent” rating on Trustpilot – you’re in safe hands. Wpa.org.uk/jasonbaskind

AYRE Events

AYRE is a Leeds-based event production partner delivering AV, staging, lighting, and technical crew for conferences, awards, and gala dinners across Yorkshire and the North. The team makes events run smoothly; clear briefs, solid proposals, the right kit, and crews that turn up prepared. From pre-production to show day, they handle logistics, vans, toolbox talks, and on-site delivery so clients can focus on guests and content. Recent work spans corporate, charity, and community events with venue partners across the region.

Ayre.events | 0333 188 7277

Autumn Homestyle

Creating Luxury Spaces

Philip Goldberg leads EMB Solutions, which provides architectural ironmongery and locksmithing services across the UK, specialising in fire safety and regulatory compliance. Philip recently became Vice President of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers but his path to achieving this accolade is somewhat unconventional.

His story begins with a family business dating back to 1966, when his father Michael started what would become EMB Solutions selling DIY products from a small shop in Leeds: "My father began by concentrating on locks, keys, and locksmithing, and grew that business. My brother Richard joined straight from school at age 16."

Initially, Philip pursued a career as a lawyer. It was only after Richard passed away that he made the decision to join the family business, bringing with him two decades of regulatory expertise and ensuring succession for the future.

"My father and brother started to change our profile back in the late 90s," Philip explains. "We still have the locksmithing business in Leeds, but it's changed. We moved away from domestic services to concentrate on the commercial sector. We also expanded into architectural ironmongery, which is effectively not just the lock and key in a door, but everything else that goes onto a door to make it function."

This expansion is tied to Philip's understanding of the complex nature of modern building: "People don't realise how many things actually go on a door in a commercial environment. Most doors are there for a number of reasons – obviously to open and close, but probably more importantly, to stop fire."

Today, EMB Solutions employs 45 staff and works with construction projects throughout the UK: "We handle everything from small to major projects. We have customers whose master key systems are 35 years old and we continue to maintain and manage them."

The shift from residential to commercial work brought a range of new considerations: "For domestic environments, unless it's a high-

Unlocking Potential

Philip Goldberg speaks to us about transforming a family business, industry responsibility, and his new role with the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers.

rise apartment block, fire usually isn't a major preoccupation – security is the main focus," says Philip. "But in commercial settings, we're dealing mainly with fire doors, so different criteria become important."

I like to be able to sleep at night knowing we've done everything correctly.

The 2017 Grenfell Tower fire fundamentally changed everything: "The whole industry has shifted as a result of that," Philip points out. "One of the authors of the first report described the building industry as 'a race to the bottom' – a large percentage of contractors were more interested in profit than product quality, and you got disasters like Grenfell."

The response to that tragedy in terms of regulations is still evolving: "There are big changes coming in fire test standards. Ironically, despite Brexit, we're moving to European standards in 2029 when the current British standard expires. These changes don't just affect doors – they cover all types of fire stopping within buildings."

Philip's legal background provides valuable insight into these developments: "As legislation changes, people who design and install door components become more responsible. You can become designated as a 'principal designer,' which means you're legally responsible if something fails. I like to be able to sleep at night knowing we've done everything correctly. The products we supply are life-critical –whether it's a small child in a school or someone in a care home, everybody who uses our products should be safe. That's what we aim to achieve."

Philip's recent appointment as Vice

President of The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) – the non-profit voice of the architectural ironmongery sector – is recognition of his dual expertise: "I've been a committee member for some time and was previously treasurer. Being appointed vice president a couple of months ago is quite an honour."

The Guild operates through three key functions: "First is education – providing training so companies can operate safely with experienced, knowledgeable people. Then there's technical support, because not everybody knows everything. We maintain what I call a 'spider's web of access to expertise' across the industry. We're trying to influence government on how standards should progress. Often regulations aren't properly understood by policymakers, so we provide expertise to ensure new standards are both effective for safety and practical to implement."

Despite the industry's challenges, Philip sees genuine improvement: "There has been significant progress within the last decade. People are taking their responsibilities much more seriously than they were. Companies are focusing on ensuring buildings will be safe once completed, whether due to Grenfell or subsequent changes. Increased public awareness has made cutting corners both legally risky and commercially disadvantageous."

Philip's vision for his new role centres on practical implementation of safety improvements: "My background as a regulatory lawyer, combined with hands-on business experience, puts me in a unique position to bridge the gap between legal requirements and real-world application."

The transformation from "race to the bottom" to safety-first represents more than compliance – it's a fundamental shift in professional values: "Everything we do ultimately aims to ensure safe buildings and prevent tragedies like Grenfell by weeding out those who cut corners."

Em-b.co.uk

Is your kitchen starting to look tired, dated, or showing signs of wear with chipped doors and delaminating finishes? Or perhaps your bedroom wardrobes no longer match your taste but are too good to rip out completely? Woodhouse Kitchens & Bedrooms is a specialist in transforming existing spaces with expert refacing solutions, giving your home a stunning new look at a fraction of the cost of a full renovation.

Since 2001, the Harrogate showroom has been welcoming customers from across Yorkshire, offering a personal and professional service built on craftsmanship, care, and innovation. With a spacious showroom just a short drive from North Leeds with ample parking, it’s built a reputation for creating beautiful, practical interiors that are made to last.

Specialists in refacing and restoration

Not every space needs starting from scratch. Often, cabinets and wardrobes are still perfectly functional, but their appearance no longer suits your lifestyle. That’s where the company’s refacing expertise makes all the difference. By replacing tired or damaged doors, refreshing finishes, and modernising handles, the team can completely transform the look of your kitchen or bedroom without unnecessary waste or cost. It’s the perfect solution for anyone who wants the impact of a brand-new design while

Built for You

Breathe new life into your home with Woodhouse Kitchens & Bedrooms.

keeping the bones of their existing layout.

Bespoke cabinetry – built for you

When a full redesign is required, Woodhouse manufactures its own cabinets in-house – never flat pack or a one-size-fits-all approach. Every unit is made-to-measure by skilled cabinet makers, ensuring that no awkward corner is wasted and every detail is tailored to your home.

Whether you’re dreaming of a sleek contemporary kitchen, timeless shaker-style wardrobes, or a statement media wall, it will create something that’s as individual as you are. The bespoke approach also makes the business remarkably cost-effective compared to many national suppliers because you’re dealing directly with the makers.

A personal touch

As a small, dedicated, knowledgable, and experienced team, they treat every project as if it were their own. From your first conversation with them to the final installation, you’ll work with people who genuinely care about delivering the right result for you. The designer will visit your home free of charge to understand your space, discuss your ideas, and provide inspiration.

Owner, Matt, set up the business with two of his oldest school friends and it’s still going strong today! Designers Pete and Amanda are on-hand in the showroom, and Matt takes on more of the technical side. As well as the factory, the business has its own in-house fitters to ensure a smooth journey from design and manufacture through to installation.

Woodhouse uses advanced 3D CAD software to bring your vision to life, allowing you to explore options and make confident decisions before a single cabinet is built. This

hands-on, collaborative approach ensures the end result isn’t just functional – it’s something you’ll love for years to come.

Visit the Harrogate showroom

Once you’ve settled on a design, the team invites you to their impressive showroom just off Wetherby Road on the way into Harrogate. Once there, you can see many displays, experience the workmanship, materials, and finishes first-hand, giving you complete confidence in your choices. Seeing its bespoke cabinetry up close makes it clear why Woodhouse has been trusted by customers for over two decades.

Free design and quick turnarounds

The company understands that home improvements can feel overwhelming, which is why it keeps the process simple, transparent, and stress-free. Its free design consultations, detailed quotes, and swift turnaround times mean you’ll never be left waiting or secondguessing.

At Woodhouse Kitchens & Bedrooms, it’s not just about designing interiors – the company transforms homes. Whether you want to refresh tired cabinets, reface your wardrobes, or completely reimagine your space, the team is here to help.

Discover the difference today and get in touch for your free, no-obligation design quote. Wkab.co.uk | 01423 812 880

As the temperature drops and energy bills continue to climb, keeping your home warm and comfortable doesn’t have to break the bank. From simple DIY fixes to smart upgrades, here are some ways to keep the winter chill at bay and create a snug sanctuary that’ll see you through the coldest months.

Seal the deal with insulation

Loft insulation is your home’s woolly jumper – cheap, effective, and surprisingly easy to install. Fit it to a depth of 270mm and it’ll pay for itself within a year through lower energy bills.

For those with cavity walls, professional installation typically costs around £1,200 for a semi-detached home but can slash your heating bills by 20%. If you’re feeling handy, DIY internal wall insulation boards or rolls can be stuck directly to walls with special adhesive.

Draught-proof your way to warmth

Draughts around windows, doors, and floorboards can account for 15% of heat loss. Draught-proofing is straightforward and incredibly effective. A few strips of weather seal around door frames and window edges can make a dramatic difference to your comfort levels.

Get smart about heating controls

Why heat rooms you’re not using? Smart heating controls let you manage the temperature in each room individually, assessing the weather and how quickly your home heats up. Thermostatic valves on individual radiators are a cheaper alternative that still gives you much better control.

Even upgrading from an old G-rated boiler to an A-rated model with proper heating controls can save as much as £500 annually.

Harness the power of the sun

Solar panels might seem like a summer solution, but they’re surprisingly effective year-round. They’ll typically pay for themselves within 10 years and keep generating clean, free energy for decades. Solar hot water panels are more efficient than electricity-generating ones, though pricier to install. If you have the space and budget, installing both gives you the best of both worlds.

Window wisdom

Double or triple-glazed windows don’t just keep your home warmer – they also reduce outside noise for a more peaceful environment and it’s one of the best investments for overall home comfort. DIY secondary glazing offers a budget-friendly alternative that’s about half as effective but much kinder to your wallet.

Think low-carbon for the future

Heat pumps might sound high-tech, but they’re becoming increasingly popular – and for good reason. They extract heat from outside air (yes, even when it’s freezing) and can cut your carbon emissions by up to 60%. Sweden, hardly known for its balmy weather, uses them extensively, proving they work even in the chilliest conditions.

Small changes, big impact

Smart energy meters help you track usage in real-time, encouraging better habits like shorter showers. Remember, over half your energy bills go on heating and hot water, so small changes here have outsized effects on both your comfort and your wallet.

The key to a cosy winter home isn’t necessarily spending big – it’s being smart about where you focus your efforts. Whether you’re sealing gaps, upgrading controls, or planning bigger improvements, every step towards a warmer, more efficient home pays dividends in comfort and savings.

Roasty Toasty

Handy hints to warm your home and keep cosy this winter.

Inner Space

Living in smaller spaces doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style. Whether you’re in a compact flat or a house that’s feeling increasingly cramped as the family grows, there are numerous budget-friendly ways to create more usable space without the expense of extensions or loft conversions.

Transform your garage into a multipurpose space

Research shows that more than half of the UK’s 11 million garages aren’t used for cars – they’re filled with household clutter. If this sounds familiar, you’re sitting on unrealised possibility.

Start with a ruthless purge. If you haven’t used something in the past year, you probably don’t need it. Once you’ve cleared out, invest in proper storage racking systems to organise what remains. Wall-mounted shelving and overhead storage can free up valuable floor space.

A cleared garage floor could accommodate home fitness equipment, creating a personal gym and potentially saving on monthly membership fees. The key is making every inch count through strategic storage solutions.

Think vertically

Most homes have abundant unused wall space, particularly near ceilings. We habitually fill floor space while ignoring the vertical opportunities around us.

In kitchens, extend cabinets to the ceiling rather than leaving dust-collecting gaps above. Install open shelving below to maintain accessibility while maximising storage. Similarly, bathroom walls offer excellent opportunities for shelving, especially above windows where you won’t block natural light.

The space above doorways, around windows, and in corners often goes unused

but can accommodate slim shelving for books, decorative items, or everyday essentials.

Create functional window seating

Window areas present perfect opportunities for dual-purpose furniture. A built-in window seat provides comfortable seating while the base can house hidden storage – ideal for seasonal items, books, or children’s toys.

Choose designs with lift-up seats or drawers underneath. Not only does this create additional seating areas, but it also establishes cosy reading nooks that make the most of natural light and views.

Maximise under-stair space

The space beneath staircases is often neglected, becoming cluttered dumping grounds. With thoughtful planning, this area can become highly functional storage or even a compact home office.

Consider custom-fitted solutions that follow the stair’s contours exactly, eliminating wasted space from standard-sized furniture. From coat storage to mini workstations, the possibilities are endless.

Clever Closet is a company which specialises in transforming under-stair space into useful storage solutions and the process couldn’t be simpler. Just measure your understair area, select the style of storage boxes you want, send your details to Clever Closet for a quote, and when you’re ready to go, the team will come and install it for you.

Clevercloset.co.uk

Think outside the box

Get creative with storage methods. Door backs can hold shoe organisers, cleaning supplies, or craft materials. Under-bed storage boxes keep

Skip the costly renovations and discover clever ways to maximise your home’s potential.

seasonal clothing or spare bedding accessible but out of sight.

In kitchens and bathrooms, custom solutions like pull-out drawers and hidden organisers make every centimetre count.

Vacuum-sealed storage bags compress bulky items like winter coats or bedding.

Choose storage that doubles as decor –woven baskets, attractive trunks, and stylish boxes can store belongings while enhancing your home’s aesthetic.

Keep it minimal

Resist the temptation to fill every available surface. Too many patterns, colours, or decorative items can make small spaces feel chaotic and cramped. Instead, choose a cohesive design scheme with carefully selected pieces that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Creating more usable space doesn’t require major construction projects or significant financial investment. Through strategic organisation, clever furniture choices, and thoughtful design decisions, you can transform your home into a more spacious, functional environment that works better for your lifestyle.

The key is viewing your home with fresh eyes, identifying underutilised areas, and getting the most out of every square foot.

Now we’re spending more time indoors, these home comforts and mod cons you never knew you needed will ease the winter blues.

Philips Smartsleep wake-up light | £125

This SAD lamp is one of the most well-reviewed out there, with a gentle light that simulates sunlight indoors throughout the day to aid your body’s circadian rhythms. It also has natural wake-up sounds and an FM radio. An ideal addition to your bedroom to help you wake up naturally and beat morning grogginess.

Philips.co.uk

Dreo ChefMaker combi fryer | £299

Perfect for cooking meat or fish, this multi-purpose smart oven combines air frying, steaming, and precise temperature monitoring to cook juicy and tender food, like having a personal chef in your kitchen. One of the smartest kitchen gadgets on the market, it blends user-friendly design and advanced tech to help take your cooking to another level. Dreo.com

xBloom Studio | £599

With a grinder, brewer, and scale seamlessly integrated in one design, the ultimate machine for specialty coffee brings you ultimate convenience at the touch of a button and a perfect cuppa every time. Use your favourite beans, tailor your own recipes through the intuitive app, and watch as the machine brings your unique blend to life. Xbloom.com

Sleep Number 360 i8 smart bed | £2,220

With a temperature-balancing surface and the ability to track your rest, the Sleep Number 360 i8 is one of the smartest and most luxurious mattresses you can buy. A companion app lets you easily adjust the mattress from ultra-soft to extra-firm, or anywhere in between, a temperature balancing surface that keeps you cool, and a base that can elevate your feet to improve circulation and warm them to help you drift off faster. Sleepnumber.com

Govee Lynx Dream BBluetooth and Wi-Fi outdoor string lights | £51.99

Designed for outdoor use, the fun, highly customisable Govee Lynx Dream string lights feature multicolour LEDs that you can control with your phone or voice, customising colours and dynamic settings that you can sync with music. Govee.com

Tech Mate

Save Water, Save Pounds

With water bills set to rise again later this year, Consultant Julian Carter is invested in strategies that could cut household water costs in half. With decades of experience in water management from refugee camps in Algeria to his own home, Julian endorses rainwater harvesting systems that use roof water to flush toilets.

“When I was working in Algeria with 40,000 refugees, I had to optimise wells, pumping systems, and water distribution,” Julian explains. “Coming back to my own house, I thought: why am I flushing my toilets with drinking water of a quality that 95% of the world doesn’t have access to?”

Julian’s key insight is that most people don’t realise they’re paying twice for their water: “If you’re on a meter, you pay one tariff for the volume coming in, then a second, higher tariff for waste water treatment based on 95% of that volume. The same premium water you use for tea is going straight down the toilet.”

His solution was to install a rainwater harvesting system that collects water from his roof to supply his toilets independently of the mains. The results speak for themselves: “I can collect 2,000 litres on a weekend, and I can store 13,000 litres total. I use it for toilets and the garden.”

The technology isn’t new – Julian points to a friend’s 1800s coach house with its original lead-lined roof tank. Modern systems collect rainwater from gutters into underground or above-ground tanks. A pump system then supplies this water to toilets, completely bypassing the mains supply for this purpose.

“The rainwater is relatively clean straight off the roof,” says Julian. “These systems can

Environmental Consultant Julian Carter explains how rainwater harvesting could halve your water bills.

chlorinate it if you wish, and if it gets a bit stagnant in hot weather, just add a litre of bleach to the tank.”

For existing properties, homeowners can choose between above-ground tanks (if space permits) or underground installations. New builds should already incorporate such systems, as architects are required to design attenuation tanks to manage surface water runoff.

“If your architect is clever, you should be designing blue roofs that collect rainwater or green roofs with vegetation that absorbs it,” Julian says. “The infrastructure requirement for new builds is already there – it’s just not being utilised properly.”

The financial case is compelling. Julian claims the system can halve water bills, with typical installations paying for themselves within five to seven years – similar to solar panels. For a household with £1,000 annual water bills, a £5,000 system would break even relatively quickly.

It’s that personal satisfaction of knowing you’re doing something worthwhile and saving money at the same time.

Currently, Julian is working on a project for Jewish housing in North Leeds, optimising an existing rainwater harvesting system to help residents use it more efficiently. Julian believes the water industry hasn’t promoted rainwater harvesting because it threatens their business model: “What company can survive when its clients suddenly pay half their bills? They lose revenue, and they’re already losing 25% of their supply through network leakage.”

This resistance extends to building regulations: “I’ve been frustrated that this hasn’t

been woven into building regs, but I think it’s pressure from water companies. It is completely legal – they just don’t want people to know about it.”

For interested homeowners, Julian offers a three-step consultancy service. First, he surveys the property and its roof area, calculating potential water collection using local rainfall data. Then he designs an appropriate storage solution, and, finally, provides costings for the plumbing installation.

Julian predicts water conservation will follow the same trajectory as renewable energy, moving from early adopters to mainstream acceptance as costs rise and environmental awareness grows: “It’s generational change. More people need to realise this exists and understand the benefits. A client told me years ago: ‘Julian, don’t be embarrassed to suggest this. How do you think I became a millionaire? By being careful with my money!’”

While Energy Performance Certificates don’t currently credit water conservation, Julian expects this to change as carbon footprint assessments become more comprehensive. But with water bills rising and drought becoming more common, Julian’s message is simple: “There is a way, there is a possibility. People have done solar panels and insulation, but costs haven’t stopped rising. Water will be the next frontier.”

For a generation facing mounting utility costs, Julian’s combination of environmental responsibility and financial savings offers hope. As he puts it: “It’s that personal satisfaction of knowing you’re doing something worthwhile and saving money at the same time.”

By-julian.com

Snug as a Bug

Transform your home into a cosy haven with a few small autumn décor additions.

Retro chevron square cushion | Cult Furniture | £25

With 70s patterns being all the rage right now, this retro print cushion will add the perfect pop of personality to your sofa! Featuring a bold zig-zag design in rich tones of burnt orange, deep rust, golden ochre, and earthy brown, the autumnal colour palette instantly adds depth and texture to your space. The soft fabric and striking chevron pattern evoke a nostalgic, midcentury charm while perfectly complementing the cosy ambiance of the season.

Cultfutnriture.co.uk

Caramel Gotland wool blanket | Country Mouse | £85

This beautiful Gotland wool blanket comes in a warm yellow-brown shade, reminiscent of umber. Its rich neutral tone brings warmth and texture to any space, whether draped over a sofa, folded on a chair, or layered across the bed. The thick, soft Gotland wool makes it wonderfully cosy to snuggle under on chilly evenings. Sustainably woven from pesticide-free wool sourced in southern Sweden, this blanket combines natural comfort with timeless style. Countrymouse.co.uk

Autumn ’25 refillable candle | Great House Farm Stores | £58

There isn’t anything that sets a cosy ambience quite like a candle. Root yourself in the season with this limited-edition autumnal scent, rooting deep into the soft unwind of autumn with the moreish scent of cinnamon, oatmeal, and clove. One sniff and you’re stove-side, a bubbling pot of cinnamon spiced oatmeal flooding the room with scent, clove alighting over the sweetness with a welcome warmth, and notes of honey and apple drifting in from the pantry. And the best part? The company offers a simple, easy to use, and sustainable way to refill your empty candle pot.

Greathousefarmstores.co.uk

Enchanting mushroom ornament | Joe Browns | £10

Adding autumn-style trinkets to your living space instantly makes it feel warmer and more inviting – just what you want during the colder months. This charming ceramic ornament from Joe Browns is perfect for bringing a touch of seasonal magic into your home. With its enchanting, whimsical design, it creates a fairytale-like scene whether placed on a windowsill, mantelpiece, or tucked into a decorative display. Pair it with candles, pumpkins, or other autumn accents to complete a look that feels both homely and full of seasonal charm.

Joebrowns.co.uk

Pumpkin pouffe | Industrious Décor | £120

Autumn is the perfect time to sit back and put your feet up at home. This pouffe in a warm rust tone and handwoven texture blends rustic character with a clean, contemporary silhouette. Crafted from durable 100% polyester and filled with lightweight polystyrene beads, it’s designed for versatility – perfect for casual seating, a footrest, or a display accent. Pop a wooden tray on the top for an even more rustic look and the perfect drinks and snacks holder to accompany your relaxation time.

Industriousdecor.com

Toy Story ANTIQUES

Recently, toys have been very much in demand at auction. Like most other parents, we bought toys for our children to play with, giving no thought to keeping them perfect as an investment for the future. Why would we?

Collectable toys are fetching record prices; I was amazed to see recently that a stretch Incredible Hulk sold for £3,000! This version was produced in the UK by Denys Fisher who was an engineer more famous for inventing the Spirograph. Just out of interest, Fisher produced it in Thorp Arch, West Yorkshire.

Although this stretch Hulk used the same body, it looked different and wasn’t as bulky as the original and had a different head. It didn’t

sell well and wasn’t popular with most kids – only roughly 1,250 were produced in 1979. Due to the lack of popularity, it’s thought only about 30 still exist. The one that came up for auction was in excellent condition with the original torn box and instructions.

Another surprise in the auction was a set of Subbuteo table football figures. Most whole teams will make around £50 for the set. The top teams were produced in huge numbers so there are plenty of Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Leeds United teams available to buy. However, the more obscure teams such as those from Norway, Austria, Switzerland, and other minor leagues are quite rare and can fetch good prices. A recent group lot including these teams sold for £1,550.

Who remembers Masters of the Universe from the 1980s? A top-graded Castle Grayskull

playset sold for £154,000, an all-time record. The old favourite Star Wars Kenner Luke Skywalker in a perfect, unopened condition set a new record at £154,963.

These were toys that my children had and we could have kept, but that’s the reason they are so valuable – we didn’t keep them!

If you want to invest for your children or grandchildren’s future, buy two of the most popular toys from a TV or film series. Give them one and put one away for their future.

We have several toy auctions scheduled this year, so dig out your old toys. You never know!

Garydon.co.uk

Seasonal Shifts

As the seasons shift, so do the ways we style our homes. Autumn brings with it a natural desire for warmth, comfort, and a touch of cosy sophistication – and this year is no exception. To get ahead of the curve, we asked a few design experts to share the homestyle trends they predict will define the season, from colours and textures to the little details that make a house feel like home.

Retro revival

“Incorporating soothing palettes that reflect the new season is essential for an autumnal décor update. Muted tones like sandy yellows and mushroom browns create a calming ambience that’s both tranquil and nurturing. Interior designers are naturally drawn to these warmer hues as the days grow colder, making it the perfect time to welcome this shift,” according to Kirsty Barton, Brand Storytelling Manager at natural fibre carpet company, Alternative Flooring.

Kirsty also expects retro styles to have a

big moment: “Autumn is the best season to embrace a new style that’s cosy, full of character, and extremely inviting. And this year, the resurgence of 70s inspired interiors gives the perfect opportunity to create a living space that’s both nostalgic and modern with a twist. Think bold geometric patterns, earthy tones, and an abundance of houseplants to shape a home where comfort is truly at the centre.

“Infuse your interior with the warmth of large jute rugs, rattan furniture, and eyecatching geometric shapes to add character and depth to any room. Rich shades of orange and yellow paired with the golden hues of the natural jute fibre create a nostalgic yet refreshing feel ideal for those chilly autumn nights spent snuggled up by the fireplace.”

Green means go

Emma Bestley, Co-Founder and Creative Director of sustainable paint supplier, YesColours, thinks that green is the way forward this autumn: “For those die-hard

We’ve found a few experts to weigh in on what homestyle trends we’re expecting to see this autumn.

autumn/winter fans, look no further than the wholesome, enriching, grounding power of a dark forest green. Green is a colour that makes us feel tranquil, renewed, and rested and symbolises nature, making it the perfect colour to celebrate the winter season. And for us, there’s no better way to enjoy a colour like this than to completely immerse yourself in it, go the full hog and paint it everywhere. Walls, ceiling, woodwork, you’ll feel like you’re wrapped in a warm embracing hug that you’ll never want to leave.”

Recipe for warmth

Al Bruce, Founder of Shaker kitchen company, Olive & Barr, believes that your kitchen can be just as cosy as the rest of your home: “As autumn arrives, we naturally find ourselves wanting to add a cosy touch to the home, and it doesn’t just stop at the kitchen. There are some simple and easy ways to make your kitchen feel as warm and welcoming as the other areas of the home. Textured details are a great way to add a homely feel to the kitchen. Start small by stacking wooden boards on the work surface, add in large seasonal foliage into a vase, and replace tired tea towels for fresh linens. If space is available, consider a reclaimed wooden shelf; this adds a real sense of character and contrast to the modern kitchen cabinets.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

Working Together

Leeds Leads Against Antisemitism Co-Chair, Debbie Addlestone, and Leeds Jewish Representative Council (LJRC) CEO, Susie Gordon, recently met representatives of the Muslim community.

The meeting at the MAZCC was facilitated by PC Rachel Hides, Strategic Engagement Officer for Faith.

Six members of the Muslim community from several parts of the city discussed their feelings towards the Jewish community and said their aim is for everyone in Leeds to feel save and proud to call Leeds their home.

Leeds Welcomes BoD President

President of the Board of Deputies, Phil Rosenberg, paid a visit to Leeds at the beginning of September.

During his visit, Phil spent time with different corners of the community, including primary and high schools, LJHA, and joined a Friday night communal dinner at UHC. He also took part in a moving Shabbat service at Etz Chaim Synagogue followed by a lunch with community leaders.

Phil also met the Lord Mayor and Mayoress of Leeds, Dan and Elayna Cohen, leaders of the LJRC, connected with young adults at Moishe House Without Walls, and joined Leeds City Council leaders to discuss community safety.

GSAL’s New Principal

The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) is delighted to welcome Michael Hall as its new principal, following the retirement of Sue Woodroofe.

Michael joins GSAL with a wealth of experience as a senior leader in the independent school sector, spanning coeducational, all-through, day, and boarding schools in the UK and abroad.

Michael said: “I am so thrilled to have been appointed as the next principal of GSAL. I am so impressed by the school’s rigorous, tailored, and holistic approach to learning and its extensive co-curricular and wellbeing programme, all based upon its strong values and standards. I look forward to building on these foundations as we continue to nurture our pupils’ academic achievement, personal development, and wider aspirations.”

Lord Dan’s First Charity Day

A golf day was recently held at Moor Allerton Golf Club which was the first major fundraising event of the year for Lord Mayor Dan Cohen’s chosen charity, Mencap. Lord Dan and Lady Mayoress Elayna have chosen Mencap – which supports people with learning difficulties – as the Lord Mayor’s charity for 2025.

The event raised more than £11,000 and was won by a team from law firm Addleshaw Goddard LLP.

Trace Your Family History

A new four-part course at JW3 – which can also be done online – gives you all the tools you need to learn about your heritage.

Led by professional genealogist Jeanette R Rosenberg OBE, JW3’s brand-new ‘Tracing Your Jewish Family History’ course will teach you the fundamentals of genealogy and how to structure your research, keep records, and use basic tools to begin mapping your family tree.

Whether you are starting with a name, a photo or a long-held question, the four-week course will offer the tools to navigate your family’s story.

The classes start on 29th October, and you can register at Jw3.org.uk

LJFS Upcoming Events

Leeds Jewish Free School (LJFS) is happy to announce the return of its ‘Winter Warmer’ production on 11th December.

The last show was a roaring success, celebrating and bringing together students from all year groups to showcase their talents in drama, music, and comedy.

Deadline for 2026/2027 intake is 31st October and there will be an open day on Tuesday 30th September for prospective families.

Get in touch to book your place at 0113 2930578 or Ljfs.org

Tourism at Highest Level in Two Years

An encouraging sign for Israel tourism, as the country welcomed 118,200 visitors from across the world in August, a substantial 72% increase compared to the 68,800 recorded in August 2024. Visitors from the UK made up approximately 10% of those numbers, with over 66,000 travelling between the two countries in 2025 year-to-date.

“These figures represent amazing resilience and continued confidence in Israel as a destination," said Michael Ben Baruch, Director of the Israel Ministry of Tourism in the UK. “The positive spike in traveller numbers from the UK and the rest of the world in August signals that we are moving in the right direction, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Israel for visitors from across the world. We are also encouraged and look forward to BA's return to scheduled service.”

Between January and August 2025, total tourist entries reached 814,000 globally, representing a 21% increase over the 672,400 arrivals recorded during the same period in 2024. However, this figure still reflects the ongoing recovery process, sitting well below the circa two million entries recorded in the corresponding months of 2023.

New Parkinsons Group

November will see the establishment of a social support group that will be the only club for people with Parkinsons in LS17.

Organiser, Sara Mack, says it’s: “the club nobody wants to join” but the disease is one of the biggest growing neurological conditions in the UK and it’s important for people with the condition to exercise the vocal cords – it’s good to talk.

The group will take place at the MAZCC and is free to join – to express your interest, contact: thepgroup25@hotmail.com and keep an eye out on Leeds Jewish Welfare Board’s website and social media for more details!

Roundhay Festival Announced

A brand-new music festival is coming to Leeds in 2026 and it’s right on our doorstep in Roundhay Park!

The festival, called Roundhay Festival, will be put on in collaboration with promoters AEG Presents – the organisers of London’s BST Hyde Park and All Points East festivals –and is set to welcome some of the world’s biggest stars including the first headliner that’s been announced, Lewis Capaldi on 4th July 2026.

As well as hosting well-known artists, the festival will also feature a midweek programme of free activities, providing a platform for local talent and encouraging continuous use of the park during the summer, according to a spokesperson from AEG.

FLIPPING THE NARRATIVE

Rabbi Eli Pink of Chabad Lubavitch on embracing your identity and being proud of who you are.

When the days get shorter and the winter evenings draw in, it can be tempting to keep our heads down and blend into the background. We think blankets over heads, hot chocolates, and a good book. For Jews especially, the last couple of years have brought a heightened sense of vulnerability. Many people ask me: “Is it really safe to be so visibly Jewish right now?” It’s a favourite topic on social media.

It’s a fair question. Antisemitism is real, and headlines often magnify the worst. But in my own experience, the story on the ground is often quite different. Our family travels and lives proudly as who we are – visibly, audibly Jewish – and again and again, the encounters

are positive. From the shop assistant who wishes us “Shabbat Shalom” to the stranger at the airport who stops to say: “You’re blessed with such a big family,” we feel safe in our multicultural society.

Chabad philosophy teaches that the best defence is not to hide, but to shine brighter. Judaism has always survived, and thrived, not by retreating, but by living with joy, openness, and confidence. I have no problem with people openly displaying their religious affiliation and I only wish that more Jewish people would do it. As Chief Rabbi Jonathan Sacks of blessed memory once put it: “NonJews respect Jews who respect Judaism.”

As we start the new year, let’s embrace that

message. If you wear a kippah, wear it with pride. If you keep Shabbat, don’t apologise for leaving work early on a Friday. If you’re Jewish but have never felt strongly connected, maybe this is the year to light a Chanukah menorah in your window or buy challah for your Shabbat dinner.

We don’t win friends by moaning about being under threat; we earn respect by loving who we are. It’s time to flip the narrative. Let’s live proudly and positively Jewish, and by doing so, bring a little more light into Leeds, and into the world.

Judaismlive.com