Dewsbury 9th march

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ONE PAPER ... ALL THE NEWS from Dewsbury, Batley, Ossett, Mirfield, Liversedge, Birstall, Heckmondwike, Cleckheaton & Spen Valley

Friday March 9, 2018

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No. 832

50p

Parking Shooting charges suspect in Cleck? on trial p5

p4

RL player stabbed in Batley club

By Zoë Shackleton News Reporter zoe@thepressnews.co.uk

A RUGBY league player is being treated for septicemia after being stabbed at a Batley nightclub.

Batley Bulldogs’ Dane Manning was attacked after trying to help a friend at Chapo’s nightclub on Bradford Road in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Police were called to the incident at around 2.50am, and three people were treated for stab wounds.

The 28-year-old second-rower, who has played for Batley since 2016, had been out drinking for the evening when an argument broke out inside the club.

A witness at the scene, who did not want to be named, claimed that there were at least six suspects who followed Mr Manning’s friend outside where he was stabbed.

That was when Mr Manning

The stab wound on Dane Manning’s back allegedly stepped in and tried to stop the assault.

The witness said: “They were all shouting ‘shank them, shank them.’

“There were at least six of the other lads. Dane just went in to help his friend.”

The witness then tried to pull him away from the attack.

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Mr Manning, of Hanging Heaton, received a deep stab wound on the left-hand side of his back, just underneath his shoulder blade.

He had the wound stitched up but was then forced to go to hospital again after developing septicemia when it got infected. He was transferred to Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield where he was operated on, and is currently recuperating at home.

The witness said that Mr Manning is “quite poorly” but that the attack could have been a lot worse.

She said that the staff at the Bulldogs, including head coach Matt Diskin and assistant coach Danny Maun, have been very supportive following the incident.

Mr Manning’s friend, who did not want to be named, has been treated for wounds to his legs while another man who was stabbed is also in a stable condition.

Police officers arrested a 26-year-

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Deaths

Friday March 9, 2018

husband of the late Ethel.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Friday March 16 at 12.30pm.

ADDY (NEE CAINE) PATRICIA MARY On February 26, at Newlands Hall, Heckmondwike, formerly of Staincliffe, aged 85, wife of the late Derek. Requiem Mass will be held at Our Lady and St Paulinus RC Church on Friday March 16 at 10am.

ASQUITH ROY HUGHES On February 28, suddenly, of Hartshead Moor, aged 76, husband of Jean. Funeral service will be held at Scholes Parish Church on Thursday March 15 at 10.30am.

ATACK RICHARD (FRANK) On February 20, suddenly but peacefully at home, aged 61, husband of Anne. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Thursday March 22 at 12.30pm.

BRIGGS JESSIE On February 26, at Batley Hall Nursing Home, of Birstall, aged 92, wife of the late Austin.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Tuesday March 13 at 10.30am.

GENTRY STEPHEN MICHAEL On March 5, at Kenmore Care Home, Cleckheaton, aged 62, brother of Debbie. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Friday March 23 at 10.30am.

GOOCH HARRY On February 26, in hospital, of Garlands Nursing Home, formerly of Dewsbury, aged 90,

BOWER STANLEY On February 27, peacefully after a short illness, aged 89,

Michael. Funeral service will be held at St Mary’s of the Angels RC Church on Tuesday March 20 at 10.30am.

GRAY-COWAN WILFRED (WILF)

PENN (NEE COLLINSON) SHIRLEY

On February 22, suddenly at Pinderfields Hospital, of Norristhorpe, aged 63, brother of Elaine, Ann, Stuart and the late Jimmy and Gordon.

Funeral service will be held at Norristhorpe United Reform Church at 10am.

On February 25, peacefully, of Liversedge, aged 84, wife of David. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday March 19 at 11.15am.

GUY CLIFF

POLAK (NEE MANTON) MAXINE

On March 1, peacefully at Hartshead Manor Nursing Home, formerly of Heckmondwike, aged 72, husband of the late Kathleen.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday March 12 at 2.45pm.

Place your family notices by calling 01924 470296

MORTON

BAMFORD ALAN On March 1, peacefully in hospital, aged 77, ex-local police officer, husband of Eileen.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday March 19 at 12.30pm.

husband of the late Myra.

Funeral service will be held at Fixby Crematorium on Friday March 23 at 1.15pm.

Barry

On 19th February 2018, in hospital, and of Dewsbury, aged 80 years, Barry, a dear brother, brother in law, uncle and friend.

Funeral service will be held at The Minster Church of All Saints, Dewsbury on Wednesday 21st March 2018 at 2pm, followed by a committal at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium.

No flowers by request, donations in memory of Barry may be placed on the collection baskets for the benefit of Minster Funds.

On February 27, suddenly at home, of Dewsbury, aged 52, mum of Kirsty, Jade and Luke.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Thursday March 15 at 9.45am.

SEDGWICK (NEE HUDSON) VIOLET On February 27, peacefully at hospital, aged 87, mother of Denise, Susan, Peter and the late David. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Tuesday March 13 at 2pm.

TAYLOR BRIAN On March 2, peacefully at Kirkwood Hospice, of Thornhill Lees, aged 87, husband of the late Joan. Funeral service will

be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Thursday March 15 at 11.15am.

THOMPSON (NEE SHEARD) NANCY On February 28, peacefully, aged 93, wife of the late John William. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Friday March 23 at 1.15pm.

WALMSLEY (NEE WELSH) PAULINE On February 6, suddenly at home, of Dewsbury, aged 57, wife of Richard. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Wednesday March 14 at 10.30am.

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YATES DAVID On March 3, peacefully at home, aged 83, husband of Carol. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Friday March 16 at 9.30am.

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Aged 89 years, wife of the late Robert. Funeral service to be held at Holy Spirit, Heckmondwike on Thursday 15th March at 9.30am followed by Crematorium.

A SUPERMARKET community champion has bagged a national accolade for her work in the district.

Asda Dewsbury’s Sharon Kingswood received the community leadership award at the Asda Awards last month.

Sharon works at the Mill Street East store and this year she received over £30,000 from the Asda Foundation to give to local groups who need funding for various projects within the community.

Last year, Sharon was honoured by West Yorkshire Police with a commendation award for her community work following the death of Batley & Spen MP Jo Cox. For the past three Christmas Days, Sharon has teamed up with Dewsbury Cares to deliver a Christmas meal for the homeless in Dewsbury.

A spokesman for Asda Dewsbury said: “Sharon is a credit to her community and we can’t thank her enough for the work she does.”

MIDGLEY ALBERT ANTHONY (TONY) On February 24, in hospital, of Batley, aged 79, dad of

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old man at the scene on suspicion of wounding with intent, but he has been released pending further investigation.

Detectives are still appealing for witnesses following the attack.

DI Mark Catney of Kirklees CID said: “Enquiries are ongoing

to determine the circumstances of what took place and we are appealing for witnesses, particularly anyone who saw the incident inside the club or the victims or suspect outside in the immediate aftermath.

“Anyone who has information is asked to contact Kirklees CID on 101 referencing crime number 13180102578.”

On February 26, in hospital, of Birstall, aged 86, wife of Eric.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Thursday March 15 at 12.30pm.

Leila

BOLLANDS (BIRSTALL)

Continued from page one

WILES (NEE CHILD) ELSIE

MORTON

Telephone 01924 472178

RL man stabbed

Proudly caring for families for 60 years

ThePress Friday March 9, 2018 Issue No: 832

31 Branch Road Batley West Yorkshire WF17 5SB Tel: 01924 470296 Fax: 01924 472561

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Publisher: Danny Lockwood Editor: David Bentley Reporter: Zoë Shackleton Sports Reporter: Ben McKenna Graphic Designer: Craig Moore Sales Manager: Lucy Tissiman Sales Executives: Nicola Finch, Janet Black, Rachael Hall Office Manager: Adele Latham Accounts administrator: Angela Hall

KIRKLEES: Residents could be in with another chance of winning an iPad by registering for a My Kirklees Account.

Kirklees Council developed the new resource that gives people access to a range of council services online all in one place and with one password, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

They ran a similar prize draw at the beginning of the year. Anyone who registers for an account before midnight on Monday April 30 and links it to either a council tax, rent or benefits account, as well as signing up for paperless billing, will be automatically entered into a free prize draw for a chance to win a new Apple iPad. Register at https://my.kirklees.gov.uk.

The Press abides by the principles of the Independent Press Standards Organisation and at all times attempts to report fairly and accurately and correct mistakes or errors as soon as possible.

In the first instance, contact the editor, otherwise we will be happy to give details of the Independent Press Standards Organisation.

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

MP’s busy week

Repeat offender escapes jail again

DEWSBURY and Mirfield MP Paula Sherriff is hosting a public meeting to address crime issues in the area.

Dewsbury and Mirfield Inspector Chris Hughes will be speaking and answering questions at the event on Thursday March 15, from 6pm to 7pm at the Longcauseway Church in Dewsbury town centre.

Ms Paula Sherriff is also spending a night in the cold tonight (Friday) to raise money for the homeless.

She is taking part in the Big Sleep Out with a number of other volunteers at the John Smith’s Stadium in Huddersfield.

A BIRSTALL man has escaped with a suspended jail sentence after breaching a court order which prevented him from contacting his ex.

Nigel Radcliffe was banned from going to his former partner’s flat in Batley, and from contacting her, after an incident of aggression at her home last year.

But the 53-year-old turned up at her house soon after the non-molestation order had

been made, ringing the buzzer to her flat. The woman ignored him.

Radcliffe then sent her two texts, with one saying: “See you in court, you liar.”

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard that Radcliffe was confused as to when the court order started and had only gone to his ex’s home to pick up his belongings.

He claimed in mitigation that one of the texts was

meant to go to his mother.

Radcliffe, of Gelderd Road, Birstall, pleaded guilty to breaching a non-molestation order and was sentenced to eight weeks in prison suspended for two years.

District Judge Adrian Lower said that Radcliffe had breached similar orders five times in the last year,.

The judge ordered him to pay a £115 victim surcharge and £85 in court costs.

Rotherham TV report leads to rape charges

By Staff Reporters A DEWSBURY man is part of a gang of 10 men who are accused of raping a 16-year-old girl over a two-year period.

Kieran Harris is on trial at Bradford Crown Court alongside nine other men, who have denied 25 offences including rape and sexual assault against the girl between July 2009 and July 2011.

Harris, 26, of Fir Parade, Ravensthorpe, has pleaded not guilty to two charges of rape.

The group were arrested when the teenager asked her partner to call BBC Look North after watching a programme relating to the Rotherham sex abuse scandal.

It is claimed that the girl was 14 and lived in a care home at the time of the abuse.

A jury heard that she had run away from the home with another girl, taking a bottle of vodka with them, when one of the men approached them and began grooming them for sex.

The prosecution allege that the girls were subjected to a range of sexual abuse at the hands of the 10 men.

Prosecutor Kama Melly QC described how police had spoken to one of the victims after they found her number during Operation Kellerabbey – an investigation into sexual exploitation in Keighley.

She told police of her experience growing up and said she had been given alcohol and drugs and had become an addict.

Ms Melly told how nothing was

done by police until the victim rang the television studio years later. Her name was given to safeguarding officers and they started an investigation.

The 10 men were then arrested and charged with sexual offences against her.

Concluding her opening statement Ms Melly said: “Girls in care don’t always see the exploitation and manipulation but that does not mean the exploitation was not occurring.”

Of the nine other men, seven are from Bradford: Basharat Khaliq, 37, pleaded not guilty to one charge of assault by penetration against the first alleged victim and five charges of rape against a second woman.

Saeed Akhtar, 54, denies two

Thornhill woman’s sudden death A WOMAN was found dead Police at at a house in Thornhill on the house Saturday. Police and parain Castle medics were called to the Mount home on Castle Mount at where a around 1.15pm. The woman, woman’s believed to be aged 37, has body was been named locally as found Sheena Conway. It is thought that she leaves behind a partner and three young boys.

A JustGiving page which was set up to raise funds for her family has received a total of £1,665 donated so far.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: “Enquiries are ongoing to determine the nature of the death and whether there are any suspicious circumstances.”

PHOTO – MIKE CLARK

Family return to find man hanged A “MUCH-LOVED” Dewsbury man who hanged himself was suffering from depression, an inquest heard.

Narendra Patel was found by family members at his home on Hope Street on October 20 last year.

The 54-year-old labourer had declined an invitation to a Diwali party at one of his brothers’ homes that night.

Members of his family went to the party, and on their return at about 10.15pm they found the distressing scene.

Bradford Coroner’s Court heard that he had drunk the equivalent of around six pints of beer and had not been taking his depression medication.

The inquest was attended by two of Mr Patel’s brothers, Balu and Pravin.

Coroner Martin Fleming said: “He was a much-loved son, uncle, brother and he doted on his family, especially his nephews.

“His sudden and unexpected death has devastated his family.”

Mr Fleming concluded that Mr Patel had taken his own life.

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charges of causing or inciting child prostitution and one charge of rape.

Naveed Akhtar, 42, and Izar Hussain, 31, deny three charges of rape. Hussain also pleaded not guilty to an allegation of attempted rape.

Mohammed Usman, 30, denies two charges of rape, while Zeeshan Ali, 31, denies a single charge of sexual assault.

Parvaze Ahmed, 35, pleaded not guilty to three charges of rape.

The other two: Fahim Iqbal, 26, of no fixed abode, pleaded not guilty to aiding and abetting rape, and Yasar Majid, 36, of Milton Keynes, denies one charge of rape.

The trial continues.

News In Brief No major issues at Priestley Unit DEWSBURY: Health officials carried out an inspection at a mental health ward after they received a tip-off.

But no major issues were found when Care Quality Commission bosses visited the Priestley Unit – also known as Ward 18 – at Dewsbury and District Hospital.

It was concluded that the ward had welltrained and competent staff who delivered safe care and treatment to keep patients protected from harm.

They also completed risk assessments correctly to ensure facilities and equipment is safe for use.

Tim Breedon, director of nursing and quality, said: “We always put safety first and I’m pleased that the CQC has recognised this.”

School joy for most KIRKLEES: Almost 97 per cent of local families were successfully matched to one of their preferred secondary schools.

Of the 4,908 children who are making the step up from primary school to year seven, 96.6 per cent have been given a place at one of the schools stated as a preference on their application.

A further 362 students will go to year 9 from a middle school, with 99.2 per cent being allocated a place at their first preference school.

Science for kids CLECKHEATON: The town’s library is celebrating British Science Week by hosting a one-off experience for youngsters.

Recommended for children aged seven to 12, the hour-long event will allow them to learn about circuits and electricity and make their own circuit bug.

The session runs from 3.45pm to 4.45pm on Tuesday, March 13 at the library on Whitcliffe Road. For more information visit www.ticketsource.co.uk.

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Friday March 9, 2018

‘300 jobs’ at Junction 27 expansion

YOUR

TOWN YOUR VOICE Birstall

• This week The Press is introducing a new regular feature focusing on our district’s key towns and villages, and the local people and groups who work so hard to make them thrive. In 'Your Town, Your Voice', those who know their towns and villages best, who live and work there and help create such strong communities, write about issues that are so important to their own area...

By Natalie Tai, on behalf of Birstall Chamber of Trade WRITE after an emotional public meeting where the local community turned out in droves to show their support for Birstall Library. They will be sad to see it closed if it comes to it.

A few points were made by local councillors that it is the council’s duty to “provide a comprehensive and efficient library service for all persons”.

The library budget has already been reduced twice with a further £1.9m due to be taken off.

Apparently Birstall is the fourth most visited library in Kirklees, with over 73,000 visits recorded last year between April and December. Where will these people go? How is the village supposed to survive these kinds of cuts to services local people rely on heavily?

It was noted by a gentleman that he used the service regularly and as a disable person his access is restricted at other libraries.

Coming to Birstall allows him the freedom and independence to enjoy his time making friends and adding to his quality of life, which he said previously he has suffered from depression due to not having access to these services, and to the warm friendly welcome of the volunteers whom he now considers valuable friends. Is it fair to take this away?

A child from a local school made a poignant plea with a letter he had written outlining all the things he and his friends would miss if the library was to close. Lego club, knit and natter and the lasting memorial to Jo Cox were on his list. Other points raised at the meeting include that the library is now the only public toilet we have available to us in Birstall since the closure of the public convenience building not so long ago, again due to budget cuts.

It was also stated how economically sound the library building is compared to others in the area.

It doesn’t cost as much to run as an older building would, keeping costs mainly focused on staffing and book stocks. It is also a helping hand to people using the job club and communicating to keep informed on job applications and other employment-related services.

The library in Birstall provides far more than just books. It has proved to be a hub where local people can get in contact with the council, and with letters being written in council jargon more people are turning to the help of the staff to translate into laymen’s terms.

On the same theme, it has been noted that the library consultation questionnaire had jargon within it, making it complex and difficult to answer the questions set.

It is obvious to everyone here in Birstall that we really cannot have this local service taken away from the community as it would suffer a great loss and we need to fight together to keep it open.

You can help do this by filling out the questionnaire, but taking extra care to fully understand each question and answer honestly.

Also there are petitions in most of the shops in Birstall, so make sure you have signed it and watch out for updates on this matter.

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AN EXTRA 300 jobs could be created if plans to extend the district’s biggest shopping park get the nod.

Developers want to build eight large retail units on land adjacent to the Junction 27 Retail Park on Gelderd Road, Birstall.

Currently the site is home to “lowgrade” industrial tenants including a car wash and storage.

But with a planned spend of £40million, developers Sir Robert Ogden Estate Ltd want to demolish the buildings to make way for more shops and restaurants.

The firm has estimated an extra 300 jobs could be created, while Kirklees Council’s business rates income could rise by £1m if it were to go ahead.

In its planning statement, the applicants said: “The site is part of a well-established retail location which benefits from a range of planning permissions allowing a wide range of goods to be sold, including

The planned layout of the new Jnc 27 site food and drink, along with leisure uses such as cinema and gym. The proposal represents a logical extension to those established uses.”

The new retail park would be named Centre 27 Retail Park and

built over three levels with parking.

The huge retail area next door has grown significantly over the years and now features names such as Next, M&S, the Showcase De Luxe Cinema and TGI Fridays.

Great news for smaller rail stations THREE smaller railway stations in North Kirklees are set to be added as stops on the fast TransPennine Express route from Hull to Manchester.

Batley, Mirfield and Ravensthorpe stations are planned to be part of the service from May 20.

Currently only Dewsbury Railway Station is served with direct train services running to either Manchester Piccadilly or Hull.

Batley West councillor Gwen Lowe said: “It will bring something to the town, people will see our wonderful gateway into Batley and it will get us noticed – we’ve said our station has been ignored for far too long.”

Drugs, shootings – but no-one knows anything...

By Staff Reporters A DEWSBURY man accused of shooting at three members of a family as they drove past him has denied attempted murder.

Philip Nriapia is on trial at Leeds Crown Court after allegedly shooting Atif Latif in the chest on August 29 last year.

Mr Latif was driving with his 16-year-old nephew Hatib Latif and brother Adeel Latif on Ravenshouse Road, Dewsbury, when the shooting took place outside a newsagents, just round the corner from Nriapia’s house on Ravens Avenue .

Nriapia, 43, was accused of threatening the men and arranging to meet them there.

He allegedly said to Atif Latif before the shooting: “Come to the shop and I will kill you” after calling him a “b*****d, P**i c**t”.

Hatib Latif and Nriapia’s 14year-old daughter had recently ended their relationship and it is thought that caused the trouble.

A jury heard that the three men who were shot at had also been involved in drug dealing, while Nriapia – known commonly by his nickname Tank – was also accused of being a drug deal-

£10m grants to women ‘for Jo’ ALMOST £10 million in government grants will be given out in memory of murdered Batley & Spen MP Jo Cox to help women across the world build better lives.

The Jo Cox Memorial Grants will be funded from the UK’s international development budget and given to grassroots organisations that help with issues Mrs Cox campaigned for.

It will help the voices of girls and women be heard when holding people in power to account, as well as supporting them to find work and improving access to family planning services.

Penny Mordaunt, International Development secretary, announced the news on Wednesday ahead of International Women’s Day on Thursday.

Mrs Cox, who worked for aid agency Oxfam before entering politics, was killed in June 2016 by neo-Nazi Thomas Mair outside Birstall Library.

“Jo was a dedicated humanitarian who fought for gender equality at home and in developing countries, and her passion and commitment will continue to support the world’s most disadvantaged and disenfranchised women through these new UK aid grants,” said Ms Mordaunt.

Mrs Cox’s sister, Kim Leadbeater, said: “These grants are a reminder of that and a reminder of her passion and her determination to hopefully inspire others with similar desires. Jo would be over the moon.”

er. Adeel Latif said to police: “I have known Tank for about one year. I know that he is a drug dealer.”

Mark McKone, defending Nriapia, asked Adeel Latif about an incident which happened in March last year on Pilgrim Drive involving around 30 to 40 people, some of whom had machetes and

News In Brief Thieves hit charities CLECKHEATON: Charity shops were among a number of businesses to be raided by thieves.

Oxfam on Northgate and Age UK on Cross Crown Street were both targeted in the past week.

The Oxfam store was ransacked last Wednesday with a range of vintage cameras stolen, while robbers failed to break through the double-lock system at Age UK on Monday night.

The latest break-ins have been described as a “new low” by Oxfam volunteer Jean Clare after other robberies at Robert Openshaw Jewellers, Lloyds Pharmacy and ATA Builder’s Merchants in recent weeks.

Anyone with any information should contact police via 101.

Hospice help BATLEY: The Batley and Birstall support group for Kirkwood Hospice is hold-

ing a coffee morning tomorrow (Saturday).

It’s just £2 for coffee and a hot cross bun at Batley Town Hall from 10am to 12noon, with all proceeds going to the hospice.

Everyone is welcome.

In recovery DEWSBURY: Eightlands doctors surgery has been rated as ‘good’ by health watchdogs after being told to improve on its last inspection.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) praised it for being ‘safe’, ‘effective’ and ‘caring’ after conducting another inspection last month.

The report said: “The practice routinely reviewed the effectiveness and appropriateness of the care it provided. It ensured that care and treatment was delivered according to evidence-based guidelines.”

The surgery, based at Dewsbury Health Centre on Wellington Road, must work on patient satisfaction as it was significantly below local and national averages.

The scene of the shooting last August baseball bats. He answered most of Mr McKone’s questions with “I don’t know” or “I can’t remember”. He also changed his answer when asked what brother Atif does for work, from “I don’t know” to “He’s a carer for someone.”

Prosecutor Christopher Rose told the court and jury that Atif Latif and brother-in-law Basharat Hussain had met up with the defendant on the night before the shooting to talk about ending Hatib Latif and Tyler’s relationship. Mr Hussain also denied knowing about the Pilgrim Drive violent disorder incident.

Nriapia denies three charges of attempted murder and one of possession of a firearm, namely a shotgun, with intent to endanger life. The trial continues.

Paedo back in court A SERIAL sex offender from Heckmondwike could be locked up again after admitting further child sex offences.

James Phillips, of The Crofts, pleaded guilty to attempting to incite a child to engage in sexual activity, attempting to meet a child following sexual grooming, attempting to have sexual activity with a child and failure to comply with a notification requirement.

The offences took place between January 28 and February 2 and Leeds Crown Court heard that it was repeat offending and a second breach of a Sexual Offences Prevention Order.

Judge Guy Kearl QC warned 28-year-old Phillips that he was “facing a significant prison sentence.” He is due back in court on April 3 for sentencing.

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ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

‘Keep Cleck free’ call

By Zoe Shackleton LABOUR’S deputy leader has accused local Liberal Democrats of scaremongering amid claims that parking charges will be introduced in Cleckheaton.

Coun Shabir Pandor (Lab, Batley West), who presented the Kirklees budget, last month set out plans to look at “modestly increasing” charges in some areas to generate extra cash.

But he said there had been no mention of introducing parking charges in Cleckheaton, despite Coun John Lawson (Lib Dem, Cleckheaton) and others launching a petition claiming that’s what Labour are planning.

Coun Pandor said: “What the Lib Dems are saying is that we’re

going to raise charges in Cleckheaton. That is irresponsible, and scaremongering.

“There are no parking charges in Cleckheaton at the moment.

“The budget does not say that (we will introduce parking charges). That budget was approved and is a public document, it talks about generating some income in the first year – bearing in mind we haven’t raised our fees since 2007.

“A modest increase could generate a lot of money without introducing new charges to places. I don’t know where they’ve got this idea of Cleckheaton.”

Coun Lawson, who is up for reelection in May, vowed to fight to keep parking free. He said: “I was

shocked and then angry when I saw the Labour plan.

“Kirklees Council has taken much away from our town: the sports centre, town hall services, and constant attempts to close our library. Now they want to attack our town further by ending free parking.

“The Labour budget plans said that an extra £250,000 will be raised by the review of parking charges. So Labour has basically already decided the outcome of the review. That in itself is outrageous.”

Almost 1,000 people have signed Coun Lawson’s petition.

The section in the council’s budget dedicated to parking tariffs outlines a review into “how car parking and parking tariffs

contribute to the vibrancy and attractiveness of the district’s towns and villages and their contribution to the economy.”

It says that the council will also look at “charges such as short-stay and long-stay car parks, on-street parking, shoppers’ car parks, and season tickets in addition to other charges that may be appropriate.”

Coun Pandor added: “They are just budget proposals and there’s a lot of work to do. The bottom line is, which I think people need to understand, that we’ve had our budget cut by £197m and 60 per cent of our grants have been slashed. A budget is a planning tool, it’s not a tool that actually set things in stone. We’ve got to look at everything.”

Striding on – walkers celebrate anniversary

News In Brief Prime property sites going under hammer DEWSBURY: A plot of Kirklees Councilowned land is due to be auctioned off by a property agency next week.

The site, last used as a car park, is next to the household waste and recycling centre on Weaving Lane. Walker Singleton has listed it with a guide price of £200,000-£225,000.

A former car sales pitch on Huddersfield Road, Birstall, and land at Overthorpe Road, Dewsbury, as well as sites for potential housing in Earlsheaton and Common Road, Batley, are all on the auction list.

It takes place at Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, next Thursday March 15 at 7pm.

Library petition date BATLEY: A petition signing to help prevent the closure of Batley Library is taking place tomorrow (Saturday).

The Friends of Batley Library group will be at the Tesco superstore on Bradford Road, Batley, from 11am to 5pm with copies of their petition for people to sign. There will also be more information available about the library and Kirklees Council’s consultation process.

Burial plans proceed

FOUR members of a Mirfield walking group are celebrating a decade since they first pulled on their boots.

Robert Stewart, Marion Inwood, Barbara Storey and Julia Shotton all still enjoy their weekly adventures with the Mirfield Health Walkers, having been with the group since its inception 10 years ago.

Robert is now a walk leader, while Jenny Stott will mark her own 10-year anniversary as a leader in May. Rodger and Alma Johnson, who were the group’s first walk leaders and continued their role for five years, joined at a recent ramble to present the four with a certificate, badge and bag.

Around 40 walkers attend the group most weeks, and new members are always welcome. Walks start at Mirfield Library every Wednesday at 10.15am.

KIRKLEES: Plans to change Kirklees Council’s burial and cremation services have been given the go-ahead by ruling Labour politicians.

Burials will rise between £118 and £400, depending on grave size, while non-Kirklees residents will incur a £605 surcharge.

Burial and cremation services will now be available seven days a week, and services for under 18s will remain free. The new charges and systems are set to begin in September.

Pictured – Barbara Storey, Rodger Johnson, Robert Stewart, Alma Johnson, Marion Inwood, Julia Shotton

www.facebook.com/ThePressNews

Crime forum is well received MORE than 100 Mirfield residents turned out for a public meeting focusing on crime in the area.

Coun Martyn Bolt organised the event following a spate of attacks on cars, houses and shops. He was joined by councillors Vivien Lees-Hamilton and Kath Taylor, plus Kirklees police commander Chief Supt Steve Cotter.

One attendee, Hannah Hope, commented: “It was a good meeting. The Kirklees stats provided context and put Mirfield into perspective – which I found reassuring

(others may not have). Also highlighted the significant increase to neighbourhood policing resources which can only be a good thing – due soon.”

Karen Moore Hall added: “Certainly did not feel fobbed off, think all the questions were answered honestly even though there were answers we didn’t want to hear. I would be surprised to hear if there were people who attended that felt they were fobbed off as all had equal opportunity to speak up at the meeting.”

Coun Bolt said: “The

Police abused A 29-YEAR-old man threatened to attack police officers when they arrested him at his ex’s home. Damien Braime also said he would rape one of the officers’ mother and sister – because he was annoyed with that they would not listen to him.

He pleaded guilty to criminal damage and using threatening behaviour on November 10, when he climbed up the drainpipe to his exgirlfriend’s bedroom window at an address in Cleckheaton, after she had refused to let him through the door.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard that once inside, Braime demanded money, but she refused and left the house.

Braime, of The Nook, Cleckheaton, followed and started throwing cups at her before going back inside and locking the door.

Prosecutor Andy Wills said police arrived and Braime refused them entry.

He said: “Eventually they were able to get in and arrested Braime who was very uncooperative. He threatened to smash their faces in and told (one officer) that he was going to rape his mother and sister.”

Braime claimed that he had a key to the house and didn’t break in. He was fined £100 and has to pay a £30 victim surcharge.

5

turnout and the direct questions and responses showed the value of the meeting in maintaining trust on all sides. As councillors we remain committed to improving CCTV in Mirfield and will work with Kirklees on the introduction of a community warden.”

Dewsbury and Mirfield MP Paula Sherriff had commitments, but is holding another public meeting next Thursday, March 15 at the Longcauseway Church in Dewsbury at 6pm. Inspector Chris Hughes will be speaking and answering questions.

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LIFE IN BLACK AND WHITE Danny Lockwood

This hypocrisy literally beggars belief T TAKES a hypocrite of some magnitude to look in the shaving mirror every morning, as Labour deputy leader Tom Watson MP presumably does, and start the day with any kind of clear conscience.

Watson has destroyed reputations and families with his fantastical allegations of a paedophile network centred on Westminster. He blithely shrugs off the fact that despite throwing millions at investigating his own dirty little fantasies, Scotland Yard can’t find a shred of evidence.

Watson claims the shelter of the left, cossetted by a socialist supremacy, in a world where everyone else is at best wrong, at worst outright evil. It allows Watson and his ilk to rationalise the damage they cause to innocents because they see themselves – and only themselves – on the side of the angels, the ‘victims’.

I

MP Tom wasn’t totally sure about the new hat his good friend Max bought him...

That’s how he/they smile in the mirror of a morning and sleep at night – total selfdelusion.

Watson is by no means the darkest and most dangerous of the left’s bog-eyed fanatics, despite what should have

been a career-ending exposure last week.

This man, who considers himself the moral compass of British society, is bought and paid for by a former fascist thug and self-confessed sexual deviant.

Step forward Max Mosley, whose father Oswald would have been Adolf Hitler’s placeman running the UK with a swastika flying over Downing Street, had matters in the summer of 1940 turned out differently.

Mosley has gifted Watson a stunning amount, £540,000, nominally to ‘help run his office’ – what?! – but in reality to fight Mosley’s battles for him. By any rational judgment, Mosley owns the Labour no.2 and Shadow Minister for Media, Culture and Sport.

The irony of that is almost as staggering as Tom Watson’s “what’s the problem?” response to it.

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Since he was outed as a keen participant in sadomasochistic orgies, Mosley has had it in for the media, specifically newspapers. He set up and funds the Government-approved press regulator, Impress.

Not surprisingly, no newspaper worth its salt will subscribe to it.

If Watson using his money to indulge his own ideological kinks is a by-product of owning one of the most powerful men in British politics, Mosley clearly thinks it’s a price worth paying.

Still, it does not surprise me that Watson is rebuffing strident calls from within his own Labour Party to return Mosley’s half-million quid, if only because it’s probably gone; spent.

And if Watson can lay his hands on such a substantial amount of cash, the police need to have a nosey.

(And let us hope the police are poring intently over the transcript of Mosley’s libel trial where he vehemently denied the existence of a violent, racist political tract that he authored, and which has now resurfaced. That’s usually called perjury).

E NEED to get on and deliver Brexit pronto, as a national imperative. The 48% of depressed Remain voters need our help and they need it fast.

The sooner we can reclaim our billions of wasted money a year, they sooner we can offer the snowflakes the help they clearly need, both psychological and medicinal.

(I was going to write that they need a good slap and an order to get a grip, but these are fragile souls who don’t know any better. Kid gloves are called for).

Frantically, desperately they keep howling, louder and louder: “But no one knew that voting Leave meant, like, reeeally Leave! We were lied to!

Aaaggggh! We want another vote!”

Well petals, yes we were lied to – by your heroes Cameron, Blair, and their Project Fear. The world didn’t end. Financial institutions didn’t collapse. Our economy is doing just fine – and imagine how it will thrive once the deal is done? Happy days!

We knew it meant leaving the single market and customs union. Crystal clear.

So no, war hasn’t broken out – but it might, on our streets, if you petulant, hysterical morons manage to sabotage democracy. Now go lie down somewhere quiet and dark until this is all over.

Or move to Belgium or France because that’s okay, too. There are some lovely tents just outside Calais.

Be sure to take your big coat ... missing you already.

Not.

Fingers crossed that mad Max’s next all-in orgy is big on iron bars, confined spaces and tattooed convicts, and rather light on busty birds in stockings and high heels, brandishing whips.

As for Watson – someone please explain the twisted logic here. He despises, from whatever soul he proclaims,

anything marginally to the political right of his sainted self.

He campaigns, with mouthfrothing fervour, against sexual deviants.

Yet he defends a self-confessed fascist, racist pervert?

Sorry, but this one’s beyond even my comprehension.

W

I’m sticking with Sir Bradley O, WHOSE word do we take? That of a great Olympian, a Tour de France winner and all around top bloke, Sir Bradley Wiggins, or a bunch of nondescript, jobsworth MPs who accept as gospel anonymous ‘evidence’ from a disgruntled ex-employee.

The media doesn’t help matters, jumping all over the so-called findings of a Parliamentary Select Committee that said Wiggins and Team Sky “crossed an ethical line”.

Wiggins is having his reputation traduced, his life turned upside down, by 11 nobodies who are cowering behind the legal cloak of Parliamentary privilege to publicly hang, draw and quarter a bloke without any due process.

Where was the opportunity for Wiggins and Sky to ques-

S

tion this snivelling tell-tale?

Where’s the evidence? What part of this disgraceful public stoning is fair, trustworthy or even-handed? None that I can see.

And what is this imaginary ‘ethical line’? Because the sit-

OH DEAR. I’m not sure whether the well-meaning souls in one of the district’s public-spirited voluntary groups are mischief-minded, or simply the most sweet, naive of souls.

Our towns, benighted by gangs of prowling criminals on the lookout for properties to plunder, vehicles to steal from or just steal, have never needed the community-minded presence of Neighbourhood Watch groups more .

The meritorious community campaigner Pat Crisp is a regular contributor to our letter pages and is the chairwoman of the collective of

uation is worsened by the idiot MPs adding, almost as a footnote, that actually Sir Brad and Sky did nothing wrong. It was within the rules. The bloke’s an asthmatic, he took a permitted medicine.

And yet in an effort to justify their public salaries and puff up their pitiful egos, they wilfully impugn the reputation of a sporting hero.

Isn’t that just so ‘British’?

As with Chris Froome and last year’s hullabaloo, this wasn’t EPO doping or anabolic steroids, it was an asthma drug. I spent 20 years playing rugby with my Ventolin inhaler in the trainer’s pocket. At times I wouldn’t have finished a game without a few blasts.

Guess I’d better get my old trophies out of the garage and find the people to give them back to…

Neighbourhood Watch groups that beaver away around the district, eager to take in hand the problems rubbing our residents up the wrong way. Apparently Pat’s group, which is inviting new members and holding its AGM at Staincliffe Cricket Club later this month (more details next week) has been getting a grip on anti-social issues for 19 years.

But I can’t believe I haven’t noticed them before – the Neighbourhood Watch Association of North Kirklees, or NWANK as they term themselves. I’m going to be tossing and turning all night wondering how that got by me...

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

Mayor’s ban

By Zoe Shackleton THE MAYOR of Mirfield has quit his role after being convicted of drink driving.

Paul Blakeley was over the limit when he drove a BMW on Huddersfield Road, Mirfield, in the early hours of February 10 – just under three years after he drove while drunk in May 2015.

The 26-year-old, who has since stood down as mayor, confessed to drinking three pints of four per cent cider which left him with 54 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath. The legal limit is 35mcg.

He was banned from driving for three years.

Kirklees magistrates heard that Blakeley was spotted by police at around 1.50am after they had been alerted he had been drinking in Dalton.

When they stopped him, officers said he looked “dishevelled” and smelled of alcohol.

Blakeley, of Water Royd Lane, is also a Mirfield town councillor and said his actions were a result of being locked out of his home by his partner after an argument.

He apologised for letting people down and said he had turned to “self-medicating with alcohol” because of problems in his personal life.

The former chairman of Mirfield Round Table said: “Back in May 2015 I made one of the worst mistakes of

my life. I vowed I would never get in the car with alcohol again.”

Blakeley, pictured right, represented himself in court and told how he was in a relationship with a woman who suffered bipolar disorder, and his father had been diagnosed with cancer.

Blakeley said he had been at a community event before he was stopped by police.

He said he was scared of “physical violence” at home and decided to leave but his partner locked him out and, despite having been drinking, he got in his car to “escape the situation”.

Blakeley was suspended by the Conservative Party last month after being charged with drink-driving.

His three-year ban could be reduced to 36 weeks if he completes a rehabilitation programme. He was also fined £500 and ordered to pay costs of £85 and a victim surcharge of £50.

Grants for Thornhill groups A THORNHILL charity that helps community organisations is ready to hand out more cash.

The Thornhill Poors Estate Charity offers financial aid to established community organisations that serve senior and youth age groups within the districts of Thornhill, Thornhill Lees, Savile Town, Netherton, Middlestown, Flockton, Overton, Midgley and Whitley.

The trustees of the charity have agreed to provide another sum of money for more grants.

The organisation applying must be from one of the areas mentioned, and the grants must be spent on activities and

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The application form must state the aims and objectives of the organisation, contact details, what the grant is to be spent on, a copy of their most recent approved accounts and a copy of their most recent bank statement. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Grant applications must arrive within the next month – ideally by April 6.

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No riverside road rage on this new development Following on from last week’s front page story, Kirklees Council are not the only local authority embarking on a massive housing project.

Neighbouring Wakefield City Council have one too – their City Fields development is equally as big but they are controlling it in a completely different way by ensuring that new road provision is in place first.

Miller Homes, who are ironically developers on both projects, have even stated in the documentation of the Dewsbury Riverside project that they have “accumulated expertise in the delivery of major schemes, most notably in West Yorkshire at Wakefield’s East/City Fields and associated deliv-

Save our town from planners From: Caz Goodwill, Cleckheaton Kirklees’ five-year plan for poor Cleckheaton – asset stripped of its historic buildings, most of its green belt removed and more and more houses approved.

Its historic library under threat, Whitcliffe Mount’s Foundation Building lost for the want of a signature from Coun Turner, even though we have a developer willing to pay half a million pounds for the building and willing to put £100,000 in an account to cover Kirklees’ costs.

Whilst the Spen Valley Civic Society gets the help of Robin Hood to save the Mirfield Valley from industrial devastation, it does not stand up for poor Cleckheaton which loses its last areas of historic green belt in Whitechapel Fields and Scholes.

This area is historic meadow and woodland. Roman coins have been found here and the industrial units will back right up to the historic Whitechapel Church, mentioned in the Domesday Book and after

Letter of the Week: Nigel Ingham, Thornhill Lees ery of the Wakefield Eastern Relief Road”.

Sadly no such forward planning of viable solutions to the historic traffic congestion around the Dewsbury development has emerged.

The plan to build a lavish access road via a bridge that will almost reach the Mirfield border at Fir Cottage in 15

whom the town is named (Cleck meaning church, heaton meaning the town on the hill).

No Robin Hood, but certainly plenty of history. Not to mention the large primary school which will now look straight at large warehouses.

Consider also that Cleckheaton already has a high proportion of employment/ industrial land.

Follow the route from Junction 26 – next to the Hunsworth pub, restaurant and hotel – there are a number of warehouses, then up the A58 to the industrial site with the former RT Haley building and a number of other businesses.

Between J26 and Moorend there is a considerable industrial site, formerly BBA Mintex, and along the main Dewsbury Road A638 through Cleckheaton, industry is all along that route at Law Street, Balme Road up to the town hall then beyond the bus station to another large industrial area.

From the centre of Cleckheaton we have industry all along Westgate and more housing planned on green belt between Cleckheaton and Hightown.

Probably a quarter of land in Cleckheaton is industrial or employment land – a very high proportion for any small town.

years’ time seems unessential, as there would already be a main road access in place to the site at the end of Ravensthorpe Road.

The £20million set aside for this posh entrance to the most exclusive part of the site could be better spent building new roads to improve traffic movement through existing localities first.

What we need is our green belt to ensure air quality and protect the health of our children and a buffer between the urban sprawl of Bradford and industrial Kirklees.

We do not need more housing or industry on green belt.

I made a submission to save Whitechapel Fields and wished to speak at the hearing last week.

But guess what, you had to be registered in 2016 – how democratic is that?

Who will speak up for Cleckheaton? Not our councillors, not the civic society, we need our own town council as Mirfield, Kirkburton and Drighlington have.

Surely it would be worth a few pounds on our council tax to save our town from devastation by planners who care nothing for our quality of life or our heritage.

Make your voice heard From: The Friends of Mirfield Library An open letter to all Mirfield residents The threat of the loss of the Mirfield Library Service

LATEST PLANNING APPLICATIONS D Brook, installation of first floor window and roof lights, 1B Barnonby, Church Farm, Ladywell Lane, Hartshead.

Mr & Mrs Lodge, detached dwelling (modified proposal), Springfield Farm, 15 Moorside, Cleckheaton.

Anne Chambers, works to mature sycamore in conservation area, Hollycroft Farm, 16-18 Upper Batley Low Lane, Batley.

AB Whitaker, modifications to front and internal alterations, 200 Low Road, Thornhill Edge.

Sir Robert Ogden Estates Ltd, outline application for demolition of existing buildings and the erection of a new retail park with parking and access, land at Junction of Gelderd Road/Bankwood Way, Birstall.

S Ravat, change of use of part ground floor from shop unit to cafe, installation of replacement shop front and erection of nonilluminated sign, 49 Town Street, Batley.

C Jones, single and two-storey rear and single-storey front extensions, 1018 Bradford Road, East Bierley.

M Hussain, extensions and alterations, 99 Northstead, Ravensthorpe.

DRA Property and Lettings Ltd, change of use from ground floor shop to beauty salon, shop and domestic garage space, 9 Knowl Road, Mirfield.

R Atkinson, prior notification for erection of agricultural building, Whitegate Farm, Leeds Road, Mirfield.

Strategic Team Group, removal condition 18 (highway) on previous permission 2015/93102 for removal condition 6 (affordable housing) and 7 (public open space) on previous permission 2012/92614 for outline application for erection of residential development for up to 21 dwellings, Batley Mortar Site, Smithies

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Moor Lane / Bridge Street / Mill Street, Birstall.

Mr & Mrs Cross, two-storey side extension, 45 Knowles Lane, Gomersal.

Eric Paxman, variation of conditions 5 (hours of operation) and 6 (opening hours) on previous permission 2017/93125 for change of use of bank (A2) to restaurant (A3), Yorkshire Building Society, 138 Huddersfield Road, Mirfield.

N Gill, reserved matters application persuant to outline permission 2017/90427 for erection of detached dwelling and detached store, 4 Chapel Hill, Upper Hopton.

Dervish Investments, c/o Agent, change of use of former public house (A4) to restaurant, 616 Huddersfield Road, Ravensthorpe.

Bernard Watson, single-storey rear extension, 25 Highfield Mount, Thornhill.

Phil Morris, demolition of existing rear extension and erection of single-storey rear extension, 70 Balmfield, Roberttown.

E Sacha, two-storey rear extension and external alterations including raised decking, 5 Hill Crest Road, Savile Town.

I Hussain, single-storey front and side and two-storey rear extensions, 7 Cliffe Street, Staincliffe.

E Ryan, single-storey front extension, 7 Bronte Grove, Mirfield.

To Have & To Hold, change of use from storage above existing shop to one dwelling and part retail, 8 Town Hall Street, Mirfield.

SA Kothia, non-material amendment to previous permission 2017/93004 for alterations to convert integral garage into living accommodation, 45 Old Mill View, Thornhill Lees.

B Robinson, notification for prior approval for change of use from Financial Services (A2) to restaurant/cafe (A3), NatWest, 132 Huddersfield Road, Mirfield.

is real!

Mirfield Library is the hub of the town and is the home to a vast array of activities, groups, advice, information, and the IT services provided by the Kirklees Library Service.

Plus, it also has an excellent selection of books for all groups, ages and interests!

Mirfield Library truly serves the entire community, from toddler groups to advice and help for the elderly.

Residents of Mirfield: please consider what direct effect the loss of the Mirfield Library Service would have on your life.

Obviously there’d be no books, but also, what would you do about the loss of computer services? The loss of DVD and CD provision? The loss of talking books? Where would you go for all the essential help, advice and information about council services, NHS and social care? Where would you get your photocopying done?

Mums and dads – what happens to the quiet time you and your children enjoy during storytime? What happens to the activities organised for children, especially those during the school holidays?

Various interest groups using the library would also be affected – where would your group meet?

To lose the Mirfield Library Service would be to take the beating heart out of the town and, as the double Pulitzer Prize winner Barbara Tuckman said: “Nothing sickens me more than the closed door of a library”.

These are the strong sentiments shared by many.

The Friends of Mirfield Library are working hard to protect your library service but the clock is ticking!

The public consultation period on which Kirklees will base their decision about the survival of Mirfield Library Service ends on April 2.

If you haven’t yet completed the consultation document, please either pick up a paper copy at the library, or go to w w w. k i r k l e e s . g o v. u k / librariesC. Make your voice heard!

All are invited to an open day at Mirfield Library on Saturday March 17, from 10.30am to 2pm.

Come along and see what the library service does at your library. See for yourself what’s

at risk of disappearing from Mirfield.

we deserve a period of true democracy.

No reason for second vote

Safeguards won’t work

From: John Appleyard, Liversedge

From: David Honeybell, Heckmondwike

I campaigned and voted to remain in Europe in 2016, but I accept the democratic decision of the majority of voters who wish to come out.

I certainly do not accept the argument for a second referendum, we have had years of discussion on this subject in the pubs, cafes, buses, post offices, housing estates etc.

During the campaign, everywhere I went I was asked the same question – ‘in or out?’

Politicians on both sides were dishonest in the campaign.

The argument that they understood Brexit better than the voters is patronising, and I am reminded of an old quote from the late Bertolt Brecht: “You cannot re-elect the electorate; you have to live with their judgement.”

So be it.

My opposition to euthanasia is well documented, so I won’t take up too much of your Forum space, especially now so many more of your readers are contributing.

Enough to say, if euthanasia was allowed in the UK, I’d be among the most vulnerable people.

I read an article about how far euthanasia in Canada has evolved, to the point where prisoners are being escorted to hospital to be put to death by doctors.

Many readers will probably think this is a good idea, and it would be difficult to argue against such as murderers or child abusers and rapists, but where will all this killing to save money lead to?

Just as abortion was supposed to have safeguards to prevent abuse, none of them worked, and once euthanasia is made legal, all the safeguards in the world won’t stop the unscrupulous among us from having the most vulnerable put to sleep.

We deserve true democracy From: Shaun Gardner, Mirfield When Jeremy Corbyn announced that Labour will seek to develop a customs union agreement with the EU, the CBI cautiously welcomed it as a “real world solution” to Brexit, but this mild praise caused fits of apoplexy from the Tory Brextremists and Brexiteers everywhere were outraged.

We want our democracy back.

Betrayal from the Marxist Steptoe and Labour no longer represent the working class were just a few of of the sentiments I came across.

What errant nonsense! Is it democratic to tell 16 million people to “shut up and put up”?

The turkeys have voted for, well, they don’t even know, do they?

Brexit was driven by a campaign of lies, deceit, xenophobia and jingoism.

With the truth leaking out,

Young may get their wish From: D Johnson, Mirfield After reading the latest socialist fairytale from our Mr Appleyard, I feel compelled to reply to some of his observations.

On the subject of foreign aid, it is completely misleading to suggest that this country gets a net benefit from the 12 to 13 billion pounds it spends anually.

Wake up, this bill is adding to our mountain of national debt. The interest alone on this debt is the fifth largest expenditure item we have, and significantly more than transport, public order and safety, and housing and environment.

As for cancelling foreign debt, can I remind Mr Appleyard that the UK paid the last tranche of its World War

Continued on page 10

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018 worse. I put it to your readers who voted for Brexit – if you were voting today knowing what you know now would you still vote the same ?

Look at the real areas of inequality From: R Spreadbury, Liversedge

From page 8 Two debt to the USA as recently as 2006?

As a nation we pay our debts, so we have every right to expect others to do the same.

Also, it is incorrect to suggest that it is only people on the right wing of the politcal spectrum that believe we should take a long hard look at foreign aid when people in this country are suffering and dying through lack of funding.

Believe me, I am not a lover of the current set of muppets in government, but at the same time I cannot abide the cynical way that Corbyn is trying to win votes by covertly suggesting that he would ‘look’ at cancelling student debt and other such feats which would suggest that he has actually found not just a money tree but a forest full of them.

At my age, I have seen every single Labour government since the 1960s run this country’s finances into the ground.

The latest set of our young purple-and-greenhaired snowflakes may well get their wish for a Corbyn-led government, but the inevitable will happen and another generation will come crashing back to reality.

A laughable response From: Dean Mitchell, via email I have one word for the once (Great) Britain.

PATHETIC. The Beast from the East arrived and there was widespread panic and disorganised chaos.

The government and local councils have failed on so many levels.

The National Grid at one point said we may run out of gas. Laughable.

I was laid off work due to the weather. I will receive two snow days’ pay and that’s it. Yet I will still have to pay the disgusting and unfair

council tax.

Oh yes, did anyone else notice in the chaos that the British government has given itself a pay rise of over £1,500 per year, taking their wages to £77.000+.

If only we all could get pay rises like that and be able to use an NHS that millions of us have paid into for years, but yet foreign nationals who have paid nothing into the system get free treatment.

Just to add, the powers that be need to get a grip of bad weather conditions and instead of giving large unjust pay rises to managers/government officials, use that money to implement more resources to assist in getting the country moving in such adverse conditions.

Thanks to hospital staff From: Joyce Briggs, Batley I would like to offer a sincere thank you to the wonderful staff at Dewsbury Hospital’s A&E department and Ward 9, following my recent visit there and subsequent overnight stay with flu.

I was treated with the utmost compassion, dignity and respect, despite their very busy workload. Thank you all once again.

Would you still vote the same way again?

From: Peter Moreland, Heckmondwike I voted to remain in Europe, the country voted for Brexit, so to my mind we should pay the bill and leave.

However two years later it is obvious that never mind plan B, the government didn’t even have a plan A, and day by day the mess gets

To me, the current self-congratulatory media circus revolving around the gender pay gap and sexual harassment just distracts attention from the real corrosive inequality in our society, that of the vast difference between the rich and privileged, and the rest of us.

To highlight my point, consider the following: The Weinstein firm has been rescued by a consortium headed by Maria Contreras-Sweet, former head of the small business administration in Obama’s government, and American billionaire Ron Burkle.

The deal is for the sum of $500m and, includes provision for a $80m compensation fund for the victims of sexual harassment by Weinstein.

So, a victory for star-struck actresses who seemingly endured sexual harassment to avoid damaging their chances of a successful well-paid acting career.

Now they will have access to hefty compensation, if they employ a good lawyer.

No such luck for the 1,200 children from disadvantaged backgrounds in Rotherham whose sexual abuse was of a completely different order.

Perhaps if their socially-disadvantaged families had access to even a small amount of that sort of money, then their lives may have well turned out differently.

Addressing the so-called gender pay gap. Now over-paid women in the broader entertainment industry will be paid the same as their grossly over-paid male colleagues.

And similarly, over-paid women in the high echelons of business will enjoy the same obscene salaries and bonuses as those paid to their male colleagues.

Meanwhile, in the real world, if the ‘radical’ feminists have their way, the career opportunities left for young women without university qualifications will soon be limited to work in a nail bar, call centre or as retail shop floor assistants.

Thus, for ordinary women, struggling to make ends meet, I suspect all the hype over gender pay etc seems somewhat irrelevant.

So, to redress the balance, here is an idea or two: All the beneficiaries of these equality cam-

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paigns could give 10 per cent of their earnings (#TenPercent) to help the marginalised in society. Egotistical, self-promoting, celebrity luvvies could also sponsor campaigns such as: #GizzaProperJob #PayuzADecentWage #PayYourFairShareOfTax Then we might actually make real progress in achieving a fairer society for all and not just one that further enriches the privileged/lucky few.

Please do all you can to save Batley Library From: Jane Hicks, committee member, Friends of Batley Library Libraries are part of the solution to improving social care for all groups within the community and are an important weapon in the fight against social isolation and loneliness.

One can’t help but feel, after struggling to find a way of balancing the budget, the council went for the usual fall guy – the libraries – well, not quite all of the libraries obviously.

It is hard to believe that any other department suffered a cut of over 40 per cent.

At this moment in time, the library is still open and is the only place in the area which is open five days out of seven that people can go to for help or advice regarding all things Kirklees.

Now that the job centre has closed the library is the only place jobseekers without their own computers can search for jobs and also link up with people who can help them with this and with application forms.

Libraries are no longer just about books, in fact they have not been for a long time.

They are about supporting different groups within the population, providing toddler groups, Lego and code clubs, and also groups for older members of the community.

People use the library differently at different stages of their lives.

Closing Batley Library would be divisive.

Everyone appreciates the need for an adequate budget for adult social care. The libraries, however, are part of the solution to social care.

Closing the library would do the exact opposite as regards to improving people’s lives and the town centre.

Please do all you can to support the library either by filling in a consultation form, writing or emailing your local councillors or writing to Carol Stump, head of library services.

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ThePress

News In Brief Showcase of members’ work NORTH KIRKLEES: Batley Audio Visual Club are hosting a showcase at the end of the month.

The event includes a slide show of group members’ photography, accompanied by music.

It takes place on Friday March 23 and Saturday March 24 from 7.30pm at Brimer Hall, underneath Batley Central Methodist Church in the Market Place.

Tickets are £5, including refreshments. For more information call 01924 478341.

Women’s Day event is re-arranged BATLEY: MP Tracy Brabin has rescheduled her International Women’s Day event because of last week’s snowy weather.

The day of speeches, workshops, performances and displays due to be held last Saturday at Batley Older People’s Centre will now take place on Saturday March 24 at the same time of 10am to 8pm.

It is hoped the same roster of inspirational women who were due to speak will attend on the re-arranged date.

Call The Press newsroom on 01924 470296

www.facebook.com/ThePressNews

Friday March 9, 2018

Knifepoint car terror

By Steve Martyn A WOMAN and her young baby were threatened at knifepoint in an attempted carjacking in Batley.

The 28-year-old was driving a red VW Golf on Staincliffe Hall Road, approaching Halifax Road, with her one-year-old child in the back, when she stopped to let a van out of the Al Murad Tiles car park.

While her car was stationary, two men attempted to open the passenger door, with one of the suspects producing a knife.

They continued to shout at her and started grabbing the handle of the rear doors, but the victim didn’t give in.

She drove away safely after the men were unable to open the car doors.

Police have released an e-fit image of a man they want to speak to in connection with the attempted robbery, which took place on Sunday February 25 between 2.15pm and 2.30pm outside the tile shop, close to Staincliffe Church of England Junior School.

An e-fit of one the suspects

The first suspect is described as a white male, in his early 30s, of medium build with a scar under his left eye and a tattoo on the left side of his neck.

The second man is described as white, of medium build and wearing a black Adidas hooded top with white stripes and matching tracksuit bottoms.

DC Robert Brook of Huddersfield CID said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for the victim, who also had her one-year-old child in the back seat of the car.

“Both were incredibly distressed but thankfully both unharmed and nothing was taken during the incident.

“We are releasing this image in the hope that we are able to track down the people responsible. If anyone recognises this person, has any information about the incident, or witnessed anything suspicious in the area at the time, I would encourage you to come forward and speak to the police.”

Anyone with any information can contact police via 101 quoting crime reference number 13180094058.

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ThePress

News In Brief Driver claims was unaware A BANNED driver who was caught on the roads didn’t know he had been banned, a court heard.

Ryan Fletcher was stopped by police on Woodhead Road, Birstall – next to the Showcase Cinema – on January 12 this year.

The 26-year-old, of Blenheim Drive, Batley, was previously disqualified from driving at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court but the hearing had been held in his absence.

Fletcher said he wasn’t aware of the proceedings, and his solicitor Carl Kingsley told the court: “He was unaware of the court order and was shocked when police stopped him as he did not know he had been banned.”

He pleaded guilty to driving whilst disqualified and using a vehicle without insurance.

Magistrates adjourned Fletcher’s case until May 30 so that he can put forward a ‘special reasons’ argument to try and avoid having his licence endorsed with penalty points.

Car wash crew CLECKHEATON: Crews from Cleckheaton Fire Station are holding a series of fundraising car washes to raise money for the Fire Fighters Charity and the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

There will be two sessions, one tomorrow (Saturday) and one on Saturday March 24, with both running from 10am to 4pm at the Hightown Road site. All proceeds will go to the two charities.

Friday March 9, 2018

The Press meets firefighters who risk their lives

Ordinary to extraordinary

By David Bentley DO YOU have what it takes to become a firefighter?

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) opened their application window this week, and officials are expecting thousands of hopefuls to apply once again.

But this year, to mark International Women’s Day – which coincided with the application period opening – WYFRS is asking why more women don’t apply and make the grade?

Last year more than 700 women applied to become a firefighter – but only four made it through the application process and gruelling fitness tests.

WYFRS has just under 50 wholetime female firefighters and the organisation is hoping more will consider applying to better reflect the people it serves.

Six female firefighters were on hand at WYFRS headquarters at Oakroyd Hall in Birkenshaw at the launch of the application period to show journalists exactly what is expected of new recruits.

Chief Fire Officer John Roberts said: “The application process to become a firefighter is tough mentally and physically, which means you must be dedicated and determined to pass each stage.

“Tests include situational judgement, which gauge your decisionmaking skills, your behaviour in difficult and high pressure situations, numerical and verbal reasoning, tough physical tests as well as role

plays and finally an interview. We have the highest standards so feel that anyone who passes each stage will be ready and able to serve the public of West Yorkshire.

“We know there are many women out there who would make wonderful firefighters but are perhaps reluctant to apply, possibly because they still see it as traditionally a man’s job.

“This couldn’t be further from the truth. We have almost 50 wholetime female firefighters in West Yorkshire, who are just as competent as their male colleagues and and who love their job. Any woman is capable of becoming a firefighter if they are fit and healthy and willing to put in

Reporter Zoe Shackleton carries a weighted dummy down a course at Birkenshaw’s fire HQ

Firefighter Rachel Bowen helped put Zoe through her paces

the hard work to achieve their dream.”

Coun Judith Hughes, chairwoman of West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority, said: “I am delighted that applications open on International Women’s Day, as it gives us the ideal opportunity to shine a light on the wonderful female firefighters in West Yorkshire and around the world.”

Last year in total there were more than 7,000 applications for 72 places on the 15-week training course, which is held in Birkenshaw.

Ian Brandwood, chief employment services officer, said: “This is an incredible opportunity to join one of the leading fire and rescue services in the UK, so I would highly recom-

mend that anyone wishing to apply is fully prepared.

“There are many opportunities, both for future promotion and specialisation, with the guarantee of job satisfaction.”

Anyone interested in applying should read the information carefully at www.joinwyfirefighters.com.

Alternatively, call 01274 655745 or email wholetimeapplications@ westyorksfire.gov.uk.

Potential recruits are encouraged to work on their fitness ahead of a series of rigorous tests.

The application period closes on March 26 – there is no upper age limit, you just have to be aged over 18.

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

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to keep you safe ... do you have what it takes to join them?

You need to be fit, but yes you can do it!

THOUGHT I was relatively fit and healthy – apart from the odd chippy lunch and packet of crisps – until I joined some of West Yorkshire Fire Service’s female firefighters for a series of physical tests this week, writes Zoe Shackleton.

I

Unravelling a heavy hose is part of an 11-minute timed fitness exercise

As part of the fire service’s recruitment push, members of the media were invited to their Birkenshaw headquarters to see what it takes to become a firefighter.

I thought it would be a good morning out of the office – try something new, why not? So I signed up, and found myself being put through my paces on Tuesday morning.

We were shown the ropes by station manager Laura Boocock, who is in charge of training at the Birkenshaw site, and firefighter Rachel Bowen, who has been with the service for 10 years.

It was in the middle of one of the first physical tests of the day that I realised I would need to start going to the gym a lot more if I was to become a firefighter.

Let’s put it this way – I’m better at sitting behind my desk writing stories than I am doing any sort of physical exercise.

But it was fun, and insightful just to experience how tough it actually is if you want to get into this job.

part of it.

I was able to complete most of the tasks, but there’s no way I could have done it within the time constraints. So, fire helmets off to those who are strong enough to complete it!

Something I was a little better at, if a little apprehensive at first, was the confined spaces challenge.

I was fitted with a resZoe lifts a weighted bar, watched pirator with an intenby station manager Laura Boocock tionally fogged-up mask, before being put into a Before any of the physical stuff kind of ‘rat run’ and had to feel my started, I was kitted out in full fire- way through to the light at the other fighter gear – helmet, wellies, the lot. end, overcoming various obstacles on Even that was heavy enough to wear, the way.

It was a fun and testing morning, I couldn’t imagine having to bare the weight of that as well as concentrat- and I now have even more respect for firefighters than I did before. ing on putting out fires and lifting The sheer strength and determinaheavy objects on a daily basis. tion that must take is inspiring, and I I then had to go through a timed physical test – which you have to would advise anyone considering taking it up as a career to get down the complete in 11mins 11secs – and boy, gym before giving it a go – I know I what a test it was. would if could get through at least It involves carrying kettle bells, unravelling a hose, carrying one in one of the physical elements!

For now, I think I’ll stick to writing each arm, and dragging a dummy (about the same weight as myself, stuff... but for those who think may I add) whilst wearing breathing they’ve got what it takes, visit www.joinwyfirefighters.com. apparatus – and that was only

ThePress

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Friday March 9, 2018

YOUR TOWN YOUR VOICE

Batley

By Batley Business Association chairman Andrew Marsden ON’T tell anybody, but I am not actually from Batley. It has however well and truly become my adopted town. There is just something about the town that makes you feel a part of it.

When I first came to work here, some 26 years ago I had a 32” waist, and a full head of hair.

The high street had two grocers and two butchers’ shops.

Those shops, much like my waistline, have gone and regrettably (and also like my waistline) probably will not return.

Just a couple of the many changes, both large and small which have taken place in my adopted town over those years.

Towns change, and on the whole that is not a bad thing. When something ends, inevitably something will come along and take its place.

Take Commercial Street. The type and number of shops has changed quite a lot. Gone are some of what we might think of as traditional shops, but in their place we have a thriving and growing food and entertainment culture.

Who even 10 years ago would have expected to see an ice cream parlour? Soon to be two.

This is, for me, the heart of what is Batley. The spirit of the town, that ‘get-on-with-it’ mentality.

Not so long ago the town hall was empty, even locked up on most days. Now the offices are occupied again, and the building is back in important use.

More recently we hear that the library is once again under threat, the response? A call to arms from all and every part of the community to do everything possible to stop the closure.

There are so many more examples of this community spirit. Over recent years we have lost more and more support from Kirklees Council, town centre management has gone, as has a lot of funding.

But, up step our many marvellous volunteers.

A lot of what we take for granted in Batley would not be here without them.

With friends of groups doing great work for example at Wilton Park, and the transformation of the train station. Batley Alliance keeping the borders and planters around town tidy and looked after.

The work at the Batley Old People’s Centre.

The list goes on, I simply cannot mention everyone in this piece.

We also know how to have a good time in Batley. Over recent years the town has come alive with visitors from far and wide for Vintage Day, and Batley Festival.

I have no idea what the future holds, but I have no doubt that Batley will continue to grow.

And why not get involved? There are plenty of volunteer opportunities, and I am certain you will not regret it.

And in case you are interested, I do still have some hair!

D

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Liked the show? You should see the trailer...

By Zoe Shackleton A MIRFIELD couple transformed a cattle trailer into a luxury caravan and were featured on a hit TV show for their efforts.

Sam Thompson, 30, and girlfriend Jessica Allen, 29, appeared on the Channel Four show George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces, which followed their journey from buying the Ifor Williams trailer for just £4,000 to them turning it into a nifty mobile home.

The pair installed a king-size bed, wood-burning stove and double glazing during the £15,000 revamp.

Sam, who works as a designer in Halifax, was contacted by the show and the couple carried out the four-month project last summer.

He said: “It was a real labour of love and has brought us closer together as a couple.

“I’d looked into camper vans but it wasn’t really our style. We wanted something a bit more modern and different.”

The duo were helped by Sam’s dad Colin, a semi-retired kitchen and bathroom fitter and Cleckheaton RUFC stalwart, and they first worked on insulating the trailer before fitting windows for fresh air and putting down proper flooring.

The king-size bed folds up to create more floor space while doubling up as a seating area.

Underneath the bed lies a cleverly fitted kitchen unit which slides out with food and wine storage as well as a fridge.

A table top also slides out to allow for two people to sit and enjoy a drink or meal.

Sam and Jessica, who is an NHS nurse at St James’ Hospital in Leeds, designed the whole layout and furniture for their new holiday home.

Sam said: “We did the work mainly at evenings and weekends and my dad Colin was a huge help.

“There was a bit of bickering between us on screen but when a father and son work together on something like this there’s always a bit of banter going on.

“The original budget was £10,000 but as I only used the best materials it ended up being more like £15,000 – but it’s definitely been worth it.”

The couple have already taken their creation on trips to the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, and tend to use it as a “chill-out space” when they’re not camping.

Jessica added: “I think it’s brilliant and it’s given us a place where we can get away from reality and spend some quality time together.”

Sam Thompson and Jessica Allen in their amazing trailer conversion Below: The pair with Sam’s dad Colin, who helped on the project

Arts and crafts at town hall CLECKHEATON: The Yorkshire Art and Crafts Fair is coming to Cleckheaton Town Hall next month.

There will be a collection of original paintings on sale as well as photographs, toys, ceramics and much more on Saturday April 7. Renowned Yorkshire artist Sue Smith is hosting free presentations at

11.30am and 1.30pm, while there will also be a tombola and raffle. All proceeds are going to Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Refreshments will be available and entry is free, but you can give a £1 charitable donation on the door. For more information call 07946 548046 or email info@yorkshireartfair.com.

Tracy Brabin, Labour MP for Batley and Spen

My first 10-minute rule bill is about equality, and it’s about fairness AVING children in an era where pay is stagnating and the chances of getting on the property ladder are increasingly slim can be a daunting prospect.

For those working on a freelance or self-employed basis, this strain can be felt even more acutely.

Shared parental leave, which enables parents to split their 52 weeks’ leave and 39 weeks of statutory pay after the birth of their child, has been enshrined in law since 2015 for most people.

But it does not extend to all.

The self-employed, freelancers and those employed in the gig economy are unjustly frozen out.

Last month I had the opportunity to propose my first bill – which I hope will become law – to redress this inequality.

I was given 10 minutes in the House of Commons (known as a 10-minute rule bill) to call on the Tories to stop unfairly excluding millions of people from shared parental leave and maternity pay.

What I am proposing will cost the tax-payer nothing, it would simply allow parents to share what is

engineers, taxi drivers, plumbers and painters are just a handful of the professions that are often undertaken on a freelance or selfemployed basis.

My proposal would give dad the chance to stay at home and bond with their baby if they wish, and give mum the chance to return to work if she chooses.

It’s about ensuring the whole of childcare responsibilities don’t fall on the mum’s shoulders from the outset.

It’s about equality, and it’s about fairness.

H

already a statutory right for most.

My husband and I raised two children while working as freelance writers and actors, and it isn’t easy.

But this is not just a policy designed to help those who work in the creative industries – its scope is so much wider.

Cleaners, builders, beauty therapists, delivery drivers, journalists,

YOU MAY have noticed that we had some inclement weather last week as the so-called Beast from the East reared its ugly head.

It made for a frustrating week, but there were plenty of reasons to be thankful.

Dedicated NHS workers, bus and rail staff, taxi drivers, police and fire crews, and countless others worked tirelessly to keep us safe and moving.

I drove back up from London to Gomersal on Thursday and thanks

to the sterling work of council gritting teams, I made it in record time.

But I realise that I was one of the lucky ones. The M1 ground to a virtual halt on my return journey as a blizzard swept in – and I dread to think of what those unlucky souls trapped on the M62 and their families went through.

I have since received emails from constituents who are not impressed with the length of time the motorway was closed.

That is why I have written to the agency in charge of managing our major routes to see what lessons can be learned.

But for all the havoc it caused, the weather certainly brought out the best in people.

From milk being delivered to people’s doors in Cleckheaton in several centimetres of snow to the intrepid volunteers handing out hot food and sleeping bags on the M62, there were plenty of reasons to be proud.

Tracy

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

BUFFET RESTAURANT

Mothers Day Sunday 11th March

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ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

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Local historian Mike Popplewell looks at the people and places that have shaped the history of the district...

The final chapter – Sir Charles in focus n Saturday May 15, 1869 Lady Ada Firth got up from the breakfast table at The Devonshire Arms, near Bolton Abbey, and hurriedly left the building with her dog – her friends and her husband still inside.

She was seen walking past the kitchen window and spotted shortly after walking ‘rapidly’ along the high road and then turning off through a gate towards the River Wharfe.

There were no other sightings until she was found drowned in a still pool 150 yards from the gate the following day. The dog had returned to the hotel on its own on the Saturday.

These were some of the facts that came out at the coroners inquest, held at the Devonshire Arms the following Monday, but the Bradford Observer remarked: “The evidence given tells only a portion of the story. The full knowledge of the rest of it is forever hidden from mortal ken.”

Last week The Press published comments from Lady Firth’s doctor, a Mr JC Ellis, to say how she had been suffering from ‘neuralgia’ and ‘vertigo syncope’ and could, and did, have sudden faints.

A fainting fit and a subsequent fall into the river was seen as a probable cause of the accident by the doctor.

That would certainly be one reason for letting go of the dog if it was on a lead but there are still aspects of this case that I find unsettling – and they all come back to Sir Charles.

Doctor Ellis was adamant that Sir Charles and Lady Ada had a deep and loving relationship.

But, how many caring husbands would be content for their wife, having shown some irritation or anger over breakfast (vexed was the word used by one witness) – as well as having a history of fainting, to go wandering off alone.

Then, as the Observer reported, let “her absence show no signs of uneasiness”?

It is perhaps harsh to embark upon what could be seen as a character assassination, but as a distant relative of Sir Charles I do think it falls into the realm of legitimate family history research to look more closely at his life and behaviour.

For the record, his father was my 3x great grandmother’s cousin.

O

IR CHARLES was definitely his own man. To start with he turned his back on 250 years of the family’s involvement with the life of the Upper Chapel in Heckmondwike to join the Church of England, and he had limited involvement in the family carpet and blanket manufacturing business.

He organised the 1st Artillery Volunteer Battalion and built the barracks in Artillery Street, Heckmondwike, at his own expense in 1867.

Following this he held an exclusive dinner to commemorate the opening of the building in which there were 600 guests – all paid for by Sir Charles himself.

He became a self-appointed Lt Colonel of the volunteers, he was a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the West Riding, a JP, a fire chief (founding Heckmondwike’s first fire service at Flush Mills), and was a coal mine proprietor at one time.

In November 1868 outgoing Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli wrote: “Charles Henry Firth of

S

Sir Charles and Ada Firth

The stained glass window in St Mary’s Church, Gomersal, dedicated to Lady Firth and paid for by Sir Charles Heckmondwike will be knighted by letters patent on 1st December”.

Home Secretary Gathorne Hardy had written to Disraeli on the 21st stating: “Firth’s claim has very much been urged upon me” but he believed he was deserving of the honour.

But, despite all this, how much stability was there in his life?

There doesn’t seem a lot when you look at the facts. He was someone who liked to throw his weight around apparently – the Firth family biographer Mary Skinner suggested he would not tolerate any point of view but his own!

His ‘high-handed’ manner was ultimately the undoing of much of the good that he did and his financial affairs appear a little chaotic.

He embarked on lavish spending, which included the stained glass window in St Mary’s Church, Gomersal and a large burial plot close to the church, poor investments (or just losses through mismanagement), and was ultimately bankrupt in 1878 owing in excess of £52,000 – or in today’s comparative values around £6,000,000!

In 1877 his part of the partnership of Edwin Firth and Sons was dissolved and he bought the colliery on Cook Lane, Heckmondwike, close to The Old Hall. He was bankrupt within a year!

How much of that was a result of the loss of Lady Ada, or how much of his behaviour contributed to the apparent diffidence in respect of his wife that is perhaps suggested by the news reports, remains a matter of conjecture unlikely to ever be resolved.

Sir Charles was living at Flush House in 1871, at Belle Grove, Mirfield, in 1881 but did not appear to have much involvement in Spen Valley life in his remaining years.

He actually moved to the Wharfedale area, living in Ilkley in 1891, Arthington in 1901 and notices of his death in 1910 gave his address as Pool-in-Wharfedale.

He never remarried but those census returns showed him living in the company of his women employees.

One of those, Alice Campkin, was listed as his amanuensis (a literary or artistic assistant) in 1901 and another, Kent-born Emily Robson, was named as his 19-year-old ‘Ward’ in 1871.

How Sir Charles, a 43-year-old widower, became a legal guardian to Emily remains another mystery – as does the employment of an amanuensis in 1901.

The purpose of an amanuensis is to act as a secretary for the express purpose of writing things down.

What Sir Charles needed taking down is anyone’s guess.

After an eventful, if somewhat erratic life, Sir Charles met his end in a quite inconsequential way.

On November 10, 1909, Sir Charles caught a train from Arthington to go to Horsforth but a heart attack saw to it that he would not complete his journey alive.

His funeral was held in the Lawnswood Cemetery Chapel and he was subsequently buried there.

He had been widowed for 50 years and he seems to have chosen not to be buried alongside Lady Ada in St Mary’s church yard, Gomersal, but his name is on her grave as a memorium.

He was the last surviving child of Edwin Firth and while his nieces and nephews turned out in force for the funeral it was the men of the Flush Mills Fire Brigade who bore his coffin.

Sir Charles was predeceased by his brother Sir Thomas Freeman Firth a few months earlier and the press were to make much of the brothers’ comparative fortunes.

While the estate of Sir Thomas was almost £379,000 Sir Charles had just £1,175.

This was indeed a story that may never be fully told.

Michael’s down but definitely not out!

VETERAN athlete Michael Luby was unable to complete a race for the first time ever when he attempted the Big Half marathon.

The London race stretched over 13.1 miles from Tower Bridge to Greenwich on Saturday, but Michael, from Dewsbury, had to stop two miles short.

He said: “I had to pull up because I felt unwell.

“A medic on his bike came over and took my blood pressure.”

Michael’s blood pressure was low and he had to be taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where he spent four hours before being released.

“That’s the first time I’ve ever not finished a run,” said Michael.

“But the medic said I would’ve been worse off if I had finished.”

Michael, now 63, has taken part in 17 Great North Runs as well as completing the New York Marathon 17 times.

He is set to compete in the northern race this September, despite this recent setback.

He said: “There’s always next time round!”

Despite not finishing Michael still managed to raise £320 for his chosen charities, Keep Kids Going and the Jo Cox Foundation, which he continues to fundraise for with each race.

18

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

Ramblers’ corner FORTHCOMING walks with the North Kirklees Group of the Ramblers – non-members are always welcome. Please call the walk leader for more details WEDNESDAY MARCH 14 CANAL, CALDER AND CHURCH Starts at 11am at Mirfield Parish Church (WF3 4LY, SE354230) 6 miles – moderate Contact: Jim 01924 469700 janderegan@hotmail.co.uk

Sinfield in town A RUGBY league legend will be at the newly-refurbished Brooklands Bar to watch one of the biggest games of the season next week.

Former Leeds Rhinos captain Kevin Sinfield MBE will join fans at the Bradford Road bar to watch St Helens take on the Rhinos on Friday March 16.

Sinfield will be there from 6pm, with the game kicking off at 7.45pm, and there will be a chance to have your photo taken or memorabilia signed by the man himself.

All in a jumble A JUMBLE sale is being held on Friday, March 16, in Trinity Methodist Church’s Community Rooms on Trinity Street, Mirfield.

The sale starts at 6pm and admission is 20p.

Rambling on THE BEAST from the East ruined Dewsbury & District Ramblers plans on Sunday as their Marsden walk was cancelled.

On Wednesday, they enjoyed the Centenary Walk through Dewsbury and Batley setting off from Bagshaw Museum.

Tomorrow (Saturday) there is a walk planned to Fairburn Ings.

Ramblers are asked to meet David Lodge at 9.30am at Link Road, Dewsbury.

What a thriller HANGING HEATON’S Ebenezer Methodist Drama Group are currently rehearsing their next production.

Trap For A Lonely Man, a thriller by Robert Thomas, will be performed in the school room from April 26 to April 28 at 7.15pm each night. Admission, including refreshments, is £6.50 for adults and £4.50 for children.

Skelsey Row will bring the craic before Paddy’s Day COME and enjoy ‘the craic’ with a St Patrick’s Eve night out at St Mary’s Social Club on Melton Street, Batley.

‘Skelsey Row’ will be entertaining with a large selection of popular Irish music and folk songs.

The band was named after a local famous landmark which stood near to the club’s premises.

The performance starts at 7.30pm on St Patrick’s Eve, Friday March 16.

Tickets priced £5 are

available by calling 01924 478394 or directly from St Mary’s Social Club.

Ticket price includes pie and pea supper.

All proceeds will go to the St Mary’s Church Roof Fund.

A classic on stage

Dancing through century

DEWSBURY Arts Group are in the final stages of rehearsals for Arthur Miller’s classic ‘All My Sons’.

Written by one of the greatest playwrights of the 20th century, All My Sons is a gripping and powerful story about love, family secrets and the corrupting power of greed.

It opens at the Artspace, on Lower Peel Street, Dewsbury, tonight (Fri) with performances every evening at 7.30pm (except Sunday) until Saturday March 17.

For bookings go to www.dewsbury artsgroup.info or call 0333 6663366.

A timeless tale, beautifully told

Fashion show MILLBRIDGE WMC is hosting a charity fashion show on Friday March 23.

The show, which starts at 7pm at the club on Bennett Street, Liversedge, is being organised

by Dawn Jowett.

She is raising money for Kirkwood Hospice in memory of her late step-father Mike Swinton.

Entry is £5 and the night will include a raffle and refreshments, plus the clothes will be on sale after the fashion show at bargain prices.

A hairy tale SPEN VALLEY Historical Society’s next meeting is on Wednesday, March 14, when there is a talk titled ‘The Story Of Mohair’ by John Clay. Meetings are held in the Catholic Church Parish Hall on Dewsbury Road, Cleckheaton, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments served from 7.15pm. The cost is £2 per meeting for members, £4 for guests and membership is £10 per year.

For more information email scooper@thecoopers online.org.uk.

SATURDAY MARCH 24 UP THE JUNCTION 26 Starts at 10.30am at the rear of Cleckheaton Town Hall (BD19 3RH, SE191254) 8.5 miles – moderate Contact: David Parkinson 01274 879794 david.parky@tiscali.co.uk

Northern Ballet’s Jane Eyre at Leeds Grand Theatre until March 14 Review by David Bentley WE JOINED one of literature’s most iconic heroines on a journey of courage, romance and tragedy on Wednesday night.

Based on the novel by Charlotte Brontë, Northern Ballet is bringing the beautiful love story of Jane Eyre to life at the Leeds Grand with performances until March 14.

Orphaned at a young age

and cruelly treated by her aunt, Jane Eyre is a plain but intelligent child who grows up knowing little kindness.

Sent away to a charitable school, Jane (played by Dreda Blow) later accepts a position as a Governess at Thornfield, a gentleman’s manor whose master is the dark and impassioned Mr Rochester (Javier Torres).

In spite of their social differences, an unlikely bond grows between the pair but as their romance develops, it becomes clear that Mr

Rochester has a hidden past that threatens to ruin them both.

The ultimate dramatic tale of romance, jealousy and dark secrets, Jane Eyre is the story of one woman’s indomitable spirit overcoming all boundaries.

Jane Eyre was originally premièred by Northern Ballet in May 2016 and nominated for a South Bank Sky Arts Award in 2017.

It is choreographed by internationally acclaimed British dance maker Cathy

Marston, whose recent credits include a new production of Dangerous Liaisons for Danish Royal Ballet in May 2017.

Jane Eyre is set to a score of original compositions and existing work compiled and arranged by composer Philip Feeney.

This is a beautifully timeless tale told through the company’s unique blend of classical ballet and drama.

For tickets visit leedsgrandtheatre.com or call the box office on 0844 8482700.

HUNDREDS of Mirfield dancers will descend on Huddersfield to take audiences on a journey of iconic music and dance through the 20th century.

Katie Philpott School of Dance’s ‘CENTURY’ show will take place at the Lawrence Batley Theatre with four shows over Saturday March 24 and Sunday March 25.

With a cast of 300+ students aged from three upwards, CENTURY will showcase the range of classes that KPSD delivers including ballet, tap, jazz, modern theatre, street dance, musical theatre, freestyle, contemporary, cheerleading, adult classes and creative movement and Disco Duck for pre-schoolers.

Katie explained: “The show rewinds the clock to the midnight hour on December 31, 1899.

“We open with Clair de Lune then pick up the pace with Chitty Chitty Bang Bang before timetravelling through 20th century ballet classics such as Coppelia, Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty.”

The show also packs in Elvis, the Beach Boys, Tina Turner, ABBA and Wham, rounding off in style with Prince and 1999 before winding up as the clock strikes midnight and the curtain falls on the 20th century.

KPSD was established in 2000 and Katie added: “Playing a pivotal role in our local community is paramount.

“All our students are part of the KPSD family and our school is as much about fitness and friendship as it is about excellence in dance.”

However, the school, based at the Wellhouse Moravian and Zion Baptist churches, is proud of its 100 per cent success rate in ISTD examinations and many of its students have gone on to flourishing careers in the entertainment industry.

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

Hear Ann across the BBC radio network

Mary Poppins star Zizi is Strictly Bonnie in a brand -new West End musical Z IZI STRALLEN was recently performing in Follies and will soon be seen in Strictly Ballroom at the Piccadilly Theatre. She also may look familiar, as her aunt is the super-talented Bonnie Langford, but she told me at the Café De Paris in London: “I never thought about another career as it’s all I know, I grew up in theatre and I do love it. My favourite role was of course Mary Poppins, I mean we all love to fly even on a wire don’t we?!” Fans may also note that she appeared in the ITV show Britannia High 10 years ago, which aped the behind the scenes of The X Factor...

HAS Catherine Zeta-Jones forgotten her Welsh roots?

Not at all as the Darling Buds of May actress (who used to film the show in Leeds) reveals: “I still speak Welsh at home and I have taught Michael some too, but no I would never ever forget my roots. It’s my heritage for goodness sake!”

CORONATION STREET rising star Lucy Fallon who plays Bethany in the soap, admits she was shocked at her recent National Television Award win. She said: “I think people assume you know, but honestly I had no idea, and looking back you can tell that. What a thrill, I never expected to get that far with it all.”

STRICTLY Come Dancing star Brendan Cole has denied rumours that his waltz with HRH Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, was the real reason that he was axed from the hit BBC show.

The professional dancer left the programme in January after 14 years. His PR team, simply state this is all “nonsense” and that he is now busy with his own tour.

Oh dear!

BBC Breakfast’s Naga Munchetty tells me that she takes notice of what people say about her fashion sense on the show. She said: “I think some of the comments are a bit harsh, but again it’s an opinion and it’s only when you see the outfit on TV do you think, sometimes, maybe this is not right for the job ... (laughing)” EMMERDALE actress Emma Atkins, who plays Charity Dingle and has done so for 18 years, tells me that she still loves the character but

19

Reyt good victory for Yorkshire folk

SUMMAT TO SMILE ABOUT: Alan Walker (front left) won the Arthur Kinder Trophy, he sits with his wife Carol (centre front) who came third and Glenys Hallsworth who claimed second place

Ann with Zizi Strallen is stunned that fans still do.

She said: “I do wonder how much more evil she has to be before they do get fed up with her, but its been great so far and I hope they keep her for a long time.”

HI-DE-HI star Jeff Holland tells me that there was almost was a film made of the famous holiday camp TV show, but it was the creators of Croft & Perry that vetoed the idea, claiming they felt it would use all the jokes up in one 90-minute film. Jeff added: “I think it was a mistake as the fans would have loved it, but it ended at that point. But yes, what fun it would have been.”

CHAT show host Graham Norton has written his second novel, a ‘twisted tale of family secrets’ entitled A Keeper. To be published in October, it follows his 2016 bestseller Holding and his earlier autobiography.

Graham tells me: “I think, well, hope this could be the next phase of my career.”

THE EMMERDALE theme tune was written by music maestro Tony Hatch, but he admits that so many of his tunes were hit TV themes he sometimes has to doublecheck if he in fact wrote it! He said: “The 70s were a hugely busy time, and I would get a call, say, to write something for a series, and while I loved them all, I do have to check from time to time...”

THE RE-BOOT of Porridge has been axed after just one series. BBC chiefs have confirmed that there are no

© Maycon Pictures plans for a second run of the new version, in which Kevin Bishop played the grandson of Ronnie Barker’s original old lag, Norman Stanley Fletcher. Although six new episodes were written, it failed to capture viewers in the same way as the original.

MRS BROWN’S Boys star Brendan O’Carroll has said he is delighted to be shedding a bra for his new role – as a quiz show host. Brendan, best known for his Mrs Brown alter-ego, will present ‘For Facts Sake’ – a twist on his famous catchphrase – for BBC One. He said: “It will be still the same fun and frolics, but this time I won’t be dressed as Mrs Brown.”

FORMER EastEnders star Harry Reid is to make his stage debut in Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution. The soap actor, whose character Ben Mitchell left Walford last month, will play Leonard Vole in the new cast of the production. No word on if he will take his long-lost mother Kathy with him too...

UNTIL his retirement at the end of 2016, former Look North presenter Jeremy Thompson was one of the longest-serving journalists and news anchors in the UK. During a 40-year career in television news, he gained a reputation as the consummate broadcaster, latterly as the anchor of Sky News’ early evening programme.

Now he has a new book out called ‘Breaking News’. It’s a great read and covers many stories that readers will all remember.

YORKSHIRE dialect speakers from a Dewsbury-based group were the big winners at this year’s Mrs Sunderland Festival.

Members of the Dewsbury U3A Yorkshire Dialect Class used their speaking skills to scoop first, second and third prizes in the dialect section at the prestigious celebration of music, speech and drama.

Seven out of the nine contestants vying for the Arthur Kinder Trophy were from the Dewsbury group.

And husband and wife duo Alan and Carol Walker picked up first and third prize respectively, with fellow group member Glenys

Hallsworth bagging second place.

Other Dewsbury speakers Barbara Rhodes, Edwina Ledgard, Carol Waters, and Charmaine Straker-Purvis all competed alongside the prize winners on Tuesday February 20 by reading traditional Yorkshire pieces at the Huddersfield Town Hall festival.

The Mrs Sunderland Festival is one of the most prestigious in the North of England and attracts performers from all parts of the United Kingdom.

The dialect group meets every Friday at Dewsbury Town Hall and has members from Kirklees and beyond.

A bit of pub grub...

BRACE yourself for an immersive love story performed in a pub, set to a soundtrack of Northern Soul and served with a fish and chip supper.

Performing in unusual spaces as part of a national tour, this fun production of Chip Shop Chips is coming to three real ale pubs in Dewsbury, Mirfield and Cleckheaton next week with a play, quiz and supper all rolled into one.

In a bid to attract audiences who don’t normally go to the theatre – as well as those that do – arts organisation Creative Scene is working with the Box of Tricks theatre company to present a northern ‘sole’ love story, set in a local chippy.

In ‘Chip Shop Chips’ the audience learns about the grand reopening of Booth and Sons Fish and Chip Shop. Eric has returned home more than 40 years

after he left, and it’s time for a fresh start. But old flame Christine has other ideas.

Transported back to a time of chippy teas and Northern Soul, there’s unfinished business for the old lovers.

Watching teenage love stumble as hapless Lee makes a pass at the beautiful Jasmine, is it all just history repeating itself?

This is theatre, but not as you know it: dinner, quiz and a show all in one.

Focusing on love at different ages and celebrating our beloved dish, the performances are part of a national tour which runs until April 21.

The heart-warming story is written by Becky Prestwich and the performers are Julie Edwards (Christine), Jessica Forrest of Hollyoaks fame (Jasmine), Mark Newsome (Lee) and Josh Moran (Eric).

Chip Shop Chips is at the Navigation Tavern in

Mirfield on Tuesday March 13; The Leggers Inn, Dewsbury on Wednesday March 14 and Mill Valley Brewery in Cleckheaton on Thursday March 15. All start at 7.30pm.

Landlord Joel Graham, of The Leggers Inn, said: “It is good to see a performance in a place you are not expecting it.

“We are looking forward to hosting Chip Shop Chips in our function room for regulars and newcomers alike.”

Tickets are limited and are expected to sell out – they must be booked in advance as food has to be ordered from a local chippy.

Suitable for over-18s, the show lasts for two hours with an interval.

Tickets priced £8 include a fish and chip supper, and vegetarian options are available.

To book and for more information visit www. creativescene.org.uk.

20

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

Tel: 01924 492457 Fax: 01924 480466 General Waste Recycling Centre

You can now order a skip from Arthur Brook Ltd for all your waste!

We accept all of your household and commercial waste

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ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

Marketplace Classified Turn your unwanted items

into cash £££s

1) Ring Angela on 01924 470296 (9.30am-4.30pm). Have your advert ready and you can pay by debit card (30p surcharge).

2) Call into the office at 31 Branch Road, Batley WF17 5SB and pay by cash, cheque or debit card (30p surcharge).

3) Post your advert and include your name and a contact number, along with cheque for payment.

ADVERTS must be no longer than 50 words.

(We cannot accept the following items: Motor vehicles, caravans, livestock. All listings will stay in Marketplace for a maximum of two months. If you wish to amend your listing, or cancel when sold, contact or call 01924 470296.

NEW Modern wood wardrobe (H) 66” x (D) 21 1/2, £25 ono.

Tel Batley 01924 479647. (2104) BEDROOM Complete bedroom unit includes two wardrobes and 4 top boxes £85 ono. Tel 01924 470866. (2103) Two cream double wardrobes with matching two chests of drawers plus two bedside cabinets, in good condition. Buyer collects, offers around £50. Tel 07938 563197. (2099) Single bed with firm mattress and sliding drawer in base.

Complete with solid antique pine headboard. Guest bed, so only used a handful of times, £50. Photo can be texted/emailed on request. Tel 07752 325842 (to collect from Mirfield) (2101) DIY Howden Joinery 700 worktop jig with pegs, in superb condition, £30. Tel Mr Smith 01924 441978 (Batley) (2102)

Steel up-and-over garage door within steel frame. As new, with all hardware.

Door 6’5” wide x 6’11” high with frame 6’11” wide x 7’3” high, £100 ono. Tel 07756 164491. (2092) ELECTRICAL Dyson DC33 vacuum cleaner. Light use, excellent condition, £50. Tel 01924 476050. (2098) Bosch cylinder vacuum cleaner, model Terrossa, 1800 watt.

Like new £25. Tel 01924 689074. (2095) Panasonic portable colour television, in excellent condition, with remote control.

Ideal for child’s bedroom etc. Can deliver locally, £20. Tel 01924 471758. (2086) FASHION/ CLOTHING Two pairs of jeggings, brand new (with labels), size 24, short leg, 1 blue denim, 1 black £5 each. Tel 01924 504009. (2097) Ladies reversible coat with hood, size 12.

Creamy white, suede effect one side, leop-

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

ITEM bands

Up to £7: £8 - £25: £26 - £50 £51- £100 £101-£200 £201-£500 £501-£1450 £1,451 plus ard print fur the other side. Cost new £150, sell for £60. Tel 01924 468069. (2089) Red, short ladies jacket, wool and cashmere, size 12/14 £30.

Tel 01924 468069.

(2089) FURNITURE Round dining table & 4 chairs, good condition £50. Tel 01924 470866. (2103) Class cabinet 6ft high £20. Tel 01924 470866. (2103) Low table 2ft sq, glass top in white £10.

Tel 01924 470866.

(2103) Large Italian inlaid dining room table with 4 chairs + 2 carvers, plus matching corner unit in excellent condition, £200 no offers.

Tel 01924 503500.

(2100) Traditional, beige chenille-type fabric, three-piece suite (inc recliner chair) – excellent condition. Bought from Middlestown Furnishings for £1800, will accept £250 for quick sale. Photo can be texted/emailed on

Cost per item

£1 £2 £3 £4 £5 £7 £9 £11 request. Tel 07752 325842 (to collect from Mirfield) (2101) Oak effect, drop-leaf dining table with four chairs – covered in a cream material.

Excellent condition, bargain at £60. Photo can be texted/emailed on request. Tel 07752 325842 (to collect from Mirfield) (2101)

Want to advertise in our Classified section?

Call 01924 470296 or email advertising@thepressnews.co.uk Aerial & Satellite

Shackleton chair, beige/ brown moquette material. 18 months old, £150 ono.

Tel 01924 504009.

(2097)

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SUPPLIERS OFALL BESPOKE GLASS PRODUCTS

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Three piece suite in brown fabric, 3 seater + 2 seater + chair, excellent condition, bargain at £75. Tel 01924 476596. (2096) MISCELLANEOUS Fish tank, 64 litres, includes pump, filter & ornaments, £50. Tel 01924 504009. (2097) Aqua One 550 fish tank, corner unit, holds 78 litres.

Includes pump, light & heater. Bargain at £80.

Tel 07816 132472.

(2081) Two large-size suitcases, purple, as new, £30 the pair. Tel 01924 478721. (2083) MOBILITY Lightweight, portable, folding access ramp, suitable for mobility scooter or wheelchair.

4ft long, never used, still boxed, as new £55.

Buyer collects. Tel 01924 405185.

(Liversedge area) (2090) MUSICAL Brunswick acoustic guitar and case, in excellent condition, £75 ono. Tel 01924 462351. (2082) PLANTS Large aspidistras in pots, £10 each. Tel 07508 834666. (2094)

Car Boot Sale

Care Homes

The Area’s Biggest and Best Car Boot Sale every Sunday at Dewsbury Rams, Owl Lane, Dewsbury OPEN AS USUAL DURING GROUND DEVELOPMENT WORK Price £12 per car, opens at 6.00am, ring 01924 465489 for further details

GARLANDS

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Excellent condition £20. Photo can be texted/emailed on request. Tel 07752 325842 (to collect from Mirfield) (2101)

21

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5kg Chicken £25 2.5kg Chicken £13 See instore for more details 128 Huddersfield Rd, Mirfield

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Classified section continues over page >

Classified 22

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Friday March 9, 2018

25

FOOTBALL

Sedge’s fixture chaos LIVERSEDGE FC face a hectic fixture schedule in the coming months after two more games were postponed last week.

Storm Emma and the Beast from the East prevented Sedge’s game at Bottesford Town going ahead before their game away at Garforth Town was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

Liversedge now have to play at least 18 games by April 28 – 17 in the league and one cup fixture.

This coming week Sedge are expected to play three games in seven days with a total of nine fixtures planned for the rest of March.

To put that into perspective, Kirklees neighbours Huddersfield Town will only play three games before April.

“We have 18 games to play in seven weeks and it doesn’t add up really,” said manager Jonathan Rimmington.

“It’s absolutely horrendous but I don’t know what can be done.

“We don’t have a reserve side or an Under-19s or Under-21s, lads work and we will have lads who will get injured and I don’t know where to go with it.

“The league say it has to be finished by the last day of April but our players will end up playing Saturday, Monday, Wednesday and Saturday again.”

Liversedge host Bridlington Town tomorrow (3pm), they then travel to Bottesford Town on Monday (7.45pm) before a trip to Athersley Recreation on Thursday (7.45pm).

Ossett Women are United OSSETT UNITED have announced plans to run a women’s programme alongside their newly-proposed men’s team.

The proposed merger between Ossett Town and Ossett Albion is yet to receive the go-ahead from the FA. However, there are now plans in place for an Ossett United Women’s team.

The team will be based at Dimple Wells, the current home of Ossett Albion, and will be the first to make use of the scheduled improvements in facilities.

There are plans to build a 4G pitch, four new changing rooms, a gym, cafe and club shop.

This will give the women’s team their

own facility, joining the likes of Manchester City as a ladies’ side that run from its own base.

“Women’s football in the region is growing stronger every year and we have had some great players produced from teams based in West Yorkshire,” said chief executive of the West Riding County FA Hannah Simpson.

“With a professional coaching structure in place and a dedicated facility I believe this new club is an exciting prospect and hope that it becomes a club the people of Ossett and surrounding areas can be proud of.”

Albion scoop Corner

BAFFLED: Liversedge manager Jonathan Rimmington (left) is shocked that his team are expected to play over a third of their NCEL campaign in less than two months

RUGBY UNION

OSSETT ALBION have secured the services of Tom Corner (pictured) on a loan deal until the end of the season.

Corner has joined from Tadcaster Albion and is the current leading goalscorer at the North Yorkshire side.

The prolific forward has previously had spells at National League level with Grimsby and North Ferriby.

“Tom is an experienced and proven striker and having him in the squad adds to our front line options,” said Albion boss Andy Welsh.

“I am very keen to get him out there playing.

“We are playing well and the team all know what is expected of them for the rest of the season.”

The Unicorns have also signed James Knowles and Marcus Day as they aim to beat the drop.

RACING PREVIEW WITH MIKE SMITH

Cleckheaton’s breast cancer The greatest show on turf charity day hampered by snow T

SNOW USE: An army of volunteers were unable to clear the pitch at Moorend in time for last Saturday CLECKHEATON RUFC have thanked those who turned out last week to try and clear the snow at Moorend.

The Spen Valley side were forced to postpone their game against West Hartlepool after heavy snowfall.

Cleck chairman Neil Gillan said parts of the pitch remained too hard to play on.

“Unfortunately, mother nature had beaten us and

despite a posse of about 30 volunteers turning up to help clear the snow, I decided it was it going to be in vain and the game was postponed,” said Gillan.

“For everyone that turned up, thank you for your efforts, we did all we could to get the pitch fit.”

Cleckheaton had organised a Breast Cancer Charity Day, with the team due to play in a

specially commissioned pink kit.

The club were still able to hold their ladies lunch and went ahead with the karaoke and disco.

Despite the weather, Cleck managed to raise £3,000 for charity.

The Moorenders will still have a chance to wear their pink kit when they face West Hartlepool next weekend.

Howley Hall to run two free taster days HOWLEY HALL is running two golf taster days for ladies which are free to attend, and will include afternoon tea hosted by the club’s lady members.

The days are scheduled for Sunday, March 25 and Monday, March 26 from 2pm to 3.30pm and include tuition from club professional Ryan Rastall and his coaching team,

along with the chance to play a few holes.

Organiser Becky O’Grady, who became the club’s director last year said: “The taster days are part of our recruitment programme and this is a wonderful opportunity for ladies to come along and learn about the game, see our great facilities and meet new friends in a relaxed and

friendly environment.

“We have also now introduced competitions on a Sunday to run alongside the events on Tuesdays and I’m also hoping this will encourage more ladies to come and play.”

Ladies wishing to attend can reserve places by contacting Ryan Rastall on 01924 350102 or by emailing him at ryan@ryanrastallgolf.co.uk.

HE best punt of the Cheltenham Festival in the past was to take the odds on the opening day being contested on good ground, but there’s every chance that the word soft may creep into the description next Tuesday.

Cheltenham is recovering well from the heavy snow that cloaked the track, according to clerk of the course Simon Claisse, who on Sunday changed the going to primarily soft.

But Claisse is anticipating rain to arrive, turning heavier as the festival approaches.

He said: “We are now soft and good to soft in places on the chase, hurdles and crosscountry courses.

“I think it will remain that way for much of the week with some rain forecast, which could turn heavier by the end of the week with 810mm across Friday and Saturday.”

The legacy of the Beast from the East won’t worry the Irish contingent, as their horses generally run more on wetter ground which is often described as soft when closer to heavy.

Willie Mullins’ first string for the RSA AL BOUM PHOTO ran the worst race of his career when fifth on good to yielding ground at Punchestown last year and has been kept to soft or worse conditions since.

The smooth traveller is almost certain to improve for the step up in trip and jumps well.

CHRIS’S DREAM jumped into the Cheltenham picture with a 64-length demolition job at Clonmel last month in extremely heavy conditions.

Henry de Bromhead’s sixyear-old led from an early stage and just went further and further away from his opponents as the race went on.

Both his career victories have come on soft or heavier and he must have a big chance in the Albert Barlett on Friday.

But the Irish won’t have it all their way, and not a surprise to see little bits of money for the Colin Tizzardtrained NATIVE RIVER for the festival feature, the Gold Cup.

Grinding out victories from the front is his forte and the slower the surface, the more effective his running style.

He’s won five of his 10 career victories with the ground soft or worse.

KALASHNIKOV showed a liking for soft ground when romping home in the Betfair Hurdle last month, and trainer Amy Murphy is likely to favour the Supreme over taking on SAMCRO in the Ballymore, while Harry Whittington has SAINT CALVADOS primed for the Arkle.

He has won six of his seven career starts and has never raced on ground better than soft.

With favourite Footpad drifting in the market, it could be worth having a few quid on SAINT CALVADOS before his price contracts further.

Co Meath handler Gordon Elliott had a sensational start to last year’s Festival with six winners in the first two days.

FLAWLESS ESCAPE holds four entries, but it looks like connections are leaning towards the Martin Pipe Hurdle, and he will be of interest if he lines up in that.

His DOUNIKAS looks overpriced with Carrigill’s at 10’s for the RSA. •CARRIGILL’S NAP (Stake returned as a free bet if selection does not finish in the top 4): DOUNIKAS, RSA Chase, Wednesday, March 14.

•AUGUR’S BEST BET: SAINT CALVADOS, Racing Post Arkle, Tuesday, March 13.

26

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

RUGBY LEAGUE

Maroons target win number 16

Hanging Heaton aim for semi-final spot in Pennine League Cup

DEWSBURY MOOR head coach James Delaney believes that his side have the potential to secure back-to-back promotions.

Moor will start their NCL Division Two campaign tomorrow afternoon against Stanningley.

The Maroons won 12 consecutive games at the end of last year to secure promotion from the third tier and have won all three of their preseason games, stretching their winning run to 15.

And Delaney says he has been delighted with the club’s preparations for the new campaign.

“I am very pleased with how preseason has gone for the year ahead, it’s been a tough eight weeks of training for the boys,” said Delaney.

“With some strong pre-season friendlies against two Division One sides and our local rivals Dewsbury Celtic.

“But to come out with three wins going into Saturday’s game we are confident we can come away with the win.

“Every team in this league will be striving to be in the play-offs come the back end of the season and I don’t see why we can’t do so as well.

“We have some serious talent in our squad with plenty of depth in all positions with lads competing well in training to be in that starting squad

15 IN A ROW: Aiden Ineson scores for Dewsbury Moor during pre-season on a Saturday.

“Another goal as a squad and for the club would be to be in the draw for the Challenge Cup next year as it’s been over 20 years since our club was represented in the competition.”

With Moor entering a new division Delaney is expecting no easy games for his players.

But he admits he is confident in his team’s ability ahead of their trip to Stanningley tomorrow.

He added: “I am expecting it to be a

challenge every week in this division, I don’t really know much about it and I very much doubt most teams know much about us.

“We know Stanningley are going to give us a tough, physical game.

“They’re a big side and are coming of their first league win last week with confidence.

“But we are confident in our ability and that we will get the job done, like we have done for the last 15 games straight.”

HANGING HEATON head coach Steve Smith is not taking anything for granted in this weekend’s Pennine League Cup clash against Moldgreen.

Smith’s side have already defeated Moldgreen twice in the league this season, scoring 76 points while only conceding an unconverted try and a penalty goal.

But the Hanging Heaton boss says that when it comes to the cup it is anyone’s game.

“Yes, you could say we have had a couple of convincing victories however this week is knock-out football and it will be down to who wants it more this week,” said Smith.

“After our performance against Greetland in the first round, with a few key players missing due to Challenge Cup fixtures, I’m very confident the boys will step up and see us through to the semi final.”

Hanging Heaton, like most clubs across the district, had a blank weekend last week due to the severe weather.

There is the possibility that Moldgreen’s pitch may not recover in time and the fixture could be played on the 4G pitch beside the Tetley’s Stadium.

And after missing a week of action Smith says the number of postponements they have had this season has been frustrating.

He said: “Every week the boys

are raring to go but it’s very frustrating with the amount of postponements we have had.

“I really hope we can get a good run of games and conclude the season with the league title.

“Hopefully we should have Declan Tomlinson and Rob Bingham back from Challenge Cup duty, but unfortunately we won’t see Adam Bingham back this season as he has summer commitments.

“However we have secured the services of another half-back in Luke Dawson who normally plays for Odsal Sedbergh in the summer.

“Danny Brown is itching to get out there having only played two games this year after injuring his shoulder in pre-season.”

Smith says that the cup was not a target for his team at the beginning of the season but added it would be a nice bonus if they could complete the double.

“Our sole aim was to go unbeaten and win the league, but we are now only two wins from the final and it’s another cherry for the cake,” he added.

“Like I say if we can do it, it’s a nice bonus.

“The table speaks for itself – we are two wins away from mathematically being safe at the top.

“Our defence has been ruthless and we have put some pretty decent scorelines up against all the top teams.”

Celtic keeping it real as they look at mid-table finish DEWSBURY CELTIC boss Brendan Sheridan says he is unsure what to expect when Salford City Roosters visit Crow Nest Park tomorrow afternoon.

Sheridan will be in charge for only his second competitive game since taking the reigns at Celtic last year.

And the former Birstall Victoria player says that he needs to have realistic expectations of the season ahead.

“It is unknown territory for me as it is the first time I have coached

in the NCL, I don’t know much about them,” said Sheridan.

“Coming over from Lancashire way they are usually a fairly big side and I expect them to be big through the middle and pretty strong.

“We are going to need to be on our guard and fight fire with fire.

“I have got to be realistic, if we finish higher than we did last year then that is a successful season.

“My ambition is a little bit more than that but I have got to be realistic and as long as we are competing

TV coverage confirmed for all local NCL clubs DEWSBURY MOOR and Shaw Cross Sharks have both had games selected for live coverage on FreeSports, in association with RugbyAM. The initial batch of live fixtures were released a few weeks ago, with Thornhill Trojans and Dewsbury Celtic both chosen for live coverage.

Now Dewsbury Moor’s away clash against Wigan St Judes will be shown live on September 1.

And Shaw Cross’s final game of the season against Ince Rose Bridge will also be broadcast on Saturday 15.

It means that all four Heavy Woollen NCL teams will have one game shown on terrestrial television in 2018.

Shaw Cross Sharks chairman Brett Turner says that he spoke with RugbyAM founder Alex

Simmons and persuaded him to put the Sharks on TV. “I know Alex pretty well, I have known him for years and years, long before he was doing RugbyAM,” said Turner.

“I just had a bit of a whinge to him basically, initially we were the only team in Division One not selected and it didn’t sit well with me.

“So we managed to whinge our way onto the telly, but it’s good. I think it is brilliant what they are doing for the amateur game.

“Obviously Super League is the only coverage you’ll see on telly barring Toronto on Premier Sports.

“I think it’s great to get amateur lads on TV who are going out to play for fun and some who could play professional rugby but choose not to, they work hard and they deserve it.”

in all our games and finish midtable I’ll be very happy come the end of the year.”

Sheridan has been pleased with what he has seen from his players so far this year.

And despite losing their opening league game 20-14 at Eastmoor Dragons, Sheridan was full of praise for the character shown by his players.

He said: “I think I have got to give the guys massive credit for the three games we have played, the two pre-season games and the game

against Eastmoor.

“Against Shaw Cross the majority of our squad was 18 or 19 years old which is good for the future but obviously we are playing for the now.

“In the Eastmoor game we came up against a really good side and their approach was that they were going to roll us over.

“Defensively I thought we were great, even though we lost the game. We let two soft tries in on our line which is disappointing but the attitude from all the players was

first class.

“We went down to 12 men with no subs with 30 minutes to go in the second half and a couple of guys went back on injured and that shows their character.

“That is what I am trying to build, a good character with a good honest attitude which will stand us in good stead in games.

“Some people want to play in a specific role but I can see others in different roles, so getting those combinations working is going to take a little bit of time.”

Sharks maintain promotion goal SHAW CROSS SHARKS head coach Zach Johnson feels that their secondround Challenge Cup defeat last month has set them in good stead for their NCL campaign.

The former Dewsbury Rams forward believes that his players have learnt harsh lessons and says promotion is still the goal this year.

The Sharks begin their 2018 campaign with a trip to Ince Rose Bridge tomorrow afternoon, the same team they beat on the final day of last season.

“Pre-season is all well and good but now it is business time and this is where we will test ourselves,” said Johnson.

“Strangely, I think the loss in the cup will be more beneficial to us than the other two games, a lot of people realised we can’t turn up at 50 per cent and get a result.

“There has been a lot that we have worked on since and we are still not where we want to be at but we have certainly improved.

“I am glad we got the wins against Beverley and Dewsbury Celtic and we have learnt since Oulton.

“I am not changing my mindset on it, there has been nothing that has made me think we can’t do what I set out originally – which is to finish in the top four with a view of getting promoted.

“Another thing is to win that local trophy, it has been a few years since we had that.

“I think there will be a few good additions to the squad in the next few weeks, hopefully a couple of ex-pros so we should have some more strength and depth.

“This game has been a long time coming, we have put a lot of work in and we are ready to kick off and start the campaign.

“We haven’t had many joyous trips over to Ince Rose in recent years.

“It is always a physical encounter, it is always fiery but now I think we have the mindset to deal with that.

“In the past we would have fallen apart.”

READY TO GO – Sharks’ Zach Johnson

ThePress

Friday March 9, 2018

27

BETFRED CHAMPIONSHIP

Scott: The Bulldogs can repeat top-four heroics BATLEY full-back Dave Scott feels that the Bulldogs have the ability to achieve “something special” this season.

The Scotland international was part of the Batley side that competed in the Qualifiers in 2016.

And while the Bulldogs finished well outside the coveted top-four spots last year, Scott reckons they are better equipped for the challenge this time round.

“We know that we have got the players to achieve something special,” said Scott.

“It is down to us really and how we apply ourselves and how we train and when we take to the field making sure we stick to our game plan.

“Really we are just looking to finish as high up the table as we can, we know it is going to be tough.

“There are four full-time teams in there so, naturally, you would expect them to be towards the top end of the table.

“But Barrow and a couple of other teams have shown that these full-time teams can be beaten, so it’s not unrealistic to say we can finish in the top four.

“Year on year the Championship is becoming closer and closer to Super League really.

“When I started playing in the Championship back in 2013 it was a tough league.

“When you compare that to now the parttime teams have upped their game and the full-time teams are pushing for Super League.

“I definitely wake up on a Monday morning a lot more sore after games than what I did four to five years ago.”

This season marks Matt Diskin’s second year in charge at Mount Pleasant and Scott has praised his current coach for bringing a different dimension to the club.

HIGH HOPES: Dave Scott sees no reason why Batley can’t make it into the Championship’s top four The 24-year-old believes that the side are starting to better implement Diskin’s methods after two wins from three games in 2018.

Scott has also notched a hat-trick of tries in the opening three games and feels he has improved since Diskin took charge.

He said: “Diskin has definitely brought a different dimension to Batley and the way he wants us to play.

“The structures and training regimes he has put in place are very different but I think we have really started to adapt to it now and

Guzdek: Top six achievable A PLACE within the top six of the Championship is well within Dewsbury’s reach, according to fullback Josh Guzdek.

The Rams have started the campaign with three wins from their first four games with their only loss coming in a narrow defeat against highflying London.

And Guzdek has praised the influence of head coach Neil Kelly since he took charge part way through last season.

“He has given us the motivation we need and he gave us the kick up the bum that we needed at the right time last year,” said Guzdek.

“We were in a bit of a bad run of form and obviously we managed to turn that around.

“This year we have not wanted to fall into that same rut and Neil has given us the confidence to go out there and play our game.

“We always want to finish as high as possible but top six would be a good target for us, especially with the start we have had.

“If we can carry that on and really kick on it should be a fairly realistic goal for us.”

Guzdek signed a new deal with Dewsbury before the end of 2017 despite reports linking him with a move away from the Rams.

The 22-year-old spent much of last year sidelined through injury but he is keen to repay the club’s faith in him.

He added: “Last year I got injured a couple of times so I want to start repaying the faith the club has shown in me over the years.

really started to buy into it.

“The more that we continue to do that the better off as a team and the better off as individuals we are going to be.

“I definitely feel that there has been an improvement in my game since Diskin has come in.”

The Bulldogs travel to London this week to take on the division’s only undefeated team.

The Broncos have won all four of the league games they have played and currently sit second on points difference.

And Scott is expecting Sunday’s game to be one of the toughest challenges Batley will face this year.

“Looking at the competition, at the moment I think it is fair to say London are the form team,” he added.

“London is never an easy place to go play, especially on that 4G field, and they play it really well.

“They have had some really good results so we know we will probably be coming up against the toughest opposition we will face.

“The results against Swinton and Barrow show that there are a lot of positives but there is still a lot of room for improvement as well.

“The game we had against Leigh, the performance was there but we came out of the wrong side of the result.

“The games that we have had cancelled against Rochdale and Halifax haven’t really helped.

“It would have been nice to have played at the weekend, we have won two games in a row and started to build some momentum.

“That’s kind of been taken away, which doesn’t help plus playing against Halifax would have been a really good test to see where we are at.”

Campbell taking time away from rugby league BATLEY BULLDOGS have released a statement confirming that Johnny Campbell has decided to take time away from rugby league.

Campbell re-signed for Batley during the off-season after a twoyear spell with Bradford Bulls.

The Bulldogs say he will remain a Batley player but as of yet it is unclear how long he will be out of action.

“Johnny Campbell has decided to take time away from rugby league for personal reasons,” said the club statement.

“Johnny had returned to the Bulldogs following a two-year spell at Bradford Bulls. In his previous time at The Fox’s Biscuits Stadium he appeared 128 times for Batley, registering 63 tries.

“He currently holds the club record for the number of tries scored in a single season, crossing 30 times in 2010, playing a crucial part in the Bulldogs’ Northern Rail Cup Victory in the same season.

“The club are fully supportive of his decision and he remains a Batley Bulldogs player.”

Trojans to begin Heavy Woollen Cup defence at Dewsbury Celtic

FLYING START: Josh Guzdek pictured in the Rams’ victory over Swinton Lions “I have been enjoying playing with a good set of lads, so it was a bit of a no brainer really.

“We want to carry our form into the game with Toulouse this weekend

and test ourselves.

“We are riding high on confidence at the minute, our defence has been really strong so far and we want to carry that on.”

THE draw for the 2018 Jim Brown Heavy Woollen Cup has been made, with Thornhill Trojans looking to retain the trophy for a fourth successive season.

Batley Boys will host Shaw Cross Sharks in the preliminary round of the competition.

Dewsbury Moor await the winners of that game while Dewsbury Celtic will host holders Thornhill in the other semi final. The dates of the ties are yet to be confirmed.

In the John Kane Cup Birstall Victoria will welcome Thornhill Trojans ‘A’ in the preliminary round.

The winners of that game will travel to Batley Boys ‘A’ in the first semi final.

In the other preliminary round Dewsbury Celtic ‘A’ will host Shaw Cross ‘A’ with the winners of that game earning a home tie against Dewsbury Moor ‘A’ in the semi final.

In the Under-18s section, Batley Boys will face Dewsbury Celtic in one semi final while Shaw Cross will take on Dewsbury Moor.

Full details of all the junior draws can be found on the Dewsbury Rams website.

Send your news and photos to: sport@thepressnews.co.uk

Monday 2nd April

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Barrow postponement was disrespectful, says Kelly

By Ben McKenna DEWSBURY RAMS head coach Neil Kelly has accused Barrow Raiders of lacking respect after last weekend’s game between the two sides was called off on Sunday morning.

With a number of fixtures across the Championship postponed last week due to the severe weather, Kelly says he was unsurprised by the decision.

However, the Rams boss feels that with a 268-mile round trip from Dewsbury to Barrow to factor in, the game should have been called off much sooner.

“I thought it was disrespectful of Barrow to delay the pitch inspection,” said Kelly.

“Everyone who experienced or witnessed the weather last week wasn’t

surprised the game was called off.

“Bear in mind that we have to travel over 250 miles there and back and I thought it was disrespectful of Barrow to leave it so late to call the game off.

“It could have been on if the temperature had gone up enough.

“But we are not in the habit of making predictions and when everything is considered, like I have already said, I thought it was really disrespectful.

“I am a bit disappointed with it, we are dealing with part-time players and they all stayed in on Saturday night.

“They all turned up on Sunday morning to go to the game and when you call it off so late you lose your two days’ rest time.”

The Rams are set to welcome table-topping

Toulouse Olympique to the Tetley’s Stadium this Sunday.

Toulouse are currently top of the Championship and Kelly believes the French outfit are now a stronger team to the one the Rams beat 36-34 in a dramatic home game last season.

He said: “They are going through the competition at the moment like a hot knife through butter.

“They are a really good side, they have recruited well in the off-season and they are a stronger side than we played last year.

“They have got the benefit of being full time so that makes them a tall order anyway, so it is going to be a real tough ask.

“Last year’s win gives us confidence that we can beat them, we are at home

anyway and we expect to win.

“But I would imagine that is fresh in their memories and they are not going to take us easy because they know that they will need to work hard.

“Sometimes you can work hard and go home with nothing and that’s our ambition – send Toulouse back to the airport with a loss.”

Kelly says he is still unsure if Gareth Moore will be fit for this weekend’s game.

The half-back has been out of action since Dewsbury’s defeat against London.

The Rams chief says that Moore could make his return this week but there is a possibility he could be sidelined for a further few weeks.

NOT IMPRESSED – Rams boss Neil Kelly

No pressure on Bulldogs Wakeman a Giant addition in capital clash – Maun BATLEY BULLDOGS assistant Danny Maun insists there is no pressure on Batley when they face London this Sunday.

The Bulldogs visit the division’s only unbeaten side this weekend with both teams having a two-week break due to fixture postponements.

And while London are hot favourites to come away with the points, Maun says he sees no reason why Batley can’t get a result.

“It is going to be tough, they are a full-time team but it will be a good test for the squad to see where we are at,” said Maun.

“We can’t use the excuse of having no game last week, the lads are looking forward to the challenge and there is no pressure on us.

“Playing a full-time team, you want to knock them off and get a result and we will go down there full of confidence and I don’t see any reason why we can’t get that result.

“Against the full-time teams, like at Leigh, if you switch off or have a drop in concentration levels you’ll get caught.

“Concentration is massive, with the ball you have got to be 100 per cent and in defence you have got to be smart and do everything

FEELING CONFIDENT: Danny Maun feels Batley have the ability to pull off a shock win against undefeated London Broncos right otherwise these teams can punish you.”

Elsewhere, Lewis Galbraith has extended his contract at Batley until the end of the 2019 season.

The 23-year-old centre joined the Mount Pleasant side just a few months ago and Maun says that keeping him at the club is a smart move.

He added: “Galbraith has been outstanding for us, what a signing he has been.

“It is going to be a big boost for us as a club to keep hold of these up and coming young players like Lewis.

“We always seem to get our pockets pinched by bigger clubs with bigger budgets so Matt is doing the right thing to get these players signed down.”

In other news, Adam Gledhill could be ruled out for the season after it was confirmed he suffered an ACL injury against Barrow.

DEWSBURY RAMS have pulled off arguably the coup of 2018 with the signing of Shannon Wakeman from Huddersfield Giants.

Rams boss Neil Kelly has made it clear in recent weeks that he was keen to add more depth to his forward pack.

Wakeman has signed on an initial one-month loan deal with a view to remaining at Dewsbury until the end of the season.

The 28-year-old Australian made 28 appearances for the Giants last season and was included in the Italy squad for the recent Rugby League World Cup. Wakeman signed a two-year deal with Huddersfield at the end of 2016 but has yet to make an appearance for the Giants this year due to a hamstring problem.

The prop forward is expected to miss the first few weeks of his loan spell as he continues his recovery.

And Kelly believes the signing of Wakeman displays the aspirations of the club.

“It is a big coup, for a big player and in a big position,” said Kelly.

“But it is where the club wants to be, the club wants to go to that level whether that is realistic or not, I don’t know.

“I think he represents the sort of quality player we need to be looking at in the years to come.”

Wakeman is the third player to join Dewsbury on loan from Huddersfield and Kelly feels that highlights the good work going on at the club.

He added: “I think it is a slap on the back for what we are doing at Dewsbury as they recognise that we look after players.

“We work well with the Super League clubs and they have got a lot of confidence that we can help players develop and get back from injury.

“I don’t want to be known as the club that only gets other club’s players back from injury.

“He (Wakeman) is a genuine addition and benefit to the squad, especially when injuries come.

“It is nice to have rotation when players do get injured but not to have a drop in quality.”

BIG COUP: Huddersfield Giant’s forward Shannon Wakeman has joined Dewsbury on loan