The Scallymag Hudds - Issue 6 by Elaine Jinks-Turner

S CA LL Y A G M

THE

North Huddersfield, Fixby, Birkby, Lindley, Marsh, Edgerton, Bradley, Sheepridge and Surrounding Areas

Daily DIARIES

For Pre-School and Out-of-School Activities

Out & About

Leeds Christkindelmarkt

News

Popkidz Scoop Awards KAL Kids Keep Fit Festival of Light 2013

win!

Panto Tickets

Focus On

Fairtrade Fortnight Growing Works

Health

Being a Partially Sighted Mum

Literacy Latest Christmas Books

‘Wish Upon Your Star’

Winter 2013

Issue 6

For Local Parents, Carers & Kids

se a e Pl ke Ta e On

Book your place in the scallymag - advertise now contact elaine - 07976 707415 / 01484 722662

WELCOME

WELCOME!

very warm welcome to the Winter issue of The Scallymag – covering the months of December, January and February.

This issue is full to the brim with festive fun – ‘Oh yes it is!’ From panto time to the Festival of Light 2013, Santa’s grottos and Christmas fairs to going out and about at a traditional German Christkindelmarkt, The Scallymag is your essential guide to family entertainment this Winter. You can catch up with exciting news from Huddersfield’s own Popkidz, fairandfunky, Shabang and Kirklees Active Leisure and find out how you can help to support our charity for the year, Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice this Christmas. There are a selection of fabulous festive book reviews from our friends at The Children’s Bookshop and don’t forget to check our diary pages and what’s on guide for all that’s happening locally. In this issue, I share a very personal story on our health pages, my struggle with Nystagmus, a rare eye condition and how it affects my life as a parent. Finally, we’d like to thank our advertisers for their continued support and wish all of our readers a very Merry Christmas. We’ll be back in March 2014 with our Spring issue.

CONTENTS News Popkidz Scoops Top Awards Page 4 Keep Kids Fit with KAL Shabang! ‘Passion for Fashion’ Out & About Leeds Christkindelmarkt Page 5 Competition Dick Whittington Panto Tickets News Festival of Light 2013 Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice

Page 6 Page 7

Diary Pages Pre-school Diary Page 8 Out of School Diary Page 10 What’s On Page 11 Health Being a Partially Sighted Mum Focus On Fairtrade Fortnight Growing Works Literacy The Children’s Bookshop

Page 13 Page 14

Page 15

To discuss and book advertising space, ideas for future articles or just to let us know what you think of the magazine, please get in touch by any of the following means: 0 11 Church St, Rastrick, Brighouse, HD6 3NF 8 elaine@thescallymag.co.uk  07976 707415 / 01484 722 662 R www.thescallymag.co.uk/huddersfield/ The Scallymag (North Huddersfield) @ScallymagHudds

Front cover Many thanks to Lewis Edmund, age 10, of Ashbrow School, Sheepridge, Huddersfield for creating our wonderful Winter front cover picture. Thanks also to The Children’s Bookshop, Lidget Street, Lindley for sponsoring the competition and providing a prize. The runner up was Harleen Sivia, age 4, of Ashbrow School. Editor: Elaine Jinks-Turner Lay-out & Design: Gary Turner Publishing: The Scallymag Distribution: Many thanks to all schools, groups and other businesses that help with the distribution of The Scallymag® Special Thanks: To all advertisers whose contribution ensures the magazine can be distributed free-of-charge Editorial & Advertising: Elaine Jinks-Turner Photography: © Gary Turner Disclaimer: Whilst every care is taken to ensure the information contained in this magazine is true, accurate and fair, the publisher cannot take any responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for events arising from the use of this information. Any statements or opinions given in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher and no products and services mentioned in articles or adverts are officially endorsed by them. © The Scallymag ® 2012 All content of this magazine is copyright. No part of it may be reproduced by any means or in any form without written permission from the publisher. The Scallymag® is a registered trademark of Catalyze Enterprises Ltd.

NEWS Popkidz scoop AWARDs

hildren’s party venue, Popkidz/Club Fusion, is celebrating after it was crowned one of the best in the UK by Netmums - the country’s leading parenting awards.

The popular disco party venue in Marsh, Huddersfield, was voted best in Yorkshire and Humberside in the national party awards, dubbed the UK’s ‘Parenting Oscars’. More than a million parents and carers were eligible to vote but Popkidz/Club Fusion, run by AJ, beat hundreds of rival venues from across the region to win the prestigious award. The company was founded in 2010 by AJ and Victoria Allen and specialises in disco parties for children aged between one and 16. It has since hosted over 1,000 parties and due to demand, now opens seven days a week. The Popkidz franchise is due to launch soon with Manchester and Halifax already under offer. They said: “For a local business to win a top national award for best party venue is fantastic. We believe we have a fantastic concept – the first of its kind in the UK, something new, funky and exciting where kids can get dressed up and feel special on their birthday. “The Popkidz team work hard to provide the best memories for children at their parties. The award makes all the hard work worthwhile and proves that a local business like ours can get national recognition, so we would like to give a big thank you to everyone who voted for us and made us the winner.” Popkidz/Club Fusion has also been named winners of the 2013 Eaton Smith Business Award.

A PASSION FOR FASHION

erforming arts charity, Shabang, which delivers creative projects for children with additional needs, has launched its 2014 calendar – ‘Passion for Fashion’.

The calendar, which features children and young adults involved with the charity, depicts mini fashion shoots showing trends throughout the year and is accompanied by Makaton symbols – a language programme designed specifically for children with communication and learning disabilities. Once again, Kim Reuter and Russ Elias, the performance duo who make up Shabang, based at The Watershed, Bridge Street, Slaithwaite, are seeking to challenge attitudes towards those with learning difficulties by showing those featured in the calendar not just as models but as role models. Kim said: “Raising positive awareness and celebrating our children is definitely the name of the game. We aim to challenge perceptions and celebrate difference.” The calendar, which costs £.9.99, will not only support Shabang but will raise money for Team Rowan and the Spinal Muscular Atrophy Trust. Rowan Poole was just 18-months-old when she died from the condition and was a regular visitor to Shabang sessions. The calendar celebrates a range of models from eight-months-old to adults and all have additional needs such as Down’s syndrome and autism. It can be purchased by visiting www.shabang.org.uk.

KEEP KIDS FIT WITH KIRKLEES ACTIVE LEISURE

o you worry that during the Winter your children may not be as fit and active as you’d ike?

If cold, dark days seem to send your kids running indoors, Kirklees Active Leisure (KAL) may be able to help keep them healthy. KAL offers a range of activities for children of all ages from gymnastics and football to pre-school classes for tots. Rhianna Sykes, activity co-ordinator for KAL, said: “If you love being active and meeting new friends, then this is the place for you. KAL Kids offers a range of junior activities and energetic sessions for children and young people in Kirklees.” Gymnastics classes are held at Huddersfield Sports Centre, Southgate, on Monday and Saturday for children over the age of five and are tailored to their level of ability. On Monday classes run from 4.30pm to

5.30pm and on Saturday, hour-long beginner and intermediate classes take place between 9am and 12pm. Pre Kickers sessions for three to five-yearolds are held on Wednesday from 9.30am to 10.10am and cost £2.50 per child. KAL Kickers caters for older kids. Rhianna said: “The sessions are designed to inspire all three to five-year-old boys and girls and aim to develop skills, co-ordination and social interaction.” Ballet and tap classes are available for children aged two to five on Tuesday from 9.30am to 10am and from 10am to 10.30am. Sessions cost £2. KAL regularly hosts sports camps for children over the age of five during school holidays. The Christmas playscheme will run for three days on December 23, January 2 and January 3. It is open to children up to the age of 14 and activities include football, badminton, swimming, team games and a bouncy castle. Parents can choose from full day and

half day options but booking in advance is essential. For information on any of the activities offered at Huddersfield Sports Centre or to book a place, ring 01484 223630 or email huddersfield.sc@kirklees.gov.uk. To find out more about what is on offer at the 12 KAL sites throughout the district, visit www. kirkleesactive.co.uk.

OUT & ABOUT

f it’s an authentic, traditional Christmas experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the high street that you’re seeking, you can’t go wrong with the Christkindelmarkt in Leeds.

The market, organised by Leeds City Council in conjunction with Frankfurt City Council, is now in its 12th year and is considered to be one of the most established annual German festival markets in the UK, attracting upwards of 750,000 visitors. This year, the Winter village will feature more than 40 Bavarian style wooden chalet stalls selling everything from children’s toys to traditional decorations, handcrafted jewellery to Christmas cards. We’ve visited the market several times in recent years and always feel a sense that Christmas has finally arrived as we wander round the stalls, lit by fairy lights at dusk, breathing in the smell of gingerbread – it’s like the whole scene just fell off the page of a Hans Christian Andersen storybook. We bought a toy train from the market when my eldest was just four-years-old. He’s now 10 and still has it which just goes to show that traditional toys are built to last. Speciality food and drink take a leading role at the Christkindelmarkt with German delicacies such as gluhwein, bratwurst sausages, goulash, soups, schnitzels, stollen and candied fruits all available. Don’t miss the freshly prepared crepes – I guarantee the children will devour every last piece. The popular Frankfurter Scheune, Kuh Stall and Alp Chalet Bavarian eatery provide visitors with a warm and cosy retreat to sample the best that German food and drink has to offer. Children will love the traditional carousel – in fact, if I’m honest it’s one of my favourite sights. In addition to the German market, a festive family funfair will

take place on Cookridge Street, between the Headrow and St Anne’s Street, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until December 15. The Christkindelmarkt can get very crowded so I would opt to use an infant carrier or sling rather than attempting to manoeuvre a pushchair as I did during our last visit. New for 2013 is a weekly children’s event held every Sunday from 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Frankfurter Scheune – a beautifully themed festive meeting hall. The programme, for those under the age of 12, will include appearances from Santa, music, magic and baking. The market is open until December 18 Monday to Saturday from 10.30am to 9.30pm and on Sundays from 10.30am to 7pm. The Frankfurter Scheune is open from Monday to Saturday 10.30am to 4pm and 5pm to 10pm and on Sunday from 12.30pm to 7pm. The Alp Chalet is open Monday to Saturday from 10.30am to 10pm and Sunday from 10.30am to 7pm and you are able to make dining reservations in person. For a little taste of the Continent at Christmas, I would save the air fare on a flight to Munich, Hannover or Berlin, and instead head to the Christkindelmarkt in Leeds – well worth a visit. By Elaine Jinks

CHRISTKINDELMARKT

Millennium Square Leeds LS2 3AD TEL 0113 395 0891 www.leeds.gov.uk/Events/Pages/christkindelmarkt-german-christmas-market.aspx

Competition

he Scallymag has teamed up with the Victoria Theatre in Halifax for a fantastic competition! We’re giving away four tickets to the opening weekend of this year’s pantomime, Dick Whittington. The tickets are available for the shows on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December.

Halifax panto favourite Neil Hurst who will be appearing in Dick Whittington at the Victoria Theatre

0 4 £

The spectacular show promises to be fun for all the family. The hero is Dick, a young lad who sets out on a journey to London in search of fame and fortune. Once there though he discovers that the streets are overrun with rats who terrorise the town night and day. With the help of his trusty cat, some hilarious antics from Dame Sarah the Cook and her son Idle Jack and a spectacular voyage to the shores of Morocco, Dick soon manages to rid London of the rats and become Lord Mayor. Add to this great story some lavish costumes, spectacular To be in with a chance of sets, toe-tapping music and bags of knockout comedy winning four tickets to the and you have a recipe for the ‘purrfect’ Christmas performance of your choice show. on Saturday December 14 or Sunday The show runs from Saturday December 15 simply answer this question: December 14 2013 to Sunday January 5 2014.

h t or

w e z i r P

Halifax DW 135x184 ad_Layout 1 28/10/2013 18:13 Page 1

r e ov

Which city does Dick Whittington become the mayor of?

Send your answer to The Scallymag, 11 Church Street, Brighouse, HD6 3NF or email elaine@thescallymag.co.uk Closing date 10th December.

Good luck!

NEWS

FESTIVAL OF LIGHT PROMISES DAZZLING SIGHT

he Festival of Light is celebrating its tenth year this December with spectators set to play a starring role in the show.

part of the festival performance itself.” Festival favourites such as the Food and Drink Market in Byram Street and St Peter’s Street will be making a welcome return along with the live outdoor music stage in King Street. There will also be an Art Arcade in the Methodist Mission, a vintage fair at Huddersfield Town Hall as well as ‘Upmarket Sunday’ and children’s creative workshops. A traditional carol concert and grand firework display will close the festivities on the evening of December 8. Coun Khan said: “Last year the festival attracted record crowds of more than 50,000 people over the course of the weekend, with many travelling quite some distance to be here. “We are sure that the exciting programme lined up for the 2013 event will attract similar numbers and recreate the fantastic festival atmosphere which many revellers and families tell us marks the start of their festive celebrations.” Full programme details can be viewed at www.huddersfieldlightfest. co.uk.

From December 6 to December 8, visitors will be invited to control some of the amazing light-themed installations due to appear in Huddersfield town centre. Not to be missed is ‘Marling’ – an unbelievable light show, which will be staged in St George’s Square, allowing members of the audience to create a ceiling of animated colour overhead by using their voices. Leader of Kirklees Council, Councillor Mehboob Khan, said: “Each year we try very hard to bring something different and unique to the festival which serves to encourage more people to visit our town and, importantly, to support our town centre businesses. “This year, visitors will be amazed by what they see and for the first time ever, the emphasis will be on installations and entertainment which invite people to become a

Children’s Hospice launcheS its Christmas campaign – ‘Wish upon your Star’.

y visiting one of the charity’s 10 shops across West Yorkshire, you can help to support the campaign by purchasing a star and making a wish.

Supporters can then choose to either hang the star on one of the Forget Me Not trees in store, take it home to hang on their own tree or have it displayed on the tree at the hospice at Russell House. A spokeswoman for the charity said: “The Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice ‘Wish upon your Star’ Christmas campaign is about asking our supporters to make a wish upon a star this Christmas and in turn, through their donations, help to make the wishes of our children and

families come true. “Our care team have already made a wish upon their star this Christmas. “Their wish is to have the funds to help support families who have recently lost their precious child, and for those whom this Christmas may be their last Christmas together as a family.” Funds can also be given online by visiting www.forgetmenotchild.co.uk and quoting ‘Wish upon your star’. You can also attend one of the charity’s Christmas concerts taking place in Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. Alternatively, you can join the ‘Wish upon your Star’ campaign on Twitter, simply by using the hashtag #WishUponYourStar and stating what your wish is this Christmas.

Registered charity number (1110457)

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

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PRE-SCHOOL DIARY

Little Acorns Parent, Baby & Toddler Group 9.00 – 11.30 Seasons House & Community Centre, 45 Willwood Avenue, Oakes, Huddersfield 01484 222209

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

Wake Up In Wonderland 9.00 – 12.30 Wonderland Play Gym, New Street, Slaithwaite 07790 427609

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Rhythm Time Class (Babies) 1.00 Lindley Methodist Church, East Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 07792 849779

Gym Tots Lindley Methodist Church Greenhead Park Parent, Baby 9.30 – 10.15 Parent & Toddler Group & Toddler Group Huddersfield Sports Centre, Pine 9.30 – 11.15 9.30 – 11.30 Street, Huddersfield Lindley Methodist Community Community Room, Coletta 01484 223630 Centre, East Street, Huddersfield Pavilion, Greenhead Park, 3 – 4 yrs 01484 517750 Huddersfield 07960 797320

Terrier Tots 12:30-1:30 The Zone, St Andrews Road, Huddersfield 01484 484189 2 – 4 yrs

Baby Cafe 1.00 – 3.00 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

Bongo Beats 9.30 – 10.30 Woodlands Play Gym, Knowle Lane, Meltham 01484 851122

Sticky Angels Parent & ToddlerLittle Ninjas Group 10.00 – 10.45 9.45 – 11.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Lockwood Baptist Church, Street, Off Chapel Hill, Lockwood Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield Huddersfield 07738 208586 01484 548423 Under 4s

Jungle Beats 11.00 – 11.30 Fizzy Lizard, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 6 months+

Pyjama Drama (Raindrops) 1.00 – 1.35 Greenhead Park Community Room, Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Huddersfield 0844 310 4921 20 months – 2 and a half yrs

Buzz About Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 Birkby & Fartown Community Centre Wasps Nest Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 420386

Gym Tots 10.00 – 11.30 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 18 months – 5 yrs

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Fixby Parent & Toddlers 1.00 – 2.45 St Francis’ Church, Fixby Road, Fixby, Huddersfield 01484 420970

Babyballet (Mini Movers) 10.00 – 10.35 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 3 – 4 yrs

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Boogie Babes 10.00 Central Methodist Church, Commercial Street, Brighouse 07779 154126

Little Tiddlers 10.30 – 1.00 Shabang Theatre, The Watershed, Bridge Street, Slaithwaite 01484 848073

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Stay & Play 10.00 – 11.30 St Thomas’ Primary School, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 226557

Cathedral Mice Parent & Popkidz Toddler Group 9.30 – 10.30 Popkidz, 41a Westbourne Road, 9.30 – 11.30 Cathedral House, St Thomas Marsh, Huddersfield Road, Huddersfield 07581 191537 01484 514088

Babes & Tots Featuring Bongo Beats 9.30 – 11.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road, Huddersfield 01484 484189

Cathedral Mice Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.30 12.30 – 2.30 Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield 01484 514088

Wake Up In Wonderland 9.00 – 12.30 Wonderland Play Gym, New Street, Slaithwaite 07790 427609

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

Cathedral Mice Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.30 Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield 01484 514088

Songbirds 9.45 Longwood Mechanics Hall, Longwood Gate, Huddersfield 07751 519699 Birth - walking

Mount Pre-school Babies n Toddler Group 9.15 – 11.15 Mount Methodist Church, Moorlands Road, Mount, Huddersfield 07947 449619

Lindley Methodist Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.15 Lindley Methodist Community Centre, East Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01484 510137

St Cuthbert’s Under Fives Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.00 St Cuthbert’s Church, Linden Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 534564

Bongo Beats 10.00 Thongsbridge Tennis Club, Miry Lane, Holmfirth 01484 687160

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

St Matthew’s Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.15 St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126

Birch Forest School Babes in the Wood 9.45 – 11.45 Upper Mill Wood, Slaithwaite 07980 898113

Jubilee Melody Makers Parnet & Toddler Group 9.45 – 11.30 Huddersfield Community Church Jubilee Centre, Market Street, Paddock, Huddersfield 01484 414887

Songbirds 9.30 Wonderland Play Gym, New Street, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield 07751 519699

St John the Divine Parent & Jo Jingles Toddler Group 9.40 9.45 – 11.15 Waring Green Community St John the Divine Church Centre, Garden Road, Brighouse Hall, St John Street, Rastrick, 01422 820425 Brighouse 2+ yrs 01484 713386

Babyballet (Tiny Toes) 9.45 – 10.20 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 18 months – 3 yrs

Bongo Beats 10.00 Safari Sam’s Play Gym, Honley 01484 667383

Gym Tots 10.00 – 11.30 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 18 months – 5 yrs

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

Ark Tots Parent & Toddler Group 9.45 – 11.30 Royal British Legion Club, Hanson Lane, Lockwood, Huddersfield gemmagallant@yahoo.co.uk

Jo Jingles (Jingle Toddlers) 9.45 St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01422 820425 Walking – 2 yrs

Bongo Beats 10.00 Wonderland Play Gym, New Street, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield 07983 581349

Crocodile Chefs 11.00 – 12.00 Fizzy Lizard, Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield 01484 467321 2+ yrs

Birch Forest School Babes in the Wood 12.45 – 2.45 Upper Mill Wood, Slaithwaite 07980 898113

Buzz About Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.30 Birkby Fartown Community Centre, Wasp Next Road, Fartown, Huddersfield 01484 352621

Bongo Beats 9.45 Wonderland Play Gym, New Street, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield 07983 581349

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Jo Jingles 10.45 St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01422 820425 2+ yrs

Jo Jingles 11.45 St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01422 820425 2+ yrs

Tumble Tots 9.00 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 Walking – 2 yrs

Baby Ballroom 9.00 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788444555 2 – 5 yrs

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

Tiny Tots Ballet 10.30 KT Dance, Lindley Methodist Church, Huddersfield 07733447807 3+ yrs

Nursery Rhyme & Fairy Tale 10.45 Dancers Barre Studios, Market Walk, Huddersfield 01422 374946 / 07920 204570 2 and a half - 4 yrs

Mini Moovers 11.00 – 11.45 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Road, Huddersfield 01484 221799 3 – 5 yrs

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 9.00 – 10.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 4 yrs

Pre-School Ballet 9.15 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 3 - 4 yrs

Tumble Tots 10.00 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 2 - 3 yrs

Nursery Rhyme & Fairy Tale 10.45 Dancers Barre Studios, Market Walk, Huddersfield 01422 374946 / 07920 204570 1 – 2 and a half yrs

Tumble Tots 11.00 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 3 – 5 yrs

Pyjama Drama (Rainbows) 11.15 – 12.00 Active Bodies, Chapel Street, Huddersfield 0844 310 4921 2 and a half – 5 yrs

Shake, Rattle & Roll 1.00 – 2.30 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Road, Huddersfield 01484 221799

Stay & Play Session 1.00 – 3.00 Birkby Children’s Centre, Halifax Old Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 223940

One Stop Shop & Baby Clinic 1.30 – 3.30 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

Rhyme Time 2.30 – 3.15 Lindley Library & Information Centre 01484 222172

Little Ninjas 4.00 – 4.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 With younger siblings under 4

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance 5 St Johns Road Huddersfield 07883 636 794 2 – 4 yrs

Rhythm Time Class (Toddlers) 1.40 Lindley Methodist Church, East Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 07792 849779

Story Time 2.00 – 2.45 Birkby & Fartown Library & Information Centre, Wasps Nest Road, Fartown, Huddersfield 01484 223098

Suga Cubes 4.00 – 5.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 5 yrs

Toy Library 1.00 – 2.15 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge Huddersfield 01484 234231

Stay & Play Session 1.00 – 3.00 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance 5 St Johns Road Huddersfield 07883 636 794 2 – 4 yrs

Bongo’s Baby & Toddler Group 1.30 – 3.00 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07983 581349

Pyjama Drama (Rainbows) 1.40 – 2.20 Greenhead Park Community Room, Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Huddersfield 0844 310 4921 2 and a half – 5 yrs

Trinity Tots 2.00 – 3.30 Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Street, Edgerton, Huddersfield 07738 364342

Mums n Chums 1.00 – 3.00 Huddersfield YMCA, Laund Hill, Salendine Nook

St Stephen’s Church Parents, Trinity Tiddlers Parent & Carers, Toddlers & Babes Toddler Group Group 1.30 – 3.00 1.00 – 3.00 Holy Trinity Church, Trinity St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Huddersfield Street, Lindley, 01484 426784 info@ststephenslindley.org.uk

Bumps & Under 1s Group 1.30 – 3.00 Birkby Children’s Centre, Halifax Old Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 223940

Action Kids 2.00 – 2.30 St Francis Church, Fixby Road, Fixby, Huddersfield 07595 864685

Pyjama Drama (Dewdrops) 2.30 – 3.00 Greenhead Park Community Room, Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Huddersfield 0844 310 4921 6+ months

Babyballet (Tiny Toes) 10.45 – 11.20 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 18 months – 3 yrs

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance 5 St Johns Road Huddersfield 07883 636 794 2 – 4 yrs

Baby Swim Class 1.30 Huddersfield Sports Centre, Southgate, Huddersfield 01484 223660

One Stop Shop 1.00 – 3.00 Birkby Children’s Centre, Halifax Old Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 223940

Baby Swim Class 2.15 Huddersfield Sports Centre, Southgate, Huddersfield 01484 223660

Baby Clinic 4.00 – 6.00 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

Songbirds 1.00 Woodlands Play Gym, Knowle Lane, Meltham 07751 519699 Birth - walking

Babes & Tots feat. Bongo Beats 1.15 – 2.45 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484189

Young Parents Group 1.30 - 3.00 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

Rhythm Time Class (Toddlers) 1.30 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 07792 849779

M&M Swim School 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573 3+ yrs

Little Tiddlers 10.30 – 1.00 Shabang Theatre, The Watershed, Bridge Street, Slaithwaite 01484 848073

Jo Jingles (Jingle Toddlers) Crafty Lot 10.40 12.00 – 14.00 Waring Green Community Packhorse Gallery, Huddersfield Centre, Garden Road, Brighouse 01422 820425 Walking – 2 yrs

The Catnap Club 1.15 – 3.15 Cowcliffe Methodist Church, South Cross Road, Cowcliffe, Huddersfield 01484 428081

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 4 yrs

Babyballet (Mini Movers) 10.30 – 11.05 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 3 – 4 yrs

Jo Jingles (Jingle Babies) Babyballet (Mini Movers) 11.40 12.15 – 12.50 Waring Green Community Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Centre, Garden Road, Brighouse Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 820425 01422 329471 Walking – 2 yrs 3 – 4 yrs

Gledholt Toddlers Parent & Little Ninjas Toddler Group 2.00 – 2.45 1.15 – 3.00 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Gledholt Methodist Church, Street, Off Chapel Hill, Edgerton Grove Road, Edgerton, Huddersfield Huddersfield 07738 208586 01484 641698 Under 4s

Jo Jingles (Jingle Babies) 1.00 St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01422 820425 3 months - walking

Gym Tots 1st Steps 1.30 – 2.15 1.30 – 3.00 Huddersfield Sports Centre, Pine Lindley Methodist Community Street, Huddersfield Centre, East Street, Lindley, 01484 223630 Huddersfield 3 – 4 yrs 01484 430612 / 07557 339794

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 4 yrs

Bumps & Babies 1.30 – 3.00 Lindley Methodist Community Centre, East Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01484 430612 / 07557 339794

Amphibi-Kids Swim Academy 12.30 – 3.00 The North Huddersfield Trust, Woodhouse Hall Road, Fartown, Huddersfield 07805 784058 3+ yrs

SUnDAY

Babyballet (Tiny Toes) Tots Stage Class 12.15 – 12.50 12.45 – 1.30 National Children’s Centre, Brian The Audrey Spencer School Jackson House, 2 New North of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Parade, Huddersfield Mills, Queen Street South, 01422 329471 Huddersfield 18 months – 3 yrs 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 3 – 5 yrs

Story Time 2.30 – 3.00 Lindley Library & Information Centre 01484 222172

Rugbytots 9.30 St Philip’s Community Centre, Briarlyn Road, Huddersfield 0845 313 3247 Rugbytots 10.00 Mirfield Community Centre, Wateroyd Lane, Mirfield, Huddersfield Huddersfield 0845 313 3247

M&M Swim School 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573 3+ yrs

Baby Swim Class 2.15 Huddersfield Sports Centre, Southgate, Huddersfield 01484 223660

Suga Cubes 4.00 – 5.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 5 yrs

These diary pages are the heart of The Scallymag; the main reason the magazine exists and probably the most useful part for parents and carers. We aim to list as many activities for 0-5 year olds in the area. We do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date (there will probably be some changes every issue). However we are not infallible. If you know of any changes, or of any new groups or courses that should be included, please get in touch by using any of the contact details on page 3. Listing in this section is FREE.

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

MONDAY

OUT OF SCHOOL DIARY

Prep Ballet & Tap 4.00 – 5.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 4 – 6 yrs

M&M Swim School 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573

Hi 5 Netball Suga Brown Street Dance 4.30 – 5.30 5.00 – 6.00 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Road, Huddersfield Huddersfield 01484 221799 07883 636794 8 – 11 yrs 6 – 11 yrs

Commercial Pop 5.30 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555

Multi Skills 5.30 – 6.30 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Road, Huddersfield 01484 221799

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Senior Street Dance 4.30 – 5.30 Limelight Theatre School, St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126 10+ yrs

Little Ninja Beginners 4.50 – 5.35 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Little Warriors 5.00 – 5.45 Kane Academy, Unit 3a Perseverance Mill, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 544448 / 07732 801847 3 - 7 yrs

Intermediate Ballet 5.30 – 6.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Ninja Hattori Juniors 5.50 – 6.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Prep Ballet & Tap 4.00 – 5.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 4 – 6 yrs

Tuesday clinics 4-7 Years old 4.00 – 5.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484484189 4 – 7 yrs

Kids Ballet & Tap 4.15 Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 6 – 10 yrs

Drama For All 4.30 – 5.30 Limelight Theatre School, St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126 5 – 12 yrs

Primary Ballet & Tap 5.00 – 6.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 6 – 8 yrs

Grade 4 Ballet 5.00 – 6.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Little Ninja Beginners 4.00 – 4.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Diva Fever Dance Ninja Hattori Juniors 4.30 – 5.30 5.00 – 6.00 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Road, Huddersfield Street, Off Chapel Hill, 01484 221799 Huddersfield 5 – 11 yrs 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Rhythmix Street Dance 5.00 – 6.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 3 – 12 yrs

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 5.15 – 6.45 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 5+ yrs

Kids Ballet & Tap M&M Swim School 4.30 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573 Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 6 – 8 yrs

Rhythmix Street Dance 5.00 – 6.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 3 – 12 yrs

Birchencliffe (St Philip) 31st Lindley 16th Huddersfield Huddersfield Scouts (Beavers) North Scouts (Cubs) 6.15 – 7.15 6.30 – 8.00 St Philip’s Parish Centre, Briarlyn Lindley Methodist Church, East Road, Birchencliffe, Street, Lindley, Huddersfield Richard Eastwood – 01484 Sue O’Neill – 01484 536790 641389

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Little Warriors 5.00 – 5.45 Kane Academy, Unit 3a Perseverance Mill, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 544448 / 07732 801847 3 - 7 yrs

Grade 3 Ballet 5.30 – 6.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Senior Ninja Hattori 6.30 – 7.30 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 8+ yrs

Birchencliffe (St Philip) 31st Huddersfield Scouts (Cubs) 7.00 – 8.15 Birchencliffe St Philip’s Parish Community Centre, Briarlyn Road, Birchencliffe, Richard Eastwood – 01484 641389

Little Ninja Beginners 4.00 – 4.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Thursday clinics 8-11 Yrs 4.00 – 5.00 The Zone St Andrews Road Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484484189 8 – 11 yrs

Ninja Hattori Juniors 5.00 – 5.55 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Grade 1 Ballet 5.30 – 6.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Oakes 36th Huddersfield North Senior Ninja Hattori Scouts (Beavers) 6.00 – 7.00 5.30 – 6.30 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Salvation Army Hall, New Hey Street, Off Chapel Hill, Road, Oakes, Huddersfield Huddersfield 07738 208586 8+ yrs

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

M&M Swim School 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573

Kids Additional Needs Class 5.00 Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 5.30 – 6.30 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 5+ yrs

Huddersfield Gymnastics Club Outlane 11th Huddersfield (Beginners) North Scouts (Beavers) 5.30 – 6.30 6.15 – 7.15 Paddock Youth Club, Beech Outlane Methodist Church, New Street, Huddersfield Hey Road, Outlane, Huddersfield 01484 548651 0844 414 2315

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Beginners Irish Dancing 5.00 – 5.30 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 5+ yrs

Reach Performing Arts 5.00 – 7.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 5+ yrs

Intermediate Street Dance 5.30 – 6.30 Limelight Theatre School, St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126 7 – 9 yrs

Little Ninja Beginners & HattoriSenior Ninja Hattori Mixed 7.00 – 8.00 6.15 – 7.00 The Zone, Off St Andrew’s Road, The Zone, Off St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield Huddersfield 01484 484134 01484 484134 8+ yrs

Junior Street Dance 4.30 – 5.30 Limelight Theatre School, St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126 4 – 6 yrs

Little Warriors 5.00 – 5.45 Kane Academy, Unit 3a Perseverance Mill, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 544448 / 07732 801847 3 - 7 yrs

Kids Drama Club 5.30 Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 6+ yrs

Kids Street Dance 6.15 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 6+ yrs £5

Salendine Nook 25th Huddersfield North Scouts (Cubs) 6.15 – 7.30 Salendine Nook Baptist Church, Moorhill Road, Huddersfield John Nunn – 01484 650826

Junior Aikido 7.00 – 8.30 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Road, Huddersfield 01484 221799 5 – 14 yrs

Shokk Youth Gym 9.00 – 3.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Saturday Soccer School 9.00 – 10.15 The Zone St Andrews Road Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484484189 4 – 7 yrs

Junior Stage Class 9.45 – 11.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Kids Dance Multi Style Club 10.00 – 12.00 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 Open Age

Drama & Vocal Coaching 10.30 – 11.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 4 – 6 yrs

Primary Ballet & Tap 11.00 – 12.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 6 - 8 yrs

Improvers Stage Class Grade 1 Modern Jazz & Tap 9.15 – 10.30 9.00 – 9.45 The Audrey Spencer Theatre The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Prep Ballet & Tap 10.00 – 11.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 4 – 6 yrs

Saturday Soccer School 10.15 – 11.30 The Zone St Andrews Road Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484484189 4 – 7 yrs

Beginners Tap and Ballet 11.00 Intermediate Tap and Ballet 12.30 KT Dance, Lindley Methodist Church, Huddersfield 07733447807

Junior Street Dance 11.00 – 11.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Outlane 11th Huddersfield Irish Dancing (Beginners) North Scouts (Cubs) 6.30 6.30 – 8.00 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Outlane Methodist Church, New Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield Hey Road, Outlane, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 0844 414 2315 £3

Body Popping 7.30 – 9.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 7+ yrs

Hattori – Over 8’s Beginners 6.50 – 7.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 8+ yrs

Grade 5 Modern Jazz & Tap 8.00 – 9.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Cowcliffe (St Hilda) 15th Huddersfield Scouts (Cubs) 7.00 – 8.30 Cowcliffe Scout Hall, Netheroyd Hill Road, Huddersfield Philip Pearson – 01484 314651

Dates for your Diary Santa’s Christmas Ice Grotto Until December 24, various times Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield Tel. 01484 514088 Santa Special Every weekend until December 22, 1.00 – 3.45 Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Huddersfield

Commercial Pop 6.00 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 £5

Advanced Hattori 6.00 – 7.00 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 Mixed Ages

Lindley 16th Huddersfield North Scouts (Beavers) 6.15 – 7.15 Lindley Methodist Church, East Street, Lindley, Huddersfield Sue O’Neill – 01484 536790

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 6.45 – 8.15 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 5+ yrs

Limbering / Gymnastics 6.00 – 7.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Zumbatomic 6.00 – 6.45 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 7+ yrs

Birkby 26th Huddersfield North Cubs 6.45 – 8.00 St Cuthbert’s Church, Grimscar Avenue, Birkby, Huddersfield

Intermediate Ballet 7.30 – 8.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

NOTE:

Some of the activities have limited places, some only run in term time and some may be cancelled at short notice. We always advise where possible, phoning ahead before setting out to any activity and, for some of the courses or lessons booking is essential.

Rainbows, Brownies and Guide Groups are available in the Huddersfield area. For detailed information please contact Huddesfield Ramsden Division via email at julesbooth@ntlworld.com

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 6.30 – 7.30 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 5+ yrs

Grade 2 Ballet 6.30 – 7.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Cowcliffe (St Hilda) 15th Outlane 11th Huddersfield Bradley (St Thomas) 41st Huddersfield Scouts (Beavers) North Scouts Huddersfield Scouts 6.30 – 7.30 7.30 – 9.00 Bradley St Thomas Church, St Cowcliffe Scout Hall, Netheroyd Outlane Methodist Church, New Thomas Gardens, Bradley Road, Hill Road, Huddersfield Hey Road, Outlane, Huddersfield Bradley, Huddersfield Philip Pearson – 01484 314651 0844 414 2315 Jenny Farrell – 01924 840375

Oakes 36th Huddersfield North Salendine Nook 25th Scouts Huddersfield North Scouts 7.15 – 9.15 7.45 – 9.30 Salvation Army Hall, New Hey Salendine Nook Baptist Church, Road, Oakes, Huddersfield Moorhill Road, Huddersfield John Nunn – 01484 650826 Birchencliffe (St Philip) 31st Cowcliffe (St Hilda) 15th Huddersfield Scouts Huddersfield Scouts 7.30 – 9.30 8.00 – 9.30 St Philip’s Parish Centre, Briarlyn Cowcliffe Scout Hall, Netheroyd Road, Birchencliffe, Hill Road, Huddersfield Richard Eastwood – 01484 Philip Pearson – 01484 314651 641389

Oakes 36th Huddersfield North Lindley 16th Huddersfield Scouts (Cubs) North Scouts 6.30 – 8.00 7.30 – 9.15 Salvation Army Hall, New Hey Lindley Methodist Church, East Road, Oakes, Huddersfield Street, Lindley, Huddersfield Sue O’Neill – 01484 536790

SUNDAY

Salendine Nook 25th Huddersfield North Scouts (Beavers) 6.15 – 7.15 Salendine Nook Baptist Church, Moorhill Road, Huddersfield John Nunn – 01484 650826

Beginners Stage Class 11.30 – 12.45 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Beginners Modern/Freestyle Prep Ballet & Tap 11.45 12.00 – 1.00 Intermediate Modern/Freestyle HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, 1.15 Huddersfield KT Dance, Lindley Methodist 07883 636794 Church, Huddersfield 4 – 6 yrs 07733447807

Drama & Vocal Coaching 11.30 – 12.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 7 – 10 yrs

Kids Drama Club 12.00 Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 All ages

Hattori – Over 8’s Beginners 12.00 – 12.55 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 8+ yrs

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 10.30 – 11.30 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 4 - 5 yrs

A Christmas Carol December 4 Victoria Theatre, Halifax Tickets: 01422 351158

Rapunzel December 9 - 29, various times Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen Street, Huddersfield Tickets: 01484 430528 Fairandfunky Pop Up Shop December 11, 12.00 – 5.00 Emma’s Tea Parlour, Hollowgate, Holmfirth Fairandfunky Christmas Craft Workshop December 12, 10.00 – 3.00 Holmfirth Market Dick Whittington December 14 – January 5 Victoria Theatre, Halifax Tickets: 01422 351158

Stocksmoor Christmas Evening Fair December 4, 7.00 – 9.00 Stocksmoor Village Hall, Station Road, Stocksmoor

Greenhead Park Art Club December 14, 1.00 – 2.30 Greenhead Park Community Room, Greenhead Park, Huddersfield Booking: 07793 744 577

Festival of Light 2013 December 6 – 8 Huddersfield Town Centre http://www.kirklees.gov.uk/ festival/index.aspx Rastrick Library Christmas Craft Fair December 7, 10.00 – 12.30 Rastrick Library, Crowtrees Lane, Rastrick, Tel. 01484 714858 Breakfast with Santa December 7, 9.00 – 11.00 Golcar Providence Methodist Church, Knowl Road, Golcar Winter Wonderland December 7, 10.00 – 4.00 Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield Tel. 01484 514088 Christmas Fair December 7, 10.00 – 3.00 Kirklees College, Taylor Hill Centre, Close Hill Lane, Taylor Hill, Huddersfield Tel. 01484 437184 Babushka: A Christmas Family Show December 7, 14 & 21, 10.30 – 11.30 & 2.00 – 3.00 Huddersfield Children’s Library, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield Tel. 01484 221956 Marsden Christmas Fair & Lights Switch On December 7, 12.45 – 7.00 Marsden Mechanics Hall, Peel Street, Marsden Christmas Fair December 8, 10.00 – 4.00 Paddock Village Hall, West View, Paddock, Huddersfield Tel. 01484 431400

Carol Concert December 15, 2.00 – 4.00 Beaumont Park, Crosland Moor, Huddersfield Tel. 01484 645217 Fairandfunky Christmas Craft Workshop December 19, 10.00 – 3.00 Holmfirth Market Fairandfunky Christmas SCRAPtastic December 21, 10.00 – 2.00 Queensgate Market, Huddersfield Santa at Victoria Tower December 21 - 22, 11.00 – 3.00 Castle Hill & Victoria Tower, off Lumb Lane, Almondbury, Huddersfield Santa’s Grotto & Christmas Party December 22, 10.00 & 2.30 Huddersfield Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Street, Huddersfield Tickets: Kami 07979 953132, Sue 01484 537799 New Year’s Day Walk January 1, 11.00 – 2.00 Marsden Moor Estate Tel. 01484 847016 Aladdin January 11-18, various times Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen Street, Huddersfield Tickets: 01484 430528 Chicken Licken January 25, 11.00 & 2.00 Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen Street, Huddersfield Tickets: 01484 430528

Dream Catchers Family Club 2.00 – 4.30 Shabang Theatre, The Watershed, Bridge Street, Slaithwaite 01484 848073

Drama & Vocal Coaching 12.30 – 1.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 11+ yrs

Rhythmix Street Dance 2.00 – 3.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 3 – 12 yrs

Saturday Sailing Club 2.30 – 5.00 Scammonden Water Sailing Club, Old Vicarage, Scammonden, Huddersfield 07805 630062

Grade 3 Modern Jazz & Tap 1.30 – 2.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Intermediate Stage Class 2.30 – 4.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Intermediate Street Class 4.00 – 4.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Family Events 2014 Funday Sunday’s Commencing in February join us on the 1st Sunday of the month for our brand new funday Sunday’s. Enjoy a leisurely catch up with family or friends over a delicious Sunday lunch from our seasonal menu, followed by entertainment for younger guests with our very own children’s entertainer from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

Sunday 20th April Easter Sunday Eggstravaganza Join us for a cracking Easter Sunday with the family & enjoy a freshly prepared 3 course lunch from our specially created Easter Sunday menu.

Children’s menu available for under 12’s

You’ll be welcomed to the hotel by our very own Easter Bunny who will meet & greet all guests arriving from 12.00pm to 3.00pm, there’ll be Easter Eggs for all the children & after lunch visit the petting farm which will be available from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

£7.95 3 courses

£14.95 adults, £7.95 under 12’s, free under 2’s

Advance booking is essential & a £5 per person deposit is required

Bookings taken from 12.00pm to 6.00pm

Table bookings taken from 12.00pm to 4.00pm and a £5pp deposit is required

Sunday 15th June Father’s Day Lunch

Sunday 30th March Mothers Day Lunch

Say ‘cheers’ to your Dad this Father’s Day & treat him to a freshly prepared 3 course lunch from our specially created Father’s Day menu.

Make your mum feel special this Mother’s Day & treat her to a freshly prepared 3 course lunch from our specially created Mother’s Day menu.

You’ll be welcomed to the hotel by our superheroes who will meet & greet all guests arriving from 12.00pm to 3.00pm & our children’s entertainer will be on hand from 1.30pm to 4.30pm to keep the little one’s entertained, we’ll even include a free pint for all Dad’s!

£8.95 1 course, £11.95 2 courses, £14.95 3 courses

You’ll be welcomed to the hotel by Peppa & George who will meet & greet all guests arriving from 12.00pm to 3.00pm & our children’s entertainer will be on hand from 1.30pm to 4.30pm to keep the little one’s entertained, we’ll even include a free gift for all Mum’s! Mum’s eat FREE with all table bookings after 4.30pm*

Dad’s eat FREE with all table bookings after 4.30pm* £14.95 adults, £7.95 under 12’s, free under 2’s Bookings taken from 12.00pm to 6.00pm

Lunch £14.95 adults, £7.95 under 12’s, free under 2’s Bookings taken from 12.00pm to 6.00pm *maximum two free Mum places per table reservation

Telephone 01422 375431

www.cedarcourthotels.co.uk/huddersfield-halifax

HEALTH

BEING A PARTIALLY SIGHTED MOTHER-OF-THREE

he first International Nystagmus Awareness Day – otherwise known as Wobbly Wednesday – was held in Autumn 2013.

I was diagnosed with Rotary Nystagmus very young, having been born with it. My childhood was characterised by visits to a specialist eye clinic. Initially, doctors believed I suffered from a squint which would correct itself but as time progressed, it became clear that the problem was quite severe. When I was seven, I underwent an operation for cosmetic purposes. I was unable to open my eyes for six weeks but the operation was successful, my eyes were centred but I still had Nystagmus. Nystagmus comes in varying forms and different levels of severity but essentially means that the eyes constantly wobble. This affects the ability to see long distance, particularly letters and numbers. Imagine then, back in the early 1980s, when very little was known about Nystagmus, few treatments were available and there was no support network. That is the world I grew up in – where people didn’t understand why my eye condition couldn’t be corrected with glasses. The fact is, lenses make no difference to the eyesight of a person with Nystagmus. I am at a loss as to why I was made to wear NHS prescription glasses the size of jam jars as a child – I’m inclined to believe purely for the amusement of others as they certainly didn’t benefit me. I believe the term Nystagmus was never explained to my parents. Whenever I asked them what was wrong, they never seemed to know the name of the condition, but told me that I had bad eyesight and I would probably never be able to drive (which I can’t). I was never given any support at school; my operation had all but been forgotten about by the time I reached the final year of primary school. Indeed, none of my teachers were made aware of the difficulties I had when I started high school. My parents encouraged me to accept that that was how things were going to be for me, make the best of it and get on with life. My mother was visited by a social worker when I was a child and later told me this was to assess whether I should be sent to a ‘special school’ – something she would never have agreed to because she

believed I was as bright as any other child. Obviously, there being such a lack of information about Nystagmus, she didn’t realise that I may have required additional support. As a result, I went to mainstream school and found every day a struggle. No matter how close I sat to the blackboard, I was unable to read the instructions and relied on friends to help. I have always found it difficult to explain my eye condition. I’ve often taken my parents’ advice, got on with it and only attempted an explanation if somebody asked. As a rule, I don’t talk about it. I was 21 before I even knew my eye condition was Rotary Nystagmus and that was only after I visited my GP’s surgery and asked for the name from my file. I contacted Moorfields Eye Hospital in London to see if anything could be done. At the time, I was completing my training as a journalist and was concerned about being able to drive. After all, who wants to

employ a journalist who can’t drive? In 1999, a consultant told me he could marginally improve my eyesight. I had just been offered a position with a newspaper and didn’t want to take extended leave so, decided that as there was a chance I could lose my sight altogether, the risks outweighed the benefits. Since then, I’ve faced many challenges which I would not have overcome without my husband. He has driven me places, worked out routes and timetables, helped with directions or accompanied me himself so that I wouldn’t get confused. Since my two youngest children, Florence and Benjamin, were born in 2010 and 2011, I have been faced with some difficult situations and on the recent advice of a consultant at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, finally admitted to myself that I have a disability and became registered as partially sighted. You see, even after all these years I still find travelling on public transport

a daunting experience simply because I can’t see bus numbers, or travel information on overhead screens. I can’t see road signs and worry about getting off at the wrong place or getting on the wrong bus or train altogether, which has in fact happened on a number of occasions. I struggle with tasks like reading small print. I worry about meeting people in public places such as cafes because I won’t be able to spot them. And whenever we go out, my husband has to signpost me to the toilets. This all compounded itself when Florence and Benjamin arrived as I then had the added concern of using public transport with a double buggy and two babies not yet walking – not the easiest feat! Added to that was the babies’ schedules – I had to plan meticulously. At first, I did not go out unless on foot. But months passed and I felt guilty that the children were missing out because of the fear I felt. I had to bite the bullet if I was to lead a normal life. I contacted the Nystagmus Network charity for support and subsequently became involved in raising money for Fight for Sight to fund research. Now, Florence, three and Benjamin, two, are both walking so using public transport is easier. However, because my disability is not a visible one, I am still wracked with guilt if I sit at the front of a bus – I feel as if people are judging me and wondering why I’m sat in those seats reserved for the disabled. My heart is in my mouth if we have to cross roads. I’m unable to judge the speed at which traffic is moving, yet I have two little ones relying on me to get them safely from A to B. I am blessed that my eldest son helps. He has had to become responsible very quickly, something else for which I will feel eternally guilty for. Parenting is not an easy job and is made less easy by having Nystagmus. I hope that by sharing my story it raises awareness of the condition, encourages other parents to know they are not alone and that if you happen to be the parent of a child with Nystagmus, take comfort from the fact that attitudes are changing and support is now available. For more information on Nystagmus, visit the Nystagmus Network at www. nystagmusnet.org By Elaine Jinks-Turner

Focus On F O S E S ET HOU G O T T positive step and a fantastic platform to N E M educate people about the importance of A recycling, the environment and fairtrade.” PARLI

uddersfield environmental duo, fairandfunky, will be heading to the Houses of Parliament to put fairtrade on the agenda.

The community interest company, run by Helen Robinson and Sophie Bebb, hosts craft workshops for schools and youth organisations. They have teamed up with Jason McCartney MP for the Colne Valley in a bid to spread their message that taking small, positive steps such as recycling waste or buying fairtrade can help change the world for the better. Mr McCartney said: “I’ve been an active supporter of Helen and Sophie for several years now and this is yet another

GROW YOUR OWN

ith soaring food prices, rising unemployment and an alarming increase in the number of people being treated in hospitals for malnutrition, families are becoming more concerned about how they can afford to put healthy meals on the table.

Growing your own fruit and vegetables, whether at an allotment, in a garden or even in a window box is one way of combating the tightening purse strings, ensuring children receive the nutrition they need and improving general well-being. But if starting your own veggie plot sounds daunting, you could turn to Growing Works, a not-for-profit social enterprise, for guidance. Growing Works is part of the Holme Valley Gardening Network, set up in 2009. The network is responsible for the Wooldale Allotment Gardens, a 22 plot

The pair will be hosting the workshops on February 26 during Fairtrade Fortnight 2014. They will focus on the Fairtrade Foundation campaign, ‘Stick with Foncho’, which aims to highlight the importance of buying fairtrade bananas to ensure that farmers receive a fair price. Students will have the opportunity to learn about fairtrade, take part in a creative workshop to make a banana tree and meet MPs from all political parties. Participants will also be offered a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament. Joining fairandfunky will be children from Upperthong Junior and Infant School at Burnlee Road, Holmfirth. Headteacher, Carolyn Littlewood said: “We are joining fairandfunky in London as we believe in their philosophy of encouraging people to take little steps to change the world. Where better to start than with our children?” The UK eats over five billion bananas a year, 80% of which are bought from major supermarket chains that constantly battle with each other in a competitive price war. Consequently, bananas are sold below the cost of production which in turn puts pressure on the livelihoods of farmers and workers around the world.

site opened in 2010 to provide growing space to local residents. However, with funding from Kirklees Community Partnership and a number of other organisations, the network has expanded to include two further sites and now offers a range of family orientated workshops aimed at promoting practical gardening activities to improve health and well-being. Rachel Burnett of the Holme Valley Gardening Network said: “It is a not-forprofit social enterprise using outdoor spaces to grow and cook food, garden easily and have fun. Anyone can join in – individuals, families or social groups.” On Saturdays from 11am to 1pm Sprout activities take place at Northorpe Hall, Mirfield or at Cliffe House, Shepley. Sprout is aimed at families who have children with additional needs. Activities include wildlife fun, woodland crafts, outdoor cookery, games as well as lots of digging and planting. “It’s a great opportunity to spend time together, meet other families, make friends and have fun,” said Rachel, “New families and anyone in need of an extra bit of support are always very welcome.”

Without fairtrade, banana farmers are often forced to work in dangerous and difficult conditions, using pesticides without adequate protection or being properly educated about the health risks involved. They may work long hours, on short term contracts with unpaid overtime and cannot be guaranteed a fair wage. During Fairtrade Fortnight, Colombian banana farmer, Albeiro Alfonso ‘Foncho’ Cantillo Ruiz is visiting the UK to highlight the plight of banana farmers. Sophie, of fairandfunky, said: “We are really looking forward to running our workshops at the Houses of Parliament. Fairtrade is at the core of our business and we are thrilled with the opportunity to put fairtrade on the agenda for MPs.” Helen added: “This is a great chance for us to shout about the work we do and for Yorkshire schools to still be involved.” As well as the Houses of Parliament workshops, the pair will host a pop up shop and ‘Go Bananas’ workshop at the Packhorse Centre, Huddersfield, on March 1 and at Holmfirth Market on March 6. All of the banana trees created by children taking part in the fairtrade workshops will be added together to create an orchard at the Fairandfunky Fairtrade Family Fun Day on March 9 at Holmfirth Market. Growing Works also encompasses Pod – a mobile potting shed that attracts people to growing workshops. During the Summer, the team entertained visitors to Greenhead Park, Huddersfield, in the shed with a salad bar, smoothie making and a variety of craft activities. They also dug, planted and made pickles and chutneys. Another initiative – Bud – emphasises the therapeutic benefits of gardening. The team work alongside those that have experienced mental health problems, run training sessions and offer a one-to-one garden buddy service. For more information about the services offered by Growing Works or to volunteer, contact Growing Works on 01484 606506.

LITERACY All information kindly supplied by:

The Children’s Bookshop 37-39 Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01484 658013

t this time of year, many people look for a special book to treasure and add to their Christmas family collection – a story that can be brought out each Christmas Eve and re-read as part of the festive magic.

Children’s Festive Reads

Festive Reads Little Robin’s Christmas by Jan Fearnley (£6.99) ‘Little Robin’s Christmas’, originally published in 1998 as ‘Little Robin Red Vest’, tells the story of a generous robin, who gives away all of his seven vests, leaving himself shivering in the cold. Father Christmas intervenes and all ends well. Perfectly captures the real meaning of giving presents and can also be used as a ‘count-down’ to the big day.

My Advent Calendar Christmas Book by Antonia Jackson and Krisztina Kallai Nagy (£5.99) From the respected religious publisher, Lion, ‘My Advent Calendar Christmas Book’ tells in simple language the extended nativity story; it begins with the angel’s visit to Mary and ends with the family fleeing to Egypt. The book is small and square in shape with a cover that doubles up as an Advent Calendar and offers a more traditional way of counting the days to Christmas.

Christmas in Exeter Street by Diana Hendry (£6.99) Another re-issue and firm family favourite is ‘Christmas in Exeter Street’, where seasonal hospitality knows no bounds. Everyone is made welcome and somehow accommodated in every nook and cranny of the old house. One can join with Father Christmas in trying to count how many children are tucked in awaiting Christmas morning.

Christmas Stories by Michael Morpurgo (£9.99) In ‘Christmas Stories’, Michael Morpurgo has brought together four of his previously published stories loosely related to Christmas, which will have instant appeal throughout primary age, as they are accompanied by wonderful pictures by different award winning illustrators.

Alfie’s Christmas by Shirley Hughes (£11.99) Shirley Hughes, in ‘Alfie’s Christmas’, captures the run up to Christmas Eve and the day itself perfectly with her detailed, child friendly illustrations and gentle account of a small boy’s view of the festive season.

Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore (£7.99) Another classic story in the same neat square format is the ‘Night Before Christmas’, illustrated with soft watercolours. Perfect for bedtime reading on or before Christmas Eve and some reindeer counting could be encouraged!

Winter’s Child by Angela McAllister and Grahame Baker-Smith (£12.99) In ‘Winter’s Child’, the boy gives all he has to help his grandmother survive the long unrelenting cold, though privately he wants Winter to go on and on so he can play in the snow with his new-found ethereal friend. These illustrations are incredibly beautiful and atmospheric. There is much to talk about with a child on the cusp of school life, interested in friendship, passage of time and change.

Christmas Poems compiled by Gaby Morgan and Axel Scheffler (£10.99) This is one for the whole family to share, with appeal for older siblings ‘Christmas Poems’, is a collection of old and new poems decorated throughout in colour by Axel Scheffler. There is something for everyone in this small book.