South Leeds Life 104 January 2023

Your FREE community newspaper

Issue 104 | January 2024

Covering Beeston, Belle Isle, Cottingley, Holbeck, Hunslet, Middleton, Riverside & Stourton

WHO KILLED OUR SWANS?

In this issue:

Christmas toy fundraisers

page 5

Intergenerational entertainment

page 7

Embracing challenges

page 10

Community anger at pointless destruction of wildlife

T

wo swans who have made their home on the lake in Middleton Park over recent years were found shot on Thursday 30 November.

A spokesperson for Leeds City Council said: “Staff at Middleton Park were alerted … to a dead swan and one injured swan on Middleton pond.

Having investigated, the team contacted Yorkshire Swan Rescue who attended site and took both birds. We are now working with the police to establish the circumstances.”

Unfortunately, the female later died at the rescue centre.

Charlie, one of the people who found the swans told South Leeds Life: “It was very sad to find them.

“I'm angry that people which live around us would have this mentality, to do this in a space which we all enjoy safely. This threatens us, our park and everything in it and I hope the police find them very soon.”

Alan Shaw, Chair of the Friends of Middleton Park, said on Facebook: “The Friends are absolutely devastated. Personally, I can’t understand why and how anyone could have done this.

“Surely someone will know something … And that person should know that swans are

Practically perfect Mary Poppins

page 13

Put your skates on with Alison

page 24

NEWS The swans on Middleton Park lake. Photo: Charlie N protected birds so you can expect a hefty penalty when you are caught. And that person should also know that those swans were loved and the community is rightly very angry and upset. Come on someone, do the right thing and tell the police what you know. Very happy for people to

message us and we’ll pass it on anonymously if that helps.”

On Saturday 2 December Police arrested a 17-year-old male. He was questioned and then released on bail. Then on Wednesday 13 December, Police confirmed that the youth had been released without charge having been ruled out

of the investigation and will face no further action.

“Members of the public are asked not to speculate on social media regarding this matter and to report any information to the police” said a spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police.

Anyone with information

about the incident is asked to contact West Yorkshire Police by calling 101 or go online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/ 101livechat quoting reference 0629 of 30/11.

Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

2-9

SCHOOL LIFE

10-13

COMMENT

14-15

LIVES

16-17 18

ART LIFE WHAT’S ON

19-21

SPORTING LIFE

22-24

Get the latest news at www.southleedslife.com - new stories posted daily

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South Leeds Life | January 2024

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

2 News

About us South Leeds Life is written by and for local people. People who live, work and play in the LS10 and LS11 areas of South Leeds.

The website and newspaper are produced by South Leeds Life CIC, a social enterprise registered with Companies House, No 9998695.

South Leeds Life is a member of the Independent Community News Network.

Our aims To inform people of events, activities, issues and opportunities taking place in the South Leeds community; To encourage the involvement of the wider community in communicating their experiences; To foster community spirit and involvement; and To provide a platform for local people to contribute and respond to community life more fully.

South Leeds Life is pleased to publish views from across the political spectrum, provided they comply with our editorial guidelines.

We remain a neutral publication with a diverse readership, as such we do not endorse any particular political party.

Contact us South Leeds Life CIC 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Leeds, LS11 7BW Email: info@southleedslife.com Facebook & Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife Phone: 07894 583966

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However, if you feel we have breached the code in any way and wish to make a complaint, please submit your complaint, in writing to the editor.

A copy of our complaints policy is available via our website at southleedslife.com/complaintsprocedure, or on request.

Developers reveal plans for the Tetley building V

astint UK, the developer behind Aire Park, the 24-acre mixeduse district on the site of the former Tetley’s brewery Hunslet, has revealed the first images and details of its plans for the iconic Tetley building.

The developer’s proposals for the 92-year-old building, which hosted The Tetley art gallery for the past decade until its closure, include the retention of the art deco façade and opening up the basement and ground floor for new food, drink and event spaces alongside 1,212 m2 (over 13,000 sq ft) of office space.

The new images which are available online at airepark.co.uk, also reveal roof terraces, a new cellar bar and restaurant, and the retention of many historic features, including the war memorial and Tetley Boardroom.

The fully revitalised Tetley Building, which Vastint UK acquired from Carlsberg in 2022, will be the crown jewel and focal point for the Aire Park district, which includes a new 3.5-hectare city centre green park, up to 1,400 news homes and 85,000m2 of office space.

The proposed plans include: • The basement level being transformed into a bar and restaurant area and opened up to the public for the first time in the building’s history • The ground floor to feature a new food hall as well as new amenities including Changing Places facilities • The first-floor plans show an event space and business lounge • Office space will appear on the second and third floors of the building • An extension will be added to the eastern façade of the building, which has traditionally always been connected to other buildings within the brewery complex The building will also be designed to be highly efficient and bring the Tetley Building up to modern sustainability standards.

Simon Schofield, Head of Development North at Vastint UK, said: “The Tetley is an iconic building within Leeds and we’re excited to finally reveal our plans for its future.

As custodians of this important

piece of the city’s history, we have been working hard with our architects Supervene and Enjoy Design, Leeds City Council and others to look not just at how we preserve this beautiful building but continue its evolution and ensure it remains at the heart of both Aire Park and Leeds’ South Bank for another 100 years.

addick Group’s Leeds Valley Park, a major new manufacturing site expected to create hundreds of jobs in South Leeds, has been completed and handed over to its new owners.

After initially being brought forward by Caddick Developments, Caddick Construction has handed the site over to the Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF).

Situated at a strategic juncture between Junction 44 of the M1 and Junction 7 of the M621 on the A61 Wakefield Road, the site boasts 300,000 sq ft of high-quality warehouse space across six units, each designed with sustainability front of mind.

Ranging between 25,000 and 70,000 sq ft, all six units offer space for a range of logistics, manufacturing and distribution uses. The surrounding complex has also been landscaped to enhance local biodiversity and create a welcoming work environment.

Over 300 jobs have been created during the construction phase, with an additional 500 set to be created once the development is fully occupied. Throughout the build, Caddick Construction dedicated nearly 60 per cent of its supply chain spend to the local area.

The contractor also facilitated five apprentices and work placements

on the project, and engaged with 350 local students through educational site visits and careers activities.

A significant portion of space is now under offer from businesses looking to move into the scheme in early 2024.

Alistair Smith, Associate Director at Caddick Developments, said: “Our vision for Leeds Valley Park has always been to create more than just a logistics hub. We aimed to establish a sustainable and innovative space that not only meets the needs of businesses

“Our plans aim to create a variety of spaces within the building including public amenities such as a Changing Places facility, food and drink opportunities and event spaces, whilst continuing the building’s history of being a place of business, with new office space.

“We’d like to think that Joshua Tetley would be impressed by what has become of the site he purchased for £402 in 1822.”

Vastint UK will officially submit its proposals to Leeds City Council in the new year ahead of starting work later in the year with the ambition of the building reopening to the public in 2026.

CGI showing the Tetley building with extension and roof garden

Construction completed at Leeds Valley Park C

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today, but also anticipates and adapts to the demands of the future.”

Kevin Etchells, Head of Real Assets at Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF), said: “Through continued collaboration with Caddick Developments and Caddick Construction, we’re delighted to have reached completion at Leeds Valley Park both on time and on budget.

“Caddick Group’s agility has ensured a seamless handover for this high-quality, sustainable scheme, which is set to become the

New warehouse space off the A61 between the M1 and M621

city’s premier logistics location. We are already receiving high levels of interest both from local businesses and from those looking to establish a Leeds base.”

Paul Dodsworth, Managing Director of Caddick Construction Group, comments: “As we hand over this flagship industrial scheme, the city of Leeds also finds itself placed in Europe’s Top 100 Cities.

“This accolade just goes to show what this fantastic region has to offer businesses, both new and growing.

“We’re proud that Leeds Valley Park can form part of the city’s success, and we look forward to seeing what opportunities this development will bring to the many local businesses looking to take up well-located, state-of-the-art commercial space.”

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News 3

Threat to Thwaite Watermill as council tries to balance budget T

he closure of Thwaite Watermill museum in Stourton and new car parking charges at Middleton Park, service and staffing reductions and price increases are among wide-ranging changes being proposed as Leeds City Council sets out its annual budget plans for next year.

The council has published its initial budget proposals for 2024/25 which will be discussed by senior councillors at the executive board meeting at Civic Hall on Wednesday 13 December 2023.

The proposals identify ways to save a further £58.4million in the year ahead alongside £7.4m of already agreed savings to deliver the required balanced budget.

The key elements proposed include: • Council tax to increase by 4.99% (with 2% of this dedicated to support adult social care funding) • To explore options to reduce opening hours at community hubs and libraries across the city

Thwaite Watermill at Stourton • Knowle Manor Care Home in Morley to close due to the building not being adequate for future care provision, Dolphin Manor Care Home in Rothwell to be repurposed to become a recovery hub • Reviews of fees and charges for adult social care in Leeds • Review of council-

managed children’s centres and Little Owls nurseries, based upon sufficiency need and financial viability • Review of fees and pricing for the hiring of community centres in Leeds • Charging proposed to be introduced at car parks at Barley Hill Road in Garforth, Netherfield Road in Guiseley, Fink Hill in Horsforth and

Marsh Street in Rothwell.

Consultation on introducing charges at two car parks in Wetherby is already underway • Car parking charging proposed to be introduced at Middleton Park, Roundhay Park and Temple Newsam Park. Initial consultation has already been undertaken about introducing charges at Golden Acre Park and Otley

Cycling and walking improvements completed on Crown Point Road W

orks to improve walking and cycling connections over the River Aire have completed, marking a significant milestone for cycling improvements in Leeds city centre.

The Crown Point Bridge Gateway scheme adds over 1km of protected cycle track over the bridge, Crown Point Road and Black Bull Street and aims to boost connectivity to

January 2024 | South Leeds Life

the south-east of the city by encouraging more people to walk, wheel or cycle shorter journeys.

The scheme creates links to local education and new developments in the south bank, helping to give more people the opportunity to give cycling a go when getting around the city. The project also provided valuable work experience to local students.

Cllr Helen Hayden with an apprentice who worked on the scheme

The Crown Point Bridge Gateway is part of a wider package of works which aim to fill missing links in Leeds’ existing cycle network by adding 2.71km of two-way protected cycle track, creating wider pavements and new safer crossings.

By creating safer opportunities for people to walk and cycle, the council is moving towards its ambition to

increase walking by 33% and cycling by 400% by 2030.

Progress has already been made towards this overall goal, with walking and cycling journeys both increasing in the city centre over the last year.

The route provides an alternative to driving into the city by connecting and expanding Leeds’ cycling network. This includes direct cycle routes to Hunslet, Elland Road, White Rose and Stourton Park & Ride, as well as the National Cycle Route Network 66.

It is also close to e-bike docking stations, with fully electric bikes available to hire as part of the council’s Leeds City Bikes scheme.

Councillor Helen Hayden, executive member for sustainable development and infrastructure, said: “I am thrilled to see the finished improvements to the Crown Point Bridge Gateway and it provides a vital route into the city which is already well used by commuters and cycle users. I’d also like to thank everyone for their patience whilst the work was ongoing.

“We’re making good

Chevin Forest Park • Pudsey Civic Hall which operates at a loss to be closed and potentially made available for sale • Council to seek to end lease at Thwaite Watermill Museum (Thwaite Mills) through discussions with owners Canal & River Trust • Bulky waste removal charges to remain free for each household’s first collection and then be reintroduced for more than one collection in the same year • Council staffing levels to reduce by up to 750 full-time equivalent posts by the end of the 2024/25 financial year (the council currently has approximately 3,440 fewer staff than it did in 2010) with ongoing trade union consultation to avoid compulsory redundancies The financial difficulty being experienced across local government reflects issues being felt nationally as a result of rising costs and demand for services, especially for looked after children, those with special care and education needs as well as for adult social care, together with an unfunded nationally-agreed pay increase for council staff.

These are all factors that have been cited as contributing towards the recent

announcements from councils that are issuing Section 114 notices, meaning they are unable to set a balanced budget as is required of all councils every year.

The position in Leeds also reflects the impact of funding reductions, cost increases and demand pressures for council services since 2010. Between 2010 and the end of 2024/25, the council will have had to deliver savings totalling £795 million in that period.

An online consultation survey is now live at bit.ly/ LeedsBudget24 and will run until the end of Wednesday 10 January 2024. The council would like to hear the views of everyone who lives, studies, works in or visits Leeds on how it should continue to fund services. Views and feedback will also be received from a range of stakeholders including councillors, trades unions, business representatives and third sector groups. Staff in council-managed community hubs are available to support people to fill in the survey if needed.

The survey should take about 10 minutes to complete and every response will be reviewed with the results feeding into the final budget plans that will be available to read in February 2024.

progress with our targets to increase walking and cycling in the city and schemes like this give even more people the opportunity to try alternative methods of travel for getting around.

“By increasing the opportunities for giving cycling a go, more people will be able to embrace cycling as a normal everyday activity for getting to and from key destinations and it will help our ambition to reduce reliance on car travel for shorter journeys.”

Both the e-bike hire scheme and the cycle network improvements are being

delivered by Leeds City Council in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “This investment in Leeds city centre is just one of the ways we’re working together to make West Yorkshire a better place to live and work.

“Changing our travel habits is about having access to different options.

“A reliable and inclusive transport network, which puts cycling and walking at the heart of our everyday lives, is key to our plans for a stronger and better-connected region.”

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4 News

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South Leeds hotels and taxis fail to spot child with Insp Mark Lund South Leeds Neighbourhood sexual exploitation On the beat

Policing Team update G

reetings everyone, Happy New Year, I hope you have all enjoyed the festive period.

As we look forward to 2024 and what it will bring I just wish to say thank you to the partnership agencies that the police work with without whose valuable contributions we could not achieve our aims: reducing crime, protecting vulnerable people and reassuring the public.

The Leeds anti-social behaviour team and wider partners in the relatively new problem-solving group have been integral in addressing a number of issues within Beeston & Holbeck ward, these problems have been highlighted by you the residents, or by the local Councillors.

Please continue to report issues either utilising the 101 system on the phone or online, Crimestoppers or 999 in an emergency.

I am pleased to report the

dedicated off road bike team have made significant progress into the anti-social use of off road vehicles across South Leeds in particular within Middleton and Belle isle.

We still have work to do and I want to reassure you the work is continuing. We have also recently seen a reduction in regards to the 'Car meets' across south Leeds. This comes after a number of operations to target them resulting in a number of tickets being issued for a variety of offences.

The South Leeds

Issuing tickets at car meets

A Salvation Army band accompanied the Friends of Hunslet Moor as they sang carols outside Crescent Towers on Friday 15 December

neighbourhood team has a dedicated social media account in which we look to update you all on what the team has been doing. I know that often as residents you feel frustrated at the perceived lack of action so, please follow the media accounts so you can see what has been happening.

We also advertise the community contact points, residents meetings and other community events that you can all attend and meet your local officers.

Find us on Facebook at fb.com/WYPLeedsSouth

A

dvice has been given after only four out of 14 hotels and taxis tested in a recent undercover operation to identify risks around child sexual exploitation alerted police with their concerns.

The operation saw officers from Leeds District Safeguarding’s Child Vulnerability and Exploitation Team working with neighbourhood policing team colleagues in west and south Leeds along with staff from Leeds City Council Taxi and Private Hire Licensing to run a ‘test purchase’ style operation to test the level of training and awareness in the hotel and private hire economies.

While the initiative identified some examples of good practice where deliberate suspicious behaviour was reported to the police, the majority of results showed that increased awareness and training was needed.

A female officer, with the visible appearance of a girl aged under 18, and an older male colleague played the roles of a victim with a child sexual exploitation offender during the operation.

Working to a carefully devised script, they engaged in ‘red flag’ behaviour while trying to book hotel rooms or while on private hire journeys.

This included overt conversations about having condoms, lying about being over 18, agreeing not to tell parents where they were, reminding them about gifts bought and referring to buying alcohol.

Other suspicious behaviour including asking to pay for rooms in cash or without identification and discussing being turned away from other hotels.

Over the course of a full day, they visited seven local hotels and took seven private hire car journeys in between. Only two of seven taxi companies raised concerns about their behaviour and alerted police, and only two of the seven hotels responded in the same way.

The private hire drivers involved had also been subject to ‘routine’

checks by uniformed police officers and licensing staff shortly after the test journey to give them a further opportunity to raise any concerns about the suspicious behaviour of their passengers.

Follow-up work is now being carried out around further training, including night-time economy active bystander training, to bolster existing CSE awareness activity in the hotel and private hire trade following the operation.

Detective Superintendent Heather Whoriskey, Head of Crime and Safeguarding for Leeds District, said: “Tackling child sexual exploitation remains a key focus of our work to reduce violence against women and girls.

“Those working in the hotel and private hire economies have a vital role to play in identifying suspicious behaviour and helping us to protect children from sexual exploitation.

“The more we can do to improve people’s awareness and vigilance around the signs to look out for, the more we can reduce the opportunities for

children to be victimised in this way.

“We are not looking to catch people out when we carry out this type of operation, our aim is to identify where the risks are so we can improve how we work together to prevent, deter and disrupt this type of offending.

“The suspicious behaviour demonstrated by the officers during this operation was based on real-life scenarios and was done in such an overt way that it should have raised significant concerns with those who witnessed it.

“We are keen to work constructively to support local businesses around this issue and have given suitable advice and will be continuing to offer awareness training for staff in these areas.

“We will be carrying out further operations of this kind alongside other work to improve awareness and protect young people from exploitation and abuse.”

Visit www.westyorkshire. police.uk/cse for more information about child sexual exploitation and what to do if someone you know might be being exploited.

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News 5

Acre Court residents raise money for toy appeal

by Ken Ingram

T

he Committee, Residents, and bingo enthusiasts of Acre Court assisted living complex in Middleton have fundraised for the toy appeal at the White Rose Shopping Centre.

They raised £250, but the

January 2024 | South Leeds Life

total price of the toys they wanted to buy was £320.

Thanks to B&M stores in Morley for their kind discount, which allowed more toys to be bought for the appeal.

Steve and Lesley said: “Well after hearing about appeal for the toy donations as usual we set plans in order to

raise the money. So we sold sweets and canned drinks at the nightly bingo, of which is four times weekly, and we also set our budget to raise £250 and that’s what we did and a little more.

“The toys will be taken down to the White Rose Centre, as soon as possible.”

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Residents of Acre Court in Middleton with the toys they bought

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e launched our funding appeal in September 2022 in the face of a huge rise in printing costs and we have been humbled by your response.

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6 News

Councillors launch Turning the tide on litter-picking micro litter in Beeston Hill grants scheme C

llr Mohammed Iqbal and Cllr Paul Wray (Labour, Hunslet & Riverside) have announced their plans to launch litter picking kit microgrants of £300.

The grants will be available for schools, faith groups, community groups and residents’ associations from January as part of their new “The Big Clean Up” campaign – a wider campaign which will focus on education, prevention, enforcement, and removal.

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal said “Paul and I know how much litter and fly tipping spoils the community – and how upset residents get about it. It is depressing for the street

cleaning team too, who despite their valiant efforts, seem to be fighting a never-ending battle.

“We know residents want to help but for many groups, the cost of equipment is a barrier to them doing so when they want to and so we want to remove that by offering small grants to help them buy the equipment they need to get started.”

Groups interested in applying for the grant can pre-register their interest by emailing paul.wray@leeds.gov.uk. The grants are open groups working within Hunslet and Riverside Ward, which includes Beeston Hill, Hunslet Moor, Stourton and parts of the city centre.

Pupils from Low Road Primary join a community litter-pick

The campaign plans more than litter-picking

T

his month sees the launch of a new community-led campaign to reduce litter and waste like flytipping, in Beeston Hill* – and everyone has a part to play!

Called ‘Better Beeston’, it will feature litter-picking – but also community engagement, work with schools and community organisations, competitions, art and local 'beautification', and more.

A team of local residents have been meeting and shaping the project over the past months, and are holding a launch event on Sunday 14 January. Join them at Rowland

Road Club (LS11 6ED), at 2pm for a big community clear-up – or at 4pm to hear more about the campaign, share ideas, and eat cake.

Clara de Sousa lives in the heart of Beeston Hill, and has been working with Cllr Ed Carlisle (Green, Hunslet & Riverside) and the team, to drive this forward. She comments: “I’m passionate about this area, and making it the best it can be. We’ve been litterpicking here over the past years, and that work is important – but we’re tired of the ongoing mess, and want to

change the way people think about their community, and build local pride in where we live.”

Cllr Ed Carlisle adds: “Here in Beeston Hill, we face many challenges – but there are so many good people here, who want to work for a better community. Litter and waste is a major local issue – but if we all play our part, in big or small ways, we could change our community.

“The Council, and other organisations like businesses, have a big role to play – but it’s only through grassroots community action that we’ll

Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife properly turn the tide. Please get in touch, get onboard, and let’s do this.”

For more information about the campaign, visit fb.com/betterbeeston, or join the team on Sunday 14 January. Opportunities to get involved include: joining with friends or neighbours to become ‘Litter Angels’ by adopting a local street or green space (all kit provided, and prizes on offer); entering yearround competitions; helping to coordinate the campaign, including social media and publicity; helping the local schools team with education sessions and litterpicks; project work with local organisations, businesses, and faith groups; or simply committing to pick up one piece of litter each day, and spreading the word to stop littering.

The campaign will be run in conjunction with other projects including the Beeston Womblers, Litter Free Leeds, and the national Big Clean Up programme. And it will be focused on Beeston Hill*: the big triangle of neighbourhoods between Cross Flatts Park, Dewsbury Road, and Beeston Road, down as far as the Northcotes. Including: Tempest Road, the Woodviews, the Stratfords, the Greenmounts, the Disraelis and Bismarcks, and so on. The campaign coordinators recognise that there's plenty of litter in the surrounding neighbourhoods too – but believe that this zone faces particular challenges, and needs special attention.

Join BISA for a hot lunch B

elle Isle Senior Action (BISA)’s Lunch Club on a Tuesday is proving to be very popular.

The food is always piping hot and delicious. People come to eat, socialise and make new friends.

Why not come and join us?

We also provide fully accessible

Wrap up warm for free The Leeds Winter Coat Appeal is back, collecting and redistributing second-hand coats and clothing to people across Leeds for free. Last year’s appeal saw 6,500 items donated, saving Leeds people an estimated £132,000. Go to www.zerowasteleeds.org.uk for full details on how to donate to or access items via the appeal, or drop into any of the local Council hubs. Pictured are Maria and Kully at the Hunslet Community Hub & Library.

Tuesday lunch club in Belle Isle

transport there and back.

Meals need to be booked in advance, so phone our 59 Club Worker – Shirley Callaghan on (0113) 270 9426. Meals cost £5 and are inclusive of tea, coffee, main meal and a pudding.

Come along and join us, you are more than welcome!

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January 2024 | South Leeds Life

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News 7

Lantern Festival lights up Beeston

by Rebecca Townesend

T

DePuy bring the generations together at Christmas Gemma Broughton writes: On 14 December DePuy Synthes in Beeston invited over 100 members from MHA Communities South Leeds to join them for a Christmas lunch and to listen to the children’s choir from Hugh Gaitskell Primary School sing Christmas songs and carols afterwards. A fabulous afternoon was had by all and we also enjoyed seeing both Santa and the Grinch! A huge thank you to DePuy Synthes and Kerry for their continued support at Christmas and throughout the year.

he Beeston Christmas Lantern Festival brought the Christmas magic back to Cross Flatts Park on Friday 8 December and it was bigger and better than ever with people from across south Leeds joining in with the festivities.

Led by local churches, and featuring volunteers and partners from across the community, this annual festival – now in its 11th year – celebrates the Christmas story, and attracts over 500 people each year.

This year’s event featured a story trail, arts and crafts, a chance to help build and enjoy some giant dens, three donkeys, balloon-making, free food and drink, and a very welcome area that had some heaters! Three groups of participants arrived in the park as part of lantern parades which had started from St Luke’s Church, Rowland Road

Working Men’s Club, and St Mary’s Church.

Music again played a central part of the evening. A busker kicked the entertainment off, followed by the Salvation Army brass band, then there was communal carol-singing, before a performance by a choir from St Luke’s Primary School. A series of community awards were given out by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Al Garthwaite. And for the first time, a series of short films were shown that told the Christmas story via scenes acted out in Beeston featuring a cast of local characters.

Mark Hodgkinson, one of the organisers, said: “It is a joy to be involved in such a special event and great to see it grow and develop each year. Once again the park looked magical and it’s wonderful to share the celebration of Christmas with so many people from across the community shining light into the darkness.”

Youth Club organises Christmas dinner for local older people

by Zoe Creasser

I

n the spirit of giving back to the community and enhancing intergenerational connections, The Hunslet Club senior youth club section organised a heartwarming Christmas dinner event for 60 senior citizens as part of their final Social Action Project of 2023.

This Social Action Project aimed to create a joyous,

festive atmosphere and provide a memorable evening for the elderly members of our community.

The festivities took place at The Hunslet Club with our senior youth club members working tirelessly to transform the club into a festive space.

The tables were decorated with centre pieces, Christmas cards and favours that our junior youth club members had created in their art sessions

Getting into the party spirit at The Hunslet Club

during the December month.

The event, funded by the local ward Councillors with food donated by Morrisons and Bennetts Butchers, was a testament to the power of grassroots initiatives in making a positive impact.

The highlight of the evening was the sumptuous Christmas dinner prepared and served by the enthusiastic youth volunteers. The menu featured a traditional Christmas Dinner,

ensuring that every guest experienced the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal this festive season.

Members of the youth club took pride in serving their elders, demonstrating a sense of community and connection across generations.

In addition to the delectable feast, the senior citizens were treated to an array of entertainment designed to bring smiles and laughter. The senior youth club members organised a lively program that included festive music, dance performances and games.

The entertainment was carefully curated to evoke festivity and create an inclusive atmosphere, celebrating the shared joy of the holiday season.

The event not only provided an opportunity for the elderly to enjoy the company of their peers but also allowed the youth to learn from the wisdom and experiences of the senior citizens. Interactions between the generations were rich and meaningful, encouraging understanding and respect between the different age groups.

Many lasting connections were formed, bridging the gap

Youngsters enjoy the lights in Cross Flatts Park between youth and seniors in our community.

The senior youth club expressed gratitude to the local businesses and the staff and volunteers at The Hunslet Club who generously supported the event through sponsorships, donations and time.

Their contributions were instrumental in making the Christmas dinner a resounding success and ensuring that the senior citizens felt cherished and valued during the holiday season.

As the night drew to a close, smiles and laughter resonated throughout the venue.

The night ended with our young members dancing with their guests and it was truly joyous to see the heartwarming impact and witness the heartwarming memories for both the youth volunteers and the senior citizens.

The success of this Social Action Project exemplifies the positive impact that grassroots initiatives can have on encouraging a sense of community and creating meaningful connections across generations.

The Hunslet Club remains committed to its mission of empowering youth and making a difference in the community.

For more information about The Hunslet Club youth club and its future initiatives, please visit www.hunsletclub.org.uk Our youth clubs are completely FREE. We welcome all young people age 8 to 18 to join us 5 nights a week. We have two age groups; Junior Youth Club (age 8 to 12) Monday and Thursday 4:308pm; and Open Access Youth Club (School Year 8+) Tuesday, Wednesday 4-9pm and Friday 4-9pm.

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8 News

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Community space Asha celebrates another year of upgrade at delivering services to women St Luke’s CARES

The new kitchen upstairs at St Luke’s CARES’ shop

by Sally Thums

W

e are pleased to say that our community space, upstairs at our shop on Dewsbury Road, has undergone significant improvements to promote safety and hygiene and the overall functionality.

These improvements have made the area considerably more organised and inviting.

Thanks to a grant from the Inner South Community Committee, we have updated the kitchen, with new units, a new sink, and at last hot water!

As well as having fantastic bespoke storage that has been designed and made to suit all the needs of our different groups.

The space can now serve as a valuable community resource, having a functional environment that caters to their needs. The Shine Project, for instance, prepares snacks and meals in the facility, and having an improved kitchen will

empower them to diversify their menu options, prioritize healthier alternatives, and enhance their culinary skills.

Also providing better storage space for the youth projects means they can do a wider variety of projects over extended periods. It is also really important for us to foster a sense of ownership among the girls towards the space, ensuring they feel a sense of belonging.

And it’s the same for the other projects, for the people coming to Warm Afternoons, we want to offer snacks and drinks and some storage space. The new look also benefits community members coming to our Community Cinema, and other events.

Over the last few years, we have understood that bringing the community together works best when we learn together or share experiences together.

And this is what we determine to continue to do in the community space.

Learners celebrate their success with the Lord Mayor of Leeds Cllr Al Garthwaite

by Tahena Ahmed

B

eeston’s Asha Neighbourhood Project held its open Annual General Meeting at the Rowland Road WMC on Monday 27 November 2023.

Katy Ashworth, Chair of the Management Committee, welcomed local women, partner organisations and

Hunslet & Riverside Ward Councillors Mohammed Iqbal and Paul Wray (Labour), and Ed Carlisle (Green) plus the Lord Mayor of Leeds Cllr Al Garthwaite.

Over the last 37 years, the Asha Neighbourhood Project has been supporting women and their families to live more fulfilling lives and helping them to achieve their full potential.

Hunslet opticians wins Branch of the Year award A

Hunslet opticians is celebrating having scooped a Branch of the Year award that honours its outstanding customer service.

The Scrivens Opticians &

Hearing Care branch in Penny Hill Centre won the accolade after coming top in its region to clinch the title at the company’s annual conference and awards ceremony.

Digital recycling Having a New Year’s clear-out? Digital Access West Yorkshire are a Leeds-based community project, taking donations of unwanted tech (laptops, tablets, etc), and redistributing them to those in need. All devices are fully reset, and cleansed of personal data, by the Digital Access team. Contact the organisation at www.accesswy.org to make a donation – and they’re always keen to hear from volunteers willing to help refurb donated items. Pictured is Alfie, in Beeston, who recently received a laptop to help him prepare for his GCSEs next summer.

This year, over a hundred women have gained qualifications in ESOL, IT and Wellbeing. The Lord Mayor awarded the certificates.

The students, mums and under 5s group and the older women’s group shared their stories and experiences of being part of Asha.

Before the food was served Sarah Stead, Director of Vera

(L-R): Natalie Eaton, Area Manager, Paula Townend, Hunslet Branch Manager and Dan Abraham, Regional Manager.

Branch manager Paula Townend, who has worked for the company for 17 years, said: “The team and I are delighted to be recognised at our annual awards. This

Media, surprised the AGM attendees with delightful entertainment singing Abba songs that got women to get up from their chairs and join in the fun. Even the Lord Mayor could not resist joining in with the dancing!

Everyone wore the colours pink or orange to represent 16 days of activism against gender-based violence. accolade is thanks to a positive, strong team who work really well together with our optometrist and audiologist to provide both a professional and friendly service, which our customers really appreciate.”

The award is recognition for the team’s first class customer care, general positive attitude, optical and hearing expertise and all round professionalism.

Commenting on the annual awards, Scrivens chairman Nicholas Georgevic said: “Our success is thanks to the fantastic people who work in our branches to deliver a great community and customerfocused service.

“This year marked Scrivens’ 85th anniversary, so the awards were an extra special occasion for the whole team.

Congratulations to our Hunslet branch, who are very worthy winners! Paula and her team deliver first-class customer service to the community and had had a great year.”

Family business Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care was established in 1938 and has over 170 branches. For more information, visit www.scrivens.com.

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News 9

Holbeck children’s vision White Rose Shopping Centre launches first Impact Report for new play spaces L

ocal children’s charity, Kidz Klub Leeds, have been busy setting out a vision of the kind of play areas they want to see developed in their community.

The children showed off their design skills after Beeston & Holbeck Ward Councillors, Andrew Scopes, Annie Maloney and Gohar Almass, supported their visit to the Big Swing Playground in Bradford earlier this year.

Having fired their imaginations as to what a really good adventure playground can be like, the children set out with pens, paints, Lego and cardboard boxes to express their ideas.

The children’s designs are

now being shared with developers of the new Holbeck Sports Hub, who have welcomed input from local children to help shape the new facilities.

The children’s ideas also compliment the regeneration plans for the Heart of Holbeck levelling up bid, which will include the renewal of the Holbeck Moor community park.

Councillor Andrew Scopes (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck) said: “My ward colleagues and I are delighted that local school children have made such excellent contributions to what they want to see from new play spaces in Holbeck.

Creating structures to represent their dream play area

“This goes to the heart of creating a Child Friendly Leeds.

There are 12 child friendly wishes that children want for the city. One, is to have safe spaces to play, hang out and have fun. Another, is that children and young people are able to express their views, feel heard and are involved in decisions that affect their lives.

“At Kidz Klub, the children have created a really powerful vision that will help us make this a reality in our area, influencing two big projects coming forward in Holbeck.

What could be more important in the design of children’s play spaces, than the voices of children themselves?”

W

hite Rose Shopping Centre and Trinity Leeds have published their first Impact Reports, which outline how the shopping centres have contributed to the economic, social and environmental success of the Leeds community.

The retail and leisure destinations are home to more than 220 retailers and restaurants across the two sites, which include the first flagship M&S in the north of England at White Rose, creating 230 new job opportunities this year. Trinity Leeds is home to Trinity Kitchen, a unique mix of permanent and rotating food vendors and will soon welcome a new flagship Zara store.

As a major part of the Leeds community, the centres’ positive impact continues to be felt beyond just their role as shopping and leisure destinations – the combined total economic contribution across both centres is £175 million.

White Rose and Trinity Leeds continue to play an active role in helping shape a strong local economy – White Rose employs 3,162 people across its retail and leisure facilities while Trinity Leeds employs more than 1,421.

As part of the centres’ ongoing commitment to supporting the local community, empowering local initiatives and fostering positive change in the area – funded by Trinity Leeds and White Rose’s owner, Landsec – the retail destination has recently

White Rose Shopping Centre employs 3,162 people launched Landsec Futures, a £20m social impact fund which is dedicated to enhancing social value to the communities it serves.

Alongside bursaries for students in higher education, internships and community grants, the Landsec Futures initiative will also deliver threeyear employability partnerships with local charities, including working alongside Ahead Partnership, who are leading the charge in supporting people from underrepresented backgrounds into employment, and Resurgo’s Spear Leeds Programme which offers a year of employability coaching, from job application support to interview prep and networking events.

Among the centres’ commitments to reducing their impact on the environment, White Rose and Trinity Leeds have joined more than 1,000 businesses worldwide and committed to become a net zero carbon business by 2040.

Initiatives include one of the largest solar panel installations at any shopping centre in the UK at White Rose, achieving an energy intensity reduction of

45% since 2019, and 160 solar panels at Trinity Leeds achieving an energy intensity reduction of 23%.

What’s more, new research from Landsec revealed that over the course of 10 years, brands in a sustainable retail destination could see revenues increase by up to 13%, compared to those in a traditional retail destination.

Overall footfall for sustainable retail destinations could see a 6% increase, leading to a potential boost of up to £100m for local economies.

Steven Foster, Centre Director at Trinity Leeds and White Rose, said: “At both shopping centres, we constantly strive to ensure we deliver a sustainable future which meets our customers’ expectations and create added value for our local community, customers, colleagues, and partners.

“Our purpose sits at the heart of everything we do, in the way we create sustainable places, realise potential and serve a vibrant community.”

To view the full Landsec Impact Report, go to: landsec .com/impact-report-2022

Jamyang Buddhist Centre welcomes new director J

amyang Leeds Buddhist and Wellbeing Centre on Ingram Road welcomes Lee Howson, its new centre director.

Lee has been a teacher and department head for Religious Studies and Philosophy for almost twenty years and arrives from London where he also spent three years running a similar Buddhist-inspired charity.

Lee will be helping to develop the wellbeing activities offered at the centre. From January 2024 they will add to the regular Yoga and Sound Gong sessions with an evening mindfulness meditation group, a Qigong evening class and children's yoga and meditation. Further plans include an arts and crafts

activity afternoon for children, wellbeing workshops for health and stress-relief and compassion training for working with anger and extreme emotions.

The centre also has a welcoming and wellequipped cafe, a shop for Buddhist supplies and a charity shop with bargain factory seconds as well as pre-worn treasures. The charity shop hosts a nowlegendary ‘everything for £1’ jumble sale every couple of months.

Lee is keen to hear from anyone who is interested in accessing our facilities to deliver wellbeing or community-related events and activities, or anyone who wishes there was a local course or workshop that

addresses health and emotional and physical wellbeing.

The Jamyang Centre is also part of the Welcoming Spaces Initiative and so anyone is welcome to come in over the winter period (main opening hours 10-2pm on Tuesdays to Saturdays) for a relaxing and comfortable space to be (with free wifi) without feeling they need to buy anything.

If you want to discuss further ideas on how the Jamyang Centre could benefit Holbeck residents then get in touch at director@jamyangleeds.co.u k.

Jamyang Buddhisrt Centre is located at Clyde Works on on Ingram Road in Holbeck A yoga class at Jamyang in Holbeck LS11 9RQ.

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10 School Life

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CJCA students Ruth Gorse Academy continues embrace challenges to be an ‘Outstanding’ school and build skills on O residential trip I

n an exhilarating and educational experience, students from Cockburn John Charles Academy embarked on a memorable residential trip to Bewerley Park, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Nidderdale in North Yorkshire.

This excursion, designed to foster teamwork, resilience, and personal growth, offered a diverse array of activities that tested the mettle of these young learners while honing their skills in various disciplines.

Over the course of the trip, the students participated in a wide range of outdoor activities, immersing themselves in nature and pushing their boundaries.

Among the highlights were rock climbing sessions that encouraged not only physical strength but also mental agility and problem-solving. Scaling the rugged cliffs provided an adrenaline rush while instilling a sense of accomplishment and courage in the students.

Bewerley Park, the students not only engaged in these thrilling activities but also cultivated essential life skills.

They learned the significance of effective communication, resilience in the face of obstacles, and the importance of supporting and relying on one another in a team setting.

Mrs Lancashire, the trip coordinator, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "It's incredible to witness the transformation in these students. They've not only conquered physical challenges but also developed a sense of camaraderie and perseverance.

These experiences are invaluable for their personal growth and character development."

Mrs Roberts, Head of School at Cockburn John Charles Academy, said "Experiences like these at Bewerley Park are essential in shaping our students into resilient, adaptable individuals. They return not just with stories but

fsted Inspectors have confirmed that The Ruth Gorse Academy in Hunslet continues to be an ‘Outstanding’ school in a report published on 30 November 2023.

In a glowing report, Inspectors comment that: “At The Ruth Gorse Academy, there are no barriers to pupils’ success. This includes pupils who are disadvantaged. Pupils are encouraged to be ambitious and confident. The school has set extremely high academic expectations for what pupils can achieve. Pupils meet these expectations with pride.

This results in exceptionally strong academic outcomes.”

“The quality of education at The Ruth Gorse Academy is exceptional. Leaders have ensured a broad and ambitious curriculum is in place across the school.”

“Teachers are highly skilled and well trained. They bring the aims of the curriculum to life” The report also praises the inclusivity of the school, mentioning Culture Day which celebrates the many diverse

The Ruth Gorse Academy in Hunslet communities that pupils come from, as well as its provision for SEND pupils. It also highlights lessons on health issues and sporting opportunities including professioinal coaching in Volleyball, Rowing and Karate.

Commenting on the report, Ruth Gorse Principal, Ben Mallinson, said: “We are delighted with the inspection report that captures the essence of our school. Our young people receive an

outstanding education and school experience, which sees students, staff members and families working together with one common goal; to see young people, from all backgrounds and with a range of needs, flourish and secure the Gift of Choice as a consequence of attending our fantastic school. Our pupils are amazing, and we consider it to be a privilege to work with them.”

The Ruth Gorse Academy

opened in September 2014 and was first inspected in July 2017 when it was graded as ‘Outstanding’ in all areas. In line with Ofsted policies, Outstanding schools are normally revisited about every four years, but this was delayed due to the Covid pandemic.

This ‘ungraded’ inspection was therefore the first inspection since 2017.

You can read the full Ofsted Inspection report at bit.ly/RuthGorseOfsted

Cottingley Primary collects 500 meals for local foodbank

by Jeremy Morton

C

ottingley Primary Academy turned one Christmas tradition on its head this year by organising a reverse advent calendar, thus reinforcing another tradition - charitable giving.

Throughout December the

school asked children and staff across school to bring in an item each day to donate to the foodbank if they were able to, rather than receiving something. And yesterday (21 December 2023) they handed over 210kg of food to Leeds South & East Foodbank, equating to about 500 meals

Rock climbing The expedition into the woods for orienteering exercises brought out their navigational prowess and teamwork skills.

Armed with maps and compasses, the students worked together, employing their critical thinking to decipher routes and reach designated checkpoints — a task that tested their communication and collaboration.

Throughout their time at

with enhanced skills and a stronger sense of self."

The residential trip to Bewerley Park proved to be a melting pot of adventure, learning, and skill-building. As the students returned to their classrooms, they carried with them not just memories of thrilling escapades but also a wealth of newfound skills and a deeper understanding of their own capabilities, setting the stage for their continued growth and success.

L-R: Charlie Wood, Rafael, Hollie, Ephrata, Simon and John Sutcliffe

for local people.

Foodbank volunteer Charlie Wood said he’d never seen such a big collection from a school as the tins and packets completely filled the van.

The handover was overseen

by Rafael, Hollie, Ephrata and Simon from the ‘Calliope’s Committee’ (school council).

Rafael said it was better than a normal advent calendar because: “We get to help people who don’t have anything and it feels good to help people out.”

Ephrata added: “I enjoyed it because instead of us receiving anything we gave it to people who don’t have anything at Christmas.”

Hannah Mills, the teacher who organised the collection commented: “We are incredibly proud of the enormous effort the children and staff have made to add to our Advent Calendar throughout December. We are blown away by their generosity!”

Wendy Doyle, Operations Manager at Leeds South and East Foodbank said “I would like to thank the school and all the families who donated, the amount donated will make over 500 meals and help some very needy people in our community. We wish all the families and the school a merry Christmas and a happy new year.”

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January 2024 | South Leeds Life

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School Life 11

Asha Preschool rated ‘Good’ T

he Asha Neighbourhood Project‘s Preschool in Beeston was recently inspected by Ofsted who found it to be ‘Good’ in all areas, this follows last year’s judgement that it ‘Requires Improvement’.

In their report the Inspectors describe the setting as warm and welcoming, they continue: “Overall, staff promote a good level of English. Parents confirm that their children are learning English quickly. At times, staff also switch into children’s home language. This helps children to feel settled. It also helps parents to feel welcome and makes sure that important communication about children’s care and learning is understood.

Children benefit from the high level of one-to-one support.

This means that staff get to know the children very well, and they often spend time interacting with children individually. The high staffing levels also provide a good level of support for children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).”

Chandra Ali from Asha

commented: “We are very pleased to announce our preschool at Asha has recently been awarded an Ofsted rating of ‘Good’. This comes after a lot of hard work by both our staff and the parents of our children who attend, so a massive thank you to all. Asha’s Preschool is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:30am to 2:30pm (during term time only). We are a small, friendly and inclusive setting where we offer funded places for children aged 2-4. We currently have places available so if you live in the South Leeds area then please give us a call or drop in for more information.”

Asha Neighbourhood Project is based at 43 Stratford Street, Beeston, LS11 6JG. Phone: (0113) 270 4600; Email: info@ashaleeds.org.uk

Elliott Hudson College students premiere film: Myths & Legends: A South Leeds Odyssey

or playful mischief which helped the wider society.”

Following the resounding success of the premiere, the co-created animated film is about to embark on a tour across Leeds libraries in early 2024, reaching out to wider audiences and further celebrating the rich heritage and stories of South Leeds.

Jodie Russi-Red, British Library Co-ordinator of the project said: “The British Library/Elliott Hudson co-creation group has gone on such a journey this year. We had no idea what this group would end up operating like or coming up with when we started in Spring, and it was such an amazing moment for me and the rest of my colleagues to step back and see what the group has shaped. It’s proved to us what a massive difference it makes to have local young people steering a project.”

“This landmark collaboration not only underscores the British Library’s innovative approach to engaging young minds but also highlights the students’ remarkable creativity and commitment in authentically portraying the cultural essence of their community through the mesmerizing medium of animation.”

Middleton Primary in the community at Christmas At Middleton Primary School, community is at the heart of all that goes on. During Christmas time, the children love to spread festive cheer to others in and around the local community. Children from Year 2 visited the newly opened Gasgoine House and Middleton Park Lodge and sang some wonderful Christmas songs, led by our Music lead, Mrs Hurst. Middleton Baptist Church have worked with school for many years now and offer yearly Christmas workshops in the church for every single class. All classes went over to learn about the Christmas Story and its meaning. Alison Wain and her team put on a fantastic and engaging show and the children got to make baubles, crowns and other Christmas crafts. Sharing joy in the community is always a priority at Middleton Primary School, especially at Christmas time.

by Kim Silverstone

I

n an exciting collaboration between Elliott Hudson College and the prestigious British Library, a group of students has spearheaded an innovative project culminating in the creation of an animated film titled “Myths & Legends: A South Leeds Odyssey.”

This project marked the British Library’s first cocreation venture with students from Elliott Hudson College, aiming to authentically represent the vibrant youth voice of South Leeds.

The collaboration project has been running since February as part of the students’ enrichment programme, and has included trips to London, local libraries, and museums as well as print-making workshops. The students then decided to bring together everything they had been discussing and conceptualising into a new animated film celebrating the diverse cultural tapestry of South Leeds.

Two recent graduates from the Northern Film School were

chosen to bring the envisioned tale to life, drawing inspiration from Anansi, the revered Ghanaian/Caribbean folklore spider trickster. Renowned Leeds poet Khadijah Ibrahiim contributed by crafting a new narrative for the animated film.

Flora Young, Elliott Hudson College Student, said: “It was an amazing opportunity that formed

friendships between us. It was completely student-led with only small suggestions made

by Jodie which gave a sense of accomplishment but also project management and problem solving. The premiere helped us to see our efforts on a big screen and realise the size of our project.”

The much-anticipated premiere of “Myths & Legends:

Students from Elliott Hudson College at the premiere

A South Leeds Odyssey” took place on 10 October 2023 at the School of Art in Leeds Beckett University.

The premiere event was a glamorous affair, resembling a red-carpet spectacle, providing the students with an unforgettable experience amid the glitz and glamor. The venue sparkled with the creative energy and talent exhibited by

the students and collaborators.

The students showcased their enthusiasm and dedication by promoting the premiere on Chapel FM, a local radio station, discussing the intricacies and significance of their collaborative journey on air.

Sam Ashik, Elliott Hudson College Student, said: “The biggest lesson I learnt was probably on the many different aspects, views and opinions on culture and heritage as a whole. While some people seemed to care less about ethnic culture, they were a lot more interested in the culture of the area they lived in.

“The many different interpretations of the same story (Anansi), was also a valuable insight to me, as while as a whole in most cultures, trickery was frowned upon, certain instances of it were praised and revered.

Sometimes, like with Anansi, there was a blurry line between the two, with some of the spider’s actions causing chaos, and others causing confusion

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12 School Life

Clapgate Primary School is In Harmony with Opera North C

lapgate Primary School in Belle Isle is the latest school in our area to join Opera North’s In Harmony programme, joining Windmill, Low Road and New Bewerley.

The school joined the programme in September 2022 and are already seeing the benefits.

Headteacher, Natasha Singleton, explained: “What we are seeing is the increased levels of concentration, listening and attention spill over into other lessons.

“They are showing a better readiness for learning, and it’s impacting on their language as well, the pattern of language, memory, it works on all levels. I think music is very far reaching the cognitive benefits across the curriculum.”

School attendance has also improved noticeably, especially amongst those children who are persistently absent.

Pupils from Reception are learning about musicianship and singing together. As they move into Year 3 they also start to

learn an instrument with music teachers from In Harmony.

Music teaching in schools is often disjointed, but the structured programme ensures that pupils can progress Feedback from pupils has been very positive: “Helped (my) confidence in all lessons, to sing and talk in front of others. It helps us to listen

more. It helps us for our performances.”

“I now have faster instincts, other things can be easier and faster. I am writing more.”

“Mental health enjoyment a chance to be free.”

Parents feedback has also been very positive and the school has seen more parents coming into school and engaging

with the school.

As well as lessons during the school day, children in Years 5 and 6 can join after school clubs and get opportunity to join a wider group of children from different schools to perform at music venues outside school.

Clapgate has signed up for three years of the In Harmony programme. Head, hopes to

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continue after that, but it’s not cheap and there is an impact on school budget.

“I feel there’s a real lack of understanding amongst decision makers about the value of music in education, but In Harmony are helping us so much. It’s such an important programme.”

Music lead, Louise Mason, adds: “We build our whole school foundation on creativity – art, drama, sport and music – the things that children enjoy most and those that find reading and writing difficult can excel at. It motivates them and gives them confidence.”

Mary Pop Practical

Let’s Go Fly A Kite Clapgate pupils rehearse with music teachers from Opera North

Ingram Road Primary pupils benefit from T Holbeck street improvement project A

street improvement scheme for residents in the Recreations area of Holbeck to live healthier, happier and better connected lives is making a difference.

Ingram Road Primary School pupils are using the changes to now help safely get to school, with a new pedestrian crossing installed outside their school.

The crossing along with numerous other transformative improvements to the built environment has seen £900,000 spent.

The works included: • A new pedestrian school crossing • widening 14 sections of footpaths • enhancing green spaces with five new grassed areas • planting 28 trees • introducing traffic calming measures with ten through roads closed at one end and three one-way road systems created • building 425 metres of segregated cycle lanes in the residential area and connecting a piece of the city centre to Elland Rd cycle scheme.

The area is transformed by the

changes covering a number of streets near Ingram Road Primary School, including Brown Lane East, Cleveleys Avenue and Crosby Road as well as the Recreations themselves.

The changes will mean a reduction in both car usage and air pollution, encouraging people living in the Recreations – which is one of the most deprived parts of Leeds – to lead more active lifestyles by getting out and about on foot or by bike.

The scheme is also designed to strengthen the area’s sense of community – and help break its pattern of short-term tenancies – by making the local streets safer and more attractive places for children to play and residents to spend time with each other.

In 2020, Ingram Road Primary School was one of the first to take part in Leeds School Streets. This initiative helps make roads outside schools into

Pupils using the new crossing on Brown Lane East

pedestrian and cyclist only zones, at specific times of day.

The school is still part of the scheme and these extra measures support making the roads safer, improve air quality, encourage more walking, scooting and cycling to and from school, and reduce schoolrelated congestion.

In addition, the scheme gives people in the Recreations easier access to employment and education opportunities in the city centre by linking in with two major infrastructure projects – the Elland Road cycle superhighway and the recently completed Ingram Distributor cycling and walking route.

The project was also complemented by a programme of repairs and upgrades to hundreds of homes in the neighbourhood over the last five years, with more

than £8.4m spent on measures such as the provision of new windows, roofs and doors and improved external wall insulation.

Sarah Millard, headteacher, Ingram Road Primary School, said: “The council engaged with the local community about the changes they could make to the area. They have listened to the outcomes, as residents wanted the traffic calmed, safer areas to play and greener areas – the scheme has delivered all of these.

“Parents really like the zebra crossing facility – they’d waited a long time for it and previously thought the road was dangerous to cross due to the width of the road and speeding vehicles.

“The pupils have commented they’ve liked being able to play safely in the streets which have been closed off to through traffic.

“The introduction of parking for parents/carers is better and the vast majority now keep clear of the zebra zigzags. And all the new trees planted make the area look softer – very much improved.”

by Jeremy Morton

his year’s Christmas production at Cockburn School was Mary Poppins Jr. The show ran from 5-8 December and was seen by a total audience of 1,000 people at four evening performances and one matinee for local primary schools.

I caught up with the lead actors to discuss their experiences of being in the show and started by asking how different the performance was from the rehearsals.

Naomi: “The audience brings lots of energy, laughing, clapping and cheering that just boosts our confidence.”

Poppy: “It’s quite exciting when we have the magic elements.

We’ve seen them before, but when you hear small children in the audience gasping and getting excited, it’s really quite sweet.”

What are the best and worst things about being in the show?

Oliver: “When you get on the stage you have a really good feeling about yourself and when the audience is clapping at the end you just feel great about yourself.”

Rosie: “The reward of performing is that amazing feeling when you’ve done well.

It’s the best.”

Harry: “After the show it’s late and you’re really tired and you still have to get to school on time the next morning.”

How do you balance school work and rehearsals?

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ppins Jr at Cockburn School: ly perfect in every way

Ellie: “You have to plan out when you want to do your homework and when you do rehearsals because both things are important, but you’ve got to prioritise which one you’re going to work on when.”

Is it a more technically demanding show?

Poppy: “As opposed to Rock Of Ages last year which relied on lighting changes, in this show there are many different settings: the park, the house, the rooftops, lots of set that has to come on for each scene.

“It’s a massive team effort to

get everything on stage, I feel we’re working well together as a cast and crew, it’s really come together.”

How has it been being part of such a large cast and crew?

Caitlin: “I think from joining this show it’s been a really great opportunity to make new friends, especially with people from different years, and they’re relationships you keep throughout the whole year.

Performing as a team, it’s a really amazing community to be a part of.”

Poppy: “I think there’s an

absolutely unmatched atmosphere with a Cockburn show. Because we allow everyone who auditions to be a part of our show.

“From Year 7 to Year 11 everyone’s together in the big numbers. It’s really fun to interact with people you wouldn’t normally interact with on the corridors.”

And finally, how would you sum up the show in one word?

“Heartwarming”, “amazing”, “jolly”, “magic”, “mind-blowing”, “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”, “perfect”, “joyful.”

Meet the cast: Caitlin (Winifred Banks), Naomi (Mrs Corry), Seth (Bert), Poppy (Mary Poppins), Oliver (George Banks), Rosie (Miss Andrew), Harry (Michael Banks) and Ellie (Jane Banks)

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South Leeds Life | January 2024

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14 Comment

In our view Someone knows There has been an outpouring of grief over the death of the two swans at Middleton Park. People are deeply saddened, shocked and angry that this has happened in our community.

The police clearly have little to go on in terms of hard evidence.

But someone knows who killed the swans in Middleton Park and it’s time they told the Police what they know. We don’t need speculation on social media, we don’t need scapegoats. We need the person who did this to own up or people around them to report their suspicions, prefereably with evidence.

Another year over ...

It’s that time of year when we make New Year’s resolutions. What are yours? To eat more healthily? To exercise more?

Can we suggest that one of yours is to be more active in your communitiy?

It could be as little as joining a social or hobby group, or picking up one piece of litter everyday. But perhaps you could do a little more, volunteer your services to a local charity.

One of South Leeds Life’s aims is not just to tell you what’s going on, but also how you can join in.

Because when we get involved we add a new thread and strengthen the tapestry that is our community.

The February issue of South Leeds Life will be out on Wednesday 31 January.

Your letters and comments Top Tweets

Keep up to date, up to the minute, by following South Leeds Life’s Twitter feed: @SouthLeedsLife.

Twitter, now known as X isn’t as good as it used to be, but it’s still a good place to find the very latest news. It’s free and you can sign up at twitter.com. Here are some of our favourite recent tweets:

Middleton Park swans It’s terrible that this has happened.

Thank goodness no one was physically injured, I hope the staff recover from the distress this will have caused them and that the perpetrators can be found very soon. I really hope someone knows who is responsible and notifies the police Jan I’m part of a care team that works for Leeds City Council and we take our elderly ladies to the park especially in the summer and they love to sit by the pond and watch these magnificent animals. They will be so upset not to see them again so the person or persons who did this awful thing needs locking up and the key thrown away, in my opinion.

Marie I’ve not long moved here and after having a knee operation I’ve found the perfect place to walk to assist in my recuperation, The park is such a lovely place, being embraced by all ages. I rest up on one of many benches there and I’ve enjoyed watching the abundance of wildlife there. So it’s come as a shock to hear that the two swans have been killed by some uneducated moron. Why would anyone kill two majestic animals that give so much pleasure to all ages. I’ve watched families with young children spending quality time feeding the swans, the children laughing as the swans submerge there heads in the lake. I hope you get what you deserve, and nothing but jail would suffice.

Roy

Thwaite Watermill and other cuts “Many of us were saddened by the news that the Council are looking to withdraw from their lease on Thwaite Mills in Stourton, spelling the almost certain closure of the museum there. Exactly 200 years on from when it was built, the mill is emblematic of our city’s proud history of innovation and industry.

However, we shouldn’t be surprised: the national government are subjecting local councils everywhere to punishing reductions in funding, several have already gone bankrupt, and Leeds City Council is

Middleton Park swans. Photo: Charlie N having to tighten its belt like never before.

Thwaite Mills is wonderful – but visitor numbers have been low there for many years, and costs considerable, and these challenging times demand very difficult decisions.

All is not lost though, and maybe this presents an opportunity. I’m in touch with good credible people who are (very cautiously) interested in taking on the lease of the site, who would undoubtedly bring a burst of fresh ideas and energy to it. Could it play host to more community and commercial events? Could it become a Centre for Alternative Technology (www.cat.org.uk) for the North, or similar?

A destination for leisure and sports, like Go Ape? An arts institution? A regional centre for houseboats? What else could it become?

Please everyone, seek out and complete the community consultation about the proposed closure, and ideas for the future: it’s online now, until 19 January. And don’t lose hope yet: this could yet be the (re)making of Thwaite Mills.

Cllr Ed Carlisle

Same old from the incompetent Councillor James Lewis. This Labour Council is just appalling and wants to blame everyone apart from themselves.

Cycle lanes, bus gates, the new disgraceful road infrastructure around Leeds is The deadline for unbelievable and how much has this cost? submissions is With no benefits for the public of Leeds apart from mayhem and disruption. Is Thursday 25 January.

Leeds City Council paying extra benefits for its staff working from home? LCC buildings empty why? Benefits for asylum seekers from LCC and not for the public of Leeds.

Beeston & Holbeck ward Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park to the Ring These looney lefties

Your Leeds City Councillors Road, Cottingley and Holbeck. The three councillors are:

Gohar Almass (Labour) Annie Maloney (Labour) Andrew Scopes (Labour)

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07445 878 333 07554 969236 07860 400645

gohar.almass@leeds.gov.uk annie.maloney@leeds.gov.uk andrew.scopes@leeds.gov.uk

Hunslet & Riverside ward Includes the city centre, Beeston Hill and Hunslet.

The three councillors are:

Ed Carlisle (Green) 07738 921277 ed.carlisle@leeds.gov.uk Mohammed Iqbal (Labour) 0113 226 8796 mohammed.iqbal@leeds.gov.uk Paul Wray (Labour) 07528 512649 paul.wray@leeds.gov.uk

Middleton Park ward Includes Belle Isle and Middleton. The three councillors are: Sharon Burke (Labour) 0113 378 8814 Wayne Dixon (SDP) 07852 311717 Emma Pogson-Golden (SDP) 07794 577586

sharon.burke@leeds.gov.uk wayne.dixon@leeds.gov.uk emma.pogson-golden@leeds.gov.uk

in the council will bankrupt Leeds. Is this for the majority of the working class of Leeds?

Christopher The Tories are worse in Central Government and are ultimately responsible for underfunding councils, usually those Labour run. We’re seeing a continuous decline in the quality of life in this country, still one of the richest in the world.

Richard

St Cross 90th anniversary My late dad remembered St Cross church being built and used to attend as a child. I attended Brownies and Guides here. We used to have church parades every month which were always well attended.

I was amused by the comment on Father Pickersgill as we always found him to be pleasant and kind. Although he was fairly strict with us at Sunday School but made it fun. He pioneered ‘Sunday School’ on Fridays at 4pm. It was so our mums could do a bit of shopping (that’s what he used to tell us). There were lots of us went straight from school and we learned a lot about the church itself and the furniture within as well as the bible.

Barbara Beck

Join the debate

@HunsletRugby Class of 60 pupils today working on their rugby skills - Grip and carry - Passing and catching - Play of the ball - Scoring tries - Footwork - Communication skills Brilliant session

@SthLeedsLakers We had a great day hosting our annual @BahHumbug10K !! Massive thanks to all our volunteers, all you runners and our brilliant RD Mark Bowman. Scrooge Hill next year?

@NewBewerleySch All these children have been spotted for free ballet sessions by @northernballet ! Our Northern Ballet legacy

Comment online; by email: info@southleedslife.com; or post to: 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Leeds, LS11 7BW. Letters may be edited for publication.

Corrections & clarifications Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy In our December edition ‘MP’s Notebook’ (page 15) Hilary Benn MP incorrectly referred to Laurence Cockburn Academy - and we failed to correct it to the Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy.

Apologies to all.

Keep up to date with planning issues in LS10 and LS11 We publish a weekly list of all new planning applications online at: www.southleedslife.com

@LarchfieldAH Huge well done to our residents and staff for WINNING this year's @AnchorLaterLife Christmas Cake Competition!! And many thanks to @LordMayorLeeds for being a judge and being so lovely.

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Comment 15

MP’s notebook with Hilary Benn MP

H

appy New Year. I was listening to the radio the other morning when Esther Rantzen came on.

She revealed that she is receiving treatment for stage four lung cancer which is terminal and she said that she has joined Dignitas, the organisation that runs the assisted dying clinic in Switzerland.

She is campaigning for a change in the law to allow people in her situation to choose the moment and manner of their passing.

I realise that this is a subject that divides public opinion and many of those of faith are very strongly opposed to any change in the law. I have enormous respect for this view and like many moral questions there are lots of things to weigh in the balance, but I have to say that I agree with Dame Esther.

I wrote about this issue briefly in my column almost a decade ago and quite a number of constituents have

written to me over the years calling for a change in the law, but since the debate has now returned, I thought I might set out my views in a bit more detail.

For a long time I felt very torn about this. On the one hand, I am resolutely opposed to anything that might lead elderly or disabled people to be pressured by their families or others to bring their lives to an end; that would be wholly wrong. On the other hand, there are a number of cases in which people with terminal illnesses, often very distressing, want to be able to choose the moment of their leaving of this world. Reflecting on my own experience of family members who have been terminally ill, I would have wished that option to be available to them if that was what they wanted.

It is worth pointing out that we do, in practice, currently permit assisted dying as long as people have the money to be

able to travel to the Dignitas clinic. It is obviously a matter of their own free choice, but assisting in the suicide of an individual remains a criminal offence. However, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) looked at this and decided that it would not be in the public interest to prosecute relatives in such cases. I strongly agree with the CPS because I think it would be wholly wrong to take loving relatives to court in these circumstances, but it is no substitute for Parliament considering the law in this area and reaching a view.

It was for all these reasons that I voted in favour of Rob Marris MP's Bill in 2015 which proposed that a terminally ill adult who is of sound mind should have the choice, with strong safeguards and the alternative of good palliative care, to self-administer medicine to end their own life.

The Bill would only have covered someone aged 18 or over who was “terminally ill”; ie

whose life expectancy was less than 6 months (it would not apply to people with disabilities or people who are depressed or who suffer from dementia). The person would have to be of sound mind and voluntarily (ie with no coercion) sign a declaration that they wish to end their own life. Two doctors and a High Court judge would then have to be satisfied about the requesting patient’s eligibility, and that he or she had made a fully informed decision, before assisted dying would be allowed. Then, after a 14 day waiting period, a doctor would give the medicine to the patient who would have to take it themselves; no-one else – eg the doctor, spouse or other family member - would be allowed to give them the drug.

For me, this is really important as there is no question of someone else administering the drug. And there would be no requirement on any doctor to take part; ie religious belief and conscientious objection would be fully protected.

I realise, of course, that describing the process in this way may appear shocking, but if the law is going to permit this then there must be full and proper safeguards. Without them, some of the fears about where this might all lead could

Small actions - big changes

by Cllr Ed Carlisle

T

his is a story about some messy concrete on Dewsbury Road.

And how our environment shapes us, without us even realising – for better or worse.

And how, through small actions, we can change our communities, every day.

It all started with some holes in the pavement outside a shop on Dewsbury Road. A local resident cared enough to raise it as an issue – he was rightly concerned that it was a trip hazard. A strong start. A Council officer who works with small traders pushed the shopkeeper who owned that stretch of pavement to take action – promising.

But the shopkeeper, or perhaps the contractor they got in, did a horrible low-grade job of it. The holes are filled, with concrete – but it looks like they spent about 5 minutes and £10 doing it. It’s messy, there’s concrete splattered all over, it’s the wrong colour, it just ain’t pretty. As someone added: they wouldn’t stand for this in North Leeds.

Sadly, this kind of thing is normal – perhaps increasingly so – in our communities. The reasons for it are multiple.

Whereas people or

January 2024 | South Leeds Life

businesses in the past might have been locally rooted for decades or generations, and therefore felt locally invested, that’s not so much the case nowadays.

National legislation has over the past decades taken a hands-off (‘liberal’) approach to society and the economy: the Council, Police, and other institutions don’t have the power nor capacity to manage people and businesses as they used to (nor as they do in some other countries).

The government cuts of the past 13 years haven’t helped.

The cost of living crisis means that everyone’s financially squeezed – individuals and businesses alike. And at base, we’re overshadowed by a rampant capitalism that values profit margins above all else.

Why spend good time and money doing a nice job on the pavement, when you can cut corners and do it cheap?

But this article isn’t about that. What I’m interested in is the impact of things like the shoddy concrete – upon each of us, every day. All the things that we see each day, in our communities, that speak of carelessness and neglect.

Tumble-down houses. Messy gardens. Overgrown weeds and untidy bushes. Litter and

flytipping. All of this, and more.

Our environment shapes us, often in unseen subconscious ways. You don’t need to give attention to these things, and think to yourself “That looks crappy”, or “People don’t care about our community.” These things work on us, deeply. They wear us down, and depress us.

They shape how we think, and how we interact with others, and with our local landscape.

But can we do things differently? Can we turn the tide? Can we make a difference?

There’s a widely-held scientific theory called the butterfly effect. It states that a butterfly could flap its wings in one corner of the world, and that small act could cause a tornado on the other side of the world. Why? Because the world is a deeply complex place, everything is interconnected, and even tiny events can have unpredictable ripple effects.

But what does that mean for us? Small acts can make a big difference: they can generate ripples that create widescale change. For example, one person might start picking up a few bits of litter, every day, in their neighbourhood; that might well inspire others to do the same; and their

neighbourhood would be changed. All the more so if those people spoke with their friends, family, and neighbours about litter.

This is the basis of our new ‘Better Beeston’ campaign, launching this month (see page 6). People are rightly sceptical that we can create litter-free communities. Yet there are thousands of communities, not unlike ours, across the UK and the world, that are largely litterfree. And there are streets and

Litter-picking in Beeston

come to pass, and I do not want that to happen.

Nearly a decade ago a man called Tony Nicklinson who had been paralysed after a stroke and could only move his head and his eyes went to court to argue that the ban on assisted dying was incompatible with the right to private life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (a useful reminder that the Convention protects the rights of all of us). The court declined to rule in his favour at the time, but Lord Neuberger, the then President of the Supreme Court, said this: “… a system whereby a judge or other independent assessor is satisfied in advance that someone has a voluntary, clear, settled, and informed wish to die and for his suicide then to be organised in an open and professional way, would … provide greater and more satisfactory protection for the weak and vulnerable, than a system which involves a lawyer from the DPP’s [Director of Public Prosecutions’] office inquiring, after the event, whether the person who had killed himself had such a wish, and also to investigate the actions and motives of any assister …”

Anyway, I found myself in a

minority as the Bill was heavily defeated in the House of Commons on a free vote - ie MPs were not told how to vote by their respective political parties because it was seen as a matter of individual conscience. But to judge by opinion polls, this is an issue on which the public is ahead of elected politicians, and were such a bill to return to Parliament for a debate and vote, I would support it again because I remain of the view that those who are facing the prospect of their own imminent death should be able to determine the timing and the manner of it, surrounded by those who love them and whom they love.

neighbourhoods here in South Leeds that are litter-free already. If they can do it, so can we.

Big systems like government and the business sector have a role to play, undoubtedly. But ultimately, litter and street waste is a social problem. It’s rooted in many of the same reasons (listed above) why the concreting job was poorly executed.

And is very much fed by the collective depression (mentioned above) that comes from living in a messy community. If people believe that littering or flytipping are

normal and acceptable, they do it; if they don’t believe that, they don’t (in most cases).

The future of our communities is in our hands.

Do you want to live a litter-free community? Take small steps to help create a cleaner and more beautiful community. Not just by litter-picking, but by talking with others. And also through things which uplift us – like gardening, street art, and simply adding colour to our local landscape.

It’s not easy. But if we want to change our communities, if we’re prepared to flap our wings, we can.

Hilary Benn is our Member of Parliament

Contact: Email: hilary.benn.mp @parliament.uk www.hilarybennmp.com Constituency office: Unity Business Centre, 26 Roundhay Road, Leeds LS7 1AB; Tel: 0113 244 1097

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covered in snow from midDecember to early March and bright colourful decorations certainly lift one’s spirits.

We may not have much snow in South Leeds but we have snowdrops. As I write I see one or two lifting their heads above the soil. We can look forward to our green spring with snowdrops, crocus, daffodils and tulips and blossom on our trees.

And a New Year tradition still

keeps going – making a New Year resolution. This may be personal such as resolving to give up smoking, to walk a mile every day, to do twenty pressups etc. Or it could be a resolution to do things in the community – attend all community meetings or to help out at foodbanks or go on a weekly litter-pick.

Whatever you may wish, I wish that your resolutions come to fruition.

16 South Leeds Lives

Happy New Year

by Hon Ald Elizabeth Nash

I

wish all South Leeds Life readers a very Happy New Year with the hope that life will improve for all of us.

Older South Leeds residents will recall the time when New Year’s Eve and New Year’s day did not mean a great deal apart from many going to a local pub which had a licence extension so that customers could see the New Year in.

Dance halls also remained open until midnight. Workers had very few days off on holiday and New Year’s day was not one of them. And regardless of what they were doing the night before they had to turn in to work on New Year’s Day. I recall my early days in work when we had the two days holiday of Christmas Day and Boxing Day. We always hoped that Christmas would fall on a Tuesday or a Wednesday when

we would have the additional day of Monday or Friday off work, even though it was without pay. It was not until 1 January 1974 when legislation made New Year’s Day a public holiday.

In Scotland New Year’s Day was a public holiday but Scottish people did not have Boxing Day holiday. My husband was one of the last to be called up for National Service in the Army. He tells me that over Christmas the camp closed down but guards, and a minimum of catering staff to feed them, were left on duty. It was the recruits from Scotland who stayed behind and then had the New Year off after others had returned to camp.

From January 1974 Boxing Day in Scotland was legislated to be a public holiday but I am not sure whether they had to wait until December 1974 for this to happen.

A Scottish tradition on

Hogmanay was a ‘first footer’ – that is a friend would step over the house threshold immediately after midnight with a lump of coal to bring good luck and fortune, but no doubt originally to help supply the coal bucket. Of course, almost all people now do not have any coal so that tradition has gone. But it was customary for friends and relations to visit each other’s houses and imbibing of a drink, usually of whisky and I understand that to a certain extent, that visiting tradition continues.

The festive season continues for all of the UK until Twelfth Night on 6 January, called Epiphany in the Christian Church. It was an important day to celebrate when the Magi visited the baby Jesus in Bethlehem. In Medieval times Twelfth Night was a great festival but, perhaps, nowadays we may have had enough of it by then. Certainly, we take down our decorations the next day and some superstitiously regard it as bad luck to keep them up.

This is not the case in Austria, southern Germany and most of Switzerland. The main celebration in those countries is Christmas Eve called Weise Nacht (White Night) and Weise Nacht cards are sent to each other. They keep their decorations up until Ash Wednesday when the week prior there is much celebration called Faschings Week – (Faschings meaning Carnival).

Those countries are usually

Snowdrops in Cross Flatts Park. Photo: Jeremy Morton

Pathways for positivity with Shannon Humphrey

An Attitude of Gratitude H

ave you heard about the buzz surrounding the practice of journaling?

Now, we're not talking about a typical daily diary, the kind my dad has faithfully kept for years (and undoubtedly makes for the easiest Christmas gift each year).

I’m talking about Gratitude or Appreciation Journals—those that capture the small, or large victories and positive experiences the writer encounters on a daily basis.

This type of journaling is believed to uplift mood, enhance positive mental health, bolster memory, contribute to overall well-being, and improve emotional regulation.

It allows the writer to reflect on their actions, relationships and communication styles, making them more self aware in the process.

I began keeping an Appreciation Journal about 10 years ago to remind myself of the positive occurrences that happen each day, you always think you’ll remember, but inevitably you forget! Lately, I've gotten a bit lazy though and shifted away from writing to quiet contemplation of the

positive aspects as I drift off to sleep, Which I repeat first thing in the morning to kickstart my day. After all, who wouldn't prefer to fall asleep or wake up, dwelling on joyful events rather than the woes and troubles of the world?

While discussing the merits of journaling with a friend who was feeling a bit low, she expressed an interest in giving it a go to boost her mental health, but admitted she had no clue where to begin. She was concerned about doing it "wrong" and dreaded the thought of composing a detailed diatribe of her day— something she neither had the time nor the inclination for. I completely understand. After a long day, who wants to sit down to a 2,000-word essay?

Certainly not me, and I like writing!

But there is something really magical about putting pen to paper. In a tech heavy world where we type, or talk into devices, to actually write something down has a power and energy in it. I’ll be honest as I look back at many of my journal entries, I can barely read my own penmanship, that’s because I’ve got so

enthusiastic, and rushed! But it doesn’t matter, what matters is that you recall the best parts of your day and prolong the pleasure by capturing them on paper.

Here are a few tips if you’re new to journaling.

1 Dedicate a notepad and

Photo: Shutterstock

decent pen to the task, it doesn’t have to be fancy.

2 Grammar and spelling don’t matter!

3 Write in bullet points keep it concise 4 Only focus on the good bits, kindness, laughter, fun, tender moments, things that

made you smile. It could be something you did for someone else that made you feel happy.

5 Pick the same time of day to maintain your journal 6 10 minutes is about a good length of time to write your journal entry 7 If you don’t have time to write it, think it before you go to sleep / wake up 8 If you miss a day, don’t give up, continue from where you are.

9 Some days you’ll have loads to appreciate, other days you might have to dig a little deeper to find something that lifts your spirits. That’s normal, keep going.

10 Keep it private, your journal is between you and you only.

OK, that’s inspired me to get out a shiny new journal for 2024 and fill it with loads of the good stuff, will you join me?

I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you a happy, healthy, and enjoyable 2024.

Thank you for supporting my column and if there’s a mental health or wellbeing topic you’d like me to cover you can email me at shannon@pathwaysfor positivity.com Shannon Humphrey is a Leeds based First Aid for Mental Health Instructor and Wellbeing advocate working within the business and education sector.

Visit www.pathwaysforpositivity .com for more information about her work.

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South Leeds Lives 17

Local history with Ken Burton

An unsolved murder mystery

Monks Pit Bridge

A

horrid murder took place in Leeds in July 1840 and so far, no progress has been made towards solving it.

The unfortunate victim was one William Reynolds Rotheray of about 20 years of age and a dealer in rags who resided alone in a house on Holbeck Lane.

William left home around noon on 2 July and sold a quantity of rags to a Mr John Kirk in Meadow Lane for which he received about a shilling (5p).

He was seen afterwards at the Anchor Inn, Hunslet, at about nine o’clock that same night in the company of a young man with whom he left, and from that time to the following Wednesday morning nothing was heard of him.

A body was discovered in the River Aire near the Monks Pit Suspension Bridge by some girls who were going to work shortly before six o’clock in the morning and this proved to be that of William Rotheray.

The body was pulled out of the river and taken to the Geldard Arms in Wortley Road, the body was searched but apart from a few trifling articles such as a box key, a comb, etc, nothing of value was discovered.

When the body itself was examined a frightful gash on the throat was found, this was about two inches in depth and an inch and half in width and this seems to have been caused by some sharp instrument that was plunged perpendicularly and worked

January 2024 | South Leeds Life

across the throat.

How the deceased spent his time from the night he was last seen to the discovery of his body on the Wednesday is equally a matter of mystery; but it appeared that the crime had been committed very recently before the latter date because, in the opinion of the medical man, it had not been very long in the water.

According to the family his absence did not give rise for concern because he was known to leave home on business for three or four days at a time.

About three o’clock on the Tuesday morning Mr John Kitching, a hairdresser, had to get up because one of his children was taken ill. The window of his bedroom

commanded a distinct view of the Monks Pit Suspension Bridge and the river bank and

as he looked out he saw a man standing near the bridge, but he did not stop to observe him further but attended to the child.

A few minutes was to pass before he again looked out and saw what he thought was the same man on the river bank in the act of throwing something heavy into the water and making a loud splash. The man afterwards stooped to the ground as though picking something up before making off at speed towards Leeds.

However, Mr Kitching did not mention this to anybody the following morning because it seems there was a common practice for young men to throw their dogs into the water to teach them to swim in the early morning hours!

What caused the greatest surprise was the discovery of a large butcher’s knife, quite new, and a towel in a box in the deceased house. The weapon had been very carefully washed, but the handle showed strong marks of blood and the blade was dimmed though it was difficult to say by what cause. The towel was also marked with blood as though it had been used to wipe the knife.

The door of the house was found locked when the search took place but no key was found and no part of the furniture or other effects appeared to have been disturbed.

Where the murder took place whether in the house or by the water side is a matter for conjecture, but there is however one feature supporting the theory that death had taken place before the body was thrown into the water and that was a witness who saw the body being dragged out stated that the right hand was in its pocket.

Wherever the deed had taken place robbery was the object behind the murder. The deceased had savings of £401, but where he kept this is not known.

Note on Monks Pit Bridge: The present bridge was preceded by the suspension bridge shown above but the comment suggests it was the first suspension bridge in Europe! This suspension bridge was originally designed by George Leather and built in 1827.

This bridge takes its name from Monk Pits, an area of meadowland north of the river.

It carried Whitehall Road, the main route from Halifax to Leeds into the centre of the town.

The bridge was a bow-spring tied arch structure built of cast iron made at the Bowling Iron Works near Bradford. There was also a smaller stone bridge over the canal. By the 1880s the bridge could no longer cope with the increasing volume of traffic and a new bridge was built by the Leeds Corporation.

The Anchor Inn on Church Street in Hunslet. Photo: D McGough via Leodis.net

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South Leeds Life | January 2024

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18 Art Life

The Gifting

by Lou Bentley

T

he Gifting was Leeds 2023’s final spectacle performance event of the year.

Created by the same codirectors who brought us The Awakening back in January (Alan Lane and Kully Thiarai) it’s hard to believe that a whole year has passed since then.

Billed as a promenade performance, The Gifting is an immersive, multi-sensory storytelling experience. It was held at Leeds Versa Studios in Holbeck. We were handed a set of headphones on arrival and excitedly waited for the show to begin.

What The Gifting does brilliantly is it immediately takes you into that magical space of suspended disbelief where anything can happen. As soon as the show begins the audience is directed by smells, by music and stunning lighting effects. There are a number of beautifully designed stages and sets, some that move

Photo: JMA Photography

across the studio space. The audience moves with the action so there is no best seat or best view, there are only many possible perspectives.

The main character and narrator Khorin Khorin Gurav, (2023 in Mongolian) is played by six different actors who gradually get younger and at times are in conversation with each other. The styling of this character is very clear so there’s no confusion. A live band plays music throughout and moves through the 12 stories that make up the show.

The stories themselves capture expansively what it has meant for Leeds to embark on a yearlong creative project, what has come from the promise to dedicate a space for imagination.

At the very heart a message of hope, joy and fearlessly moving forward. The cast performed magnificently, with special mentions to Bay Bryan for their emotional performance ‘The Hymn of Polaris’ and the youngest actor David Anthony Bevan Lane who rounded off the narration surrounded by candlelight.

The direction and planning deserve commendation, I can’t even begin to conceive how much work must have gone into creating such a show that runs without pause, and yet provides so much visual stimulation. It is engaging, magical and provides moments of interaction and connection that had the crowd laughing out loud and hugging. A really fitting way to celebrate the Year of Culture for Leeds and not so much an ending but a looking ahead at what’s to come.

Free* tickets for Leeds Playhouse O

nce again we are offering free* tickets to shows at Leeds Playhouse this autumn.

What’s the catch? Well in return for two free tickets to the press night, we ask you to provide us with a review of the show, just like Katie and Lou have done above. Don’t worry if you’ve never written a review before, we’ll give you some hints and tips.

Highlights this season at the Playhouyse include Frankenstein, Shakespeare’s MacBeth, a new musical comedy featuring the songs of Dolly Parton, a joint production of My Fair Lady with Opera North and the world premiere of Paranormal Activity.

We are offering tickerts for the following shows on their press night: Frankenstein (15 February) a new multimedia exploration of the classic novel is a psychological thriller which dares to ask the question – what is it to be human?

Zog and the Flying Doctors (15 February) based on the popular Julia Donaldson children’s book.

MacBeth (5 March) a return of Amy Leach’s acclaimed production of Shhakespeare’s ‘Scottish play’.

The Time Machine - A Comedy (2 April) a hilarious, fast-paced, wise-cracking retelling of the HG Wells novel.

Phenomenal: Oliver! at Leeds Playhouse

walkways on different levels, drawing everyone into the story, wherever they were sitting. Our seats were right next to one of the platforms so the actors were often very close by making us feel almost part of the action. Set changes were seamless and impeccably done by the cast.

There are so many highlights in Oliver, which makes it really difficult to choose only a few.

However, several aspects were really outstanding for me. The set, lighting and music were superbly done, very atmospheric, expertly setting the scene for the action. We loved all the costumes.

For me though, the stars of the show were Steve Furst’s fabulous depiction of Fagin, making him almost likable and West End star, Jenny Fitzpatrick’s Nancy with her glorious singing voice conveying just the right amount of strength and passion.

Judging by their reaction I am sure the audience agreed. My daughter was very impressed by young Oilver himself, who had a great singing voice and was very convincing.

What makes a musical like Oliver! great is that we know most of the songs, whether or not we have ever seen the show. So it is familiar and

somewhat comforting to watch, like an old friend. Fagin is such an institution he is often seen as the archetypal baddie – Furst carries this off expertly, playing on the audience’s preconceived ideas but making him have a little more depth.

The music was great, the orchestra really matching the vocals expertly. My favourite song ‘Consider Yourself’, not just because it is so well known, but as the cast carried it off with a little extra attitude giving the rendition a new slant.

It was really mesmerising and with all the cast taking part it felt as though it was on a truly epic scale. It was difficult to know where to look as there was so much to take in.

The great thing about musical theatre is its wide appeal to all kinds of audiences. This production of Oliver! is no different. Children relate to the child characters and songs and adults can enjoy the whole.

It must be challenging to make a successful production of such a well known show and really pull it off but this production really did this. The audience had a great mix of young and old, all captivated by the show.

Oliver! is well worth seeing for adults and children alike, so if you can, take your family along to see for yourself. It is an amazing spectacle and highly recommended.

Even my sixteen year old daughter was impressed and that is really saying something! We are now really looking forward to our next theatre experience.

Oliver! runs at Leeds Playhouse until Saturday 27 January 2024. Full details and tickets at: leedsplayhouse .org.uk/event/oliver

Unfolding on stage for the first time will be a theatrical experience that will haunt you long after the lights go out.

You can find out more about

all the shows at leedsplayhouse.org.uk/whatson If you live, work or play in LS10 or LS11 and would like

free* tickets to any of these shows please email info@southleedslife.com and tell us why you’d like to see the show.

Fagin's Gang with Steve Furst as Fagin. Photo: Alastair Muir

by Katie Holland

T

here’s only one word to describe this memorable production of Oliver! at Leeds Playhouse: phenomenal!

The costumes and set really captured an authentic feel of Dickensian London, you could almost feel the smog and smell the smoke.

Using the theatre in the round was a masterstroke, making the audience feel really involved in the story. An unusual step for a musical, it made us feel much closer to the actors and thus the action.

The cast made excellent use of all the stage and the Warning: may contain Cher songs.

There’s a Monster in Your Show (9 April) a brand-new musical show from the bestselling Who’s in Your Book? series.

The Tiger Who Came To Tea (17 April) the classic children’s favourite straight from the West End. Here You Come Again (11 May) a touching and hilarious UK premiere using the music of icon Dolly Parton.

My Fair Lady (7 June) the classic Lerner and Loewe musical based on George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion. the musical follows Eliza Doolittle, a young Cockney flower seller, and Henry Higgins, a linguistics professor who is determined to transform her into his idea of a “proper lady”. But who is really being transformed?

Paranormal Activity: a haunting live on stage (4 July).

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MacBeth at Leeds Playhouse. Photo: Kirsten McTernan

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What’s On 19

St Andrew’s panto group set sail for Treasure Island

Let us entertain you: the cast and crew of Treasure Island are ready to welcome you to St Andrew’s

New Year - new digital skills H

olbeck Together is running a course to help you develop your online and digital skills in their digital hub.

The weekly sessions run through January and February every Thursday afternoon, 1:30-4pm at St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR. It all starts on 11 January with a session looking at getting online and using the internet safely. That’s followed by setting up an email account; using the NHS app; setting up and using WhatsApp and texting to send messages and

January 2024 | South Leeds Life

pictures from your phone.

Further sessions in February explore online shopping, including Amazon, EBay and PayPal; apps that might be useful and helpful to you; taking and saving digital photographs.

Then in March you’ll learn to use the Ancestry.com website to research your family history and build a family tree.

Places are limited and booking is essential so call the office on (0113) 245 5553 or email sean@holbecktogether .org to book your place.

T

he cast and crew at St Andrew’s Pantomime group in Beeston have been working hard to make sure they are ready for curtain up on first night, Saturday 20 January.

This year’s show is Treasure Island. It’s another brand new script written and produced by Rachel George based on the book by Robert Louis Stevenson. It runs from Saturday 20 January through to Saturday 3 February at St Andrew’s Community Centre on Cardinal Road, LS11 8AG. The group introduced the story thus: “The story begins in the Mermaid Inn. Here the landlady, Hilary Hawkins, and her son Jim, off board and lodgings to local sailors. One day young Jim finds a treasure map and decides he must go to sea in search of adventure and the long lost treasure.

“Meanwhile the evil Long John Silver and his pirate crew plot to steal the map from Jim. They are determined to head to

Treasure Island and take the treasure for themselves, and they don’t care who they hurt along the way.

“Will Jim reach the island before the pirates? Will goodness triumph over evil?

There’s only one way to find out, so get ready to set sail as we head out on an adventure to Treasure Island.”

This is always a seasonal highlight in Beeston so make sure you book your seat.

Tickets cost £6 adult, £4 children from the box office on 07988 349985 or email: standrewspantogroup @hotmail.com Saturday 20 January 2pm and 7pm Sunday 21 January 2pm Wednesday 24 January 7pm Friday 26 January 7pm Saturday 27 January 2pm and 7pm Sunday 28 January 2pm Tuesday 30 January 7pm Thursday 1 February 7pm Friday 2 February 7pm Saturday 3 February 2pm and 7pm

IN BRIEF SEN-tastic SEN-astic is a support group meeting at St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD. It’s open to anyone who cares for children with special needs, parents, siblings, carers, childminders and grandparents.

The group runs from 9:15-10:30am on the third Thursday of each month. This month’s meeting is on Thursday 18 January.

Come along for a coffee, friendship, advice and support.

Leeds Baby Bank

Using the free digital hub at St Matthew’s

Leeds Baby Bank visits Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library on the third Thursday of every month between 10am12pm. They offer support to parents to access support services, community activity and longer-term support. They also gift families an essential top-up of items like nappies, wipes, formula and toiletries. They will be at Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library, LS11 6PF on Thursday 18 January.

Community/Reflections Cafe

Goal Setting Habit Forming Alcohol Free Coach Time Management New Year’s Resolutions Nutrition and Weight Management 1st session free Online and in-person coaching Mobile: 07886 997630 Email: info@markconwaycoaching.com

Enjoy a Full English Cooked Breakfast at the next Community/ Reflections Cafe will be on Saturday 13 January, 10am-12pm at United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle LS10 3LG

Warm and welcome spaces There are lots of community buildings that offer a warm and welcoming space for you if you are struggling to heat your home.

These are free spaces, with no obligation for you to buy anything.

Some may offer free hot drinks or food, some have free wi-fi, some will let you charge your devices for free. They are not all open all the time, so you need to check when you can visit. You can find details of Welcome Spaces near you online at www.leeds.gov.uk/campaign/welcome-spaces

Sign up to sing up If you enjoyed singing along to carols at Christmas, there are several singing groups you can join in South Leeds. All are free, none of them require you to audition or read shhet music and all are very welcoming.

Cockburn Community Choir meets at Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston, LS11 5TT, Tuesdays in termtime, 5-6pm.

Middle-tones meets at Laurel Bank centre on Middleton Park Avenue, LS10 4HY, on Tuesdays at 7pm A Choir’d Taste is a women’s group which meets at Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, LS10 4HX every Friday, 10am-12pm.

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South Leeds Life | January 2024

20 What’s On

What’s On Your guide to events and activities across South Leeds in January Please check that regular events are not affected by school holidays, 22 December - 8 January Full contact details can be found in our online What’s On guide at www.southleedslife.com/evens

Every Monday Tea & Toast Drop In 9-10am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Community Play Group 9-11:30am Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Money Buddies 9am-12pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Parents & Tots Group 9:30-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Trinity Network Tea, Coffee, Toast 9:30-11am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Women Only Exercise (HFA) 9:30-10:15am Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St MEA Crafts Group 9:30-10:45am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Over 65s Group @ Hunslet RLFC 9:45-11:45am Phoenix Bar, South Leeds Stadium Holbeck Together coffee shop 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Creative Communities Workshop 10am-2pm Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3DN. Book: penny.lewis@swarthmore.org.uk. tel 07483 666342 Crochet & Knitting Group 10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub & Library, Town Street MHA Craft Club 10-11:30am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Mums and Tots 10:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Chair Based Exercise 10:30am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Story & Rhyme (under 5s) 10:30-11:30am Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Lychee Red Chinese Seniors Lunch Club 11am-1pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Digital 121 support drop in 11am-12pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library MEA Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Trinity Network Indoor Curling 11:30am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle MHA Soup & Sandwich 11:30am-1pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Cottingley Warm Space 11:30am-2:30pm Cottingley Community Centre, LS11 0HJ Dinner Jackets (baked potato) 12-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck MEA Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Trinity Network Lunch Club, Bingo 12:30-2:15pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Drop In Technology Support 1-3pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Hill

Women’s Wellbeing (HFA) 1-3pm Middleton Family Centre, Sissons Road, LS10 4JG 50+ Women’s Friendship Group 1-3pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Beeston Bookwormers Book Club 1:30-2:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Beeston Digital Inclusion Classes 1:30-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Dancercise 1:30-2:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road MHA Meditation & Movement 1:45-2:45pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Children’s Gardening Group 3:30-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Ultimate Dance Academy 4:30-7pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, LS10 4AW Gateway 2 Sport 5-7pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Kickboxing 6:30-8:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Youth Community Cafe 6:30-8pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Legs, Bums & Tums 7pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, LS10 4AW ANDYSMANCLUB 7-9pm Leeds College of Building, Cudbear Street, Hunslet LS10 1EF ANDYSMANCLUB 7-9pm Vale Circles, Tunstall Road, Dewsbury Rd, Beeston LS11 5JF

Every Tuesday Tots Group 9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Book: 07794 577586 Community Play Group 9-11:30am Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Holbeck Together Boxercise 9-9:45am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck MHA Breakfast Buddies 9:30-11:30am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Advice & Advocacy 9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Trinity Network Indoor Exercise 9:45am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Mobile Hub & Library 10am-3:30pm near St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Chair Based Exercise 10-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Coffee and Connect 10-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Grandparents Kinship Support Group 10am-12pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Woodwork 10am Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, Belle Isle MHA Exercise Class 10-11am South Leeds Conservative Club, Wooler Street, Beeston, LS11 7JH Craft & Chat 10:30am-12:30pm St George’s Community Hub and Library, Middleton Story & Rhyme (under 5s) 10:30-11:30am Beeston Community Hub & Library, Town St Story & Rhyme (under 5s) 10:30-11:30am Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Job Search Club 11am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road MHA Lunch and Social 11am-2pm Arthington Court, Balm Road, Hunslet MEA Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Holbeck Together Lunch Club 12-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Lunch Club and Social 12-3pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Trinity Network Lunch Club 12:30-1:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road Holbeck Women Only Swimming 1-2pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston MHA Line Dancing 1-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston MEA Walking Group 1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road.

Learn Digital Skills Together 1:30-4pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Movie Afternoon 1:30-3:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck MEA Line Dancing 2-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road.

Free Kids Sports 3:30-4:30pm Grove Field, off Church Street, Hunslet Hot Meal (free to BITMO tenants) 3:30-5:30pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Mental Health Peer Support Group 4-6pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston, LS11 6QB Women’s Make & Do Group 4:30-6pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Book: 07848 515528 Rainbows and Brownies 4:30-7:15pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Cockburn Community Choir 5-6pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Free Kids Sports 4:45pm West Grange Courts,

West Grange Road-Winrose Crescent, Belle Isle, LS10 3AP DAZL Dance 5:30-6:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Girls-only Football 5:30pm Yrs 2-4; 6:30pm Yrs 5-7 The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road, LS10 1BP Dance Fitness (14+) 6-7pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road Book: 07519 018675 Outdoor Yoga 6pm Top of Cross Flatts Park Book: 07576 113269 Inside Out exercise class (HFA) 6-7pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX 51st Leeds (Hunslet) Guides 6:15-7:15pm Rainbows; 6:157:30pm Brownies; 7:15-8:30pm Guides St Mary’s CofE Primary Academy, Church Street, Hunslet Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs) 6:30-8:30pm Holbeck Community Centre, Old Elland Road NK9 Dog Training 6:30pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace Book: 07856 229909 Hunslet Nelson Women’s Rounders 6:30-7:30pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Yoga (HFA) 6:40pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle South Leeds Lakers Running Club 6:50pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston.

Book: bit.ly/LakersRunning MINT Men’s Support Group 7-9pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Middletones singing group (HFA) 7-9pm Laurel Bank Day Centre, Middleton Park Avenue, LS10 4HY

Every Wednesday One You Weight Management 8:30am-12:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Everyday Lives coffee morning 9-11am Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Active Communities 9-11am Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3DN Happy Global Families (HFA) 9:15-10:45am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street, LS11 8PN Open doors 9:30-11:30am St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Old Lane, Beeston Bacon Butty morning 9:30-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road.

Advice & Advocacy 9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Brave Hearts peer support group for women whose children no longer live with them 10am-12pm Middleton Family Centre 256-262 Sissons Road

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LS10 4JG Holbeck Together coffee morning 10am-12pm Ingram Court Community Room, Holbeck Trinity Network Keep Fit with Julie 10am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Anti-social Behaviour surgery 10am-12pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Creative Communities Workshop 10am-2pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck, LS11 9RQ. Book: penny.lewis@swarthmore.org.uk. tel 07483 666342 Woodwork 10am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Remember Together Group Young Dementia Leeds Hub, Cottingley Book: 07983 215865 email mcst@ageukleeds.org.uk Beeston In Bloom Gardening Gp 10am-12pm Millennium Garden, Cross Flatts Park Scrabble Club 10am-12pm St George’s Community Hub and Library, Middleton Rags To Riches Sewing Group 10am-12pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX Beeston Remembered 10:30-11:30am Beeston Community Hub & Library,Town St Raising Vibes 11am-2pm Holbeck Moor Skatepark Hunslet Litterpicking Group 11-12:30pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, LS10 2QE Holbeck Together Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Ingram Court Community Room, Holbeck MHA Cottingley Lunch Club 12-2pm Cottingley Community Centre, 115 Cottingley Approach Trinity Network Lunch Club 12:30-1:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Sew It Seams Sewing Group 1-3pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX Online Self Care Group 1-2pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Book: amy.hallam@healthforall.org.uk Holbeck Together Craft Afternoon 1:30-3:30pm Ingram Court Community Room, Holbeck Parents & Tots Social 1:30-2:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Walk and Talk (HFA) 2-3pm meet at Middleton Park main gates on Town Street Tai Chi 2pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Hamara Healthy Living Stall 3:30-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Brave Words Drama Group (4-17) 4-7:30pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Book: 07775 926166 Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs) 4:30-6:30pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Belle Isle. Book: richard.foye@leedsunited.com Ultimate Dance Academy 4:20-6pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, LS10 4AW Bat & Chat Table Tennis 5-7pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Climate Hub and Energy Saving drop in 5:30-7pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library 1st SLAM Beavers (6-8 yrs) 6-7:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston Yin Yoga with Amy

6-7pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Illuminate Dance 6pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Holbeck Moor FC: Inclusive adult football training 6:30pm Holbeck Moor Line Dancing 6:45-9pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Leeds Co-operative Photographic Society 8pm St George’s Community Hub and Library, Middleton

Every Thursday Tots Group 9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Book: 07794 577586 Music & Movement 9am-1pm Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Parents & Tots Group 9-11am Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Mobile Hub & Library 9:30am-3:30pm near St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Advice & Advocacy 9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Holbeck Together shopping trip 9:30am-12:30pm Book: 0113 245 5553 Holbeck Community Shop 9:30am-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Ping Pong 9:30-10:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Holbeck Together Coffee Shop 9:45-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Library Story Bus 10-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Trinity Network Craft 10am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Walk in Cross Flatts Park Meet 10am Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Kushy Nana (HFA Elder Bangladeshi Women’s Group) 10am-12pm Building Blocks Nursery, Maud Avenue, LS11 7DD Women’s Friendship Group 10am-12pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace, Balm Rd Craft and Chat 10-11:45am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Woodwork 10am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Craft Group / Digital Inclusion 10:30am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Story & Rhyme (under 5s) 10:30-11:30am St George’s Community Hub and Library, Middleton Inclusive dance 11am-12pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Walking Football 11am-12pm The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road Leeds Dock Community Drop In 11am-2pm Royal Armouries Museum Cafe, Leeds Dock Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road CV Writing 11am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Warm Space 11:30am-2pm Cottingley Community Centre

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Line Dancing 11:30am-12:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck MEA Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Crooked Clock Lunch Club 12pm Sussex Avenue, Hunslet Book: 07470 167243 Free Soup and a Roll 12-2pm Church of the Nazarene, Lupton Street, Hunslet Holbeck Women’s Group (HFA) 12-2pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, LS11 9SA LGBTQ+ Peer Support Group 12-2pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle MHA Lunch Club & Social 12-2:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Trinity Network Lunch Club 12:30-1:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Bingo 12:30-2:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Women Only Swimming 1-2pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Kushy Dil (Bangladeshi Women’s Group) 1-3pm Building Blocks Nursery, Maud Avenue, LS11 7DD Digital 121 support drop in 1-2pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Online Computer class 1-2:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Conversation Club for asylum seekers and refugees 1:30-3:30pm The Holbeck club, Jenkinson Lawn Table Tennis 1-2:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Walking Group 1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Digital Inclusion / Social Group 1:30-3pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Guitar Class 2-3pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road After School Games Club 3-4:30pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Community Basketball 5-6pm 14+ women & girls Cockburn John Charles Academy, Old Run Road, Belle Isle Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs) 5-8pm Hunslet Moor.

Middleton Scout Group 5:30-7:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Book: scoutsmiddleton@gmail.com Yoga 6:30pm St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Cardinal Road, Beeston Book: 07512 393228 Hunslet Nelson Women’s Rounders 6:30-7:30pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Boxercise 7-8pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle

Affordable Breakfast 9-10:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Menspace drop in 9:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Women only Exercise (HFA) 9:30-10:15am Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St IT & Computer Skills 9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Toast & Games, Knit & Natter 9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road.

Breakfast Club 9:30-11:30am BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Hunslet RLFC Breakfast Club 10am-12pm Phoenix Suite, South Leeds Stadium Holbeck Together Coffee Shop 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre Holbeck Together Dance On 10-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Hobbies Together (HFA) 10am-12pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX A Choir’d Taste (Women’s Choir) 10am-12pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX Gardening Group 10am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Julie’s Ancestry Group 10am-12pm and 1-3pm 26 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3AE MHA Stretch & Tone 10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Green Team Volunteers 10am-3pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, Stourton Beety Din Older Women’s Group 10:30am-1pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Fish & Chip Lunch 11:30am-1pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck MHA St Mary’s Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street, LS11 8PN MEA Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road Holbeck Ballroom & Sequence Dancing 1-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston 50+ Gup Shup Group 1-3pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Prize Bingo Afternoon 1-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Friday Social Club 1:30-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Trinity Network Bingo 1:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Chair-based Exercise 1:45-2:45pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road.

Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs) 3:30-5:30pm Holbeck Community Centre, Elland Road Active Communities 4-6pm Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3DN Table Tennis 4:45-5:25pm (7-11yrs) 5:306:15pm (12-15yrs) St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck DAZL Youth Club 5-7pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road

Every Friday Charity Shop 8:30-11:30am United Free Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Stay & Play 9-11am St Anthony’s Church Hall, Old Lane, Beeston Stay & Play 9am-6pm Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Food Bank 9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle

January 2024 | South Leeds Life

What’s On 21 Illuminate Dance 5-7pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle South Leeds Lakers Juniors (Athletics) 6-7pm South Leeds Stadium Book: fb.com/juniorlakersleeds Suzaku Martial Arts Children’s gp 6-9pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town Street 1st SLAM Cubs (8-10½ yrs) 6:15-7:45pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston Ultimate Dance Academy 7-8m Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle 5th Middleton Guides & Rangers 7:30-9pm South Leeds URC Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle 1st SLAM Scouts (10½-14 yrs) 8-9:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston

Every Saturday Cross Flatts parkrun 9am Top of Cross Flatts Park, Beeston, LS11 7NA Middleton Woods parkrun 9am Leeds Urban Bike Park Ring Road, Middleton, LS10 3TN Community Basketball 9-10:30am 8-12 years, mixed 10:30am-12pm Yr6-9 Girls 3:30-5pm U16/U14 Boys Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Debbie Heart Theatre School 9am-1pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Holbeck Moor FC Juniors (4-6yrs) 9am Ingram Road Primary School, Holbeck Saturday Breakfast 9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Adult Cycle Training 10am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston Book: bit.ly/CycleNorth Ultimate Dance Academy 10:15am-1:40pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre ParkPlay 10:30am Brickfield Park, Lady Pit Lane, Beeston Champions Soccer Saturday 10:30-11:30am Hunslet Moor Arts & Crafts Lunch 11am-12:45pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Bingo 12-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Youth Club 7-9pm LS-TEN Skatepark, Kitson Road, Hunslet

Every Sunday Junior parkrun (4-14 yrs) 9am Top of Cross Flatts Park Recovery Runners 10am Lock House, Leeds Dock Indoor Children’s Exercise 10am-12pm Hillside, Beeston Rd Healthy Minds Cycling Skills 10-11am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Hunslet Community Litterpick 11am-12:30pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, LS10 2QE Big Bike Fix drop in workshop 12-4pm Harlech Avenue, Beeston Toning & Stretching with Julie 6:30-7:30pm DAZL HQ, Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road.

Book: 07783 786776 Zumba 7pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle

January Saturday 6 January Coffee morning 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Coffee morning 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road, Hunslet Bangla Square Youth Group 1:15-6pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Monday 8 January Middleton Community Group 6-7pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Greenmounts & Surrounding Area Tenants & Residents Assoc 6:30pm Rowland Road Club, Beeston, LS11 6ED Tuesday 9 January Meet your PCSOs 10am-12pm Hunslet Community Hub and Library, off Church Street Holbeck Together Music Quiz 1:30-3:00pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Book (0113) 245 5553 Lego Club 3:45-4:45pm St George’s Community Hub & Library, Middleton, LS10 Wednesday 10 January Trinity Network Local History 9:45-11:30am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle MHA Kurling 10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Meet Your PCSOs 10am-12pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Meet your PCSOs 10:30am-12pm Holbeck Moor Road, ouside St Matthew’s MHA Singing Sensations 1:30-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG White Rose Speakers 7pm Jury’s Inn hotel, Brewery Wharf Thursday 11 January Meet your PCSOs 10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub and Library, Town Street Wellbeing Breakfast Morning 10-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Saturday 13 January Leeds Dads Soft Play 10am-12pm Little Angels, Beeston, LS11 7HL Book: leedsdads.org/events Middleton Makers Market 10am-2pm Middleton Park Circus Community Reflections Cafe 10am-12pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Sunday 14 January Sunday Breakfast 9am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD Better Beeston 2pm Community Clean Up 4pm Campaign launch and cake Rowland Road Club, LS11 6ED Tuesday 16 January Adventures in Reading (7-11 yrs) 3:30-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Wednesday 17 January Mobile Community Hub & Library 10am-12pm opposite Cottingley Towers and shops Leeds Irish Health Group 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Film Club 12:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Book: (0113) 272 1050 Pie & Peas 5-7pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road

Book: (0113) 272 1050 Thursday 18 January SEN-tastic 9:15-10:30am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD Leeds Baby Bank 10am-12pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Library Social 12:30-2pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Friday 19 January Meet your PCSOs 10am-12pm Cottingley Community Centre, LS11 0HJ Saturday 20 January Coffee morning 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Repair Cafe 1-4pm BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle, LS10 3QH Panto: Treasure Island 2pm & 7pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985 Sunday 21 January Panto: Treasure Island 2pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985 Tuesday 23 January Entertainment: Freddie Mercury 1:30-3:00pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Book (0113) 245 5553 Wednesday 24 January Panto: Treasure Island 7pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985 Friday 26 January Coffee Morning 10-11:30am Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Beeston & Holbeck Councillors’ Surgeries 4pm Beeston Community Hub & Library, Town Street, Beeston 5pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck 6pm Cottingley Community Centre Panto: Treasure Island 7pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985 Saturday 27 January Panto: Treasure Island 2pm & 7pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985 Sunday 28 January Leeds Dads Soft Play 10am-12pm Little Angels, Beeston, LS11 7HL Book: leedsdads.org/events Holbeck Together Sunday Lunch 12-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Book (0113) 245 5553 Panto: Treasure Island 2pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985

Hunslet RLFC v Featherstone Rovers 3pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ Tuesday 30 January Meet your PCSOs 10am-12pm Hunslet Community Hub and Library, off Church Street Herbal Tea Tasting 1:30-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Book (0113) 245 5553 Panto: Treasure Island 7pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985 Wednesday 31 January Mobile Community Hub & Library 10am-12pm opposite Cottingley Towers and shops MHA Coffee Morming 10am-12pm Cardinal Court, Beeston, LS11 8HP MHA Kurling 10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Meet Your PCSOs 10am-12pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Memory Cafe 1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Rd, LS10 4JQ

February Thursday 1 February MHA Coffee Morming 10am-12pm Whincup Gardens, Hunslet Carr, LS10 2HL Meet your PCSOs 10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub and Library, Town Street Panto: Treasure Island 7pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985 Beeston Community Forum 7:30-9pm Beeston Village Community Centre, Beeston Park Place, off Town Street Friday 2 February Legal Advice drop in 9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Panto: Treasure Island 7pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985 Hunslet RLFC v Leeds Rhinos 7:30pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ Saturday 3 February Coffee morning 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road, Hunslet Bangla Square Youth Group 1:15-6pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Panto: Treasure Island 2pm & 7pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG Book: 07988 349985

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South Leeds Life | January 2024

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22 Sporting Life

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Anyone for cricket? Cockburn hosts Foundation’s Hunslet Nelson look primary football tournament for new players

H

unslet Nelson Cricket Club are looking for new players of all ages.

At open age level the club has three senior teams, a 1st and 2nd XI playing on Saturdays as well as a Sunday XI. The club are also looking for

young players who have enthusiasm to train and play cricket to join our Under 9s, Under11s, Under 13s Under 15s and Under 18s. All abilities are welcome.

Indoor training takes place across the road from the club at Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston LS11 5TT: Under 9s and Under 11s train on Fridays at 6pm and 7pm starting on 12 January Under 13s, Under 15s and Under 18s train on Mondays at 6pm and 7pm starting on 8 January.

Open age training starts on Thursday 25 January at 6pm.

Please contact the club on hunsletnelsoncc@gmail.com if you’re interested in joining a well-established friendly cricket club. Find out more at: www.hunsletnelson.playcricket.com

The children were proud to represent their schools

H

unslet Rugby Foundation ran a football tournament on 29 Nivember for six of the primary schools they work with at Cockburn School’s all weather pitch.

The schools taking part were: Clapgate, Low Road, Middleton St Mary’s, Strawberry Fields, Westwood and Windmill. Each school played four matches in a round robin.

Mr Queeley, Behaviour and Culture Improvement Officer

and Under 11s football coach at Clapgate Primary School explained that the children were playing as a reward for good behaviour at school: “Football means everything for these children. Last year we reviewed the school’s approach because a lot of our pupils struggle with academic progress, so we reflected on how can we help them find pride in something else.

Football, sport in general, was

that focus. Since then we’ve secured sponsorship from local companies to provide kits, prioritised physical education and we have a number of teams, in different sports, taking part in tournaments, cups and leagues and it’s working really well.”

Michael Nuttall, Hunslet Rugby Foundation Manager, commented: "These tournaments are a great reward for the behaviour

Hamara launches new football club C

ross Flatts FC, the newest football club in South Leeds, was launched at an event at the Hamara Healthy Living Centre in Beeston in November.

The club has set itself big goals, aiming to redefine engagement with football locally, uniting passion, talent, and a profound sense of belonging. It aims to stand as a symbol of unity, aspiration, and the transformative power of community spirit.

The club is currently working with adult men, but they have intentions to open and run sessions for both women and children of all ages this year.

Training takes place at Old Cockburn Sports Hall on a Wednesday and on Hunslet Moor every Sunday. The men’s team will be entering a league next season.

More than a club, Cross Flatts FC is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. The club is dedicated to fostering an environment where everyone

feels embraced, aiming to dismantle barriers and construct bridges within our diverse community in the heart of Beeston.

Recognising the significance of being more than a weekend spectacle, Cross Flatts FC is devoted to active engagement with the local community

through a variety of outreach programs, events, and collaborative endeavours. From forging partnerships with local schools to participating in

The Cross Flatts FC Management team with Raheem Mohammad, Director at Hamara

charitable initiatives, Cross Flatts FC seeks to extend its positive impact beyond the confines of the football pitch.

Cross Flatts FC has been supported by the Leeds United Foundation Ben Potter, Active Through Football Project Lead at the Foundation, said: "As a foundation through the Active Through Football programme we will continue to support Cross Flatts FC throughout the journey into different leagues creating opportunities for the communities and providing as much support as possible to make the transition as easy as possible for the team."

Jonir Ali, Chairman of Cross Flatts FC, said the club was: “Founded with a vision to foster camaraderie and sportsmanship, our club stands as a testament to the power of football in bringing people together.

“Cross Flatts FC is a symbol of diversity, resilience, and the beautiful game's ability to

and effort shown by the pupils, myself, Aidan Robinson and James Ammat (Development Officers) have been working in these schools preparing the children for these competitions and it is always brilliant to see their teamwork come together and how well they represent their schools each tournament.

This is the second tournament this academic year which will be followed by another 8 tournaments after Christmas." transcend cultural boundaries.

We look forward to continuing our legacy and inspiring generations to come through the love of football.”

Club Manager, Babor Qureshi, added: “At Cross Flatts FC we believe in the power of football to transcend boundaries, and we've deliberately gathered individuals from every walk of life to form a team that mirrors the richness of our local community.

“We aim to provide a platform for players to nurture their talents and create opportunities for personal and athletic development.

“We are a catalyst for growth, fostering an environment where dreams can take root and flourish.

“As we embark on this exciting journey, we invite the community to join us in celebrating the spirit of inclusivity, diversity, and the boundless possibilities that football brings.”

If you would like to join the club please contact the Hamara Centre on (0113) 277 3330 or email: admin@hamara.co.uk.

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Sporting Life 23

Boxing club smashes pads for injured fighter

by James Bovington

A

24 hour sponsored boxing ‘Padmarathon’ staged at Padraig McDonagh’s Golden Team Boxing Gym in Hunslet has raised £1,820 for Hull boxer Connor Coghill.

Coghill recently had to retire from professional boxing following an injury sustained in a contest with Leeds boxer Hopey Price on the undercard of the Josh Warrington Leigh Wood event at Sheffield Arena on 7 October 2023.

“We wanted to do something for Connor, who throughout his career proved just how tough, talented, courageous a fighter he was, but whose time as a professional boxer has now sadly come to an end” said

January 2024 | South Leeds Life

Golden team coach and event organiser Justin Newell.

“The Yorkshire boxing community is rallying round to raise funds to allow Connor to set himself up as a coach and boxing trainer so that eventually he can manage his own gym allowing him to continue to play a major role in promoting the sport he loves.”

The ‘Padmarathon’ was the idea of Keith Walton who along with Newell held the pads for twelve continuous hours from eight through eight with those punching the pads contributing a minimum £20 for a half hour workout. Walton used to coach Newell and now works with Leeds boxers including Ishmael Davis and Jack Bateson.

“We were delighted that all

slots were booked with fifty or so working out” explained Newell. “It was good that Connor himself was able to come along and there was a great atmosphere with people popping in providing tea and cakes and making donations.

Thanks to everyone who helped and particularly Nicola Aldred.

“As for Connor, this is the least we could do for this lovely, brave young man who is such a role model for Yorkshire folk.”

Anyone wanting to make a donation to the Connor Coghill Go Fund Me page can do so at www.gofundme.com/f/ career-ending-brain-injury-dueto-boxing with nearly nine thousand now raised including the cash from the Golden Team event.

IN BRIEF Football development for primary age children Goalgetters Football Development is a new football coaching programme based around passing, movement, technique and skill for children in Years 1-6. Sessions are starting next month at Elliott Hudson College at White Rose Park, LS11 0LT. The weekly sessions will take place every Monday, 6:15-7:15pm starting on 4 February and the first session is free.

One parent had nothing but praise for Coach Craig Hawkins, saying: “My daughter has just started playing football for our local team. I wanted to take her somewhere to develop her ball control and her passing. She has been with GoalGetters for only a couple of weeks and I have seen a massive improvement not only at the GoalGetters sessions but in both training and games for her Team. Craig is a great coach and his sessions are well thought out and really fun for the kids.”

For more information search for Goalgetters Football Development on Facebook or email: goalgetters.fd@yahoo.com

Get Set for the return of Let’s Move: South Leeds Here’s a date for your diary, after last year’s successful community event, Let’s Move: South Leeds is returning to Cross Flatts Park on Saturday 11 May, with most events taking place between 12-3pm. Over 20 providers put on activities/tasters/demos or provided a stall sharing information on how to get involved locally last year. It was a real celebration of the many ways across South Leeds that local residents (young and old) can “move more locally”, whether this is paddleboarding, playing cricket, running, trying Tai Chi or many of the other ways included.

The team would love to hear from sports clubs and others who would like to be part of this year’s event. Please contact Karen.Peck@leeds.gov.uk or call 07891 274130 and/or join an online meeting on Monday 29 January 4-5pm.

Start your running journey with South Leeds Lakers If your New Year’s resolution is to start running, let South Leeds Lakers running club help you with a supportive and social ‘Couch to 5k’ (C25K) training programme. C25K works because it starts with a mix of running & walking to gradually build up your fitness & stamina. C25K is for everyone. Whether you've never run before or you just want to get more active, C25K is an easy way of getting fitter & healthier. The nine week course starts on Tuesday 23 January at 7pm, sign up at: www.southleedslakers.co.uk/couch-2-5k

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L-R: Newell, Coghill, Walton and McDonagh

Girls rugby league team launched in Hunslet Continued from page 24 development. By introducing this new team, the club aims to empower young girls not just as athletes but as leaders, instilling values of teamwork, resilience, and self-confidence that extend far beyond the rugby field.

To ensure the success of this initiative, Hunslet ARLFC is actively seeking experienced and passionate coaches to lead the girls’ rugby team.

Coaches who share the vision of empowering young girls through sports are encouraged to reach out and contribute to this exciting new chapter in the

club’s history.

To celebrate the commencement of the girls’ rugby team, the Hunslet Club launched an Open Training Session event on Saturday 18 November 2023 with special guest and local Girls Rugby Star Sinead Peach.

Sinead began her Girls Rugby career in Hunslet and now plays professionally for The York RLFC Valkyrie and was crowned 2023 Woman of Steel.

She trained with the girls and shared her successes, passions and hopes for the future of the sport. The event

featured an introductory rugby session, meet-and-greet with prospective coaches, and an opportunity for parents and participants to learn more about the exciting journey ahead.

Hunslet ARLFC and The Hunslet Club extend an open invitation to girls aged between 11-16 of all skill levels and backgrounds to join the newly formed rugby team. Whether they are seasoned players or completely new to the sport, the club welcomes girls who are ready to embrace the thrill of rugby, make new friends, and embark on a journey of personal growth.

For more information about the Hunslet Club’s girls’ rugby team, please contact cboyce@hunsetclub.org.uk

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24 Sporting Life

Hunslet look forward to the new season

by Ian Pickles

H

unslet RLFC have a new coach and some new faces in the squad as they prepare for the 2024 season which kicks off later this month.

New Head Coach Dean Muir has joined the club after steering West Bowling to promotion last season and also has experience as an assistant coach at Keighley. Talking to a recent supporters meeting he said: “As a player I was never going to be fast enough to make it but I had the ‘smarts’ and that is the aspect of the game I love, so coaching was the natural progression. I jumped at the opportunity to join Hunslet and am looking to building something. Ryan and ‘Burts’ have done an exceptional job on recruitment and I have been able to add to that since my arrival. I’m really pleased with how (pre-season) is going.

We’ve got a group of really good people which is key to any success.”

Amongst the new signings is new club Captain Billy Gaylor former Keighley Cougars hooker/half-back. He joins other former Cougars Aaron Levy, Toby Everett, Aidan Scully

Jack Render scoring against Rochdale Hornets last season. Photo Paul Whitehurst and Keenan Dyer-Dixon.

Other new boys include former Hull FC and London Broncos centre Jude Ferreira; wingers Ben Sheils and Donald Kudangirana, a former London Skolars and Dewsbury man of Zimbabwean heritage; and second row / centre Nathan

Get your skates on with Alison

by Jeremy Morton

T

wice a month the sports hall at Middleton Leisure Centre turns into a skating rink as dozens of roller skaters take over the space.

The sessions are run by Alison Hughes-Waters, who started them 18 months ago when her daughter took up skating and they struggled to find a family-friendly session in

Leeds.

Alison set up a Facebook group and encouraged other adults and children to share the cost of hiring the hall. The first session attracted 17 skaters and it’s built up from then with 30-50 skaters attending now. Ages range from 4-76 years.

Skaters need to book in advance and they pay £3 for the two-hour session. They

Alison Hughes-Waters with her daughter Grace at a festive skate session

winger last season. He left the club to try a change of codes with Rotherham RUFC, but has decided that he enjoys rugby league more.

Head Coach Dean Muir commented: “Pre-season is going extremely well and we are

Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife really pleased with the quality and size of the squad.

However, when a player of Jack’s ability becomes available, and more importantly wants to be part of what we are building, it was too good an opportunity to miss.”

Hunslet’s first two matches are a pre-season friendly away against Championship club Barrow Raiders on Sunday 21 January; followed by a home tie against Featherstone Rovers, also of the Championship, in the re-vamped 1895 Cup on Sunday 28 January.

The annual Harry Jepson OBE Memorial Trophy game against Leeds Rhinos will follow on Friday 2 February under the lights at South Leeds Stadium, kick off 7:30pm.

The Parksiders will kick off their League 1 campaign away at Newcastle Thunder on 17 March.

Match day and season ticket prices have risen slightly as the club faces rising costs. Match day tickets will be £16 for adults (£15 in advance); £12 concession (£10 in advance).

Children under 16 remain free and can get a season ticket that gives the accompanying adult entry for just £5 per game.

As in previous seasons, South Leeds Life will carry full match reports of every Hunslet match in 2024 online at southleedslife.com.

Carter, the ex Castleford Tigers and Lock Lane man.

Jimmy Watson is amongst the fans’ favourites who signed up for the new season and will play his eleventh season at fullback for Hunslet as Backs Captain. Harvey Hallas will captain the forwards. Halfback

Matty Beherall has signed a two-year deal and reunites with Michael Knowles.

Other popular returnees include Josh Jordan-Roberts and Jordan Syme.

The latest player to sign on is Jack Render, who scored a number of spectacular tries as

must provide their own equipment and they take part at their own risk. As well as circling the hall, there are games such as getting under a limbo pole.

If you are a complete novice there’s a zimmer frame which you can use to find your balance and get you started safely Alison explained that: “I set it up to encourage kids to skate, come and get some exercise, join in, have some fun and meet friends.

“A lot of people bring their kids to a session and then at the next session they’ve got their own skates and they’re joining in.”

With more interest in skating thanks to the Barbie move, Alison is looking for funding so she can put on the sessions for free and make them more accessible.

Sessions are currently paused for a couple of months, but when they return Alison hopes to include some training with the help of LS-TEN skatepark.

Keep up to date with developments at on Facebook at: bit.ly/Mskate

Girls rugby league team launched in Hunslet

Woman of Steel Sinead Peach joined the first coaching session

by Zoe Creasser

F

ollowing the recent merger with Hunslet ARLFC, The Hunslet Club is proud to announce the launch of their latest initiative – a girls’ rugby league section.

In a bold move to promote inclusivity and diversity in sports, together Hunslet ARLFC and The Hunslet Club are

extending their legacy on the field by creating opportunities for girls to embrace the dynamic and empowering world of rugby league.

The decision to start a girls’ rugby team at Hunslet ARLFC is driven by a commitment to breaking barriers and providing equal opportunities in sports.

With a rich history in fostering talent and instilling a love for

physical activity, the club believes that every child, regardless of gender, should have the chance to experience the camaraderie, discipline, and joy that sports like rugby league bring.

The launch of the Hunslet ARLFC girls’ rugby team aligns seamlessly with the Hunslet Club’s dedication to community Continued on page 23