South Leeds Life 106 March 2024

Covering Beeston, Belle Isle, Cottingley, Holbeck, Hunslet, Middleton,

CARE WORKERS FIGHT BACK

Migrant care workers fighting for justice in South Leeds

Workers for a care company based at Malmarc House in Beeston have alleged they are being underpaid, provided with unfit accommodation and suffering emotional and financial distress.

The company, Gloriavd Health Care Ltd, provides domiciliary (home) care to elderly and disabled people in Leeds and Bath and recruits staff from countries such as Ghana and Zimbabwe.

The Home Office added care workers to the UK’s shortage occupation list in 2022 to help fill 165,000 vacancies in care homes and domiciliary (home) care.

But workers expecting a fair day’s wage for a fair day’s work and finding they are given little work and are being housed in cramped and cold rooms. They say complaints are met with the threat of reporting them to the Home Office, the implication being they will be deported.

Diana Wadzanai, a former employee of Gloriavd explained:

‘’When I came from Zimbabwe, I was told the company would provide accommodation and work in Leeds. Unfortunately, I was told

I was going to work in Bath.

When we arrived we found out we were going to share a small room with bunkbeds. We were 12 adults in one room. I worked only one and a half days, but we stayed for two weeks.

“When we ran out of food we called our boss for a meetingthis led us into a disciplinary hearing. When we started work in March, we would do 8 hours per week or less despite being contracted to 39 hours.

“When we tried to reach out we would be threatened by being sent back to our countries. I was dismissed unfairly and appealed and got my job back but still they had no work.

“This has affected my health as well, stress and depression and I have been in and out of hospital because of going through this. My children in my country have suffered because I couldn't provide for them.’’

Lee Nemukuyu, is another former employee of Gloriavd, he said:

“I was working with Gloriavd from January to May 2023. The company had no hours to the extent that l only worked two or 3 three hours a week, maybe no hours some weeks. I understand all companies face

problems but it was the way they treated us that was very stressful. They were constantly threatening to cancel the contract, always looking for faults and at every given opportunity to tell us this was not our country this is the UK. They took advantage of our lack of knowledge at the time as we were new in the country. We received as low as £60 as salary per month which was a breach of the contract we signed. That time was very difficult and stressful.’’

Gloriavd employees told The Guardian that they had to pay thousands of pounds in fees to secure employment despite work visas costing only a few hundred pounds.

The care workers are now fighting back with the help of ACORN, the community union, and have started demanding fair pay and improvements to their working conditions.

Dave Aldwinkle, an ACRORN organiser in Leeds, commented:

“This isn’t just happening in Leeds it’s happening to tens of thousands of workers across the UK. We’ve seen ACORN members living in inhumane accommodation, living in fear, struggling to get by.

“Not only are the workers suffering, but the service users are suffering as well. This is not just about our members, it’s about the poor quality of care. This is a community issue and

it affects everyone. This is why ACORN is not going to stop until we win - not just in Leeds, but in every town and city in the UK.”

Since starting this campaign, ACORN say they have won thousands in compensation for one member, and have a commitment from Gloriavd Health Care to negotiate terms.

Gloriavd Health Care was found to ‘Need Improvement’ when it was inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in March 2023.

Speaking to The Guardian via lawyers, Gloriavd said it “did not accept money from care workers in exchange for facilitating their relocation to the UK.”

Gloriavd Health Care is based at Malmarc House in Beeston

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

Complaints

South Leeds Life is regulated by IMPRESS and adheres to its standards code.

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.

Retail park progress

Rothstone Estates and CDP, advised by Savills, is making excellent progress with the construction of St George’s Retail Park in Middleton.

Due to complete in July 2024, with the 65,000 sq ft, the park will open in the autumn.

Ian Hare, director, out of town retail, Savills Leeds, comments:

“St Georges Retail Park is a new development and upon completion, the scheme will provide new quality units, and a diverse mix of retailers in a prime location. With three units already let to Aldi, B&M and Costa Coffee and another three under offer, we are expecting a high level of interest for the remaining space.”

Planning permission was finally granted for the development on the former Benyon House site in 2019. That decision was appealed by neighbours Asda, but they lost in the High Court in 2021.

First affordable homes let at Climate Innovation District

Sustainable property company

CITU has delivered its first affordable homes within the Aire Lofts apartment scheme, at the heart of the pioneering, multi award-winning Climate Innovation District in the Riverside area of Hunslet.

Working in partnership with social housing provider Leeds Community Homes (LCH), eight one and twobedroom apartments are now available with the first residents set to move in imminently.

This tranche is part of Aire Lofts and is the first of three phases of affordable homes being developed at the Climate Innovation District which will ultimately offer a total of 16 homes within the community.

Three homes in this phase are being marketed as shared ownership* opportunities with the remainder available through social rent agreements.

CITU has been working with LCH since 2016 to incorporate social housing as an integral part of the Climate Innovation District which is being delivered on the banks of the River Aire, just a few minutes’ walk from the city centre. The LCHmanaged homes of course enjoy the same industry-leading specification and sustainable credentials as their neighbours, with high performing energy efficiency in all the homes which are designed and manufactured on site.

The homes offer city centre living

combined with zero carbon sustainability credentials. All the apartments’ interiors feature a highquality finish with concrete floors, exposed pipework and maximum natural light. It’s a ‘less but better’, stripped back aesthetic and bold design that has attracted industry accolades and the thriving, growing community already resident at the District.

Once complete, Aire Lofts will consist of 108 one and twobedroom apartments, with a handful of bespoke penthouses. These have been designed around open, shared outdoor spaces, including a large central green, purposefully bringing residents together to create a social and inclusive community.

Every apartment also benefits from south-facing windows to maximise natural light and fresh air, and abundant green space with plants, many of them edible, surrounding the building. A new green space is also set to open imminently with a football pitch, outdoor cooking facilities and a tennis wall for residents to enjoy.

CITU Managing Director Jonathan Wilson said:

“CITU is a zero-carbon, place-maker and developer with creativity and design

at its core. Often developments treat affordable housing as an inconvenient add-on to be accommodated, rather than an opportunity to build a truly inclusive and diverse community where every person has something of value to contribute.

“Ultimately, it is about creating a beautiful and sustainable future for all of our residents, irrespective of the journey that brought them here.”

Jimm Reed, LCH Development Director added:

“Since the very beginning we have enjoyed a close relationship with CITU and have been really

encouraged by their vision of a truly inclusive community where everyone is welcome. You can see that already even with the District only part-occupied, it really is an incredible place.

“As well as the properties available via social rent, we also have three apartments allocated for shared ownership. These are an excellent opportunity for people in Leeds who can’t otherwise afford it to get a foot on the first rung of the property ladder, in an award-winning development, which is such a rarity in a prime city centre location.”

*Shared ownership allows a firsttime buyer to purchase up to 75% of the property and pay rent on the remaining part. Anyone interested in shared ownership at Aire Lofts, can find out more at leeds communityhomes.org.uk/climateinnovation-district

A sustainable community: Aire Lofts

Drone shot of St George’s retail park in Middleton under construction

Email:

New mural celebrates the history of Holbeck’s Tower Works

Artist Zoe Power has created a 300m2 mural, A Common Thread, which incorporates cogs from factory machines and patterns from woollen weaves, nodding to Leeds’ industrial past and referencing the site’s previous use as a wool comb factory.

Amongst the cogs, clouds and patterns, a thread entwines two figures, representing connection and hope, merging the past with the present.

Zoe Power said: “I wanted to merge the past and present, referencing the rich history of the site whilst also creating an artwork that felt modern and that leaves room for interpretation.

“When researching the local wool factories, I was amazed to see that a huge proportion of the workforce was female. We often associate industry, machinery and the economy with men, which does not reflect the true history of the textile industry here. I felt it was important to celebrate women’s role within the history of the site.”

Power’s design was chosen

from a shortlist of four after an open call for submissions and is co-presented by The Tetley and Legal & General.

Tower Works, which features three listed Italianate chimneys, was originally built in the 1860s to manufacture steel pins for carding machines used in the textile industry. The new development includes 245 new private rented flats as well as public open spaces.

as one of the schools we work with is in need of volunteer support.

Leeds City Council is undertaking work to trees in Cross Flatts Park to address the threat of ash dieback disease, a fungal infection that is killing ash trees across the UK.

The council has commissioned TreeSaw, a professional tree service company, to carry out the works, which will involve the removal of 48 ash trees that are showing advanced signs of the disease or have other structural defects that pose a risk to public safety.

The works will also include deadwood removals, crown reductions, crown lifts, and stump removals for other affected trees in the park.

The works are scheduled to start as soon as possible, mindful of the coming bird nesting season, and are expected to take several weeks to complete.

The council recognises the importance of Cross Flatts Park as a valuable community space and a habitat for wildlife, and is committed to replacing the removed trees with new planting in the future.

This will require some careful design and planning considerations, such as the time of year, the sustainability of planting, and the impact on the park’s amenity and neighbouring land use.

The council will work with the local community groups to develop a suitable planting scheme, subject to funding availability.

Ash dieback disease is an ongoing issue that will require further survey work and tree removal in the future.

The council is following the guidance of The Tree Council, a national charity that promotes the importance of trees, and is using drone technology and artificial intelligence to monitor the condition of the ash trees in the park and classify the degree of dieback disease.

Councillors Andrew Scopes, Annie Maloney and Gohar Almass (Labour, Beeston and Holbeck) said:

“We are sad to see so many ash trees affected by this devastating disease, and we understand the impact this will have on the park’s landscape and character.

“However, we have a duty to ensure the safety of the park users and the surrounding residents, and we cannot ignore the risk posed by the diseased and damaged trees.

“We hope to see new planting in the park in the future, and we will work closely with the local community to achieve this. We thank everyone for their patience and cooperation while the tree works are carried out.”

Coram Beanstalk, a children’s reading charity supporting local children to find a love of reading, is looking for volunteers to support children in South Leeds.

As a Coram Beanstalk volunteer you will receive full training to deliver fun, interactive, reading experiences each week in school.

You will provide one to one

support to children, who are behind, giving them the help and encouragement they need to catch up – to switch onto reading, learn to read and become readers for life.

A spokesperson for Coram Beanstalk said:

“Our purpose is to help children engage with reading and in turn create readers because we believe, when a child becomes a reader, they get the very best chance in life, and every child deserves that.

“We have children waiting for someone to support them on their life’s journey in Beeston,

“Our reading helpers give children a chance to shine … sharing, talking and having fun with books to help them see the point of reading. Their commitment and dedication helps to bring forth a new generation of readers with the confidence they need to succeed in life.”

As one volunteer put it:

“It’s lovely to do something that you know makes such a huge difference for a child. I leave the school with a spring in my step!”

To find out more and to apply to volunteer with Coram Beanstalk please go to www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk

There’s a stunning new public artwork at the Tower Works development in Holbeck.

‘A Common Thread’ at Tower Works

On the beat with Sgt Chloe Spencer

Two weeks of partnertship action yields results

During the month of January 2024 West Yorkshire Police (WYP), in partnership with Leeds City Council (LCC) were extremely busy by carrying out two weeks of action.

The collaborative action undertaken was based upon information received from the community, whose continued support we rely upon.

During the two week period, WYP officers alongside LCC officers, carried out multiple community engagement events as well as carrying out law enforcement, targeting community hotspots and areas of community concern.

A total of seven warrants were executed within the Leeds South area whereby four people were arrested. These warrants were selected based on information received from the community stating that the occupants and visitors of these addresses were having a significant impact on the daily lives of local residents.

In conjunction with those warrants Leeds Anti Social Behaviour Team (LASBT) enforced closure orders on these addresses ensuring the occupants and their visitors would be unable to return in the future. Therefore, freeing up the property for someone who needs it.

WYP officers carried out high

visibility visits at multiple addresses where closure orders had already been issued by LCC to ensure they are been adhered to as well as high visibility patrols, on an evening, in areas where burglaries had been on the rise.

Multiple community engagement events took place; The community engagement van attended in Cross Flatts Park and Holbeck which was staffed by WYP and LCC officers.

This offered members of the community the chance to approach WYP and LCC officers with any concerns they may be facing; WYP Mounted section carried out community engagement patrols in the Beeston area; and an AntiSocial Behaviour (ASB) Hub was launched in Cottingley in a bid to overcome ASB in the area.

WYP Off Road Bike Team carried out high visibility patrols, in areas known for its motorbike related ASB, resulting in multiple seizures of stolen motorbikes and arrests of those individuals riding them.

Three traffic operations were carried out in hotspot areas focusing on the fatal five offences and specialist WYP officers were tasked with carrying out enquiries for wanted individuals and

weapons sweeps within areas that have a high footfall, such as Cross Flatts Park and the White Rose Centre.

To enable us to reach members of the community that may otherwise be housebound, WYP officers carried out joint leaflet drops with officers from LCC. The leaflets contained vital contact information for various departments within the council and advertised the various contact points LCC hold for residents.

Local PCSOs engaged with the younger generation of our communities by attending at local youth provisions such as Hunslet Rugby Club and local schools.

Other events which local PCSOs lead were a Fraud Awareness event, Crime prevention stalls at White Rose Centre and a bike marking event held at Morley.

All collaborative work undertaken in response to supporting the community and ensuring we target the areas of most concern to them.

In partnership we have visited over 200 households. This is an excellent example of how efficient and effective partnership working really is!

This work would not have been possible without the continued support of you are local community. THANK YOU.

Residents debate alternative solutions to Tempest Road junction

Onby Sarah Hutchinson

Monday 29 January Beeston Hill residents met to discuss the proposed changes to the junction of Tempest Road and Dewsbury Road.

As South Leeds Life reported last month, the council is working on plans to make the junction safer after a spate of serious traffic accidents involving vehicles turning right into or out of Tempest Road.

This issue had caught the attention of many local people, with many suggesting that the proposal to extend the central reservation on Dewsbury Road wouldn’t increase safety.

The ‘Beeston Hill Community Association’ (BHCA), a community led group, felt strongly that local people must have their voices heard over such significant changes to a major road and accident hot spot.

Over 60 people took part in the meeting at the Hamara Centre, showing just how important this issue is to people living in the area. The meeting discussed the issue in small groups so everyone could speak.

Many groups had the same objections to the proposal; agreeing that it wasn’t the best solution to the problem. They also shared ideas to improve the junction, for businesses and residents alike. There were some strong and creative ideas to tackle the issues residents face.

One resident, Clara, said: “It was my first time

attending, I’ve lived in Beeston Hill for many years and am passionate about the area. The issue they were talking about is important for all residents. When I walked in, I was surprised to see so many different people and backgrounds discussing this major change to Tempest Road. It was good to see locals debating the issue and trying to find creative solutions. We hope our voices can be heard and changes are made to this project. I was really, really happy with the way the meeting was organised, with lots of time for debate – really positive, looking for solutions.”

As always, we shared food together, where conversations continued and people got to know one another.

Another of the attendees, John, said:

“It was good to see a room full of people who are passionate for their community and not afraid to voice their thoughts, concerns and opinions to those in authority. Hopefully Highways Leeds will make time and listen to what residents and business owners said. The hospitality was generous and tasty and well received. Let’s hope People Power wielded rightly, can improve many areas of Beeston Hill, including this junction on Dewsbury Road.”

All three ward councillors, Cllr Carlisle (Green), Cllr Iqbal (Labour) and Cllr Wray (Labour) were there to listen to what was being said. Towards the end of the meeting, they were given the chance to respond to what

they had heard and give any further information. Those attending were reminded that ideas put forward by the community meeting may not be possible for various reasons (cost, objections from Highways or other agencies, etc) however when asked by the committee, all three councillors agreed to arrange a meeting with officers from Highways and members of the BHCA committee.

Since the meeting we have heard that Highways will welcome ideas from residents and “we provide feedback accordingly”.

If you want to contribute further to this debate or find out more about the BHCA please get in touch via our Facebook page, ‘Beeston Hill Community Association –Leeds‘. or email us on thecommittee@beestonhill communityassociation.com

The next BHCA meeting will be a special community Iftar in partnership with The Hamara Centre (Tempest Road) on Monday 25 March 5:30-8pm.

Beeston Hill Community Association is a community led group which aims to give residents of Beeston Hill* the opportunity to get to know neighbours, share their views on community life and be heard. We hope to celebrate what is strong in our community, not simply focus on what is wrong.

We would love to see residents getting to know one another, working together to speak up for the area and bring about change.

Residents debate changes to the dangerous junction

The community engagement van in Cross Flatts Park

Email:

Our

Thank you to our subscribers and sponsors for supporting South Leeds Life

pound a week subscribers:

Tina Abbott

Sharafat Ali

Peter Barber

Vivienne Bate

WH Bayliss

Barbara Beck

Sally Ben

Pat Benatmane

Hilary Benn

James Bovington

Elaine Bower

Tony Brainsby

Sheila Brogden

Andy Brown

AD Brown

Adrian Burnett

David Bushell

Claire Burgess

Ed Carlisle

Susan Carlisle

Claire Carter

Barbara Cavell

Dan Chadwick

Gold sponsors:

Rebecca Chambers

Alex Coleman

Yeti Counk

Rachel Darton Bruce Davies

Mark Day

Clara de Diane Audrey Dickinson

Alex Fleming

Angela Gabriel

Al Garthwaite

Phil Goodfield Hayley Guy

Alaric Hall

Gail Hall Julie Harrison

Elizabeth Haywood

Sherri Hector

Mark Hodgkinson

Linda Holliday David Howard

Becky Howcroft

Joe Hughes-Stainsby

Hair-raising success

Doris Ofili, who lives in Beeston and studies at Leeds City College’s Printworks campus, has reached the finals of Concept Hair Magazine’s Learner of the Year competition. She will compete with five others in the Textured Hair category

Sign up to subscribe

We 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.

We were worried that we might have to stop printing the newspaper, but a grant from our local Councillors on the Innner South Community Committee and the deal ICNN has struck with Google mean we should be OK for the next 12 months or so.

However, for long term viability we still need to sign up more individual subscribers and more organisational sponsors.

The reason is that this income avoids us being ‘in hoc’ to any vested interest.

No one has tried to put pressure on us yet, but we

don’t want leave ourselves open to that happening in the future.

We know the whole country is suffering from the cost of living crisis and we know many of our readers are facing stark choices about heating and food.

We will never charge you to read the news, it’s very important to us that everyone in our community can access local community news.

But if you are able to spare a few pounds each month, we need your help. You can help others read the news for free and ensure our independence.

We would be delighted if you would become a regular subscriber at £3, £4, £5 or £10 per month.

If you can afford to, please take out a monthly

subscription. Our regular subscription income helps us plan ahead. You’ll get the paper delivered to your door and free South Leeds Life mug.

Simply sign up online at bit.ly/SLLsubscribe

You can also give the gift of news. Your subscription can now be gifted to another person and you have the option to pay monthly or annually. Follow the link to bit.ly/SLLsubscribe to sign up.

Are you part of a community organisation, charity or business that could become a sponsor?

You will benefit from news coverage and free advertising options. Call 07894 583966 for more details.

Or perhaps you just want to make a one off donation: Please make your • donation by bank transfer to South Leeds Life Group; sort code 08-92-99; a/c 65591910.

Or send a cheque to us at

• 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Beeston, LS11 7BW.

Or look for the donate • button on our website at to pay via PayPal or debit card.

Silver sponsors:

Ben Hutchinson

Helen Ingleby

Stefan Kakusz

Frances Jones

Patricia Kelley

Sally Kincaid

Rachael Loftus

Katrine Madsen

Sid Mahiuddin

Annie Maloney

Imran Marashli

Alys Marsh

Dee Marshall

Linda Meikle

Hazel Millichamp

Liz Minkin

Mark Molloy

Lucy Moore

Malcolm Morrison

Elizabeth Nash

Adam Ogilvie

Mark Parry

Mark Poniatowski

Terry Pratt

Andrew Price

Derek Ramsey

Neil Rhodes

Ruth Saxton

Andrew Scopes

Alan Shaw

Bob Shaw

Linda Stanley

Emily Swingler

Sue Talbot

Steve Thompson

Eve Tidswell

Stephen Towler

Rebecca Townesend

Wilson Tweed

Richard Wallwork

Stewart Walton

Ann Ward

Lauran Warren

Emily Webster Day

Paul Wray

Bronze sponsors

Standard sponsors

at the national event in Telford on 21 March.

Sustainability awards for Beeston bedmaker Harrison Spinks

National trade body the British Furniture Manufacturers (BFM), announced Harrison Spinks as winner of the Sustainability category in the Future of Furniture Awards, held at the January Furniture Show.

Group Sustainability Manager at Harrison Spinks, Emma Linney-Taylor was also named as Sustainability Champion by the BFM.

Based in Beeston, the business mixes home-grown, state-of-the-art technology with a team of skilled artisans using traditional techniques to produce luxury handcrafted beds and mattresses.

The company’s drive to source raw materials more responsibly, reduce environmental impact and conserve resources, while improving product

performance, has led to a number of innovations.

These have included the use of natural fillings grown at the company’s farms near Tadcaster, reducing chemical use by weaving mattress fabrics in-house, introducing digitalisation to reduce energy consumption and shifting from offshore carbon offsetting to environmental restoration.

Nick Booth, Managing Director at Harrison Spinks said: “We’re delighted to have won these awards.

“Sustainability is an increasingly important subject, especially in the mattress and bed industry, where thousands of mattresses are sent to landfill every day. Making mattresses in the most sustainable way has been a priority for us for a number of years now.

Councillors seek action to limit alcohol sales on Dewsbury Road

CllrMohammed Iqbal and Cllr Paul Wray (Labour, Hunslet & Riverside) have announced they have now asked officers at Leeds City Council to begin the process of applyig for Cumulative Impact Zone (CIZ) for the retail area between Dewsbury Road Community Hub and Library and Cross Flatts Park due to an increasing number of licensed premises applications.

While having several offlicense premises provides healthy competition between retailers on price, the number of off-licenses on Dewsbury Road has now becoming a matter of deep concern to Cllrs Iqbal and Wray – meaning the benefits gained by customers on price are now being far outweighed by the impact to the wider community in terms of health and antisocial behaviour.

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal said:

“The availability of cheap alcohol is hampering the work of the Leeds Antisocial Behaviour Team and West Yorkshire Police to address issues in this area, and for the Public Health Team and other health partners to address alcoholic addiction and other chronic health issues as well.

“Sadly, the current legal framework to apply for a CIZ

It will become harder for shops on Dewsbury Road to get a new alcohol licence

requires you to have a significant problem first, rather than having the proactive ability to apply for one in advance to prevent one developing. Something that needs to change on a national level as it hampers our ability to support the community.

“We’re now of the view that the area needs to be considered for a Cumulative Impact Zone to provide the Licensing Team with more powers to limit the number of future alcohol retailers in the area because the harm is clear for all to see, and we feel it now

New grant programme launched to support community groups

Asupportive new programme has been launched in Leeds aimed at capacity building for small, not-for-profit groups.

The fund, which is a partnership between Forum Central, Leeds Community Anchor Network (LCAN) and

Voluntary Action Leeds (VAL) will see up to 50 small groups supported with training, linked into local networks and also given £1,000 to support their ongoing work.

Fifty grants are being made available from the NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care

Board and will be awarded from now through until October this year.

Hamara Healthy Living Centre is an LCAN member and coordinator of the project.

Raheem Mohammed, Director at Hamara, stated:

“This fund is a great opportunity for us to work closely with our partners to cultivate and support the small groups in Leeds that do so much hard work representing and supporting the diverse communities of Leeds.

“We are targeting the work in the 6 priority wards plus Middleton and are looking for applications from organisations working with groups most affected by health inequalities. We are here to help, so if you need help with the application or just want a chat please get in touch.”

Each applicant will get to

choose three free training courses to help bring capacity to their organisations, for example applying for funding, registering as a charity or even courses such as Food Hygiene. Groups wanting support are encouraged to get involved and be part of the programme.

So, if you or a group you know have a turnover of less than around £25,000 a year and want to get involved, please have a look at the poster below and share!

Groups in the three Inner South wards of Beeston & Holbeck, Hunslet & Riverside and Middleton Park can apply for these grants.

For more information, please contact Nachu at grants@hamara.co.uk

For an application form go to bit.ly/3wpWxUd, or scan the QR code in the poster on the right.

meet the legal test.”

Cllr Ed Carlisle (Green, Hunslet & Riverside) added:

“This area of Dewsbury Road has sadly become a hotspot for anti-social behaviour in the past few years. We’re working closely with the Police and Council teams, and other partners, to address the issues – but there’s more we can do.

Cumulative Impact Policies have undoubtedly helped in places like Armley and Harehills – and we need one here too, to strengthen the hand of the licensing staff and committee (which I also serve

on). Also, there are conversations afoot about rekindling local community-led work with those suffering with addiction – like the excellent former New Hope project. We’d love to hear from others interested in getting onboard with that work.”

Such a zone does not impact existing retailers and does not ban future ones outright – but it does mean any future applicants must be of the highest standard to be accepted. It is understood Council officer are now working on this request.

BFM Chairman Nick Garratt centre with Harrison Spinks’ Ian Owen left and Logan Palmer right

Photo: Shutterstock

Slung Low’s Community Leadership Academy

Fancy knowing more about leadership?

Ever thought you could add some value as a governor, on a board, or as a volunteer, but not known what it might take or how to set about it?

Holbeck has a Leadership Academy and it’s for you!

To get more information, ask any questions and reserve your FREE place.

Sign up slunglow.org/leadership or ring or text 07305 155 698

Last date for signing up is: Thursday 28th March

A 12 week course, every Monday evening from 8th April. With a weekend residential in some of the finest Yorkshire countryside.

It costs you nothing, we’ll provide everything you need, sort out all the transport you’ll need and even help with childcare.

“I felt so challenged and so supported all at the same time. Before this programme, I had felt somewhat disconnected from my goals, but now I feel on track!”

Leadership Academy participant

Money matters with Leeds Credit Union

Dealing with debt

Christmas 2023 may be a distant memory for most but the financial fallout of it is still impacting households across the region. Greg Potter, Head of Member Experience at Leeds Credit Union, takes a look at what advice and support is available to anyone who fell into debt over the festive period.

According to pre-December 25th figures from debt charity StepChange, around four million Brits were expected to turn to credit to help them cover the cost of last Christmas, leading to warnings that around 20% of those borrowers would still be making repayments more than a year later.

So if you're one of them, what can you do about it?

Acknowledge the problem

It is possible to spot the signs of impending financial difficulties and stop them before they become a serious issue.

Read the following statements and see if any apply to you. If they do, this may be an indication that you have debt issues and should actively seek help and advice to help you manage them.

debt collection agency

I’m making minimum • payments

• my house about money

There are arguments in

I sometimes hide • purchases from my partner

My credit cards are near • the limit

I have no savings left

• I skip paying bills some

• months or pay them late

I’ve started to use payday • loans

My debt worries interfere • with my job and/or home life

• worry about my finances

I can’t sleep because I’m

I haven’t got any • emergency savings

• they arrive

I don’t open my bills when

Access debt advice and support

If you think you would benefit from help and advice, there are several organisations that can help.

Citizens Advice has lots of information on its website, with advice on everything from dealing with urgent debts and/or arrears to reducing your outgoings. Go to www. citizensadvice.org.uk/debtand-money to find out more.

Action taken to stop illegal leisure lets

Action is being taken against illegal short-term leisure lets in apartments across the city centre, including the South Bank and Riverside areas of Holbeck and Hunslet.

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal (Labour, Hunslet & Riverside) said: “There has been a significant expansion in unapproved conversions of residential homes in the city centre apartment blocks to commercial short-term leisure lets, resulting in a significant weakening of block security in these locations, making it easier to steal parcels, and resulting in more anti-social behaviour noise complaints from actual residents, caused by some of the customers using these properties.”

Subject to the apartment blocks leasehold agreement or other contractual conditions, people renting their properties

out for short periods, now and then, is permitted - if it remains their home for most of the year.

But councillors advised they are now seeing businesses and individuals either buying leaseholds or acting like a rental agency by managing the property on behalf of a leaseholder but running a hotel type operation instead. This is illegal without planning

permission.

Planning enforcement is now taking place at multiple apartment developments and officers are taking action to close these illegal hotel operations. If residents are suffering from such illegal short-term lets, they are encouraged to contact the council so they can see if action is needed.

unions work with housing associations to help tenants who are struggling to budget their money and pay their bills. They can help arrange affordable payment plans to cover arrears and look at switching providers if cheaper alternatives are available.

Apply for a debt consolidation loan

Debt consolidation loans are affordable loans that an individual takes out to pay off their existing debts, including credit cards, overdrafts, store cards or personal loans.

The individual uses the money from the loan to pay off the people or companies to whom they are in debt, then repays the loan in monthly instalments.

Taking out a debt consolidation loan is an effective way of taking back control of your finances as it allows you to immediately pay off all your debts and leaves you responsible for just one repayment each month, making it easier to remember the repayments, budget accordingly and manage your money.

Holbeck charity awarded help for IT from TalkTalk

Joanna Project, a local charity based in Holbeck that helps women facing complex disadvantages, has been awarded an £800 donation from TalkTalk’s Future Fibre Fund to help purchase new technology for their Support Workers.

The connectivity provider’s latest Future Fibre Fund initiative saw a total of £5,000 donated to women-led and founded charities across Leeds and Greater Manchester to help them continue their exceptional work.

support workers and placement students will be a real game changer. With this opportunity we will continue to strive for excellence when serving women in our community and thanks to TalkTalk we now have the tech to make that happen!”

Lucy Thomas, Corporate Affairs Director at TalkTalk, said:

support of women in challenging situations, and we’re pleased to be able to help them continue this work.”

I can’t put a figure on how

• much I owe I rely on credit to cover my

• living costs

•

The amount I owe is rising

• I’ve been contacted by a

MoneySavingExpert also has a wealth of information about debt problems and the help that is available on its website at: www.moneysavingexpert .com/loans/debt-help-plan

Closer to home, some credit

Debt consolidation loans can also lower your monthly repayment amount, reducing your outgoings.

Leeds Credit Union provides straightforward and affordable financial services to people in Leeds.

TalkTalk selected the Joanna Project because of the charity’s ongoing dedication to improving the wellbeing of women by providing sanctuary for those involved, or at risk of being, in sex work. Through practical and emotional support, as well as befriending and mentoring, Joanna Project aims to help women in difficult circumstances create a new life.

Hannah Lewis, Director of Joanna Project, said:

“Being able to use the funding to upgrade our technology for our

“We’re passionate about supporting projects that make a difference in the communities where our full fibre packages are widely available. The Joanna Project stood out for its invaluable

TalkTalk aims to empower more women in the technology sector through various initiatives, including its annual North West Women in Tech awards – providing a platform to recognise and applaud the outstanding contributions of inspirational women, a partnership with the University of Salford and UA92, in addition to internal colleague networks and mentoring. council so they can see if action is needed.

Leisure lets compromise apartment block security

Caroline Walker and Hannah Lewis from Joanna Project

Photo: Shutterstock

Kaye & Son are collecting Easter Eggs for Food Club

As part of its Community Events W Kaye & Son

Funeral Directors is collecting Easter Eggs on behalf of Middleton Parochial Food Club.

The Parochial Food Club has now been running for two years. When they started 14 families attended who were finding things difficult.

Due to Covid and the financial crisis many people were finding managing their household budgets more

difficult. They now have 60 families attending on a regular basis.

As well as helping with food, toiletries and cleaning products, they are able to sit and talk to members making them welcome providing drinks and biscuits along with a warm space where people can relax.

Staff at W Kaye & Son are asking local businesses, community groups and residents to donate Easter Eggs so that they can bring a

smile to the faces of children this Easter.

We hope that the local community will support us to help Middleton Parochial Food Club with their collection this year.

If you would like to donate an Easter Egg please call (0113) 270 5553 to arrange a collection or you can drop your gift into W Kaye & Son, 163 Beeston Road, LS11 6AW between 9am-4pm Monday–Friday.

Focus groups will look at healthcare and the environment

Researchers looking into the environmental impacts of healthcare are holding two focus groups in Leeds next month and are encouraging South Leeds residents to take part.

The research project is called ‘Public perceptions of the environmental impact of the UK healthcare systems’, and is led by Dr Gabby Samuel from King’s College London and Dr Sarah Briggs from Oxford University.

The project is exploring how people think about the UK healthcare system and environmental impacts related to healthcare. It’s a perspective which hasn’t received much attention from key stakeholders in healthcare (funders, institutions, policy makers etc), and so the project is responding to a gap in existing research.

One of the researchers, Miranda Macfarlane, explained how the focus groups work:

“The focus group discussions are designed to help us – as

researchers – to understand the values, beliefs and experiences which underpin the public’s views on this subject.

“The focus groups are two hours long, with a break in the middle for refreshments. The discussion will be informal, guided by lots of questions and a couple of activities.”

Anyone aged 18 and over can take part. No detailed knowledge of the healthcare system or environmental issues is needed to be able to

New murals show wildlife protected by flood scheme

Striking new murals by the River Aire highlight industrial heritage and wildlife protected by the Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme.

The murals, painted by artist James Mayle and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund celebrate heritage and wildlife, add vibrancy to the area and act as a deterrent for vandalism.

The Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme is an innovative, multimillion-pound scheme that has been protecting 22,000 jobs, 500 businesses and 3,000 residential properties in Leeds from flooding since 2017. The main element of the scheme are two state-of-the-art moveable weirs, at Crown Point and Knostrop. Since their completion, the moveable

weirs have been operated nine times, and remain ready for when they’re needed during periods of heavy rain. Each of the weirs are operated via a control room at each site. Unfortunately, the doors on each control room have been frequently targeted by vandals.

The artwork highlights Leeds’ historic mills, as well as ducks, pike and eels that are all present in the river. The Flood Alleviation scheme was built with protection of wildlife in mind, with fish and eel passes included as part of the design. In addition, it is hoped the new artwork will deter vandalism going forward, reducing the time, effort and money that the council has previously spent on reinstating the doors.

Executive member

for sustainable development and infrastructure, Councillor Helen Hayden, said:

“These murals showcase how we can work creatively to deter vandals from leaving antisocial graffiti around our city. By supporting artists to create stunning work like this, we brighten up previously unremarkable spaces, we shine a light on an important flood scheme that protects us, as well as including a nod to our city’s past and the animals that also call it home.

“The murals can be considered a part of the Leeds Street Art Trail – any residents who make the trip out to Knostrop could use the towpaths that were maintained as part of the Leeds Flood Alleviation scheme.”

contribute.

£50 vouchers and up to £10 in travel expenses may be claimed by anyone who participates in a discussion.

The two sessions taking place in Leeds are:

Thursday 7 March, 5-7pm at the HEART centre in Headingley, LS6 3HN

Friday 8 March, 2-4pm at New Wortley Community Centre, LS12 1LZ

For more information and to register visit the project page at bit.ly/3T7k2us

The mural on the control room at Crown Point moveable weir

Volunteers at Middleton Parochial Food Club

Photo: Shutterstock

National innovation project launched at UTC Leeds in Hunslet

OnThursday 8 February the UK’s innovation agency, Innovate UK, launched a bold new movement called No Limits to help better support innovative talent across the UK: nolimits.ukri.org

Indro Mukerjee, CEO of Innovate UK, visited UTC Leeds in Hunslet to launch the No Limits digital platform to an audience at the college and via a livestream.

Speaking alongside Innovate UK CEO Indro Mukerjee was Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire and chartered engineer Yewande Akinola MBE, each sharing their unique insights and calling for the ambitious innovators of tomorrow to take advantage of the support programmes made available today through No Limits.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said:

“Here in West Yorkshire, innovative ideas are our bread

and butter, from the first ever motion picture to cutting-edge advancements in video games, space travel and cancer treatment. Yet for every success story, there is a brilliant young mind held back from reaching their full potential, whether that’s due to a lack of opportunity, mentorship, money or luck.

“That’s why it’s vital we have an easy to access place connecting all our budding entrepreneurs with the businesses that can support them, as we build a stronger, brighter region that works for all.”

University Technical Colleges (UTCs) take students from 14 and offer a combination of technical qualifications alongside GCSEs and A Levels, with a focus on STEM subjects and offering real-life projects with major employers.

Find out more at www.utcleeds.co.uk

Child Friendly Leeds

Kidz Klub Leeds organised this Play Street in Beeston Hill last month. Cllr Andrew Scopes (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck) commented “This is what Child Friendly Leeds looks like! Great to see kids playing out on the street, not even bothered by the rain.” A parent added “My boy loved this today!” With the Easter holidays coming up, if you would like to turn your road into a play street visit www.leeds.gov.uk/parking-roads-and-travel/licences-and-permits/play-streets, or contact info@kidzklubleeds.org.uk

Road Club

Plans are afoot to create a new community play space at Rowland Road Social Club in Beeston Hill – and everyone’s invited!

This month sees a number of days for local people to come find out more, get involved, and shape the project.

This idea has been bubbling away over the past years, and was the focus of a number of previous community fun days –and is now being supported by local arts charity The Tetley. The aspiration is to create a nature-friendly, all-age space for play and creativity – shaped and led by local residents –

over the next 18 months. The programme will also feature a series of community events.

To find out more, come down to the club (on Rowland Road LS11 6ED) between 12pm and 4pm on the weekends of 2-3 March and 23-24 March. Attendees will have the opportunity to start sharing their thoughts on the project –and if they wish, roll up their sleeves and join the volunteer team who will be clearing the site.

If people are particularly interested in joining the local steering group, come at 1pm

touch email: info@thetetley.org

Cllr Ed Carlisle (Green, Hunslet & Riverside) comments:

“Many thanks to all those who’ve helped develop this idea over the past couple of years – and it’s great we now have lift-off, with support from the excellent Tetley team. Nothing is fixed yet: the community will decide what happens here. But there are other fantastic projects like this around the UK, that have made a real impact – so this could hopefully make a real difference to a wide range of

Elliott Hudson College announces innovative expansion plans

Elliott Hudson College is thrilled to announce its expansion plans, set to provide even more exciting opportunities for young people in the Leeds City region.

The college has secured an impressive £4.8 million in funding to embark on an expansion project that will significantly enhance its facilities to accommodate its growing student population.

After moving to its current location in South Leeds, at the White Rose Business Park in 2017, the college is now entering its next stage of evolution and expanding into the former HSBC building.

The new premises will extend

the college’s footprint by approximately 11,300 sq ft offering an abundance of space for the creation of stateof-the-art classrooms, study areas, offices, and a range of cutting-edge learning facilities.

Initial plans are still in the early stages of development; works are due to start on site at Easter ready for the space to be open and fully operational from September 2024.

This growth aligns with Elliott Hudson College’s overarching goals of delivering a transformative educational experience and empowering young people to achieve beyond their expectations.

Elliott Hudson College’s

expansion comes as an answer to the long-standing demand for more places in the sixth form college, which has consistently been oversubscribed due to its outstanding reputation.

The upcoming academic year will usher in an exciting new chapter in the college’s history. One marked by increased capacity, enriched facilities and an unwavering commitment to providing students with the unique Elliott Hudson College learning experience.

“It’s very exciting to be expanding, we’re a very inclusive college who strive to ensure that all young people, especially those from

disadvantaged backgrounds, have the opportunity to secure the Gift of Choice. This expansion means that we can grow our community and offer transformative opportunities to a much wider scope of young people in Leeds and surrounding areas.” said Lee Styles, Principal.

Elliott Hudson College has already diversified its curriculum offer by branching out into more vocational subjects. With new subjects,

Building college overwhelmed by latest materials donations

Teaching staff at Leeds College of Building are elated after receiving eleven articulated trailers of equipment donated by Legal & General.

The materials and tools will be used to train the next generation of construction professionals enrolled across the College’s North Street and South Bank Campuses.

The donation includes 60 pallets of fire, moisture, and general-purpose grade plasterboards, bathroom suites, consumer units, switches and sockets, timber flooring, internal doors, plinths and skirting, paint, workshop vacuums cleaners, strip lights, mini skips, toolboxes, timber chop saws, portable power

tools, a pallet of spirit levels, plumbing consumables, and more.

Richard Longley, Managing Director in Legal & General Capital’s housing division:

“When an opportunity arose to further develop tradespeople of the future, we were delighted to be able to offer our support to Leeds College of Building and contribute to the next generation of UK home builders. A lot of our own team came through the College’s doors to learn their trades, so it’s wonderful to give something back.”

The Legal & General donation will be split across multiple departments and used to benefit most of the

Construction Crafts trainees at the College. This includes students and apprentices studying plastering, carpentry and joinery, painting and decorating, wall and floor tiling, multi-skills, brickwork, plumbing, welding, and electrical specialisms.

Wayne Chappelow, Head of Construction Crafts at Leeds College of Building, said:

“We have worked with Legal & General for many years to establish qualifications that met their needs and placed several apprentices with them. This donation is the latest development in our partnership, and we are absolutely overwhelmed by the generosity!

“My thanks go to Legal & General for this incredible donation of materials, tools, and equipment. It will help to ensure Leeds College of Building students receive the best possible training for successful employment as they go into the workplace.

“We rely on essential

material donations like these to continue our training and are so grateful to the exceptional businesses that work with us regularly. This work is vital to build the construction workforce of the future and boost the number of skilled professionals needed to fill critical skills gaps across trades.”

A significant part of the donation includes brand new tools and equipment designed for “tape and fill” – a key skill in the dry lining industry and an area where Legal & General found a significant shortage of talent. Other equipment includes general and batteryoperated hand tools, PPE and RPE such as air-fed face masks, and specialist Tefloncoated setting-out tables for welded, brazed, and soldered components to be used in the fabrication and welding department.

Legal & General’s donations are the latest in a series of substantial material donations to the College, including 10,000 bricks from housebuilder Persimmon, roofing supplies donated by SR Timber, Glidevale Protect, CUPA Pizarras, BMI UK & Ireland, Rinus Roofing Supplied Ltd, Hunslet Roofing Supplies Ltd, Wienerberger UK, Velux, Midland Lead Ltd, Hambleside Danelaw, Monument Tools Ltd, Permavent Ltd, and more.

and increased student capacity, this brings an abundance of exciting opportunities for teachers, leaders, and support staff as the college looks to increase its staff team.

Teaching staff comment on the shared respect between students and teachers as well as the value and recognition demonstrated by leaders.

“Teachers feel that they truly belong here, and they value the consistently impressive

achievements made on results day. The partnership between staff and students encourages us to get the best out of each other,” said Rosie Quashie, Vice Principal: Support & Wellbeing.

This exciting new expansion represents a further leap forward for the young people at Elliott Hudson College, which has changed the face of post16 education in the South Leeds area over the past 10 years.

New Bewerley celebrates diversity through art

New Bewerley Community School (NBCS) in Beeston has retained strong links with The World Reimagined (TWR) after winning the prized TWR Bursary sponsored by The Paul Hamlyn Foundation.

The school was fortunate to welcome two artists in residence into the school: Sarah Jane Mason and Ladel Bryant to teach and promote The World Reimagined’s 5Cs; Curiosity, Compassion, Courage, Critical Thinking, and Connection through poetry and printing techniques.

Year 2 and Year 6 collaborated to create the school’s TWR globe, inspired by Kenya, which has pride of place in the school entrance. NBCS attended costume design workshops and hired out The Tetley to learn more about Bobo Ogisi’s ‘I am not myself’ exhibition.

Alongside Asher Jael and The Tetley, KS2 Leader and Arts Leader, Paige Hurley hosted an anti-racism round table to

support local educators to discuss the curriculum and support one another to ensure that arts curriculum is – at its core – anti-racist, inclusive, and diverse.

After years of hard work towards a cause very dear to the school’s heart, it was no surprise that they were gifted one of the original sculptures, Rise Up by Andrea Cumming. A globe representing the history of afro hair and its links to the slave trade.

To celebrate the unveiling of the globe on 23 January, the school organised a community event, ‘The Big Hair Day’.

Children met the author Tina Shingler, participated in activities such as writing poems, looking at the history of hair, how to braid and lots more.

The unveiling was well attended with children coming out to greet parents and guests – including Councillor Ed Carlisle (Green, Hunslet & Riverside) and Asher Jael, the Leeds

Ambassador from The World Reimagined. The Year 3 choir performed, alongside poetry readings from School Councillors and Diversity Developers. The rain did not stop the amazing atmosphere created by the children and adults and the event was a great success!

NBCS continues to be proud to be learning what it means to live in a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive society through their collaboration with The Word Reimagined. This gift will be a reminder that learning about our differences, histories, and cultures can only bring us closer as a community as we move forward to a brighter future together.

The World Reimagined is an exciting and thought-provoking arts initiative which saw Leeds hosting a trail of large scale, colourful globes created by renowned international artists exploring the history and impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

Reading to their new neighbours

In February some of the children from Middleton Primary School enjoyed a morning in the new extra care

facility, Gasgoine House, which is located on the same street.

The children have been focussing on their fluency skills

Culture Week across Coc

The Cockburn Multi-academy Trust secondary schools in south Leeds recently transformed into a melting pot of cultural diversity as students and staff came together to celebrate Culture Week.

The event showcased a rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and arts from around the globe, reflecting the commitment to embracing multiculturalism and fostering understanding among

its members. Culture Week featured a myriad of workshops, performances, and interactive sessions and served as a beacon of hope, inspiring individuals to embrace diversity, celebrate differences – a celebration that transcends borders.

Among the standout features of Culture Week was the dynamic array of activities organised by various departments, each offering unique insights into

different facets of global culture.

At Cockburn John Charles Academy, the Art department explored artwork from diverse cultures, inspiring students to explore the beauty and intricacies of artistic expression worldwide. From the vibrant colours of Mexican folk art to the delicate brushstrokes of Japanese calligraphy, students were immersed in a kaleidoscope of artistic

in English and put these skills into practice when reading to the residents during the morning. It was a lovely change for their reading session and really appreciated by the residents.

The support officer got in touch afterwards expressing her gratitude and said “Our residents were blown away by their reading skills, their children’s behaviour and manners. One of them was crying when the children left, she was so proud of them.”

Not only did the children get to practice their reading skills in a real-life context, but they also made lots of new neighbours very happy.

It has also set the foundations for future projects between friends at Gasgoine House and Middleton Primary School, and once again strengthens community bonds within Middleton.

traditions, broadening their horizons and nurturing their creativity.

At Cockburn School, the History department organised a Black British History workshop where students investigated an exciting and unexplored area of Black History from David

Fashion Show at Cockburn School

Unveiling Andrea Cumming’s globe at New Bewerley Community School

Art class at Cockburn John Charles Academy

Pupils read to elderly residents at Gascoigne House

Fashion Show at Cockburn John Charles Academy

Drumming performance at Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy

Website:

Email: info@southleedslife.com

kburn secondary schools

Olusoga’s book “Black and British”. Students learned about an often-forgotten moment in Victorian Britain when 3 Kings of Bechuanaland (modern day Botswana) stood up against the imperialist, Cecil Rhodes to take over their country. Another workshop focused on exploring Asian fashion. Year 7 & 8 students looked at different types of South Asian fashion and explored what is worn at different

periods of history and the different categories of British people. All students were invited to take part in the Cultures Flag Competition - identify all the flags around the school to enter a prize draw.

The Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) departments and school kitchens also played a pivotal role in Culture Week, tantalising taste buds with a culinary exploration of different

schools were invited to wear their own clothes for the day with a suggestion that the clothes would say something about their cultural interests and background.

At Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy, students put on a show featuring music, drama and dance from across the world. This show was hosted by students and performed to ALL students in the school across the

cultural occasions. They used their learning to create their own fashion, jewellery and henna designs.

At Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy, the week started with an exceptional assembly lead by students featuring a performance by CLCA dance group Afro Fusion. Year 8 Art lessons looked at Brunelleschi's experiment: Mastering Linear Perspective in Art and the students produced some fantastic accurate drawings. In History, they explored the question 'Who are the British people?' Students looked at

cuisines from around the world. Students savoured the flavours of Spanish paella, sampled the aromatic spices of Indian curry, and indulged in the delicate textures of French pastries. At Cockburn School and Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy, a different menu from around the world was served each day. At CLCA, Eastern European Meals of the Day were a popular choice.

Another highlight of Culture Week at Cockburn School and Cockburn John Charles Academy was the eagerly anticipated fashion shows, where students took centre stage to proudly exhibit their cultural heritage in front of packed-out audiences. Dazzling traditional attire from countries spanning the globe graced the runway, showcasing the rich diversity of styles, fabrics, and designs that define cultures worldwide. From the intricate embroidery of Indian saris to the bold patterns of African cloth, the fashion shows were a vibrant celebration of identity and heritage. Students across all

final day of the week. Cockburn School also put on a show with a music concert that featured song and sitars.

At Cockburn School, the PE department put on their own “Afcon Football Tournament” with teams playing matches during their lunchtimes. By the end of the week there were winning teams representing a range of countries including Year 8 and Year 9 winners representing Ghana.

Reflecting on the resounding success of Culture Week across three schools, Executive Headteacher, David Gurney, said, "Culture Week embodies the spirit of unity and celebration that defines our school communities and the community in south Leeds. It is a testament to the richness and diversity of our collective heritage, and a confirmation of our shared commitment to embracing multiculturalism in all its forms. I am extremely proud of the way our students have celebrated and respected each other’s cultures and of the work they have put in, supported by our excellent staff, to make the week so successful."

As the curtains closed on another memorable Culture Week across the Cockburn MAT, the echoes of laughter, learning, and cultural exchange lingered, leaving an indelible imprint on the hearts and minds of all who participated.

Fashion workshop at Cockburn School

In our view

Modern slavery

They may not be wearing iron shackles or working long hours under a hot sun, in fact the reverse applies to the care workers in our front page story, but they are tied to an employer who doesn’t care for their welfare and uses undue pressure. We would call that modern slavery.

One of the reasons the problem has grown is the Home Office’s ‘hostile environment’ policy. Whilst you may think that people who are in this country unlawfully should be deported, the policy affects thousands of people who have every right to be here. Whether that’s the Windrush generation, EU citizens or workers who have come here to fill labour shortages. Fear of deportation is no way to treat people who come to the UK to contribute to our society.

Affordable housing

Our article about ‘affordable’ flats at the Aire Lofts development has kicked off quite a debate. The problem, though, is that there is no affordable housing in the UK. The housing market is broken, rents are sky high and the government hides behind the newspeak term ‘affordable’ to pretend that anything below the full market rent is helping people who need housing. We need to start from the bottom up and build a lot more council houses at a truly affordable rent.

The April issue of South Leeds Life will be out on Wednesday 27 March.

The deadline for submissions is Thursday 21 March.

Your letters and comments

Ash trees to be felled in Cross Flatts Park

I hope they manage to complete task before nesting time

Eve Tidswell

Sad but necessary work – will any archaeology be undertaken with the stump removal bearing in mind the medieval use of the park site?

Sue Ottley-Hughes

One would hope that they'll find space to use the tree carcasses elsewhere in the park?

Alan Shaw

The trees should be replaced with Rowans (Mountain Ash). The berries are good for wildlife and look nice.

Graham Spencer

I hope what the councillors said is true and I hope double the amount of trees are planted to replace them. More variety of trees such as Hawthorn, Holly and Chestnut are needed, its mostly Ash trees in there so that’s why this will be so devastating. Between 10 and 15 newly planted trees in the park were felled and completely destroyed by yobs in January so any new ones will hopefully have cages. I wonder about the trees along Beeston Road near Noster Hill, those are mostly Ash too.

Lewis Fensome

Affordable lofts?

"Who is Climate Innovation District for?Households with a total income of under £80,000. You must be able to provide a £3500 bond to join the CIC". So not affordable for people who actually need a house. Will this be available to those on very low wages? Or benefits? Probably not.

Iain Stannett

All the buzz words well and truly ticked ... place looks soulless and devoid of anything remotely liveable ... rabbit hutches for those with the brass.

Alan Gibson

This article doesn’t actually tell us anything about affordability. So I do hope

South Leeds Life goes back to the source and brings us an update. There’s way too much of this nonsense advertising going on.

Gill Powell

The figures quoted by Iain are for shared ownership. Rented flats at Aire Lofts are let through Leeds Homes.

‘Affordable’ is a term defined by the Government, currently 20% less than market (private) rents.

Jeremy Morton (Editor)

The Hunslet Club

I have known this club since it was called Hunslet Boys Club when I was 16 and I am 57 now. it was a good club then. I did a Youth Opportunity scheme from there, They did landscape gardening and other YTS courses to help get them into employment which it helped lot through my life.

society. I praise all the young/the teenagers and the different people who support this club. I know it has helped me get through life’s hurdles and have fond memories of this place to this day.

Paul White

Tower Works mural

Sorry .. it looks like a school kid has been let loose with a spray can during dinner break!

John Aveyard

Suicide prevention

Our local organisations in Leeds that run initiatives to reduce lives lost to suicide in our community already survive with very little investment behind them. With the local suicide prevention funding they’ve relied on having come to an end, they may be forced to significantly scale back or completely stop these life-saving services.

Top Tweets

Your Leeds City Councillors

Beeston & Holbeck ward Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park to the Ring Road, Cottingley and Holbeck. The three councillors are:

Gohar Almass (Labour) 07445 878 333 gohar.almass@leeds.gov.uk

Annie Maloney (Labour) 07554 969236 annie.maloney@leeds.gov.uk

Andrew Scopes (Labour) 07860 400645 andrew.scopes@leeds.gov.uk

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

The three councillors are:

I called a few months ago with my three grandchildren and I just couldn’t believe how impressed I was with the different facilities they have available for the youth of Leeds. It is very good and with the help of individuals it will be a centre of excellence for Leeds and a proud place for the youth to have a place to achieve their goals and have fun/stability and a centre which improves the the wellbeing and health/mental health of all the people who go to this centre. A big thanks to all the staff and the people who work there to help youth in our society have something to focus on instead of hanging about the streets which can lead to all different problems in our

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 sharon.burke@leeds.gov.uk

Wayne Dixon (SDP) 07852 311717 wayne.dixon@leeds.gov.uk

Emma Pogson-Golden (SDP) 07794 577586 emma.pogson-golden@leeds.gov.uk

Samaritans has estimated that renewing this funding would only cost £1.40 per person - as little as the price of a loaf of bread. Surely that’s something the Government can commit to on 6th March, if it can help save lives?

I urge readers to take any action they can to save this local funding, so that we're doing all we can to prevent suicide in the local area.

Janice Howe

Join the debate

Comment online; by email: info@southleedslife.com; or post to: 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Leeds, LS11 7BW.

Letters may be edited for publication.

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:

@LeedsCivicTrust

Leeds Civic Trust is a member of The Waterfront Group. Today we observed the RanMarine Waste Shark, an autonomous device that detects and collects litter in water. We are considering how to fund and manage the Waste Shark on a long term basis.

@foodwiseleeds

Compost Collective Hunslet bins finished yesterday in the spring twilight. Happy composting everyone!!

@gorse_ruth

This week students visited the Knife Angel at the Royal Armouries, Leeds Dock. They participated in an engaging workshop about reducing knife crime and got use VR headsets to make the experience come to life!

@3rdMiddleton

Our #Beavers created their own dragon puppets for #ChineseNewYear & added some ideas to our #outdoorin24 list. #Cubs started their #Astronomer badge , saw a close-up of the moon and depicted its phases using #Oreos!

Ash trees in Cross Flatts Park last summer

MP’s notebook with Hilary Benn MP

Sometimes, things happen out of context. I was recently in Northern Ireland and visited the Harryville Men’s Shed just outside Ballymena.

It's a drop in centre for men of all ages who feel lonely or isolated, and it provides a range of activities from a cup of tea and a listening ear to DIY and plant growing. They have recently bought a nice polytunnel and have high hopes for the vegetables it will produce this summer.

Imagine my surprise when I saw on the wall a clock made out of a circular saw blade on which someone had painted the Hunslet Rugby League Club crest. I thought there must be a supporter living locally, but it turned out that one of their members had made it especially for me because they knew I was coming to visit and that I was the club’s Honorary Patron. I was deeply touched. Hunslet’s fame has clearly spread far and wide.

Lots of people have written recently asking me to support

an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and the House of Commons has now agreed to call for one.

In the world of parliamentary procedure, motions and amendments - and especially after the unseemly behaviour of some MPs in Parliament on the 21 February - it is sometimes easy to lose sight of the stand which our elected representatives are taking. So I'm glad I now have the opportunity to write back to those constituents who contacted me to say very simply “I backed an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.”

International pressure for a ceasefire is growing, including now from the United States of America, as the crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. Far too many innocent Palestinians, including women and children, have been killed in Israeli military operations and this must stop. Israel must not blockade Gaza.

They need to comply with international law by protecting innocent lives and deal with the

humanitarian crisis. The death and destruction has been intolerable to witness as more and more Palestinians are pushed into a small corner of land at the bottom edge of Gaza. An Israeli military incursion into Rafah would be utterly disastrous because of the loss of life it would entail. It cannot happen.

The sad truth, however, is that votes in overseas parliaments won't mean that the people of Gaza will be able to stop fearing bombs and missiles coming out of the sky, it won’t mean that people in Israel can feel safe because they don't think there will be another attack from Hamas and it won’t free the hostages. The only people who can actually make a ceasefire happen and free those who have been taken are the leaders of the two sides who have been fighting.

I long for the day when they will show the kind of courageous political leadership that is required to change the course of this conflict. And

A letter from the Editor

by Jeremy Morton

Last September we celebrated the 100th edition of South Leeds Life with a thank you get together for our subscribers and sponsors.

I made a short speech expressing my pride at having reached 100 editions, but pointing out that, whilst I hoped South Leeds Life made it to 200, I wouldn’t be around as Editor by then.

It’s a simple question of maths. It took us about 9 years to reach 100 (we don’t print in August unless there’s a pandemic). In another nine years I’ll have been getting my state pension for five years, assuming the government doesn’t move the goalposts again.

Much as I enjoy editing South Leeds Life, I’d like to enjoy my retirement.

South Leeds Life is a going concern. We have a number of income streams, most importantly our subscribers and sponsors. We get some advertising income, we get fees from Google, thanks to a deal negotiated by the Independent Community News Network (ICNN) which we are members

of. As a not-for-profit social enterprise we can apply for grants, although that’s not always straightforward.

We have enough income to cover our costs by and large, so it’s not a case of leaving a sinking ship.

The other side of that coin (pun intended) is that there is not a lot of money to be made in newspapers. I don’t get paid a lot, I’m not complaining, I found myself at a point in my life when my costs had reduced, so I could afford to live on a small salary. I also have a very supportive partner.

This is all a rather roundabout way of saying that we need to find a new Editor. Not tomorrow or next month, but the next couple of years. There’s a viable business, but not a great salary, unless the new editor can grow the income.

I’m putting this out there so that you can start thinking about who you know that might want to take it on.

What does the job entail?

There’s a website to manage, making sure that there is a steady stream of stories being published and managing comments. Some articles that are sent in need to be tweaked,

when we do finally see a ceasefire, we need the same political leaders to get to work on a political process towards a viable two state solution. It is the only way to prevent this terrible tragedy from happening again and again.

The fact that Leeds is the largest city in Europe without a rapid transit system surprises many people when they discover this is the case. As avid readers of South Leeds Life will know there's a long and rather torrid history to how this happened.

So, I'm pleased to be able to report - following a recent briefing by the West Yorkshire Mayor's team - that planning is underway for improvements to public transport in Leeds and across West Yorkshire, including the first stage of a tram system. We will, of course, need continued funding from government, but I think there's an opportunity now to develop a more integrated service and a move further in the direction of zero carbon transport in the process.

As it so happens, on the same trip to Northern Ireland recently I went to visit Wrightbus in Ballymena. They manufacture buses and 90% of what they produce are now powered by electricity or hydrogen. On my tour around

points (with some help).

some need to be rewritten. Volunteer writers need to be trained, coached and/or supported.

There’s an email account to manage and sift the relevant stories from the spam.

Then the newspaper has to be laid out, sorting the stories and photos to fit together onto 24 pages and uploading it to the printers on time. Once printed 6,000 copies need distributing to 200 pick up

My work model is essentially to work part time for two weeks, full time for two weeks with a manic, intense weekend every four weeks before we go to print on the Monday morning. I’m writing this at 7:30pm on Sunday.

Having said that my news antennae are active pretty much 24/7 and I will drop what I’m doing to pick up a story that is urgent.

I’m not suggesting that this is the optimal way to run the paper and website, but it’s how I do it. For that I’m currently

their very impressive factory, I spied a new electric bus that is being made for Leeds. It looked very splendid in its purple and grey colours.

The factory also tells another very important story. A few years ago it was at risk of closure until a new owner bought it and decided to invest in a zero carbon future. It has expanded rapidly, taken on new staff, developed innovative technologies and is a wonderful example of the opportunities that lie ahead for our society if we see the move to net zero as the great opportunity it is, rather than something to be feared.

We have had some unseasonably warm weather of late, including an all-time record January temperature in the UK of 19.6°C. It's proof of our changing climate and if we go back over time we can see this change show itself in other

ways. A few years ago an ecologist from Coventry University looked back to 1919 at photos and film taken on Remembrance Sunday in London to examine the trees in the background. They were the same plane trees that you can still see in Whitehall today, but in the early 20th century they had no leaves on them at all, whereas in recent years not a single picture has been taken of a tree without leaves.

This is telling us that the time around 11 November has been getting progressively warmer over the last 100 years. And for the weather fans among you, Wikipedia tells me that the highest temperature ever recorded in Yorkshire was 36°C in near Beverley (in 2022) and the lowest was19°C in Topcliffe in 2010. And don’t even get me started on rainfall. Anyway, as the weather improves, happy gardening!

Hilary Benn is our Member of Parliament

Contact:

Email: hilary.benn.mp@parliament.uk

Website: www.hilarybennmp.com

Constituency office: Unity Business Centre, 26 Roundhay Road, Leeds LS7 1AB; Tel: 0113 244 1097

paid £880 a month. As I say, someone else might be able to grow the income and pay themselves more.

What skills and attributes do you need to edit South Leeds Life?

You need an interest in people and the life of our communities. The job is bit nosey-parker-ish, but tempered by respect. You can read our Aims on page 2, they’re all about helping people to be active in their neighbourhood and we believe that in order to do that you need to know what’s going on.

You don’t need to be a trained journalist, I’m not, but I’ve picked up bits and pieces of training over many years. And I know journalists I can ask for advice when I need it.

You need to have, or to build, a network in our communities. I’ll pass on my contacts, but you’ll need to build the relationships if you don’t have them already.

It’s not everybody’s cup of tea, but it’s a great job for the right person. If this has piqued your interest do get in touch. My details are at the top of every page.

Hunslet Man buys Kirkstall Abbey

by Hon Ald Elizabeth Nash

Atthe end of this month of March will be the Easter holidays with the two-week school break following.

Those readers who may not have booked to go away may be wondering where they may visit at little or no cost especially if they have children to look after. A visit to Kirkstall Abbey may fit the bill.

Kirkstall Abbey, founded in 1152, is arguably the finest best preserved Cistercian monastic ruin in the UK. The Earl of Cardigan owned virtually all of Burley, Headingley and Kirkstall which included the Abbey ruins.

The Earl was the soldier who led the “Charge of the Light Brigade” at Balaclava against a Russian Army during the Crimean War in 1854. Later the Earl was killed in a riding accident when he was 70 and his young spendthrift widow bankrupted the estate and all the lands which were owned in Leeds had to be sold to pay for the debts in 1889.

Hitherto, the Abbey ruins, even though in a very dilapidated state, together with the surrounding parkland had

been open to the general public but a developer from Manchester made a bid to buy it and build on it and provide a private amusement park.

A concerned Leeds resident, solicitor and later Leeds Town councillor Edmund Wilson, tried to raise the money to buy the Abbey for a public park but fell short of the £13,600 needed to beat the Manchester bid. Wilson paid a deposit of £1,300 hoping to raise the money from the general public which was risky because he could have been personally liable for all of it. Then Colonel John North, millionaire adventurer, made an appearance. North was born into poverty in Bywater Street in Hunslet which was in an appalling industrial environment.

When he was 14 years old his father, a coal merchant, died and his mother moved with

her children to run a public house in Grape Street Hunslet. Both streets were eventually cleared with slum clearance.

At that time North began to serve as an engineering apprentice at John Fowler & Co. He did well there and Fowlers sent him to Chile to further their trade in steam engines.

It was while he was in Chile that he started his own business importing guano from

which nitrates were extracted as an important land fertilizer. He became known as the “Nitrates King” and he became extremely rich. He also formed a militia army and appointed himself the head of it and attached “Colonel” to his name.

His business dealings were thought to be controversial to say the least, but he never forgot his origins in south Leeds and financially

supported Leeds General Infirmary and The Yorkshire College (now the University of Leeds). Two representatives of the Leeds Mechanics Institute went to meet North where he lived in London to ask for his financial support for the Institute. While they were with him they mentioned the sale of Kirkstall Abbey.

North immediately pledged to buy the Abbey and additional land around it as he remembered playing in the ruins as a child while on Sunday School trips from Hunslet. His Deed of Gift to Leeds said, “To be forever freely used as a public park by all peaceable inhabitants of the Borough”. The Corporation made him the first Freeman of Leeds.

Pathways for positivity with

Shannon Humphrey

Dopamine Dressing

It had been years since I thoroughly decluttered my wardrobes, drawers and attic storage. With spring finally on the horizon, I decided that an uneventful February weekend was the perfect opportunity to tackle a task I’d been avoiding.

Time to bid farewell to clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories that had been tucked away, untouched, for years taking up valuable storage space.

So there I was, dumping everything onto the bed in the spare room, ready to sort through it all: keep, donate, sell.

About five minutes into the process, regret set in. My room resembled an explosion in a clothes factory. The sheer volume of items was staggering, even to me.

What I thought was just a modest stash turned out to be piles of items that had been hoarded away for ages, kept "just in case," though I couldn't

quite articulate what for. As I filled bag after bag for donation, I had a moment of clarity: the clothes I once cherished over a decade ago no longer sparked joy.

I’d been holding onto clothing and accessories for years under the assumption that I might wear them "someday". A mix of sale stuff, charity shop bargains, stuff to slim into ... and other items saved for that elusive "special occasion" that never seemed to materialise - no pun intended!

Perhaps you're familiar with Marie Kondo, a well-known expert in organising, who assists people worldwide in turning their cluttered homes into tranquil, restful spaces. Her philosophy suggests that if you're unsure whether to keep something you own, if it doesn't bring you joy, it's best to part with it.

I decided to adopt that philosophy and I have to say, it really did help to motivate me

and speed up the whole process.

I only kept items I really liked and was confident I would get around to wearing, albeit years and in some cases almost two decades since I’d first purchased them. I was only going to keep things I felt good in. Items to boost my dopamine levels.

If you’ve not heard of “dopamine dressing” it’s a concept that basically means wearing clothes that empower you.

It's about choosing outfits that make you feel confident and excited, instead of following what's popular or trendy. It’s wearing clothes that bring you joy and boost your mood.

Imagine a toddler who wants to wear wellies in the middle of summer, just because they love the colour of them,or a Disney outfit to the corner shop, just because they can and it makes them happy. Well, it’s a bit like

that, for adults.

The concept of dopamine dressing originates from the notion that our clothing choices can deeply influence our emotional state and general sense of happiness. Much like dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to feelings of pleasure

Today Kirkstall Abbey is a very wellused public park with visitors from all over the world. There is free entry into the railed-off majestic ruins of the Abbey for Leeds council-tax payers.

Proof of residence must be produced such as a Leeds

and satisfaction, dressing in lively and cheerful colours or simply dressing in items that make you feel confident is thought to evoke positive feelings and increase your wellbeing.

It’s not to be confused with vanity or spending hours getting dressed up each day to impress somebody else, it’s about knowing that you deserve to feel good, for you. Not just on special occasions. That could mean having a spritz of your best fragrance. Wearing your favourite jumper because you like how it feels on

Card, Driving Licence, Library ticket any bill or invoice with home address etc. There is free entry for all into the Park, the Visitor Centre and use of the newly refurbished children’s playground adjacent to the carpark.

The Abbey’s Gatehouse was bought by the Leeds Corporation in 1927 from the Butler family who, together with the Beecroft family, owned Kirkstall Forge since the monastery’s dissolution. Today it is an exquisite local folk museum with some of the best recreated Victorian streets of shops and houses anywhere in the UK. There is a small admittance fee to the Museum.

Spring is a great time to visit Kirkstall Abbey as the Park grounds are extensively carpeted with crocus and then, later on, daffodils. The café and entry to the Abbey ruins are open every day except Mondays apart from Bank Holiday Mondays when they are both open.

Buses Nos. 33, 34 and A1 from Leeds Bus Station take visitors to the Park entrance. The carpark is situated at the end of Vesper Lane just before it joins Abbey Walk with its pedestrian crossing to the Museum.

your skin. Rocking jazzy socks that make you smile when you look at them, or having a swipe of bright red lippy before you leave the house (that's my favourite!) Do it today. Not tomorrow or some special occasion far on the horizon. Make today the day you’ve been waiting for.

Shannon Humphrey is a First Aid for Mental Health Instructor working in the business and education sectors.

If you have a suggestion for an article, contact her at shannon@pathwaysfor positivity.com

Photo: Shutterstock

Kirkstall Abbey. Photo: Shutterstock

Local history with Ken Burton

Thwaite Watermill in Stourton

Thwaite watermill could be considered a unique heritage attraction because it is one of the last working water-powered mills in Britain and due to its varying uses by trade offers a unique lens in which to study the many aspects of local society and industrial history.

The life of the mill started when Charles I was King in 1641 when a weir was constructed on a natural bend in the River Aire. This weir stemmed the flow of water and created a large pond; this water supplied the first mill.

Little is known about this mill other than it being used for “fulling” a textile process in which cloth was pounded in human urine sold by the

poorest in society for a few extra pence, and then fullers’ earth, which was a clay like substance. Originally this process was completed by foot, as people physically tramped the cloth in tubs but in the Middle Ages the process was mechanised by using wooden mallets or “fulling-stocks” to pummel the cloth, this was powered by the turning of a water wheel.

Fulling was an important part of cloth production because it cleaned the natural grease from newly woven threads and matted them together more tightly, thus producing a smooth thick compact fabric.

Once fulled and stretched to the desired size, cloth was then suitable for dyeing or making

into clothes.

The first known reference to Thwaite Mill was made in the Aire & Calder Navigation Act of 1774 where it is mentioned that a toll of one shilling (5p) for every lock of water used was payable to the tenants of the mill as compensation for the water loss from the mill dam by operating the lock. By 1774 the mill was the property of the Navigation Company, into whose hands they probably came when the River Aire was made navigable at the turn of the century. Two Sun Insurance policies for 1809-1812 show that the mill was, by that date, not only grinding corn but was also engaged in other milling activities, including the crushing of oil bearing seeds.

Oils derived from vegetables were increasingly in demand in the late 18th and early 19th century; at which time they were used for, amongst other purposes, the lubrication of machinery.

In 1822 the mill was let to W & E Joy for £525 per annum Shortly afterwards the decision was made to carry out much needed repairs to the building, but the condition of it was so bad that the mill had to be completely rebuilt. The Navigation consulted John Rennie and the contract for the work was awarded to the Manchester firm of Hewes & Wren. Thomas Cheek Hewes was one of the foremost millwrights of the period and Thwaite Mills is one of the few remaining examples of his work. The mill was rebuilt as a three-storey brick structure astride the mill race which served to house two low breasted water wheels within it. As well as a new mill other constructions included a workshop, a warehouse, stables, workers’ cottages, and the mill tenants’ house. Apart from ‘Dandy Row’ the workers’ cottages that were demolished in 1968, all the other buildings remain. When the new mill was completed in 1825 it had cost the Navigation Company £15,876. This was reflected by the new rent of £1,000 per annum when relet to Joy & Company in 1826.

When the Joy family arrived

The mechanised fulling process

back at the mill it was as Edward Joy & Sons Limited and they produced lighting and lubricating ‘Filtrate’ oils by crushing seeds such as Linseed and Rapeseed. Many railway companies, still in their infancy in this period, were supplied with oils produced by the Joys at Thwaite Mill. One particular recipient of their lubricating oil is thought to have been George Stephenson’s ‘Rocket’.

Although oil; was the main concern of the Joys they also used their crushing machinery for other purposes, one example of which was crushing exotic woods imported from South America to produce colour dyes for textile manufacture. In 1845 the partnership between William

and Edward Joy was broken up by mutual consent and the Joy family left Thwaite Mill, but the Company continued successfully for many years, eventually manufacturing oil for motor cars and carrying on business in Junction Street opposite the old Hunslet Goods Terminus.

Census information indicates that a number of tenants, including Robson and Bucktrout continued to run the mill as a seed crushing business. However, in 1871 the mill is not listed and it was around this period the buildings experienced a time of neglect and disuse leaving it to return to a state of disrepair.

We will continue the story of Thwaite Mill in the April edition of South Leeds Life.

Thwaite Watermill from the canal

New exhibition and free gig at BasementArts

by Bruce Davies

As we prepare to leave the dark months of winter behind, BasementArtsProject invites you to join us in exploring the ‘Lost Portals’.

These interruptions in our universe connect the world above with a world below, giving us the sense that something we can feel but not see is down here with us in the darkness.

Nine years ago, Saturation Point presented ‘Other Rooms’ in our subterranean art hideout here in South Leeds, now they offer to take us to other worlds by means of a ghostly transportation through time and space.

Lost Portals features the work of Saturation Point, Sarah Sparkes & Ian Thompson.

The free exhibition previews on Monday 11 March, 5:308:30pm at Basement ArtsProject, 28 Back Burton Terrace, Beeston, LS11 5JH and runs until 26 april. Check basementartsproject.com for opening times.

Once Upon A Time

Those of you who were around Beeston/ Hunslet in the late days of summer last year, may have witnessed a free classical music concert happening at the roadside on Tunstall Road in our new sculpture park on ‘The Corner’.

This event was brought to you by BasementArtsProject and the Australian classical guitarist Claire Angel Bonner, who specialises in music of the 19th Century, in particular that of Johann Kaspar Mertz (18061856).

Clare so much enjoyed her engagement here in South Leeds that she will be returning on Wednesday 6 March. This will be the launch event for BasementArtsProject’s 2024 programme of events, ahead of the Lost Portals exhibition opening the following week.

She will be performing two concerts on this day; a free gig in the event space at St Luke’s CARES Charity Shop and then another at BasementArts Project at 7:30pm that evening.

The daytime gig at St Luke’s CARES is for everyone in the community, in particular those who cannot afford to pay for concert tickets. As with everything BasementArts Project does we aim to keep access to art free as much as possible. For the evening concert we will be selling tickets at £10 per head (only 30 tickets available) all of which money raised will be in support of the artists wage and costs as she moves around the country performing this set of songs.

To book tickets go to basementartsproject.com

Cockburn School student to appear in Macbeth at Leeds Playhouse

Four Leeds school students, including Jayden Jhermaine Candala Seidi Dias from Cockburn School in Beeston, have been cast in a major re-staging of Macbeth alongside Hamilton and Bridgerton star Ash Hunter at Leeds Playhouse.

All four are members of the Playhouse’s Youth Theatre and auditioned for the roles in front of Deputy Artistic Director Amy Leach, who’s directing the production, which proved a hit in 2022 and is returning to the Quarry theatre this month.

Director Amy Leach said:

“I’m so excited to be working with these four young actors –I feel so lucky to have a front row seat as they develop their skills and bring a whole new energy to the rehearsal room.

“I’m particularly thrilled that they’re all part of our Youth Theatre, where we give young people the time, space and resources to explore performance, to have fun –and to audition for incredible productions like Macbeth.”

Jayden said:

“I’m very excited to be a part of the play. I’ve been with the Youth Theatre for six months and am so happy to now get to play a part in Macbeth. I’m really looking forward to the rehearsals and to see how it all unfolds.”

The Playhouse runs weekly drama sessions for 8–21 yearolds, led by outstanding professional artists and

support workers. Find out more about its Youth Theatre programme at www.leeds playhouse.org.uk/project/ youth-theatre

Eleanor Manners, Leeds Playhouse Youth Theatre Director, said: “I’m super excited for the Youth Theatre members to be part of Macbeth. It’s such a brilliant opportunity for them to experience the intensive rehearsal process and develop in terms of performance, skills and confidence.

“It’s one of the many wonderful things about being part of Youth Theatre at the Playhouse that members get to take part in closed auditions for our productions. Not only

can they reap the benefits of our facilities, access to shows and sessions working with talented artists, but they also might end up in a major show on our main stage.”

When it first staged Macbeth in 2022, the Playhouse welcomed 69 school groups from across Yorkshire, introducing more than 5,000 students to the excitement and lasting resonance of the play –and giving some of them their first electrifying experience of live theatre.

The Playhouse has added even more school-friendly matinee performances this time around and is offering schools an exciting programme of resources and activities

connected with the production to bring additional depth and breadth to students’ appreciation of this incredible play.

The young quartet will act alongside Ash Hunter, who played Alexander Hamilton in the hit West End musical in 2018/19. His TV credits include Netflix mega hit Bridgerton.

Macbeth runs at Leeds Playhouse from Tuesday 5 March to Saturday 23 March. For more information and tickets go to www.leeds playhouse.org.uk/event/ macbeth. South Leeds Life will publish a review of Macbeth online following the Press Night on Thursday 7 March.

Looking back at LEEDS 2023

LEEDS

2023, the Year of Culture, has come to an end, and many of those who took part are reflecting on its impact.

A new documentary by Leeds-based filmmakers Sodium Films, Letting Culture Loose: The Power of Creativity, features some of the people involved in the year-long cultural programme, including the thoughts of pupils at Ingram Road Primary School in Holbeck.

Lucas and Michael from Ingram Road were involved in Slung Low and The Manchester Collective’s staging of the opera Noah’s Flood last summer.

In the film Lucas says: “Knowing that I could be part of a world where no one would judge me and I could be my complete and utter self, yeah, it made me feel good like I never have before honestly.

“I want to do more cultural stuff that allows me to explore other religions and understand others for who they are.”

Michael says: “It felt right to do the Noah’s Flood because it was a chance to show everyone that I’m worth something.”

Led by Creative Director and CEO, Kully Thiarai, LEEDS 2023 was officially launched with ‘The Awakening’ live event at Headingley Stadium on 7 January 2023.

Twelve months on, interim findings confirm that all 33 council wards were involved in LEEDS 2023 events and 228 schools from all wards participated in activities, with school children taking part at least 35,000 times.

Sir John Townsley, Chief Executive of the GORSE Academy Trust which looks after around 12,000 pupils said:

“Many of our children and

professionals participated in a wide range of events and I know from other colleagues across the region just how impactful the whole initiative has been.”

Kully Thiarai, Creative Director and CEO of LEEDS 2023, said:

“LEEDS 2023 has bought us together through imagination and play and celebrated Leeds’

rich cultural life. It’s been an unprecedented team effort for our city and we’ve collectively made some brilliant new stories and memories about, with and for Leeds. And we know that stories matter. I look forward to seeing how these continue to grow and flourish in the coming years.”

Watch the film at bit.ly/CultureLoose

Sarah Sparkes: Lost Portals

Claire Angel Bonner performing on The Corner last summer

L-R: Millie Soni, Josh Ndlovu, Jessica Baglow, Ash Hunter, Jayden Jhermaine Candala Seidi Dias, Kara Francis. Photo: Cian O’Riain

The Tetley invite you to join them on the Splat Mat

week for families with young children to play together.

touch, scratch, mash and bash different objects.

encourage open ended exploration and ignite creative play.

Enjoy play time with your little one as they explore using their senses and take a moment to relax in our warm, friendly environment.

Splat Mat is part of Inside Out, a three year art and play project for children and families in Beeston that The Tetley are running having moving out of their eponymous home.

The sessions run every Thursday in term time from 1011am at the Hamara Healthy Living Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD. Sessions are free and there’s no need to book, just drop in.

New youth club for Holbeck

Anew youth club has opened in Holbeck thanks to the Gambia Welfare Society.

Funded by Leeds City Council’s Inner South Community Committee, the club runs sessions every Friday and Saturday from 6-8pm at Oak House, Balm Walk, LS11 9PG.

The club is open for all young people in the area and will be running workshops on such topics as knife crime and first aid as well as leadership programmes. Free snacks and

refreshments will be provided and there’s no need to book, just come along.

One of the organisers, Yanks Sawo, commented:

“It’s so important to give young people something positive to do in their spare time. We hope our club will help them make a positive contribution to the local community.”

For more information email: gambiawelfaresociety@ outlook.com; or call: 07427 152514

each

Discover artist Bea Lee Knowles’ colourful splat mats: squeeze, stack, pull, grab,

Knowles’ work has a sensory focus and she designs and makes resources that

The centre is full accessible and the activities are centred around a play mat on the floor, with chairs around the mat. Parents and carers can sit on the mat or on a chair to play.

Groups and activities at Community Hubs & Libraries

Our four Community Hubs & Libraries - Beeston, Dewsbury Road, Hunslet and St George’s - host a range of specialist groups as well as giving access to Council services and, of course, books.

We’ve picked out a selection of sessions that you might not have heard about.

The Kinship Grandparents

Carers Peer Support Group is for grandparents who have taken over caring responsibilities from their children. They meet at St George’s every Tuesday 10am -12pm.

DASSI Peer Support Group is for Black and ethnically diverse mums with kids who have special needs. They meet on the first Wednesday of the month 1-2:30pm St George’s.

Both groups invite you to come and share experiences, advice and get to know friends with a cup of tea and a biscuit.

Restoring Hope is a peer support group for women who are experiencing or have experienced mental health difficulties. It runs every Monday 11am-12:30pm (term time only) at St George’s. The group provides empathy, acceptance and reassurance for women who have been through similar experiences. It provides a listening ear,

friendship and social support that makes coping with life’s challenges that bit easier.

Pain Pals is a Peer Support Group for people who would like to meet and share experiences, tips and just to have a little fun with those who understand what’s it’s like to live with pain. Contact Julie to book on 07546 132859 or email painpalsleeds1@gmail .com It meets at Hunslet on the last Thursday of every

month, 1:30-2:30pm.

Read with Dad is a chance for Dads to bond with their children over a good book. It runs fortnightly on Saturday afternoons, 2-3pm - 9 & 23 March - at Hunslet.

Beeston Book Wormers is a fun and casual book club for those living nearby who would like to make some friends and discuss interesting books. Contact Michele by email miche.rhoden@gmail.com or

drop in at the Dewsbury Road hub. Every Monday 1:302:30pm.

Bat and Chat: Come and meet new people, have a game of ping pong, and test your skills. Great way to keep fit, session is free, and bats/balls provided. Any age/ability can attend. Every Wednesday at Dewsbury Road, 5-7pm.

Tablet Lending for those living with chronic pain conditions. Are you finding it

hard to access library computers or don’t have enough data on the mobile to join groups? If you live with a long-term health condition that makes it hard for you to access the digital world, come and borrow a tablet from us for 3 months. They come with 20gb of internet data so you can use it anywhere. To register for this service please contact Dasha on 07891 279161 or email daria.pluto@leeds.gov.uk

Sao Tome and Principe Portuguese speakers and friends Community Group welcomes new members to join their group to improve health and wellbeing and support local community via good deeds. Contact Helder on 07954 767372 to join WhatsApp group and to find out about future meetings and projects.

Light Up Black and African Heritage Community Group is welcoming new members to join their group to celebrate multicultural Leeds. Members get together to plan projects to support and help black and ethnically diverse residents of Leeds. Everyone is welcome. To join the WhatsApp group please contact Tracey on 07588 823770

Story and Rhyme Time for pre-school children every week 10:30-11:30am as follows: Tuesdays at Hunslet and

Beeston; Thursdays at Dewsbury Road and St George’s.

There are also a range of drop in advice sessions including Citizen’s Advice, Money Buddies, Leeds Antisocial Behaviour Team, Police Community Support Officers and Councillor surgeries. Call in for more details.

The Mobile Community Hub & Library visits Holbeck, parking up outside St Matthew’s Community Centre near the moor every Tuesday 10am-3:30pm and every Thursday 9:30am-3:30pm. The Story Bus joins it on Thursdays 10-11:30am with stories and rhymes for the under 5s.

The Mobile Community Hub & Library also visits Cottingley, parking up outside the shops fortnightly on Wednesdays 10am-12pm (13 & 27 March).

You can find out more about Library services at libraries. leeds.gov.uk and search for Dewsbury Road Community Hub on Facebook.

Beeston Community Hub and Library, Town Street, LS11 8PN

Dewsbury Road Community Hub and Library, LS11 6PF Hunslet Community Hub and Library, off Church Street, LS10 2NS

St George’s Community Hub and Library, St Georges Road, Middleton, LS10 4UZ

Splat Mat is a new free art and play group for under 5s running at the Hamara Centre in Beeston, providing a positive, relaxed session

The staff at Hunslet Community Hub & Library are waiting to welcome you

Play with your child on a Splat Mat at Hamara

A previous first aid workshop run by Street Doctors for TGWS

What’s On

Your guide to events and activities across South Leeds in March

Please check that regular events are not affected by school holidays, 29 March - 14 April

Full contact details can be found in our online What’s On guide at www.southleedslife.com/evens

Every Monday

Community Play Group

9-11:30am Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Money Buddies

9am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Tea and Toast

9am-12pm BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH

Warm Space

9am-1pm Belle Isle Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, LS10 3DN

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

Holbeck Together coffee shop

10am-12pm St Matthew’s

Community Centre, Holbeck

Creative Communities Workshop

10am-2pm The Ark Family Centre, 80 Throstle Lane, Middleton, LS10

4EY Book: 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

Monday Breakfast Club

10:30am-12pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Ave, Hunslet, LS10 2QE

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

Green Gym

1-3:30pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, Sourton, LS10 1RS

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

Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs)

4-6pm Blenkinsop Field, Acre Road, Middleton, LS10 4JQ

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

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

Stay and Play under 5s

9-10:30am BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH

Warm Space

9am-1pm Belle Isle Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, LS10 3DN

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

Aasra Unpaid Carers Group

10:30am-12:30pm Hamara

Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD

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

Stronger Together (SEND parents)

11am-1pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH

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.

Digital Beginners

1:30-3pm BITMOs Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH

Book: (0113) 378 2190

Healthy Hearts Advice

1:30-4pm BITMOs Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH

Movie Afternoon

1:30-3:30pm St Matthew’s

Community Centre, Holbeck

MEA Line Dancing

2-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road.

Hot Meal (free to BITMO tenants)

3:30-5:30pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road

Mental Health Peer Support

Group

3:45-6pm Involve Community Centre, Hunslet, LS10 2QE

Women’s Make & Do Group

4:30-6pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Book: 07848 515528

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

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, LS10 3QH

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

Warm Space

9am-1pm Belle Isle Welcome

Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, LS10 3DN

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

LS10 4JG

Adult Maths Support

10am-1pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH

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 Involve Learning

Centre, 4 Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, LS10 2QE

Book: 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

Warm Space

1-3pm St Luke’s CARES 246

Dewsbury Road, LS11 6JQ

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.

Ultimate Dance Academy

4:20-6pm Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, LS10 4AW

Bat & Chat Table Tennis

5-7pm 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 Warm Space

9am-1pm Belle Isle Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, LS10 3DN

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

Splat Mat play for under 5s

10-11am Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD

Trinity Network Craft

10am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle

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

Website: www.southleedslife.com

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 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 Warm Space & Computer support

1-7pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH

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 After School Games Club

3-4:30pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Youth Sports Club

4:30-6:30pm Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3DN 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

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Boxercise

7-8pm Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, Belle Isle

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

Affordable Breakfast

9-10:30am Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, Belle Isle

Warm Space

9am-1pm Belle Isle Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas

Church, LS10 3DN

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) 5:30-

6:15pm (12-15yrs) St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck

DAZL Youth Club

5-7pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road

Illuminate Dance

5-7pm Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, Belle Isle South Leeds Lakers Juniors (Athletics)

6-7pm South Leeds Stadium

Book: fb.com/juniorlakersleeds

Youth Club

6-8pm The Gambia Welfare Society, Oak House, Balm Walk, Holbeck, LS11 9PG

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

Society, Oak House, Balm Walk, Holbeck, LS11 9PG

Youth Club

7-9pm LS-TEN Skatepark, Kitson Road, Hunslet

Every Sunday

Junior parkrun (4-14 yrs)

9am Top of Cross Flatts Park

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

March

Friday 1 March

Meet your PCSOs

10am-12pm Cottingley Community Centre, LS11 0HJ

Saturday 2 March

Hunslet Cemetery Volunteers

10am-1pm Middleton Road

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

Film Club

5pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD

Monday 4 March

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 5 March

Holbeck Together Music Quiz

1:30-3pm St Matthew’s

Community Centre, LS11 9NR

Lego Club

3:45-4:45pm St George’s

Community Hub & Library, Middleton, LS10 4UZ

Wednesday 6 March

Trinity Network Local History

9:45-11:30am United Reformed

Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle

MHA Bereavement Group

1-2pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG

Adventures in Reading (7-11 yrs)

3:45-4:45pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street

Thursday 7 March

MHA Coffee Morming

10am-12pm Whincup Gardens, Hunslet Carr, LS10 2HL

Hunslet Carr Residents Assoc

6:30pm Woodhouse Hill

Community Centre, LS10 2EF

Beeston Community Forum

7:30-9pm Beeston Village

Community Centre, Beeston Park

Place, off Town Street

Friday 8 March

Legal Advice drop in

9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road

Holbeck Together Pie Tasting

Saturday 9 March

Middleton Makers Market

10am-2pm Middleton Park Circus

Table Top Sale

10am-12pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD

Community Cafe

10am-12pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle

Read With Dad

2-3pm Hunslet Hunslet

Community Hub & Library, off Church Street, LS10 2NS

Sunday 10 March

Sunday Breakfast

9am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD

South Leeds Community Kitchen

free meal

4-5:45pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD

Monday 11 March

MHA Book Club

1:15-2:15pm St Andrew’s

Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG

Exhibition Preview

5:30-8:30pm BasementArts

Project, 28 Back Burton Terrace, Beeston, LS11

Tuesday 12 March

Meet your PCSOs

10am-12pm Hunslet Community Hub and Library, off Church Street

Wednesday 13 March

Mobile Hub & Library

10am-12pm outside shops,

Cottingley

MHA Kurling

10-11am St Andrew’s Community

Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG

Meet Your PCSOs

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

MHA Singing Sensations

1:30-3pm St Andrew’s Community

Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG

Cottingley Hall TRAC 6pm Cottingley Community Centre, LS11 0HJ

White Rose Speakers 7pm Jury’s Inn hotel, Brewery

Wharf

Thursday 14 March

Wellbeing Breakfast Morning 10-11am St Matthew’s

Community Centre, LS11 9NR

Meet your PCSOs

10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub and Library, Town Street

Friday 15 March

Meet your PCSOs

10:30am-12pm Holbeck Moor Road, ouside St Matthew’s

Saturday 16 March

Coffee morning

10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Repair Cafe

1-4pm BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle, LS10 3QH

Sunday 17 March

Guided Mining Walk

1-3pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street

What’s On 21

Wednesday 20 March

Leeds Irish Health Group

10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street

Adventures in Reading (7-11 yrs)

3:45-4:45pm Hunslet Community

Hub & Library, off Church Street

Thursday 21 March

SEN-tastic

9:15-10:30am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD

Leeds Baby Bank

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

St Luke’s Tenants & Residents

6:30pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD

Friday 22 March

Meet your PCSOs

10am-12pm Cottingley

Community Centre, LS11 0HJ

Saturday 23 March

Leeds Dads Soft Play

10am-12pm Little Angels, Beeston, LS11 7HL Book: leedsdads.org/events

Read With Dad 2-3pm Hunslet Hunslet

Community Hub & Library, off Church Street, LS10 2NS

Sunday 24 March

Holbeck Together Sunday Lunch 12-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Book (0113) 245 5553

Hunslet RLFC v Rochdale Hornets 3pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ

Monday 25 March

Beeston Hill Community Assoc

Community Iftar 5:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD

Wednesday 27 March

Mobile Hub & Library 10am-12pm outside shops, Cottingley

MHA Kurling 10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston, LS11 8AG

Holbeck Cemetery Volunteers 10am-1pm Fairfax Avenue

MHA Coffee Morming

10am-12pm Cardinal Court, Beeston, LS11 8HP

Memory Cafe 1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Rd, LS10 4JQ

Thursday 28 March

Hunslet Remembered 10-11:30am Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street

Friday 29 March

Easter Trail 11am-2pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, Sourton, LS10 1RS

Hunslet RLFC v Keighley Cougars 7:30pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ

Sunday 31 March

Easter Egg Hunt 12-4pm Hunslet Moor Pavilion

6-8pm The Gambia Welfare

1:30-3pm St Matthew’s

Community Centre, LS11 9NR

Book (0113) 245 5553

Licensing Act 2003

Notice is hereby given that I, CAESARS PIZZAS MIDDLETON LTD, have made an application under section 17 of part 3 of the Licensing Act 2003 for the grant of a premises licence for the premises known as:

CAESARS PIZZAS MIDDLETON,

Egg-celent Easter Trail and training at Skelton Grange

by Gael Impiazzi

Here at Skelton Grange Environment Centre we are looking forward to our Good Friday Easter Trail.

With help from 'The Friends of Skelton Grange', our Easter Good Friday event is a glorious outdoor trail wandering through the woods and gardens at Skelton Grange.

Complete a treasure hunt along the way and trade in your trove for a chocolatey Easter surprise at the end. The event is a fundraiser for the centre, but also a great chance for families to enjoy some Easter fun.

The Skelton Café will be open to purchase hot beverages and sweet treats at the end. There will be a campfire along the trail and crafts and activities to be announced.

Tickets are required for all children attending the event, but babies (18 months or under) are welcome free. Adults do not require a ticket if they are accompanied by a child or children.

Tickets are £7.50 (plus Eventbrite booking fee). Choose your timeslot between 11am and 1pm. Book via www.tcv.org.uk/skeltongrange

Also, we are running a taster day on Tuesday 5 March for a Get Started in Conservation project from the Prince’s Trust. This leads into a week-long course from 11-15 March, giving young people aged 1630 the opportunity to learn practical conservation skills.

Skelton Grange Environment Centre is located on Skelton Grange Road, Stourton, LS10 1RS. Email: skelton@tcv.org.uk phone: (0113) 243 0815, or find us on Facebook.

South Leeds promoter allows young boxers to thrive Hunslet’s new squad starts to gel, but club exits two cups

by James Bovington

Young fighter Marty Spence is delighted to have boxed Jacob Ali in Leeds on the recent show organised by South Leeds promoter Tristan Haynes stating, “I’m grateful to have had this chance to show just how courageous a lad of seventeen can be and am delighted to have won the bout.”

Leeds City College student Marty explained “I took up boxing at eleven but only started training seriously at fourteen and have won three of my four fights plus wins in kickboxing and MMA. I’m trained by my uncle Paul Lynch and my cousin Charlie who’s currently ranked as England’s best lightweight MMA amateur.”

Marty admires American boxer Micky Ward: “Always considered an underdog but the most courageous of men. I relate to that. My ambition is gaining as much experience as possible then become a professional boxer and make my life-long ambition a reality. Boxing has helped me grow in

confidence making many friends.

“It’s taught me discipline and humbled me to respect everyone as you learn about challenges others have faced. Lads like Jacob and I are strong and tough and proud that we can handle ourselves.

“Boxing can be physically and mentally gruelling but is the best activity for young people and I’m proud if I can be a role model for children. This is especially true now there’s this horrible knife culture developing. I urge them to keep working hard and listen to your trainer. But 100% go for it. Coaches are there to help you improve. Stay focused and you will succeed!”

Thirty-year-old Haynes began his shows in 2021 “to give West Yorkshire boxers a good platform to showcase developing skills locally so anyone prepared to give the time and train hard can compete,” explaining that “Our promotion is about care and compassion for the boxers many of whom are going through their own struggles while allowing them to develop

a boxing career.”

Haynes is based at MSA gym in Beeston and is proud that “we’re a team and all those fighting help organise and run the four annual shows including last Saturday’s. The

shows are boxing entertainment at its best and allow me to demonstrate just how obsessive I am in my love of boxing. We also fundraise, most recently for the family of a seriously ill local lady.”

Sprinter’s academy comes south

Tim Abeyie, a former Team

GB sprinter is bringing his Speed for Sport Academy to South Leeds.

The academy helps young athletes, 7-16 years old, to learn all the key fundamentals on how to run in the correct way, enabling them to perform to their highest level.

Tim explained:

“Sprinting has been a part of my life for more than two decades. I’ve competed at the Commonwealth games, World Championships indoors and out and the European Championships. With all this experience, I have reached a point where I want to pass my knowledge onto the next generation of future sports stars.

“I am running new sprint training classes for children in the local area. These classes are designed not only to improve their physical health but also to instill in them a sense of fun and achievement as they work towards their fitness goals.

“As someone with experience in competitive sprinting at the highest level, I understand the importance of starting healthy habits at a

young age. By offering these classes, I aim to provide children in the local community with an opportunity to not only improve their fitness levels but also to develop important skills such as discipline, teamwork, and goal-setting. Having run the academy at Leeds Trinity University, Tim is now bringing it to the John Charles Centre for Sport in South Leeds. Sessions run at the Indoor Athletic Centre every Monday 5-6pm.

Sessions cover:

Core stability

• Mobility and coordination

• Running technique

• Strength and conditioning

• Cardiovascular fitness

• Flexibility

• Sprint and speed

• endurance

Mental and physical

• discipline

One parent commented:

“My two lads have been going to Speed for Sport for a number of months. They love it

and look forward to going each week. It’s a great way for them to stay active and improve as athletes. Tim is great with all the kids and makes it great fun.”

The first class is a free trial, classes then cost £36 for four, but there are large discounts for families on low incomes.

For more information visit www.speedforsportacademy .co.uk; or contact tim@ speedforsportacademy.co.uk, or call 07985 634945

Continued from page 24

Former Hunslet man Adam Ryder scored a late try at South Leeds Stadium to halt any chance of a home victory in a closely fought contest between two teams hoping to get promotion to the Championship this season.

The game had nothing in it, but it was Keighley that earned the right to play Featherstone Rovers in the next round of the Betfred Challenge Cup, although Hunslet Coach Dean Muir has plenty to take away from the game in his quest to get Hunslet ready and raring for the League Season.

Hunslet had the best of the early play and tested Billy Walkley with repeated Matty Beharrell kicks. The Parksiders hemmed Keighley in and finally broke through on the 15th minute when Williams and Beharrell combined to send Jude Ferreira over in the left corner. Beharrell converting brilliantly 6-0.

Hunslet stretched the lead on the 21st minute as Jack Render gathered a high Beharrell kick and released the ball on the ground for Beharrell to pounce on and score. 10-0

Keighley forced a drop out and scored from the resulting pressure. Then as the half ended a kick and chase bobbled over the Parksiders’ line as Jude Ferreira tried to kick it dead and Oscar Thomas backed up to score. 10-8 at the break.

Hunslet started the second half well but knocked-on from a simple pass and this invited Keighley to gain momentum, the Cougars put the ball through umpteen pairs of hands from right to left eventually Ellis Robson scoring a fine try in the corner. 10-12

The Parksiders started giving away soft penalties and couldn’t complete a set of tackles, inviting Keighley to camp on the home line. But the defence held well and when Alfie Goddard was unlucky attempting an interception anyone could still win.

The game became end to end. A Ross Whitmore kick was charged down causing chaos and Jude Ferreira was penalised for playing the ball believing he was tackled adding surrealism to the game.

On 65 minutes after Keighley had been pressuring Hunslet’s line Ellis Robson popped up again on the last tackle as Keighley went blind and for once the home defence were caught napping. 10-16 It was now or never for

Hunslet, and after Cam Berry was held up on the 70th minute quick passing to the left threatened the Cougars line. But former Hunslet man Adam Ryder read the play, intercepted and went the length of the field to score.

Hunslet pressed on and Jack Render scored in the corner, but on the hooter the Cougars took the win 14-22.

If Keighley are a benchmark for the league then Coach Dean Muir will be pleased with his team’s efforts as at times Hunslet were the better team. They will want a reverse of this result when the Cougars visit Hunslet on Good Friday (29 March) in the league.

Hunslet bowed out of the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup losing to Championship side Batley Bulldogs on 18 February.

A battered and bruised Hunslet, following the Keighley game, could not match a strong Batley side. Although four tough games against teams from last year’s Championship should be good prep for the League 1 season proper when it starts on 16 March at Newcastle Thunder.

With injuries to Michael Knowles, Josh Jordan-Roberts and Jack Render to name but a few the Parksiders started off well when Alfie Goddard slammed Joe Burton into touch, but the former Hunslet man got revenge on 12 minutes when quick hands allowed the winger time to score in the corner. 0-4

Hunslet struggled to get out of their half in the first half and went in 0-14 at the break after White and Burton scored for the Bulldogs.

Manning and Senior extended Batley’s lead to 0-26 With only an hour gone it could have got ugly, but Hunslet were defending well. But repeat sets were their undoing.

On 61 minutes James Brown scored on the last tackle, then on 63 minutes Joe Burton completed a hat trick after the kick-off had been padded back only to find a retiring Batley forward.

Although Syme and Beharrell combined, the Batley line was never seriously threatened again and on the hooter Batley took the win 0-36.

Hunslet cannot be too disappointed they lost to a top Championship side, but they now have four weeks to nurse back some injured bodies before the League 1 season proper starts and the task of going for promotion begins.

Tim and his academy students

Matty Spence

Hunslet’s new squad starts to gel, but club exits two cups

Middleton soldier helps Kenyan children with football kit

Learning

On

by Ian Pickles

Hunslet

RLFC started February by beating a young Leeds Rhinos side to retain the Harry Jepson OBE Memorial Trophy, but lost to tougher opposition to drop out of the Challenge and 1895 Cups.

Hunslet held on against a young but spirited Leeds Rhinos side at South Leeds Stadium on 2 February.

Coach Dean Muir used the tie to utilise his full squad as well as some trialists, getting a look at the full squad.

Things started well for Hunslet when half-back Jack Mallinson found Jude Ferreira on only 4 minutes, the former Hull man too strong close to the line. 4-0

Leeds who scored next on 21 minutes as good passing sent Oliver Smart over in the corner.

4-4

With some confidence in the Rhinos’ veins they scored again on 25 minutes when Dylan Proud scooped up a dropped Hunslet pass to cover half the pitch to score. Kai Taylor-Smith adding the extras. 4-10

Hunslet did reduce the arrears on 29 minutes when Jordan Syme forced his way

over after Leeds conceded a penalty. Harry Williams conversion hit the post and Leeds led at the break 8-10.

On 46 minutes Hunslet took the lead when Jack Mallinson (who was impressive at halfback) orchestrated a move that ended in Keenan Dyer-Dixon diving over in the corner. 12-10

On 62 minutes Iwan Orr went close for Hunslet and quick passing out to the left saw Dyer-Dixon get his second of the evening (Mallinson converting) 18-10.

Both sides broke through tired defenders, but it was Leeds who scored next on 77 minutes when Kai Taylor-Smith gathered his own kick to score and convert the try. 18-16

Leeds could have won it at the death when a huge kick was left to bounce. The Rhinos gathered the ball but the final pass went to ground with the Hunslet line wide open.

At the ref’s whistle Hunslet got the win. Leeds put in their best performance in recent years and Hunslet got to test the depth of their squad.

Next Hunslet faced Keighley Cougars on 11 February in Round 3 of the BetFred Challenge Cup.

Continued on page 23

Local Lionesses

We’re

Well

Story

Children at a primary school in Kenya are kitted out for football thanks to local soldier Adam Blackburn from Middleton who recently served a 6 months tour in Kenya.

his days off out there he decided to give up his time and

taught the less privileged children at Nanyuki DEB Primary School in Laikipia County, how to play football.

while out there that the children had no kit, Adam reached out to his local football club Tingley Athletic FC where he coaches the U11 girls, to see if they would donate any

old kit.

Kelly Quarmby head of the girls football teams at Tingley took it upon herself to rally around and help Adam out.

delighted to report that all this kit has now made its way to children at Nanyuki DEB Primary School in Laikipia County, Kenya.

How amazing is it to see these kids enjoying Tingley old kits.

done to Adam, Kelly and all at Tingley Athletic Football Club for helping out children in need.

as told by Jennifer Blackburn, Acre Court, Middleton.

(below)

Nathan Carter goes close for Hunslet against Batley. Photo: Craig Irvine

Children at Nanyuki DEB Primary School in their Tingley Athletic shirts

by Ken Ingram