Your FREEcommunitynewspaper Issue 113 | November 2024
LISTED CHURCH TO BECOME ONLINE CLOTHING BUSINESS
Planning permission granted for Beeston Hill’s Holy Spirit church
by Jeremy Morton
Planning permission has been granted for the former Holy Spirit church on Tempest Road in Beeston Hill to become an online clothing business and café.
The application was discussed by the South & West Plans Panel on 3 October after objections were raised by local ward councillors.
The applicants plan to use the building for their online children’s clothing business and say 90% of purchases will be shipped, with 10% collected from the building, which will be by appointment only. They stress that deliveries and collections will be made by vans and not heavy goods vehicles.
Objections to their original application focused on parking and highways issues, loss of access to local heritage and the desire to retain the building for a community use.
In response, they have included a café and ‘hertiage hub’ which be open to the public four days a week. The business will not take deliveries on Fridays so as not to exacerbate the traffic issues around Friday Prayers at the next door mosque. They have
also improved plans to deal with litter and flytipping in the basement voids around the building.
The building, which is Grade II listed, closed as a church in 2012 and saw a number of community ‘meanwhile uses’ up until 2015 including collecting donated aid for shipment to Iraq, table tennis, meals, faith events and the first Christmas Lantern Festival.
Since then it has remained vacant and has recently been added to the Council’s Heritage At Risk list due to its deteriorating condition.
Commenting on the decision Cllr Ed Carlisle (Green, Hunslet & Riverside) said:
“Holy Spirit was a unique community venue for 100+ years, and – as I said at the Plans Panel – I’m gutted to see it pass out of local use.
“I strongly suspect the community and heritage elements of these proposals are add-ons simply to win planning permission, and the building will very soon become wholly commercial.
“This wasn’t inevitable: there
were credible local organisations, with cash, ready to take the building on. We could have done something brilliant there, that would have truly served the community.”
Councillors Paul Wray and Mohammed Iqbal (Labour, Hunslet & Riverside) added:
“We’re disappointed this application was approved in its current format. The site does
need to come back into use and the building preserved for the future, but we have opposed this specific plan since it was originally submitted several years ago.
“This is on the basis that the traffic generated by the complex business model proposed for the site is likely to create far more traffic movements and parking than
what the applicant has suggested.
“This will compound the existing issue in the area created by limited street parking.
“We have been consistent in this opposing, and we’re glad, towards the end, other stakeholders finally accepted these concerns and joined us in opposing the application.”
Holy Spirit church on Tempest Road in Beeston Hill
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.
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Royal Armouries seeks new landlord as Canal & River Trust float land sale
TheCanal & River Trust are selling their land holding at Leeds Dock, home to the Royal Armouries National Museum.
On the market for £11.69m, the freehold property is being sold subject to two 999-year ground leases, with the museum’s lease secured by a non-departmental government body, funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sports, for the next 971 years, providing an unprecedented level of secure income to the new landlord.
Covering 12.36-acres in the centre of Leeds, on the city’s South Bank, the site is split into two zones.
The purpose-built Royal Armouries Museum, which pays £591,500 in ground rent per annum for the site, forms zone one and is globally recognised as one of the most important museums in the world due to its collection of arms and armour that dates back to the 11th century.
Adjacent to the main building is a 1.41-acre outdoor events space, known as The Tiltyard.
Zone two encompasses a 1,500
space multi storey car park, a hotel, 350 high-end residential apartments, 94,000 sq ft of office space and New Dock Hall conference centre, which hosts many large-scale events each year, bringing significant footfall to the area.
David Winterbottom, Principal at Avison Young, who are marketing the sale said:
“Royal Armouries National Museum is a high profile, iconic building and it’s rare to be selling a development of such national importance that also benefits from leases of over 900 years on unexpired terms.
“We expect a lot of interest in the asset from a mix of traditional investors, together with some highnet-worth individuals who will be
attracted by the opportunity which is underpinned with long term income, vacant possession value and sub income from underleases.”
A spokesperson for the Canal & River Trust said:
“Our charity has put on the market the freehold which generates an annual rent that goes towards keeping our amazing but ageing canals open and navigable. If a sale goes ahead, the proceeds will be re-invested into alternative investment assets with the exactly the same intention of generating a long-term annual income to keep our canals alive.”
GMPF announces second letting at newly constructed Leeds Valley Park
GMPF
(Greater Manchester Pension Fund) is delighted to announce the second industrial letting has completed at the recently developed Leeds Valley Park.
Located on Savannah Way, Stourton, Leeds Valley Park is owned by GMPF who is advised by Catella APAM. Yorkshire-based Caddick has acted as both developer and contractor on the scheme, with Carter Towler, CBRE and Avison Young acting as joint agents.
Commenting on the letting, Carter Towler’s industrial agency associate director Hazel Cooper said:
“We are absolutely delighted that Leeds Valley Park is now 40% let. It is an excellent and much needed addition to the region’s mid-box warehouse and distribution property market. It has been constructed to a very high quality by Caddick and we are already having advanced conversations with interested parties on the remaining units and will hopefully be able to announce the third letting soon.”
Carter Towler has negotiated a 15-year lease deal with hardware distributor Decco for 47,000 sq ft of Unit 6. Decco are looking forward to expanding their operations in Leeds in their new premises. This deal follows hot on the heels of the recently completed letting of 70,000 sq ft at unit 2.
Rob Oliver of joint agents Avison
Young added:
“These six new units are in a fantastic position located just minutes from the M1’s junction 44 and junction 7 of the M621. The remaining units range in size from 25,746 to 60,950 sq ft and have been rated as BREEAM Very Good reflecting the energy and environmental considerations that have been taken into account.”
Cllr Gerald Cooney Chair of Greater Manchester Pension Fund
said
“This is part of GMPF’s long standing successful programme of investing in assets in Greater Manchester and the wider Northern LGPS region with the twin aims of delivering commercial returns to meet our pension liabilities whilst having a positive impact on the local regional economy. We are confident that several more businesses will be joining Decco here shortly and taking full advantage of these high
specification warehouse and manufacturing units.”
The six detached units have been highly specified by Caddick and benefit from 8-12m haunch heights, ground and dock level doors, secure private yards, 250-600 kva power supply and high quality, first floor, fully fitted offices. Sustainability features included in the construction of each property include air source heat pumps, PV panels, LED lighting and EV charging points.
Northern LGPS region is a partnership between the Greater Manchester, Merseyside and West Yorkshire Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) funds.
The land that is up for sale
Email: info@southleedslife.com
City’s inspirational women honoured on new Ribbons sculpture
by Rebecca Townesend
On 12 October 2024 a sculpture called ‘Ribbons’ was unveiled at Quarry Hill between Leeds Playhouse and Leeds City College.
This new public artwork by artist Pippa Hale celebrates 383 past and present Leeds women. In a series of curving corten steel ‘ribbons’ are listed the women’s names, all of whom were nominated for inclusion.
Seventeen of them are associated with south Leeds and 4 of them spoke to South Leeds Life.
Christine Smart, Community Development Manager for Cottingley Community Project (Centre), an advocate for autism support and Chair of South Leeds Life, told us “it was such an honour (to be nominated). It was great to meet other women whose names are on the ribbons at the launch and I love the sculpture.”
Lynn Bailey, founder of Better Action For Families, explained what a special day to remember it was. “I was so excited to be attending the Ribbons sculpture launch. I saw my name straight away and it was amazing. It was lovely to meet Pat and Christine who were also on the sculpture; we were all honoured to be representing South Leeds. Listening to the other inspirational women was wonderful. Some relatives had photos taken holding pictures near the names of loved ones who were no longer with us.”
Pat McGeever, CEO Health For All, based in Middleton, also expressed how honoured
she was to have been included.
“The unveiling event was on a very cold but sunny day with many women accompanied by their children and families - a lovely experience! I am proud to represent Health for All and the many women who have made such a positive difference to the communities in south Leeds.”
Lucy Moore, Associate Curator of Coins & Object Collections at the University of Leeds, also found the unveiling very moving. "The people nominated on the sculpture are from many walks of life, and it's a really beautiful thing to realise that you were nominated because other people love and believe in you.
The Friday before the Saturday
unveiling there was a prelaunch and there was a really moving speech from Sheila Howarth whose parents came to Leeds from Saint Kitts and Nevis as part of the Windrush generation. It was a real honour to be in the same room as her and really feel her pride and the gratitude to the sacrifices of her parents.”
The sculpture celebrates a diverse group of women. Pat told us to see “such a diverse range of backgrounds and ages and achievement (was) very inspiring”. Lucy was pleased “to see trans women included on the statue, such as Angela Morley a groundbreaking Hollywood composer”.
Pippa Hale has said the
sculpture “emerges from the ground…and my ambition ultimately would be for these ribbons to pop up all over the city so that more names are made visible and that more women’s stories are told.”
So hopefully in years to come even more south Leeds women can be celebrated in this public way.
The full list of women included can be found at www. ribbons-sculpture-leeds.co.uk /women and includes: band leader Ivy Benson; Edith Pechey, a pioneering female doctor; Carry Franklin, teacher at Clapgate Primary School and founder of Leeds Little Libraries; Al Garthwaite, women’s rights activist and former Lord Mayor.
Holbeck Together appeal for toy donations ahead of Christmas
Reloved
by Holbeck
Together, the charity shop based inside St Matthew’s Community Centre is gearing up for Christmas and is appealing to South Leeds Life readers to have a toy tidy out before the festive season.
The team at the shop say they often get donations after Christmas as people have time to switch toys around with new presents.
However, they also know that for many people trying to buy good quality, nice Christmas presents for their children and family can be a stretch at this
time of year.
So, if you’ve been meaning to clear out that toy cupboard or any other items before Christmas you can pop your donations down to St Matthews Community Centre, Domestic Street, Holbeck over the coming weeks.
The shop is open every Monday between 12-2pm, Wednesday between 12-2pm and 10-2pm every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
You can drop your donations at any time during the week to St Matthew’s Community Centre.
Business Improvement District expands south of the river
Leeds
Business Improvement District (LeedsBID) has announced its Business Plan for 2025-2030 with ambitious plans for the next five years and extending its area into Holbeck and Hunslet.
Established in 2015, the notfor-profit, non-political organisation works to improve Leeds city centre for all. It is the largest multi-sector BID outside London, investing £14m into the city centre from 20202025.
A major component of the plan, in recognition of the city’s growth, is a proposed extension to the BID boundary, ensuring it covers key areas from the ring road in the north to Crown
Point Road in the south, and from Wellington Street and Holbeck in the west to Quarry Hill and Leeds Dock in the east.
This expansion will see LeedsBID represent 790 businesses in its third term, and incorporate major new developments around the river, including the Royal Armouries and Aire Park – the largest new city centre green space in the UK.
It aims to capitalise on the city’s riverfront assets, acting as a catalyst for new initiatives which maximise opportunities for the riverside.
Nat Edwards, Director General and Master of the Royal Armouries in Leeds, expressed his support for the
BID’s vision for the river. “The Royal Armouries is excited to be part of this transformative vision for Leeds.
“The proposed Park and Glide service is a brilliant example of how we can enhance connectivity and visitor experience, linking our historic site with the vibrant city centre.”
LeedsBID’s annual £2.5m budget generates significant value, with every £1 spent by the BID delivering an additional 20p in value to the city.
Its popular street animation projects alone, such as this summer’s interactive Monopoly Leeds Takeover, and the Leodis Space Agency and Leeds Jurassic Trails have driven over
1.3 million visitors, generating nearly £8m in economic activity.
LeedsBID also hosts the annual Leeds International Festival of Ideas attracting world-leading speakers, thought leaders and innovators to the city, and has delivered iconic art for the city too, such as Athena Rising, which hit the headlines as the UK’s tallest mural.
Andrew Cooper, Chief Executive of LeedsBID said:
“We are excited to present our next chapter, which builds on the success of the past ten years and focuses on making Leeds an even more welcoming, inspirational, and ambitious city.”
Time for a toy cupboard clearout? Photo: Shutterstock
Christine Smart, Lynn Bailey and Pat McGeever at the sculpture unveiling
On the beat
with Insp Mark Lund
Firework safety
Greetings, as the summer closes and darker nights close in I just wish to update you all on the recent events in South Leeds.
The summer has seen significant events not only in this country but internationally which have had a profound affect on members of our communities.
Times like this do bring out the best in people and I have seen the community grow closer. The events around the country were not replicated within South Leeds and that is testament to the people who live and work here.
We are now fast approaching the Halloween and bonfire period which again brings its own concerns and issues. Anti-
social behaviour will increase and I encourage the continued reporting, in particular, firework related incidents.
Many will love the spectacle of fireworks, but equally they can be dangerous and distressing for many in our community. Please consider your neighbours and your own safety.
Never allow young • children to handle fireworks.
Older children should use
• them only under close adult supervision.
Never use fireworks while • impaired by drugs or alcohol.
Anyone using fireworks or • standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.
Never hold lighted • fireworks in your hands.
Only use fireworks away
• from people, houses, and flammable material.
Beeston-based Vera Media takes adult learners to Abbey Road
Adultlearners from South Leeds took part in a oncein-a-lifetime recording session at London’s famous Abbey Road Studios as part a course called People in Production.
Light fireworks at arm’s
• length using a taper and stand well back.
Never throw fireworks or • put them in your pockets or clothing.
Light sparklers one at a
• time wearing gloves and place used sparklers in a bucket of water.
Keep a bucket of water, • hose, or fire extinguisher nearby.
Choose a clear, open
• space away from buildings and trees to ignite fireworks.
Funded by Leeds City Council through West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s adult education budget, and provided by Beeston-based Vera Media, a community learning organisation, the music production course supports vulnerable people to develop their confidence and skills which could lead to work. Some of the course participants live with mental health struggles or are in recovery from substance misuse or alcohol misuse.
Ensure spectators adhere
• to safety distance guidelines. Please report firework related incidents and any other anti-social behaviour via 101, www.westyorkshire.police.uk/ livechat or in an emergency 999
One adult learner taking part in the course is Michelle, who is in recovery from addiction and has bipolar disorder. She commented:
“The People in Production
course and the support and encouragement I’ve received from Vera Media has been a real game changer. The trip to Abbey Road was the cherry on top of what has already been an incredible experience and something we’ll remember forever.”
The adult learners helped to record an original track written by Leeds-based song writer,
Purple Patch Arts celebrates 15 years of inclusive learning
PurplePatch Arts, a celebrated charity based in Beeston, is marking its 15th anniversary of empowering learning-disabled adults and young people through innovative learning experiences.
To celebrate this milestone, they hosted a free event showcasing their successful methodology, The Purple Patch Approach.
“It makes you happier when you’re learning at Purple Patch,” says a participant in the charity’s Lifelong Learning Programme, highlighting the programme’s positive impact.
The Purple Patch Approach utilises creative activities like drama, dance, music, literature, and visual arts to make learning accessible, engaging, and joyful for their participants.
Each year, the charity supports over 200 learning-disabled people across Yorkshire, fostering their growth and development within a welcoming community.
Recent research by Dr. Melissa Kirby, conducted in collaboration with Purple Patch Arts’ participants, provides evidence of the approach’s effectiveness.
“The Purple Patch Approach facilitates a range of positive outcomes for participants, including inclusive learning experiences, new social connections, personal growth, opportunities for advocacy and enhanced wellbeing.” – Dr. Melissa Kirby
Believing that creative and inclusive learning should be available to everyone, Purple Patch Arts hosted a free event to share The Purple Patch Approach with people who currently work with learningdisabled adults and those who would like to in the future.
Attendees gained practical skills, boosted their confidence in creating inclusive environments, and learned
how to inspire and engage learning-disabled people.
Fran Rodgers, CEO of Purple Patch Arts commented:
“Over the past 15 years, we’ve witnessed firsthand the inequities faced by learningdisabled people. Our mission at Purple Patch Arts is to create a world where everyone can thrive through access to creative learning environments.
“By sharing our innovative Purple Patch Approach, we aim to empower others to make a positive impact on the lives of those they work with.”
To learn more about Purple Patch Arts and their work, visit their website at purplepatcharts.org/about-us
Nicky Bray, in Studio 2 at Abbey Road Studios, made famous by musicians such as The Beatles, Oasis and Adele. They were accompanied by expert music producers and lecturers from Leeds Beckett University, Dr Paul Thompson and Barkley McKay, a band of professional musicians and She Sings, a Wakefield-based community choir.
Adult learner Michelle at Abbey Road Studios
Website: www.southleedslife.com
Email: info@southleedslife.com
New Priest in Charge
St Cross Church, Middleton, have recently celebrated the licensing of the Rev Olasupo Ogunyinka as their Interim Priest in Charge. he service for Rev Supo took place on Tuesday, September 24, and was conducted by the Ven Paul Ayers, Archdeacon of Leeds. During the service Rev Supo was commended by members of the congregation from his previous parish: St Mary’s Church, Beeston and St Andrew’s Church, Bruntcliffe. He was warmly welcomed by the Area Dean, church leaders from St Cross and members of the local community.
Care closer to home as NHS Community Diagnostic Centre officially opened
Hilary Benn, MP for Leeds South, has officially opened the NHS Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC) –Beeston, bringing a range of health services closer to people in the community.
The CDC, operated by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, offers ultrasound, a range of cardio-respiratory services including ambulatory blood pressure tests, ECG, and sleep studies, and blood tests (phlebotomy).
GPs and hospital care teams will refer people for a required diagnostic test, at which point they will be able to select the most convenient location for them – which may be the CDC. The CDC provides an additional choice for patients and doesn’t replace any other options such as at a GP practice or major hospital.
The benefits of CDCs include bringing easier access to diagnostic services, reducing waiting times and relieving pressure on major hospital sites. If needed, they also help provide patients with the option to access multiple tests on the same day, in the same place. It’s about having the right service available and truly accessible at the right time and in a place proportionate to patient need.
Hilary Benn MP said:
“This is a great new service for the people of South Leeds which will make it easier for people to get the tests they need closer to home.
“I was really impressed by the commitment and dedication of the staff and I wish them all the best for the future.”
Professor Phil Wood, Chief Executive at Leeds Teaching Hospitals, said:
“I’m really pleased that Beeston CDC has received its official opening. It’s a brilliant facility that brings care closer to home for patients in the
area. Inclusion and fairer access to healthcare services is a key aim and our CDCs play a key role in this.
“Well done to colleagues across the Trust who have put so much effort in to get these up and running. This facility is here for the community to use, if one of the tests we offer is needed and the location is suitable for you, please ask your GP to refer you to Beeston CDC.
“Many thanks to Mr Benn MP for performing the official opening. He has long been a supporter of our work and healthcare in Leeds and staff
Contribute your stories to the People’s History of Leeds
LeedsOlder People’s Forum (LOPF) has been awarded a grant of £103,817 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to help save and secure the heritage of Leeds for the future.
The People’s History of Leeds (PHOL) will tell the story of the city through the voices of its citizens who have lived through it. The project will use the collection of Leeds Museums & Galleries as a conversation starter and will gather and share the stories of older and younger people in the city.
Building on the success of Shine Magazine, which has been gathering older people’s stories since 2020, LOPF is now able to start a new heritage project.
The PHOL uses new ways of working to identify, capture and share at-risk oral heritage with a more diverse audiencepreserving these unique voices and life stories for future generations.
The project will connect with older people from the diverse communities of Leeds to:
Preserve stories that • capture and illustrate the rich tapestry of people’s lives
Support older people to • feel connected, be heard and feel part of something big
Enable older writers to • develop their skills and help shape the project.
The project will be coordinated by Mojo Creative, where Tom Bailey and Rob Pritchard have the skills and creativity to bring the project to life, as they did with Shine Magazine in partnership with LOPF.
Mojo Creative will recruit and train a team of older citizens to collect stories and experiences
were so pleased to talk through what we do and how proud we are of the centre.”
Beeston CDC is in James Reed House on Town Street, Beeston. The other CDCs in Leeds are located within Armley Moor Health Centre and at Seacroft Hospital. The full list of services provided at Beeston CDC is: Radiology (Imaging) – • Ultrasound Cardio-Respiratory – • Ambulatory BP, ECG, Holter, Sleep Studies, Spirometry, FeNo Phlebotomy – (Blood • Tests)
from people in diverse Leeds communities. These older volunteer writers will also work with young volunteers from Leeds Museums. Together, they will adopt a ‘citizen journalist’ approach, seeking out and collecting previously untold tales within our communities and uncovering some of the remarkable voices of Leeds.
The project will visit older people’s support groups, care homes, shopping centres, libraries and community settings across the city to showcase objects from Leeds Museums in order to inspire heritage conversations. These conversations will be captured and recorded to be shared widely amongst the people of Leeds. There will be a range of pop-up exhibitions of stories that will travel all over the city, from busy high streets to community events, where the public will be invited to contribute their own stories.
The project will culminate in the production of two free booklets of stories that will be distributed across the city to share the heritage stories with all sections of the Leeds community.
Linda Glew from Leeds Older People’s Forum said:
“We are thrilled to have received this support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, the voices of the people of Leeds will be captured in story form and shared across the city. It is a really exciting project!
To get involved by becoming a citizen journalist or if you have a story to share, contact the project co-ordinator, Tom Bailey via email at tom@mojofilm.co.uk
Everyone has a story to tell
Hilary Benn MP, Prof Phil Wood (second right), Chief Executive of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and Community Diagnostic Centre colleagues
Train scan gives inside track on museum model’s secrets
High-tech 3D scans have revealed the intricate inner workings of the world’s oldest model locomotive for the first time in more than 200 years.
Leeds Industrial Museum’s incredible miniature recreation of a pioneering early steam locomotive recently underwent a detailed CT X-Ray survey using sophisticated equipment at the University of Leeds.
The model is of Murray’s ‘Salamanca’, which hauled coal at Middleton Railway, the first railway in the world to have commercially successful steam locomotives, in June 1812
The resulting images show how the precious model, made for the famed engineer Matthew Murray in 1811, replicated the revolutionary mechanics of its full-sized counterparts and in turn helped power a worldwide boom in the railway industry.
It is hoped the images can now illustrate to museum visitors how the model worked and exactly why it was so important to the evolution of early railways across the globe.
John McGoldrick, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of industrial history, said:
“This tiny model played a huge part in the development of the early rail industry, allowing Murray to showcase his brilliance to investors and giving him the opportunity to bring his trailblazing designs to life.
“Thanks to these remarkable scans, we can now explore for the first time since 1811 how the model worked, and the extraordinary ingenuity and intricacy which went into its
creation.
“Short of cutting open the model, which we wouldn’t ever do, we’d never have got to see its inner workings in quite this way. Now, not only are we examining a piece of engineering history, we’re also getting a unique and unprecedented insight into the mind of one of the world’s great inventors.”
Full-sized Murray designs, such as the famous Salamanca, became the very first commercially viable steam locomotives, and were built around the same time as the model.
At least two other models of the same type were made, with one being gifted by Murray to Grand Duke Nicholas of Russia when he visited Leeds in 1816.
Murray would have used the fully working miniature replicas to woo potential investors and colliery owners, as well as impressing his fellow designers and contemporaries.
His efforts proved successful, with each engine selling for £350, galvanising Murray to create further locomotives which later inspired the great George Stephenson’s designs.
Those locomotives also revolutionised the transportation of coal in Leeds, enabling a small and relatively lightweight engine to haul more than 20 times its own weight, powered by steam from a cast iron boiler with a single flue.
Leeds Museums and Galleries teamed up with Dr Michael Bailey, an early railway historian and archaeologist of early locomotive technology, Dr Alice Macente from the University of Leeds School of
Civil Engineering and Dr Sam Allshorn from the School of Earth and Environment.
The scans were carried out at Wolfson Multiphase Flow Laboratory in the School of Earth and Environment at the University of Leeds.
Dr Bailey will now be producing a detailed historical account of the model together with an assessment of its design and components.
Funding for the project came through the Leeds Cultural Institute’s Collections Research Fund, a collaboration between academics at the University of Leeds and Leeds Museums and Galleries.
The full findings of the scanning and research will be featured in a future exhibit about the model.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said:
“The status Leeds has as a centre for engineering excellence over the centuries is incredible, and this extraordinary model really encapsulates that spirit invention and ingenuity.
“It’s also inspiring to see partners and organisations in modern-day Leeds working together to uncover more about the city’s story and using the latest technology to add new dimensions to what we know about the past.”
Leeds Industrial Museum is home to models and machinery paying tribute to the city’s industrial heritage as well as its many inventors and engineers.
Matthew Murray’s model on the scanner
Hunslet-built ‘Hawarden’ comes home to Middleton Railway
by Jeremy Morton
The Lord Mayors of Leeds and Bradford were on hand at Middleton Railway on Saturday 26 October for the formal handing over of Leedsbuilt locomotive ‘Hawarden’.
As we previously reported when the locomotive arrived in January this year, Hawarden was built in 1899 by Hudswell Clarke & Co in Hunslet and spent its working life in Stalybridge. The Lord Mayor of Tameside was due to attend the ceremony, but was unable to due to ill health.
In 1964 John Summers, the owner of Globe Iron Works, saved the engine from the scrapyard and gifted it to National Trust’s railway collection at Penryn Castle. Whilst their it was repaired and preserved by the Bahamas Locomotive Society (named after a loco, not the islands). Ceri Williams, General Manager at Penryn Castle, explained that: “Because these locomotives
didn’t tell part of Penryn’s history, we should be rehoming
New 100% recyclable rail seat using springs made in Beeston
The UK’s most comfortable rail seat system ever tested – the new, British-made, 100% recyclable EcoSeat™ – has been unveiled at a demonstration launch event at the University of Huddersfield’s train simulator, with rail industry experts in attendance.
The new commuter rail seat has been designed and developed by Beeston-based spring manufacturer and components supplier to the mattress and furniture industry, Spinks, and its commercial project partner, rail seat manufacturer Quantum Seating.
The revolutionary seating system has been independently tested and found to exceed traditional rail
seat comfort standards (RSSB GMGN2696), setting new standards in comfort, recyclability, durability and flammability*.
Unveiled within the university’s Train Hi-Fidelity Motion Simulator (THOMoS) which creates a realistic passenger experience, industry professionals experienced firsthand the innovative rail seat system, that provides superior comfort without polyurethane foam – which cannot be easily recycled.
This innovative, built-to-last technology is cost-saving and sustainable, meeting rail safety standards without the need for flame retardant chemicals or fire barriers – a huge step for the industry – and offering a
longer life span than polyurethane and graphite foam seating.
The UK-first seat has been created using 100% Britishmade components, including Spinks’ patented glue-free pocket springs, more typically seen in the luxury mattresses produced by its sister company, Harrison Spinks.
Darren Marcangelo, Managing Director at Spinks, said:
“This marks a significant step forward in the future of rail travel, not just in comfort but in environmental responsibility in terms of both the recyclable materials used and the longevity and durability of this seating.
“By eliminating the use of polyurethane foam and relying on our unique patented gluefree pocket spring systems, we are introducing a solution that meets the highest safety standards while being 100% recyclable, exceeding all current levels of comfort.
“At Spinks we are committed to pushing the boundaries of British-made technology, and after securing the funding from the Department for Transport to be a part of this groundbreaking project, we are excited about the positive impact this will have on the rail industry in the UK – and potentially around the world.”
them and giving them to organisations who can then care for them and help tell their story in a much more connective way to their locality. She just looks as if she’s always been here which is amazing.”
Hon Ald Keith Whitmore, Chair of the Bahamas Locomotive Society, added:
“Our intention was always to make sure these locomotives had a secure future, which is why we wanted to work with the National Trust to find appropriate homes for them.
This is a very appropriate home for this locomotive. Our intention is that we have the custodianship of these locomotives for three years, I can announce that we will be gifting Hawarden to Middleton Railway after that period on loan.”
Charles Milner, chair of Middleton Railway Trust set the addition of Hawarden to the museum in context, saying:
“This will help us tell the story of Leeds locomotive building industry. Physical items that grandparents saw working, touched and were part of. Hawarden is a fine
example of Victorian industrial railway locomotives and with others in our collections shows the evolution of designs taking account of technical innovation and social change.”
Leeds built more locomotives than any other city in England with manufacturers clustered in Hunslet. This was in part due to Matthew Murray and John Blenkinsop’s pioneering work in deveopling the first steam engines to operate on the Middleton railway.
The Middleton Railway was built in 1758 and is the first railway authorised by an Act of Parliament; the first to have commercially successful steam locomotives, in June 1812; and also the first standard gauge preserved railway, opening in June 1960. It has operated trains every year since opening in 1758.
Hawarden can be viewed as part of the Middleton Railway’s museum. Entry to the museum is free. The railway will be closed in November as they prepare for the Santa Specials running throughout December. For full details go to: middletonrailway.org.uk
Darren Marcangelo, Managing Director at Spinks and John Pick, Project Manager Seating at Spinks testing the Eco-seat
Ceri Williams (National Trust), Hon Ald Keith Whitmore (Bahamas Locomotive Society) and local councillors joined the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Abigail Marshall Katung and the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Cllr Beverely Mullaney at Middleton Railway
Money matters with Leeds Credit Union
It's never too early to start saving for next Christmas
AlthoughChristmas is traditionally a time of joy, celebration and giving, the financial strain that often comes with it can easily dampen the spirit of the season and, in the most severe cases, can even result in people overspending and plunging themselves into debt.
So how can people start saving for Xmas 2025 in advance to take the stress out of the season? Greg Potter, Head of Member Experience at Leeds Credit Union, explains.
Any reputable credit union understands the importance of making their members' festive celebrations stress-free and enjoyable, which is why many offer Christmas-specific savings accounts that enable people to start saving for Christmas months in advance.
Early Planning, Lasting Joy
The earlier you start saving for Christmas, the more you can spread out your financial commitments and, by opening a Christmas account now, you’ll have ample time to build up your savings for Xmas 2025. This ensures that when the holiday season arrives, you can focus on creating magical moments with your loved ones without worrying about the financial strain.
Avoiding the Debt Trap
One of the pitfalls many people encounter during the festive season is accumulating debt. By saving in advance, you can break free from the cycle of credit card debt and highinterest loans.
Bespoke Christmas savings accounts provide you with a disciplined approach to saving, helping you avoid unnecessary financial stress in the run-up to – and aftermath of – the holidays.
Flexible Saving Options
Life is unpredictable and people's circumstances can change unexpectedly, which is why Christmas savings accounts offer flexible saving options, allowing you to contribute according to your financial capacity.
Whether you choose to deposit a fixed amount regularly or make occasional lump-sum contributions, these accounts are designed to accommodate your unique needs.
Community-Centric Approach
By saving with a credit union, you’re not just opening an account, you’re becoming part of a community, with the majority of Christmas savings accounts being built on the
Frustration as Hunslet war memorial stays behind bars
Councillors and residents have reacted with anger and frustration at the lack of progress to move the war memorial stone and cross from the base of the fenced-off Hunslet Spire to the land next to it owned by the Council.
This would then allow proper public access to remember the community's honoured dead.
Cllr Paul Wray and Cllr Mohammed Iqbal (Labour, Hunslet and Riverside) have shared their frustration with the lack of progress.
Cllr Paul Wray said:
“When it was clear the spire base would not become accessible, Mohammed and I pledged funding to allow the stones to be moved to a public location.
“It was agreed the green space, which was formally a burial area next to the spire, would be an agreeable location.
“Funding has since been provided, and internal Council processes followed to gain consent to use the land. This has now been granted. The Diocese had originally provided consent, and the hope was to move the stone before Remembrance Day 2024.
principles of community support and financial inclusion, so your savings contribute to a shared pool that benefits all members, fostering a sense of unity and mutual support.
Limited Access to Your Funds
Trust us, that’s a good thing!
Because these savings accounts are specifically designed for the festive period, you can typically only withdraw funds from November onwards, meaning there’s no chance of your hard-earned Christmas budget getting accidentally spent in the middle of summer!
Then, between November and 24 December, you can make unlimited withdrawals, allowing you to buy that perfect gift or cover an unforeseen Christmas expense, stress-free.
Holidays are (already) coming!
Next Christmas, why not give yourself the gift of financial peace of mind?
By starting to save for Christmas 2025 as early as possible, you can unwrap a holiday season filled with joy, laughter and cherished memories.
Leeds Credit Union provides straightforward and affordable financial services to people in Leeds.
increases with further delays.
Kenny Saunders, Chair of the Hunslet Carr Residents Association, said:
“Only now have we found out, after several attempts to gain an update, that the Diocese has now withdrawn its permission, and this has now been handed to the local PCC to decide on.
“No update was provided to the council or residents, and several months on, we're still in limbo. What is going on?”
Councillors say they are calling on the PCC to decide on what it wants quickly as the cost of moving process only
“Since St Mary's closed in 2015 and was subsequently demolished, the Hunslet Carr Residents Association (HCRA) has campaigned tirelessly to have the memorial stones moved to an accessible location within Hunslet.
“The Diocese has, in our view, been very unsupportive and at times has given conflicting misinformation.
“We have exhausted every avenue open to us currently.
We feel the Diocese is failing to support the parish and community.
“The 409 men who gave their lives in two world wars deserve to be respectfully remembered.”
Cllr Ed Carlisle (Green, Hunslet & Riverside) added:
"The St Mary's spire, and the WW1 memorial stones, are such important icons for Hunslet. Thanks and credit to those who've battled to put them in the spotlight, and are now looking to create this new memorial garden, and also develop a positive long-term future for the spire and the land around it. These things take time, it's frustrating, but I trust that together, we can and will get there. Hunslet deserves nothing less."
Photo: Shutterstock
St Mary’s spire. Photo: Google
Holbeck Moor JFC install defibrillator to help the community
by Russ Mellor
Asa football club we’re always looking at ways to support the community and help others.
Working together with The Holbeck – Holbeck WMC and for the local community we have recently had this potentially life saving defibrillator installed on the outside of the club, so should it be needed, it’s there.
The code to the lock has been registered with the www.thecircuit.uk/defibrillator s so the emergency services
have access to the code.
Hopefully no one needs to use it, but it’s there should the club or anyone from the community need to use it.
Helping someone in cardiac arrest, whilst you wait for the ambulance to arrive, can save their life.
Using a Public Access Defibrillator is very straightforward, they have audio instructions and will not let you cause harm to the patient. To access the defibrillator call 999 and they will tell you the access code to unlock the cabinet.
Ashes to ashes
As we reported in February, 48 Ash trees that are showing advanced signs of Ash dieback disease or have other structural defects that pose a risk to public safetyare being felled in Cross Flatts Park. This is one of several piles of logs around the park and in the backgrough is the ever growing heap of branch chippings. The Council is committed to replacing the removed trees with new planting in the
New flexible workspaces to rent in Holbeck
Jamyang Buddhist Centre in Holbeck has seen some changes recently including the appointment of new Centre Manager Sarah Metcalfe. Sarah has stepped up from her previous role with Jamyang as a long serving volunteer and a member of the board of trustees.
The centre has also redecorated two rooms to let
out as workspace on flexible daily or monthly terms.
One space can be iused as a traditional office space, or as a meeting or conference venue, whilst the second has been decorated for use as a therapy room.
This would be appropriate as a counselling space or for physical therapies such as Reiki or Reflexology.
These spaces compliment the existing Happy Yak cafe, which serves vegetarian and vegan breakfast, lunch and snacks; and the charity shop. Both of which are open to the public.
To find out more about renting these spaces please call 0113 345 2626 or email: centremanager@jamyangleed s.co.uk
The defibrillator is on the wall of The Holbeck club
future. Photo: Jeremy Morton
The new therapy room at Jamyang Buddhist Centre
Hunslet bus delay hotspot to be resolved
Funding has been allocated to resolve a ‘bus hotspot’ on South Accommodation Road in Hunslet according to a report published by Leeds City Council last month.
An analysis of bus movements shows that during the morning peak of 7-10am buses can take up to 20 minutes to travel 500m, compared with 1-4 minutes at other times of day.
The proposed solution is a bus lane
The report says: “LCC will provide traffic modelling outputs to demonstrate the impact of the scheme not only on public transport but also general traffic, and gain approval for the most appropriate option.”
Two other hotspots in other parts of the city can be resolved by adjusting traffic lights, but the report says:
“The South Accommodation Road scheme will require extensive consultation, and depending on the preferred
option, may require Civils. As detailed above, the intention is to use Traffic Modelling to help identify the most appropriate option identifying the greatest bus benefits while minimising inconvenience to other modes.”
The scheme will be developed in this financial year with works expected to take place in 2025/26.
The funding will come from the Bus Highway Hotspot Improvement Programme (BHHIP) a West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) programme to deliver bus priority improvements across the region.
It aims to improve journey time reliability and reduce bus delays. This will make bus travel more attractive by improving connectivity and accessibility to employment, education and training, particularly for those with limited access to cars.
You can read the full report at bit.ly/SthAccomRd
Mural is child’s play
on travel issues
LeedsCity Council wants to hear from people who live and work in South Leeds about transport and safety issues in the local area.
This could be about how you access public transport facilities, whether you feel unsafe walking, wheeling or cycling, the attractiveness of a street, or where traffic and speeding are causing issues.
The consultation is running online at leedsstreetsforallis .commonplace.is Comments are being groups into five themes, or ’tiles’:
Vehicles and parking 1
Walking and wheeling (including 2 accessibility, prams, wheelchairs and scooters)
Cycling 3
Accessing bus stops and rail 4 stations
The street environment 5
Dropping pin on the map of the area to mark where a problem you want to comment is located opens options for you highlight the issue you want to raise. This could be anything from a lack of dropped kerbs to speeding traffic, or rat runs.
Funding for travel improvements from central government often comes with a short bidding timescale. Leeds plans to get ahead of the game by preparing a list of schemes that fit the Leeds Transport Strategy so that funding can be applied for as it becomes available. The Council wants residents to help prioritise the list of possible improvements.
The consultation is being rolled out across the city area by area. The consultation for Beeston & Holbeck, Hunslet and Riverside and Middleton Park wards runs until Sunday 24 November.
The city’s first ever Festival of Play and Creativity was getting underway as we went to press, promising a celebration of the magic of play with events across the city. Ahead of the week-long festival, Cllr Ed Carlisle (Green, Hunslet & Riverside) worked with over 50 children from Greenmount Primary School (pictured), St francis of Asissi Catholic Primary School and Kidz Klub Leeds to create this temporary chalk mural in Beeston Hill.
Middleton Primary sports report Big smiles at Cockburn School
In their first sporting tournament of the academic year, Year 6 pupils from Middleton Primary School took part in a Dodgeball event. A mixed boys and girls team took the trip to Cockburn John Charles Academy. They competed against other local schools and played three dodgeball matches. The children showed great team work skills to dodge, duck and dive to ensure they won every game.
Headteacher, Miss Tissiman said “I am very proud that the children shook hands and showed great sportsmanship throughout the tournament.”
What's New This School Year?
The school has introduced an active theme into their afterschool club provision this academic year, therefore the children have access to a range of different clubs.
Studentsfrom Years 7 to 10 at Cockburn School had special assemblies led by dental staff from the Smmmile Store Leeds.
Important issues covered in the session were:
What is oral hygiene and • why is it important?
What toothbrush to use.
• What your oral hygiene • routine should be.
How to reduce your risk of • gum problems and decay.
Energy drinks and their • effect on your oral health.
Vaping and its effect on • your oral health.
disease and decay.
- The areas between the teeth can be cleaned using dental floss or interdental brushes, at least once every day. Single tufted toothbrushes are useful to help clean hard to reach areas such as around braces and wisdom teeth.
- Any time you eat or drink something that isn’t water, it changes the environment in your mouth making it easier for the bacteria to damage the teeth. This is called an acid attack.
They offer everything from football to active games, skipping, running, dance, active maths and many, many more.
The children have also enjoyed engaging in sport at lunch time since the introduction of a new timetable. The children in Key Stage 2 have structured
football, dodgeball, cricket, indoor sport, basketball and dance to access throughout lunch-time.
They have noticed a huge increase in activity levels. They are also thrilled to announce a partnership with Hunslet Rugby
Foundation, Coach James delivers fantastic PE lessons in school and also supports with lunch time provision. As part of our partnership, they also have a range of competitions to attend throughout the academic year.
Students inspired by United players at Black History Month event
Fivestudents from Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy, all participating in the LUFC Inspires Programme, recently had the unique opportunity to attend a special Black History
Month event at Elland Road, hosted by the Leeds United Foundation.
This event celebrated the contributions of individuals in sports and beyond, providing a
platform for powerful stories of resilience and achievement.
The highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring former Leeds United captain Lucas Radebe and
current player Largie Ramazani. Both footballers shared their personal journeys, illustrating the challenges they faced and the determination that led to their successes.
Following the panel discussion, the students participated in a special Q&A session. This interactive segment allowed the students to engage directly with the footballers, asking questions about their careers and the lessons they learned along the way.
The opportunity to connect with role models in the sports world left a lasting impression on the students, motivating them to pursue their own aspirations with vigour.
One of the most memorable moments for the students was getting their photographs taken with Largie Ramazani, capturing a snapshot of inspiration and encouragement.
The event not only celebrated black history but also reinforced the values of perseverance and community support within the LUFC Inspires Programme.
In the UK, Black History Month happens every October. It gives everyone the opportunity to share, celebrate and understand the impact of black heritage and culture.
Here are a few highlights from the presentation:
- Oral hygiene is important not only to reduce risk of decay and gum disease, but to ensure the health of your whole body. Poor oral hygiene can lead to other issues with your general health, such as Alzheimer's, heart disease, diabetes and more.
- The evidence shows that electric toothbrushing is more effective than manual toothbrushing and therefore reduces your risk of gum
- Many energy drinks are high in sugar, they are also often fizzy. Fizzy drinks are very acidic and even if they are sugar free, they can still damage your teeth.
- Vaping can increase you risk of dental problems such as gum disease and decay.
The session ended with the opportunity for students to have a free dental screening which involved having pictures taken of their teeth.
With Halloween around the corner, plenty of care and brushing will be a very good idea!
Middleton Primary pupils love sports
Bisade is runner up in Children’s Mayor election Hunslet school moves up the Ofsted ratings
On Thursday 3 October 2024, Bisade Adeyeye, aged 10, from St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School in Beeston came second as the new Children’s Mayor of Leeds was announced by the Lord Mayor Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung at a special event at Leeds Civic Hall.
Bisade spent much of the summer campaigning in an election that saw 6,204 local children and young people cast their vote in support of twelve candidates from across Leeds.
Campaigning on a manifesto about tackling littering, Bisade is passionate about ensuring she still works hard to tackle the issue and has suggested three areas that she would like to work hard on, along with her school:
Recycle – have bins for different materials (paper, plastic, cardboard, etc). Educate staff and students on recycling. Making recycling more fun instead of boring; giving “Eco-Friendly talks” to the pupils and workers on how recycling can affect mother nature, animals, the planet, and us.
Picking some garbage up through community efforts.
such as: Getting all of the school to think about the environment. we should feel encouraged to contribute to our school recycling efforts. we should set up school recycling composting scheme; use more recycling bins – for particular materials – and ensure staff are trained and involved to help teach children about the side effects of litter And most importantly do not litter- people should be encouraged to recycle through different advertising campaigns. Having each pupil from each class design a poster/leaflet to encourage recycling in the school. The purpose of the poster is to acknowledge how household and school waste and how it should be disposed properly in a friendly,
encouraging, and understanding matter.
Bisade describes her experience of being chosen to be 1 of 12 children with the opportunity of becoming Leeds Children’s Mayor:
“It felt extravagant to be in the final 12 and I felt really special. I was super proud of myself and being given the opportunity. The event was very fancy and we met many different councillors, many of whom were friends of our local councillor Ed Carlisle. I plan now to make my own news report to be able to continue to combat littering.”
All staff at St Francis of Asssisi Primary School are super proud of Bisade for her passion and drive to help create change in the community.
StMary’s C of E Primary Academy in Hunslet is celebrating after their most recent Ofsted inspection graded them as improved in all areas, with three areas now judged as ‘Good’.
The school, which joined the Collaborative Learning Trust in 2020, was one of the first schools in the country to be inspected under the new Ofsted inspection regime introduced this September.
The inspection report recognises and celebrates the impressive improvement journey since the school was judged inadequate in December 2018. It specifically praises the
significant school support provided by the Collaborative Learning Trust School Improvement Team, together with the Diocese.
Inspectors were complimentary about the wider education provision at St Mary’s.
The report states:
“Pupils benefit from a comprehensive and ageappropriate personal development programme. They are taught how to keep themselves safe, including online. They learn about important issues such as relationships and equality and diversity. The school promotes pupils’ physical and mental
health through sport and outdoor activities. The school prepares pupils well for life in modern Britain.”
The report also highlighted how the school really does live out its vision, ‘Let your light shine’:
‘The school is welcoming and inclusive to all. It has a genuine spirit of community.’
‘The school has high aspirations for what pupils can achieve.’
‘Pupils show kindness and respect to each other. They form positive relationships with staff and feel safe.’
Inspectors also recognised the improvements the school had
Sports games leaders Academy students lean how to Restart a Heart
In a significant effort to promote cardiac safety and awareness, Cockburn John Charles Academy hosted its annual Restart a Heart event last month, engaging all Year 8 students in essential life-saving training.
The initiative is aimed at equipping young people with vital skills in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and saw students actively participating in hands-on workshops throughout the day.
The Restart a Heart campaign,
supported by the British Heart Foundation and various health organisations, emphasises the importance of immediate action during cardiac emergencies.
Students learned how to perform CPR and the significance of calling emergency services, which can greatly increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest.
Head of School, Mrs Roberts, expressed pride in the students’ enthusiasm and commitment to learning these crucial skills.
“Today, we empowered our students with knowledge that could save lives,” she said. “By participating in the Restart a Heart event, our Year 8
students are not just learning about health and safety; they are becoming confident individuals ready to act in emergencies. It’s a vital lesson that extends far beyond the classroom.”
The event included interactive demonstrations and scenarios that allowed students to practice their newly acquired skills under the guidance of trained professionals.
Many students reported feeling more prepared to help others in times of need.
“I never thought I’d learn something so important,” said a Year 8 student. “Now I feel like I could really make a difference if I ever see someone in trouble.”
As the day concluded, students left the Academy with not only newfound knowledge but also a sense of responsibility and empowerment.
The Restart a Heart event showcased the Academy's commitment to fostering a culture of health, safety, and community awareness among its students.
Tenstudents from Cockburn Laurence Calvert recently participated in the School Games Leadership Day held at John Charles Centre for sport.
The event brought together young leaders from various schools across Leeds to enhance their leadership skills through engaging sporting activities.
Throughout the day, students participated in badminton, table tennis, and dodgeball sessions, allowing them to learn about the sports rules and key skills but also to develop essential leadership qualities. Working together in teams, students learnt important skills such as communication, decision making and adaptability.
Students at Cockburn John Charles Academy learn CPR
Bisade receives her certificate from the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Abigail Marshall Katung
Children at St Mary’s C of E Primary Academy
Students from Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy
made in attendance.
Headteacher Elizabeth McDonagh said:
“There is much to celebrate and be very proud of thanks to the hard work and relentless commitment of the staff and governors, as well as our fantastic partnerships with parents/carers.
“We recognise there is still much to be done to continue our school improvement journey for our children and remain fully focused and committed to ensuring our children receive the best possible care, education, opportunities and love at St Mary’s.“
CEO of the Collaborative Learning Trust, Janet Sheriff said: “This is a really positive report, reflecting the improvement journey over the last four years and aligning well with our own self-evaluation of the school’s strengths and areas for further development.
“It shows how, when a community wraps itself around a school – staff, governors, parents and carers, the Trust and Diocese – it will bring benefits for the pupils and families in that community.
“ I am hugely proud of the hard work and commitment of so many staff – it is this has enabled the positive change at St Mary’s.
“We are already tackling the remaining areas for improvement and look forward to the next stage of the school’s development.”
Parents and Carers who are interested in a school place for their child and would like to visit St Mary’s can ring the School Office on 0113 271 7204
ship day
The Leadership Day provided an invaluable opportunity for our students who developed their confidence on the day while gaining a deeper understanding of how effective leadership can positively impact their peers and the wider school community. We look forward to our student leaders using what they have learnt in school.
Opera North’s In Harmony programme is growing
Thenumber of schools accessing Opera North’s award-winning music education programme, In Harmony Opera North, has doubled this term with over 3,200 pupils benefitting each week from the high-quality music provision and performance opportunities the initiative provides.
The new In Harmony schools include Sharp Lane Primary School in Middleton. As we’ve reported in the past, they join South Leeds schools, Windmill Primary School, where the programme launched in 2013, Low Road Primary School, New Bewerley Community School and Clapgate Primary School.
The Headteacher at another In Harmony school, Ling Bob Junior, Infant & Nursery School, in Halifax commented:
“I believe so much in the potential of music to change lives. Music addresses so many needs. The brilliant thing about In Harmony is that it brings those opportunities to schools like mine where the children might not otherwise have access to them.
“It brings me so much pleasure to see my pupils going home with their cellos on their backs, their French horns under their arms. And even if just one of them continues their music through to teenage years, then I will feel it’s my job well done!” -
In Harmony Opera North delivers an inclusive weekly programme of music education, enabling young people to access the arts and, in so doing, realise their creative potential. Regular group music making activity is embedded in the school curriculum with the measurable benefits including listening, speaking, problem solving, creativity, positivity, increased aspirations, leadership and teamwork. The programme also provides an entry point for
talented young musicians who can choose to embark on a classical music learning pathway with Opera North through school and beyond.
Musicianship is taught to the Early Years and KS1 students by Opera North’s dedicated team at every participating school. For those schools on the full programme, during Year 3 or in some cases Year 4, all pupils are given the chance to learn to play
Repertoire can include anything from simple songs and nursery rhymes through contemporary songs chosen by the children themselves, to traditional orchestral and operatic works.
Termly performances are held for family and friends, with opportunities for workshops and performances with musicians from the Orchestra and Chorus of Opera North throughout the year. The programme also
to thousands of children who might not otherwise have had the opportunity to engage with music in this way. As they near the end of their primary years, there is an option for young instrumentalists to join Opera North’s Young Musicians Studio which is held in Leeds on Saturdays and builds on the curriculum learning with small group tuition in musicianship, improvisation, composition and ensemble playing.
Young vocalists can become part of the In Harmony Opera North Saturday Choir to continue to hone their vocal skills.
Particularly enthusiastic and committed participants can subsequently audition to join the
to a high-quality music education from the outset of their school life and be given the chance to achieve their musical potential, whatever that might be. That’s why we remain committed to In Harmony Opera North and why we have increased the provision for enthusiastic, talented musicians looking to continue their musical journey through their secondary school years and beyond.
a string instrument and to take part in choir sessions. A year later, every child gets the opportunity to try out or switch to a brass instrument, with a choice of trumpet, French horn or trombone. They are also encouraged to join the afterschool band or choir.
Between May 13-19, students at Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy (CLCA) participated in Mental Health Awareness Week, embracing the theme ‘Movement: Moving for Our Mental Health.’
The highlight of the week was a charity event organised by the PE department - Race to the Play Off Final.
During their PE lessons, students took part in a sponsored run, completing laps around a pre-planned circuit. Six laps equaled one mile. Together, students aimed to cover the
distance from Elland Road to Wembley, totaling 190 miles, or 426,379 steps! Each year group attempted the challenge and after an amazing effort by everyone involved, all year groups succeeded, completing the challenge.
The event was not only a fun way to promote physical activity and its importance around mental health but also aimed to raise funds for Mind Leeds, a charity our students voted for. Mind Leeds is dedicated to promoting positive mental health and wellbeing and offer vital support
impacts more broadly, increasing cultural participation among the wider community.
“It makes me feel happy when I play music” said Chloë, a Windmill Primary School pupil.
Over the past decade, the programme has opened up singing and instrumental playing
services, including counselling and bereavement support, to those in need throughout the local area.
Thanks to the efforts of the students and generous donations from the community, the school raised an impressive £331.50, which was recently presented to Mind Leeds by some of our participating students.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the students who took part and to everyone who contributed to this important cause. Your efforts are making a difference in the lives of many.
Opera North Youth Orchestra or the Opera North Youth Company.
Jacqui Cameron, Opera North Education Director, said:
“We’re passionate about music and the impact it can have on young people, schools and the wider community. We believe all children should have access
“While we hope some of the children might ultimately consider a career in the arts, the programme is as much about building a love of music, whether as practitioner or listener, which will stay with these young people throughout their lives, bringing them joy and enhancing their wellbeing for many years to come.”
The In Harmony Opera North programme is generously supported by Arts Council England, The Liz & Terry Bramall Foundation and the Opera North Future Fund.
Students raised over £300 for Mind Leeds
Pupils at Windmill Primary School. Photo: Tom Arber
In our view
Heritage today
South Leeds has bags of history and heritage, but it’s true worth is how it connects with the present. The big engineering factories may have gone from Hunslet, but you can find its engines on railways across the world. And there are still many highly skilled engineering firms, albeit smaller, operating in the area. We feature two redundant churches. One has found a new purpose, although it may not be the best use of the building. The other is more difficult, but whilst a solution is found it must be right to make the war memorial accessible to the families of those who died in war.
Inspirations
There is much talk of inspiration in this month’s issue, whether it’s the women on the Ribbons sculpture in town, or Leeds United players meeting with school students. We bring you these stories, not just to celebrate the individuals involved, but hopefully to inspire you, in however small a way, to be more active in your community.
Hunslet promoted
And speaking of inspiration, can we add our voice to the chorus of congratulations to Hunslet RLFC on gaining promotion to the Championship. We are proud to be associated with the club as a community sponsor and will continue to bring you reports of every match as they embark on their next adventure.
The December issue of South Leeds Life will be out on Wednesday 27 November
The deadline for submissions is Thursday 21 November.
Your letters and comments
No 1 bus
I can appreciate how people feel about the demise of the No 1 bus service. It does have an historical link to Beeston although it actually replaced the No 5 tram service, the No. 1 tram only running from Lawnswood to Leeds. Tram services did not terminate in town, but were through-routed with other services. It might have been possible for a No 1 tram from Lawnswood to have changed its route number to No 5 Beeston, when it arrived in town. For a time, a No 5 bus also ran to Beeston from Swinegate.
The most unsatisfactory aspect of course is the gradual reduction in bus frequency. A regular 10 minute or less interval on any transport service may well result in buses (or trams) not being cost-effective to run, but travellers can rely on there being one soon.
Sadly, you are not alone. Some rural, even village services in Yorkshire do not even have an hourly service, or are so irregular as to make planning any journey a nightmare.
John E Varley
Buses running to Beeston every 15 minutes Monday to Friday? Does the Council know, have they any idea, how full the buses get on an evening? Trying to get on a bus coming down Park Lane into City Square is bad enough, but changing the service from two buses to one every quarter of an hour will see passengers stranded in town with no other way to get home.
What are the Council thinking of? I hope they have second thoughts for the residents of Beeston, and not some cock-eyed way of saving a bit of money.
John
To be fair to the council, it’s not in their control. This is a First Bus decision.
Once franchising finally comes in the West Yorkshire Mayor and the Combined Authority will have control of routes and timetables, but for now we remain stuck with the private bus companies.
Jeremy Morton
The number of times the number 1
bus is cancelled on Lady Pit Lane is frustrating now. If the service continues as the new 24 l would hope that that issues will be sorted out and the maximum wait should be 15 minutes during week days. l reserve judgement!
Kuwait Al Shammari
Stourton village
I lived in Stourton from 1959 to 1962. My parents had a corner shop on the corner of Stourton Street and Queen Street. I went to the Infants school on Pontefract Road and my brothers and sisters went to the Junior school at the bottom of Queen Street. If I remember rightly there was a small fish & chip shop next door to our shop, I don't think Cameron's was there at the time. It was a busy area with friendly people, we moved to Wakefield in June 1962. I remember the streets had gas lamps, there was a park up the street with a recreation ground, nothing is left of what I remember.
Nick Firth
Your Leeds City Councillors
Beeston & Holbeck ward Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park to the Ring Road, Cottingley and Holbeck. The three councillors are:
Shaf Ali (Labour) (0113) 378 8810 sharafat.ali@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:
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:
Rob Chesterfield (SDP) (0113) 378 0900 rob.chesterfield@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
I grew up in Stourton, loved the place, happy memories. Sad to see it all gone.
Derek Franks
It still exists on my birth certificate, I was born at home in Stourton.
Ann Russell
All that exists of Stourton now is the War Memorial to the men of Stourton who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars.
Alan Woodhead
The village and the community, all gone. And for what? Sheepscar, Holbeck, Armley - all destroyed. Look what’s there now.
Keith Morley
Friendship
I have a very good friend of 30 years or more and sometimes don’t know what I’ve had done without her at certain times in my life. She’s always there for me and me for her, the sister I never had, I really value our friendship. Shannon your message about your friend Jacky is a lovely tribute to her.
Jan
Hunslet’s promotion
Congratulations to Hunslet after a brilliant performance in the final. It really was ‘Edge of the Seat’ stuff from the Hunslet players after all the ‘Backs to the Wall’ games they were not expected to win, but coming through against Keighley and Swinton was fabulous.
Let’.s hope these victories bring back the supporters they have lost over the
Keep up to
years since beating Dewsbury in the 1999 game at Headingley. (All Hunslet supporters will remember that game).
John Adamson
Fabulous support for a brilliant team display.
John Normington
I’m proud of the team today, against all odds and probably better and bigger players their desire, heart and passion won the day. Great to se . Reminds me of when we beat Hull KR at Elland Road.
John
Music Teacher of the Year
Congratulations to Mrs Hurst, her school and its pupils on winning Music Teacher of the Year. How cheering to know that playing an instrument is being made available to all pupils and that music making is flourishing. Working together to practise and perform is such a good way of learning to be in a team, as well as the fun and joy of playing.
Hilary Clarke
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.
The No 1 bus has been replaced by the 24
MP’s notebook
with Hilary Benn MP
Irecently visited the new Community Diagnostic Centre in Beeston.
It offers a range of testsblood tests, spirometry (I learned that’s to do with lungs and breathing) and heart monitoring - and the great thing is that people don't have to go to the LGI or Jimmy's to get those tests done; they can now do them locally. I was really impressed, and it set me thinking about the way in which we provide healthcare.
Quite a few years ago, I went to visit what’s called the Diabetic Limb Salvage Service at Jimmy’s. It does what it says on the sign. It tries to save people’s toes and feet. The Service describes its work as follows:
“Diabetes is a lifelong condition which can cause foot problems. Some of these problems happen because the nerves and blood vessels in your feet are damaged. This can cause numbness in your feet (neuropathy) and less blood flow (ischaemia). These changes can be very gradual and you might not notice them. If you have a diabetic foot ulcer, this means that the area of skin
has broken down and the tissue underneath it is now exposed. About one in ten people develop a foot ulcer at some stage. In some people with diabetes the skin does not heal very well, even after only a minor injury. A foot ulcer can become infected, and that infection may be severe.”
The incidence of diabetes is increasing and Amanda Pritchard, the Chief Executive of the NHS, has talked about why the NHS is taking radical action to stem the tide of rising levels of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Drugs and treatment can of course help, but so too can lifestyle changes.
A few years ago, when I found myself in A&E at the LGI with several broken ribs, one of the doctors told me that quite a few cancers are first spotted when people come into A&E for something else and a scan or an X-ray shows that they’ve also got another problem like cancer. More scanning will find more cancers, and hopefully find them early, but the UK has the lowest number of MRI, CT and PET scanners per million population compared with 10 other similar countries.
It was very welcome, therefore, when Wes Streeting, the new Health Secretary, talked in July about the Government’s plans to double the number of CT and MRI scanners; and not just more scanners, but AI-enabled scanners.
Health screening is really important, including tests that can help spot disease early like mammograms for breast cancer or bowel cancer screening for those of us of a certain age. These have been a great step forward because a simple test can help spot the early signs of bowel cancer. The surprising thing though is how many people don’t return their kits.
In 2021/22, in Yorkshire and the North-East, about 29% of people did not respond, and the figures show that people who live in the most deprived areas are less likely to participate in screening than those who live in the least deprived areas – a trend that can be seen across all NHS regions.
My final thought on all this is that there are some exciting developments around,
Pathways for positivity
with Shannon Humphrey
Letting go: Why it’s essential for your mental health
In last month’s article, we dived into the magic of loving, supportive friendships— the kind that lift us up, cheer us on, and make us feel like we can conquer the world with their support.
But what happens when a friendship or relationship no longer feels like that? When instead of adding joy and light to your life, it starts weighing you down and you begin to dread your next interaction with them.
This month, let’s talk about the other side of the coin: letting go of toxic people and why it’s so important for your mental health.
First off, we’ve all been there. We’ve all had a person that once felt like a perfect fit
but over time, the dynamic became draining, stressful, or even harmful. Maybe you outgrew each other. Maybe the relationship shifted into something negative or uncomfortable. It’s tough because there’s history and memories, often we stay in these situations out of guilt, loyalty or loneliness. But here’s the thing: all relationships, romantic, familial, friendships or work connections, can have an expiration date, and that’s okay.
Moving on from a toxic relationship doesn’t necessarily mean there’s something wrong with you or them—it just means you’re prioritising your well-being. Holding onto unhealthy
including new drugs. For example, it was recently reported that the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is currently taking part in a trial that could see bowel cancer patients in Leeds being invited to take part in a new type of treatment using personalised vaccines in a bid to help stop their disease from returning. Vaccines are normally used to try and prevent disease, but these trial cancer vaccines are being designed to treat someone once they've been diagnosed. They are based on a molecule called mRNA which is the same technology that was used for the COVID-19 vaccine. They are developed by looking at the patient's cancer to identify specific mutations of the disease, and drawing on this, doctors will try to create an individualised cancer vaccine that can stimulate the immune system to find and destroy any remaining cancer cells.
The other exciting development is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) which is already helping in scanning.
As the Prime Minister put it recently “this is where AI is going to be really important for us, because already, if you have a radiologist working with AI doing the scanning, the chances of getting cancer [diagnoses] more accurately, getting it much more early, will go up dramatically. So this allows us to get in earlier with cancer.”
fact, it can be a long overdue, powerful act of self-care — an acknowledgment that you deserve better. Relationships that nurture and energise you, not ones that drain you and
I suspect that in 50 years’ time some of the ways in which healthcare is provided will look rather different, with more scanning and diagnostic centres – like the one in Beeston – and new treatments.
But two things won’t change.
The first, is the expertise, diligence, care, compassion and commitment of our
the post-war Prime Minister Clem Attlee and Health Minister Nye Bevan - namely that it is free at the point of use. It was a radical idea then, and despite the challenges the NHS faces, it remains just as radical – and popular – today.
Hilary Benn is our Member of Parliament He represents the Leeds South constituency. 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
leave you constantly second guessing yourself about where it all went wrong.
Who knows they might feel the same way, and speaking might clear the air helping you find a way to move forwards together.
But even if that doesn’t happen, remember that letting go doesn’t mean erasing the good times you’ve shared, and it’s certainly not about holding grudges, that will only hurt you. It’s about recognising when a relationship is no longer viable
having the courage to step away. Sometimes, growing apart is part of life, and that’s nothing to be ashamed of. Removing yourself from toxic situations clears space for relationships that truly make you feel valued. It’s not selfish—it’s essential.
Shannon Humphrey is a First Aid for Mental Health Instructor working in the community, with schools, colleges and businesses find out more about her work at www. pathwaysforpositivity.com
relationships can lead to anxiety, worry, self-esteem issues, and emotional exhaustion. Our mental health thrives on positive, supportive, thoughtful connections that can be relied upon in good times and bad.
But when you no longer feel that’s a two way thing, how do you let go with grace? It’s not about making a big dramatic exit, ghosting someone, or burning bridges. You can distance yourself gradually, with kindness and respect.
Maybe it’s spending less time together or better yet, (if you feel safe to do so), having an honest, open conversation about why the relationship isn’t working for you anymore. It doesn’t have to be messy. In
wonderful NHS staff. And the second is the very founding principle of the NHS - created by
Photo: Shutterstock
Health screening
with Ken Burton
Able Seaman P/SS5345
Charles Henry Young Local history
Charles was the son of James and Clara Young who lived in Heath Grove in Beeston and the husband of Matilda Young. He saw service in the Royal Navy in the First World War aboard minesweepers and in civilian life he was employed as a tram driver by Leeds City Tramways for 22 years .
In the Second World War he was recalled for service once again in the Royal Navy and he served aboard the destroyer HMS Acaster, the ship on which he died in the Norwegian Sea on 8 June 1940 aged 42. He is remembered on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial Panel 39 Column 3. British forces were ordered to withdraw from Norway in an evacuation Codenamed Operation Alphabet which began on the night of 3/4 June 1940 and the aircraft carrier HMS Glorious was to provide support from 2 June. Ten Gloster Gladiators of No.263 Squadron were flown from their base in Bardufoss and Hawker Hurricanes of No.46 Squadron arrived during the afternoon of 7 June, this was the first time that a high performance monoplane without a tail hook had landed on an aircraft carrier.
HMS Glorious, under Captain Guy D’Oyly-Hughes, was granted permission to sail independently to Scapa Flow in the early hours of 8 June along with the two A-Class escorting
destroyers, HMS Ardent and HMS Acaster because he was to preside over a court martial hearing at Scapa Flow; but nobody knew that the German Navy were in the area.
The three Royal Navy ships were spotted by the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau at 15:46 hours and changed course to investigate but the
Germans were not spotted by the British until after 16:00 hours when Ardent was ordered to recognise the German ships while Glorious and Acaster remained on their course. Ardent turned back to rejoin the other two, but at 16:27 hours the destroyer was engaged by the 5.9 inch (15cm) secondary armament,
mostly by Scharnhorst, while both German ships fired their main armament at Glorious.
The first salvo hit Ardent in the forward boiler room and reducing her speed the ship zigzagged and laid a smoke screen while making repeated torpedo attacks but all were avoided and by 17:25 hours and on fire the Ardent capsized and sank.
Scharnhorst switched fire to the Glorious at 16:32 hours and on her third salvo at a range of 26,000 yards (24,000m or 15 miles) with one 11.1 inch shell (28.3cm) hitting the forward flight deck and bursting in the upper hanger. This started a large fire and splinters penetrated a boiler casing causing a drop in steam pressure.
A second shell hit the homing beacon above the bridge and killed or wounded the Captain and most of the personnel stationed there.
Ardent’s smoke screen hampered German visibility from about 16:58 to 17:20 hours and they ceased firing at Glorious.
When the Scharnhorst recommenced firing Glorious was hit again in the centre engine room which made her lose speed and commence a slow circle to port and develop a list to starboard. The German ships closed to 16,000 yards
and continued firing until 17:40 hours; Glorious sank at 18:10 hours with 43 survivors.
As the German ships approached Glorious, Acaster, who had been trying to maintain the smokescreen broke through her own smoke and fired two volleys of torpedoes at Scharnhorst one of which hit the battleship abreast of the rear turret and badly damaged her she also managed one hit from her 4.7 inch gun on Scharnhorst, but was so riddled by German gunfire that she sank about 18:20 hours.
With Scharnhorst damaged by the torpedo hit and unaware that Allied ships were not in contact with Glorious the German force withdrew making no attempt to rescue any survivors. It later became known that there was a Royal Navy ship within 50 miles of this combat, this was the heavy cruiser HMS Devonshire running in total radio silence on a mission to collect the Norwegian Royal Family.
The Royal Navy knew nothing
of the sinking of the three ships until it was announced on German radio so no Allied rescue attempt was made. SS Borgund, a Norwegian ship, steaming for the Faroe Islands arrived on the scene on 10 June and picked up survivors, eventually delivering 37 alive to Torshavn two of which later died. Another Norwegian ship, Svalbard II also making for the Faroes picked up five survivors but was sighted by a German aircraft and forced to return to Norway where four survivors who were still alive became Prisoners of War.
Two of HMS Ardent survivors were picked up five days after the sinking by a German seaplane, one later died and the other was repatriated because of ill-health. Two survivors from HMS Acaster were picked up three days later by the SS Borgund, but one died of his wounds. The total losses for this battle were HMS Glorious, 1,207; HMS Ardent, 152; HMS Acaster, 161. Scharnhorst, lost 48 when the torpedo struck.
Able Seaman Charles Henry Young
Red Ladder’s ‘Nightmares’ comes to Belle Isle Review: The Lions of Rotherham at The Holbeck
by Rebecca Townesend
OnSaturday 5 October
2024, the Leeds Trades Union Council hosted a performance of ‘The Lions of Rotherham’ by Breakout Arts, an original play written and directed by Karen Mulcahey, at The Holbeck.
Jane Aitchison, the President of Leeds Trades Union Council explained why they decided to host the play;
“Having just unveiled the Leeds Civic Trust Blue Plaque on Holbeck Moor to remember the time when 30,000 Leeds men and women chased Oswald Mosely and his black shirts out of town – it seemed important to remember that shortly after that some brave Brits went to fight fascism in Spain too. Today, just like our grandparents did we need to keep defeating the fascists whenever they rear their ugly hate filled heads!”
It tells the story of four men who left Rotherham in 1936 to join the International Brigades in Spain, fighting against the fascists led by Franco. One of them, Tommy James explained
their motivation;
“Fascism, the negation of freedom, is laying waste to the fair fields of Spain … Let us stop the beast in its tracks.”
Despite having very minimalist props and set, it really captured the experiences the fighters in the International Brigades went through; fear, discomfort and camaraderie.
On either side of their time in Spain the play showed us some of the background and post war life of the men, sadly just three of them afterwards as one of them was killed in battle.
Their early lives were defined by many challenges and changes including poverty and migration and in the aftermath they continued to campaign for good causes for example as trade unionists, with the last of the four passing away in 2000.
I definitely took away from the play what the writer and director intended;
“… the strength and optimism of the men and their families and supporters … The play is for those who keep fighting, who see injustice and stand against it.”
RedLadder Local’s autumn season draws to a close in November.
Nightmares, a collaboration between The Book of Darkness & Light and LittleMighty, revolves around three classic ghost stories featuring vengeful spirits, murderous revenants and gruesome promises from beyond the grave.
The show features The Judge’s House by Bram Stoker, The Kit-Bag by Algernon Blackwood and John Charrington’s Wedding by E Nesbit – all brought to life by one of UK theatre’s most riveting storytellers, Adam Z Robinson.
Nightmares is on at The Gate, Belle Isle TMO, Aberford Gate, LS10 3QH, on Thursday 21 November at 7:30pm.
Age guidance 14+
Tickets cost £5 but if you require a subsidised space, please email info@redladder .co.uk as we’d love you to attend. To book tickets visit the Red Ladder Theatre Company website at: redladder.co.uk
St Andrew's Pantomime Group present Babes In The Wood
StAndrew’s Pantomime Group in Beeston have announced that this year’s show will be Babes In The Wood, a show they haven't staged since 2011.
The group introduced the story:
The story is set in the village of Nottingham, where the notorious Sheriff and his bumbling assistant Max impose unfair taxes under
The show, produced by Hannah Davison, will run from Saturday 18 January through to Saturday 1 February 2025 at St Andrew’s Community Centre on Cardinal Road, LS11 8AG. This is always a seasonal highlight in Beeston and bookings are now being taken.
Prince John's rule. Robin Hood and his Merry Men, including Will Scarlet, Little John and Mother Tuck, remain evervigilant, outsmarting the Sheriff to redistribute wealth back to the poor villagers.
In the heart of the tale are two royal babies, Tilly and Billy, who are protected by their friends in Nottingham. School teacher Mrs Floss and Nanny are planning a wonderful birthday surprise. Maid Marion and her friend Miranda are always on hand. From the trees, the woodland fairies Elvina and Adelina watch over the children with their magic. Danger lurks in every shadow as the babes are kidnapped by Bish, Bash and Bosh under the
orders of the treacherous Prince John and his daughter Lady Isabelle, who will stop at nothing to seize the throne. With the forest as their only refuge, the babies' fate hangs in the balance. Can the heroic Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men outsmart the villainous prince and save the children in time?
Show dates and times:
Saturday 18 January 2pm and 7pm
Sunday 19 January 2pm
Wednesday 22 January 7pm
Friday 24 January 7pm
Saturday 25 January 2pm and 7pm
Sunday 26 January 2pm
Tuesday 28 January 7pm
Thursday 30 January 7pm
Friday 31 January 7pm
Saturday 1 February 2pm and 7pm
Ticket prices have been held at £6 adult, £4 children once again and are available from the box office on 07988 349985 or email: standrews pantogroup@hotmail.com
Nightmares
Community-led support group addresses hoarding issues
In a new initiative to address the complex issue of hoarding behaviours, a new peer support group called “Clear Path Support” is set to launch in our community.
This innovative 10-week course, designed by a local mental health professional, aims to provide a compassionate and judgmentfree environment for individuals struggling with
hoarding behaviours. Clear Path Support will focus on the emotional and psychological aspects of hoarding behaviour, for participants with or without a diagnosis, offering weekly workshops that cover topics such as building motivation, developing emotional resilience, and learning practical self-help techniques. With its person-centred
approach and emphasis on peer support, this program promises to be a valuable resource for those seeking to improve their quality of life and regain control over their living spaces.
The free-to-attend group will focus on helping people move towards readiness and envision a future beyond hoarding, rather than pressuring them to declutter or
Sing-along-a-miners-strike
Doyou remember the 1984-1985 miners’ strike? Did you take part or offer solidarity?
This year is the 40th anniversary of the miners’ strike and many people across West Yorkshire will be recalling their involvement or the involvement of their family.
Leeds Trades Union Council are marking the anniversary with a ‘Leeds TUC sing-along’ on Saturday 16 November at The Holbeck.
The President of Leeds TUC Jane Aitchison told South Leeds Life:
“40 years on from the miners’ strike we will have a night of singing to remember that brave strike and all the lessons of that time.
“Today more than ever we all need to join a union and stick together to make work pay better and to make society fairer!”
Jayne will be one of many people coming along to remember her family’s role during that year and she told us;
“My 80-year-old Aunt worked in the pit canteen and walked out with the miners’ and stayed
on strike along with family and friends. She’s looking forward to attending the event and will be in full voice.”
Organisers promise:
You get a song book with • all the lyrics
You will be led by • musicians through a repertoire of wonderfully uplifting socialist songs
You will leave having • contributed to a good cause and with your spirits well and truly lifted!
Everyone is welcome and you can get your tickets at bit.ly/MinersSing
stop acquiring completely. Drawing from the latest research and incorporating Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills for emotional understanding, the course is designed as an early stage in a stepped care approach, offering friendly and informative sessions in a nonclinical setting.
A key function of Clear Path will be to develop peer support networks, offering participants the option to join regular online peer support sessions after the course ends. The programme aims to encourage those with lived experience to actively participate in designing and delivering the group, fostering skill development and openness to new opportunities. Each cohort will be signposted to appropriate services following the end of the programme.
The group will begin on Wednesday 20 November at Hunslet Community Hub and Library, and will run from 5:307pm until 22 January (with a three-week break over Christmas).
For more information, email the facilitator, Jason.ClearPath .Leeds@gmail.com
South Leeds Remembers
Remembrance Sunday falls on 10 November this year and it will be marked by events across South Leeds.
The service at Holbeck Cemetery (Beeston Road) will again feature over 4,000 knitted and crocheted poppies made by a team of volunteers
Crocheted poppies will also be displayed outside Sunny View House care home on Beeston Road and at the bus turning circle on Town Street..
The service will be led by Rev Alistair Kaye from St Luke’s Church, but the people of all faiths and none are welcome to attend the event, which stars at 10:45am. Acts of Remembrance will also be held at St John & St Barnabas Church in Belle Isle at 10:55am; Hunslet St Mary's Spire at 12:30pm; Hunslet Cemetery War Memorial at 1pm; and at the Stourton War Memorial at 1:30pm.
Photo: Shutterstock
Crocheted poppies in Holbeck Cemetery
What’s On
Every Monday Money Buddies
9am-12pm Dewsbury Road
Community Hub & Library Tea and Toast
9am-12pm BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH Parents & Tots Group
9:30-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck
Trinity Network Tea and Toast
9:30-3pm 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 Beeston Village
Community Centre, off Town Street, LS11 8DQ
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
A Piece Of Me play for under 5s
12-3pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD Holbeck Together Lunch Club
12-1pm 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
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, LS11 6JG
MHA Meditation & Movement
1:15-2:15pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane
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
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
Community Sports Session
4:30-5:30pm Clapgate Primary School, Cranmore Drive LS10 4AW 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
Stay and Play under 5s
9-10:30am Windmill Children’s Centre, Windmill Road LS10 3HQ
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
Creative Communities Workshop
10am-2pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, LS10 3RR Book: 07483 666342
Grandparents Kinship Support Group
10am-12pm St George’s Centre, Middleton
Bosom Buddies Breastfeeding Peer Support Group
10am-12pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX 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
Bingo and Hoy
11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid
Social Centre, Acre Road
MHA Lunch and Social
11am-2pm Arthington Court, Balm Road, Hunslet
MHA Walkie Talkies
11:30am-3:30pm Hunslet Nelson
Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston
MEA Lunch Club
12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid
Social Centre, Acre Road
Holbeck Together Lunch Club
12-1:15pm 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. Healthy Hearts Advice
1:30-4pm BITMOs Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH
Creative Communities Art
Workshop and Heritage Cafe
2-4pm Involve Community Centre, Whitfield Avenue, LS10 2QE
MEA Line Dancing
2-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Help with Computers
3-7pm BITMOs Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH
Hot Meal (free to BITMO tenants)
4-5:30pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road
Free Kids Sports
3:30pm Low Grange View, Belle Isle, LS10 3DT
Insight 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
Free Kids Sports
4:45pm West Grange Road MUGA, Belle Isle, LS10 3AW
Cockburn Community Choir
5-6pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston
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
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
Seniors Breakfast Club
9am-12pm Belle Isle Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, LS10 3DN Everyday Lives coffee morning 9-11am Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Open doors
9:30-11:30am St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Old Lane, Beeston Holbeck Together shopping trip 9:30am-12:30pm 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
Creative Communities Workshop 10am-2pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, LS10 2NS Book: 07483 666342
Adult Maths Support
10am-1pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH Mobile Council Hub & Library 10am-12pm outside shops, Cottingley 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 Leeds, 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
Little Lighthouse Playgroup
10:30am-12:30pm South Bank Sanctuary, 2 Hunslet Hall Road, LS11 6TT
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
The Lunch Club
11:30am-1:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR
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
Holbeck Together Craft Afternoon
1:15-3:15pm 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
Children bike confidence
3:45-4:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, LS11 7NA
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
DAZL Dance (5-11 yrs)
4:30-5:15pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle
Bat & Chat Table Tennis
5-7pm Dewsbury Road
Community Hub & Library
DAZL Adult Dance Fit
5:15-6pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle
3rd Middleton Scouts
5:30-7:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR
1st SLAM Beavers (6-8 yrs)
6-7:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston
Women & Girls Cricket
6pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston, LS11 5TT Illuminate Dance
6pm Cranmore & Raylands
Community Centre, Belle Isle Food Cycle free hot meal
630pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston LS11 8PD
Holbeck Moor FC: Inclusive adult football training
6:30pm Holbeck Moor Line Dancing
6:30-9pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR 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, LS10 3RR Book: 07794 577586 Music & Movement
9am-1pm Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Parents & Tots Group
9-11am Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Mobile Hub & Library
9:30am-3:30pm near St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Advice & Advocacy
9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Holbeck 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 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 Walking Football 11am-12pm The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Warm Space
11:30am-2pm Cottingley Community Centre Holbeck Together 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
Website: www.southleedslife.com
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
1-5pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH Kushy Dil (Bangladeshi Women’s Group)
1-3pm Building Blocks Nursery, Maud Avenue, LS11 7DD 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 Craft Workshop
1-2:30pm Cranmore & Raylans Community Centre, Cranmore Drive, LS10 4AW 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 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 Sanctuary Youth (Year 7+)
6-8pm South Bank Sanctuary, 2 Hunslet Hall Road, LS11 6TT Boys and Girls Rugby
6:30-8pm Leeds Corinthians, Nutty Slack, Middleton, LS10 4AX Yoga
6:30pm St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Cardinal Road, Beeston Book: 07512 393228 Hunslet Nelson Women’s Rounders
6:30-7:30pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Boxercise
7-8pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle
Every Friday
Charity Shop and Warm Space
8:30-11:30am United Free Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Stay & Play
9-11am St Anthony’s Church Hall, Old Lane, Beeston Breakfast Club
9:15-11:15am BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Breakfast Club and Food Bank
9:30-11:30am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR Affordable Breakfast
9:30am Cranmore & Raylands
Community Centre, Belle Isle Menspace drop in
9:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Women only Exercise (HFA)
9:30-10:15am Beeston Village
Email: info@southleedslife.com
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.
MHA Breakfast
9:30-11:30am Hunslet Nelson
Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston 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 Knit & Natter
11am-12:30pm Cranmore & Raylans Community Centre, Cranmore Drive, LS10 4AW 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 Trinity Network Lunch Club
12:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle 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
1:15-2:15pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Friday Social Club
1:30-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus 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
Middleton Skaters
4pm (under 8s); 5pm (under 13s) Parkside Hub, Colin Cooper Fields, Belle Isle, LS10 3HF Table Tennis
4:45-5:25pm (7-11yrs) 5:306:15pm (12-15yrs) St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck
DAZL Youth Club
5-7pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road
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
Debbie Heart Theatre School
8am-12:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle
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
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-12:30pm 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
3rd Middleton Scouts
12:45-2:15pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR
Youth Club
6-8pm The Gambia Welfare 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
Play For All (7-13 yrs)
11am-1pm 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
November
Friday 1 November
Baby boutique, school uniform exchange and winter coats event
9:30-1:30am Cottingley Children’s Centre, LS11 0JP
Legal Advice drop in 9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road
Hunslet Club Fireworks Display
6pm Hillidge Road, LS10 1BP
Saturday 2 November
Hunslet Cemetery Volunteers
10am-1pm Middleton Road
Coffee morning
10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road, Hunslet Leeds Whisky Festival
12-5pm Royal Armouries Museum, LS10 1LT
Bangla Square Youth Group
1:15-6pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St
Monday 4 November
Middleton Community Group
6pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road, LS10 4LF Greenmounts and surrounding area Tenants & Residents 6pm Rowland Road Social Club
Tuesday 5 November
Library Story Bus
10:30am-12pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road
Thursday 7 November
Library Story Bus
10-11:30am St Matthew’s
Community Centre, Holbeck
Christmas Fair
11am-2pm Gascoigne House, Middleton Park Avenue, LS10 4HY
Holbeck Together Memories Cafe
2-3:30pm St Matthew’s
Community Centre, Holbeck
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 November
Police Contact Point
10am-12pm Cottingley
Community Centre, LS11 0HJ
Saturday 9 November
Middleton Makers Market
10am-2pm Middleton Park Circus
Leeds Dads Soft Play
10am-12pm Little Angels, Beeston, LS11 7HL
Community/Reflections Cafe 10-12pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Creepy Boys
8pm Slung Low’s Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ Book: www.slunglow.org/shows
Sunday 10 November
Sunday Breakfast
9am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD
Remembrance concert with Lofthouse Bass Band
10:30-11:30am Belle Isle WMC, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3PE
Farmers’ Market
10am-4pm Armouries Square, Leeds Dock, LS10 1LT
Acts of Remembrance
10:45am Holbeck Cemetery, Beeston Road
10:55am St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle, LS10 3DN
12:30pm St Mary’s Hunslet Spire
Church Street, LS10 2QY
1pm Hunslet Cemetery, Middleton Road, LS10 3BN
1:30 Stourton War Memorial, Wakefield Road, LS10 1DP
Tuesday 12 November
Library Story Bus
1-3pm Parkfield Avenue, Beeston, LS11 7LX
Wednesday 13 November
Trinity Network Open day
9:30am-3pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle
Middleton Life History Group
10am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle
MHA Kurling
10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston
MHA Singing Sensations
1:30-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Hunslet Tenants & Residents
6:30pm Church of the Nazarene, Lupton Street, LS10 2QR
Thursday 14 November
Holbeck Wellbeing Breakfast
10-11am St Matthew’s
Community Centre, Holbeck
Library Story Bus
10-11:30am St Matthew’s
Community Centre, Holbeck
Saturday 16 November
Repair Cafe
1-4pm BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle, LS10 3QH
Leeds TUC Sing-along
7:30pm The Holbeck club, Jenkinson Lawn, LS11 9QX
Monday 18 November
Belle Isle Christmas Lights
6:30-8pm Belle Isle Parade, LS10 3AH
Tuesday 19 November
Police Contact Point
10am-12pm Hunslet Community Hub and Library, off Church Street
Police Contact Point
10am-12pm White Rose Shopping Centre, LS11 8LU
Library Story Bus
10:30am-12pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road
Wednesday 20 November
Police Contact Point
10am-12pm Dewsbury Road
Community Hub & Library
Police Contact Point
10:30am-12pm Holbeck Moor Road, ouside St Matthew’s MHA Connie Crafters
3-4:30pm South Leeds
Conservative Club, Wooler Street, Beeston, LS11 7JH
Thursday 21 November
SEN-tastic
9:15-10:30am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD
Leeds Baby Bank
10am-12pm Dewsbury Road
Community Hub & Library
Police Contact Point
10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub and Library, Town Street
Holbeck Together Memories Cafe
2-3:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck
Open Afternoon 4-6pm Sharp Lane Primary School, Middleton, LS10 4QE
Hunslet Carr Christmas Lights
5:30pm Arthington Court, Balm Road, LS10 2LW
St Luke’s Tenants & Residents
6:30pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD
Saturday 23 November
Hunslet Christmas Lights
6:30pm Church Street
Sunday 24 November
Holbeck Together Sunday Lunch
12-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR
Book (0113) 245 5553
Monday 25 November Book Club
1:30-2:30pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Beeston Hill Community Assoc
6:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD
Middleton Christmas Lights
6:30-8pm Middleton Park Circus
Tuesday 26 November
Stronger Together (neurodivergent adults) 11am-1pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH Library Story Bus
1-3pm Parkfield Avenue, Beeston, LS11 7LX
Wednesday 27 November
Councillor Advice Surgery
9:30-10:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road MHA Coffee Morming
10am-12pm Cardinal Court, Beeston, LS11 8HP MHA Kurling
10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Holbeck Cemetery Volunteers
10am-1pm Fairfax Avenue
Memory Cafe
1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Rd, LS10 4JQ
Thursday 28 November Hunslet Remembered 10-11:30am Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street
Beeston Christmas Lights
6pm outside Nisa Local, Town Street, LS11 8PN Friday 29 November Beeston & Holbeck Councillors’ Surgeries 4pm Beeston Community Hub & Library, Town Street, Beeston 5pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck 6pm Cottingley Community Centre Saturday 30 November Holbeck Jumble Sale
10am-1pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, LS11 9RQ Yorkshire Vegan Festival
10:30am-4:30pm John Charles Centre for Sport, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ Holbeck Christmas Market
12-4:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Table Top Sale
12:30-2:30pm Involve Leeds, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, LS10 2QE
Christmas Fayre 1-3pm St Peter’s Church Hall, Petersfield Avenue, Belle Isle Holbeck Christmas Lights 4:30-5:30pm Holbeck Moor
IN BRIEF
Leeds Whisky Festival
You will find over 100 different Whiskies available to sample at Leeds Whisky Festival which takes place on Saturday 2 November at the Royal Armouries Museum at Leeds Dock. The ticket price includes whisky masterclasses led by experts throughout the day and an etched Leeds Whisky Fest tasting glass and goody bag to take home. Tickets and details at: bit.ly/leedswhisky
Slung Low presents ...
Slung Low are hosting just one show this month. Creepy Boys is a bizarre comedy with just a splash of the occult.The audience will help the identical twins create their 13th birthday party. warnings include sudden loud noises, adult language and sexual content. 16+. On satuday 9 November at 7:30pm. Pay-what-youdecide. Book at www.slunglow.org /shows. At Slung Low’s Warehouse In Holbeck is on Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ.
Great Yorkshire Vegan Festival
The Great Yorkshire Vegan Festival is back this month with over 80 Vegan Stalls including world food caterers, cakes, pies, salads, charity merchandise, clothing, drinks, juices, clothing, free samples and much more. It all takes place at the Indoor Bowls & Athletics Centre at John Charles Centre for Sport, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ, on Saturday30 November from 10:30am-4:30pm. Tickets: bit.ly/YorksVegan
Trinity Network Open Day
Trinity Network, who provide services and activities for over 55s, are holding an Open Day at the United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle, LS10 3LG on Wednesday 13 November between 9:30am-3pm. Drop in for a tea or coffee and a chat and see what Trinity Network can offer you. For further details you can call us on 0113 270 3935
Gascoigne House Christmas Fair
Gascoigne House Extra Care flats on Middleton Park Avenue is holding its first Christmas Fair on Thursday 7 November, 11am2pm. Tables cost just £10, call 0113 535 0010, or email: enquiries@leeds.gov.uk to book your table.
Story Bus Stops
Leeds Libraries’ Story Bus now has three regular stops in South Leeds. On alternate Tuesdays it pulls into BITMO’s GATE, Abefield Gate, Belle Isle, LS10 3QH from 10:30am-12pm; and Parkfield Avenue, Beeston, next to the children’s playground in Cross Flatts Park from 1-3pm. Then every other Thursday it’s outside St Matthew’s Community Centre in Holbeck, LS11 9NR from 10am-12pm. You can read books on the bus, borrow them to take home or join in the Story & Rhyme Time sessions.
Christmas Lights switch ons
Atthe end of the month Christmas Lights will be switched on across South Leeds and we get ready for the festive season.
The first communitiy to illuminate will be Belle Isle.
Middleton Park councillors have got together with Breeze to hold an event at Belle Isle Parade on Monday 18 November. A similar event will be held Middleton Park Circus on Monday 25 November. Both events run from 6:30pm with family fun activities and market stalls. The lights will be switched on at 8pm.
Hunslet Carr Residents Association have organised their swich on for Thursday 21 November with children from Hunslet Carr Primary School singing carols at the Welcome to Hunslet Carr Wheel, outside
the Bay Horse pub at 5pm followed by the switch on at 5:30pm.
Hunslet Tenants and Residents Association have organised to switch on the lights at Church Street on Saturday 23 November at 6:30pm.
The Salvation Army Band will
be present outside Nisa on Town Street in Beeston to lead the carol singing from 6pm on Thursday 28 November. Once the lights are lit, free hot food will be served over the road in the Beeston Parish Centre. The event is co-hosted by St Mary’s Church, Beeston Festival and Beeston in Bloom.
Holbeck Together are leading the organisers to start the festivities with a chance to buy gifts and decorations at the Holbeck Christmas Market in St Matthew’s Community Centre on Saturday 30 November from 12-4:30pm. Then it’s outside onto the Moor for the lights switch on at 5pm.
Holbeck Christmas Market and Lights
Save the Date! A festive celebration like no other is promised at the Holbeck Christmas Market & Light
Switch organised by Holbeck
Together taking place on Saturday 30 November from 12–4:30pm and the light switch on starting at 4.30pm.
Taking place at St Matthews Community Centre on Domestic Street the enchanting Christmas Market will fill you with all the seasonal joys that the Christmas season can bring!
What to Expect Market Stalls: Explore
charming stalls offering handcrafted gifts, decorations, delicious treats and information on ‘what’s on’ from local organisations.
Santa’s Grotto: Bring the kids to meet Santa Claus himself!
(Do not forget your wish list!)
Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music from a variety of musical acts throughout the duration of the market
Delicious Festive Food: Savour seasonal treats, from hot turkey Rolls to seasonal Bratwurst and more (vegan option available).
Special Highlights
Holbeck Christmas Light Switch-On
Have a mince pie and cosy
hot chocolate whilst you join in with the rest of the Holbeck community in the lighting of the official Leeds City Council Christmas tree on Holbeck Moor from 5:00pm. Admission: FREE Interested in booking a stall for the market? Local creators, bakers, crafters and organisations are invited. A stall costs between £10£15 depending on the type of organisation you are. Spaces are limited so book today!
Download the form from Holbeck Together’s website, email admin@holbecktogether .org or pop into the office to make your booking.
Skate into Christmas at the White Rose ice rink
White
Rose Shopping Centre’s magical Christmas ice rink is returning due to popular demand this festive season in partnership with JD, open from Thursday 21 November and with tickets on sale now.
The family-friendly attraction will be open in The Village at White Rose until Sunday 5 January and is hosted in partnership with JD, which will be opening its bigger and better store at White Rose this November.
Made of real ice and brought to life using special rapidfreeze technology, the fully-covered ice rink is suitable for all weather to ensure nothing gets in the way of festive fun.
The rink is suitable for skaters of all ages and is accessible for all. Ice skates are available to hire, as well as
penguin and seal skating aids for the little ones – or those wanting an extra hand with their balance.
Details of special events, sessions, and offers are to be confirmed.
White Rose restaurants will be open to enjoy pre or après ski refreshments, including those in The Village: Starbucks (inside Cineworld), Wagamama, Fridays, Five Guys, Bianco Lounge, and The Scribbling Mill.
This Christmas also sees the return of White Rose’s wonderous White Rose Express grotto, where visitors can meet Santa in his vintage train carriage en route to the North Pole.
The grotto will be open daily from Saturday 9 November, with little ones able to share their Christmas wishes right up until Christmas Eve (Tuesday
24 December).
Steven Foster, Centre Director at White Rose Shopping Centre, said:
“We’ve already heard from guests eager to know when our Christmas festivities will begin this year, so we’re pleased to announce the return of the grotto from 9 November and ice rink from 21 November.
“The centre will soon once again be adorned in decorations, including outside in The Village where skaters can whiz round underneath the twinkling lights. We look forward to seeing lots of happy faces at White Rose this festive season.”
For more details and to book, visit white-rose.co.uk
The Story Bus in Holbeck
the ice rink at White Rose Shopping Centre
Holbeck Christmas Market
The Salvation Army Band will lead carols at Beeston’s Christmas lights switch on
Crowds enjoy last year’s Vegan Festival
Website: www.southleedslife.com
Email: info@southleedslife.com
Women’s self defence success
Promotion caps a brilliant season for Hunslet
Continued from page 24
Hunslet had now gained the right to play for promotion against Swinton, who had finished third from bottom of the Championship in what was titled a Promotion decider.
Swinton, Coached by former Hunslet Coach Alan Kilshaw were favourites, but on the road this Hunslet team had been formidable.
Swinton started on the front foot leading 10-0 on 30 minutes, but a Mackenzie Turner interception try reduced it to 10-6 at the break. Again, Hunslet came out strong in the second half and quick tries by Berry and Flanagan got them in the lead. Swinton hit back with two quick tries and it looked like it was a step too far for the Parksiders, but another late Jack Render try sent the travelling fans into rapture.
On the hooter the Hunslet bench went wild. From finishing fourth in League 1 Hunslet had gained promotion hitting form at precisely the right time.
the team with membership and season ticket purchases. Also, sponsors are essential. The club has had the backing of Jason Peterkin and 24/7 Blinds, Tony Levison, Tricel, Fernco, Copier Company, Advantage 42, Hare & Hounds, TUFF sportswear and Vestin this season as well as Matchday and Player sponsors, but they will seek out more backing for the Championship. Then there is the team, Dean Muir will hope to keep many players and recruiting has already began. But with a chance of Championship Rugby perhaps many players may now consider Hunslet a good option.
“Absolutely brilliant” women’s
self-defence classes
by Karen Peck
Local people from South Leeds have been developing their self defence skills, thanks to an idea from a Hunslet resident.
An initial six week course was funded from Get Set Leeds Local as a pilot project for the area, working with Involve Community Centre. Certificates have been received by those attending for completing the course with Chris from Just Self Defence.
Get Set Leeds Local is a project led by LCC’s Active Leeds working across Hunslet and Riverside and Beeston and Holbeck wards (alongside Armley, Gipton and Harehills
and Seacroft and Killingbeck), funded via Sport England.
It aims to work collaboratively to enable more people to move more by exploring the things that matter to communities, galvanising residents ideas and working closely with key community assets such as Involve community centre in Hunslet.
Cllr Ed Carlisle (Green, Hunslet & Riverside) connected resident Monika to Get Set Leeds Local earlier this year.
He commented
“It’s so good to see what an immense impact this project has made. These are hard times, we face many big intractable social issues – but we can innovate, and work together, to make a difference locally.
“Thanks again to all who helped make this happen. Please get in touch to work on developing this or other
community projects across our communities.”
Personal safety has been the hook, but sessions have been about so much more. They have bought together women and girls of all ages from across South Leeds.
Weekly sessions have developed movement based skills and knowledge, but also improved self-confidence, community connections and a wider reminder on of the value of movement to our health and wellbeing.
Feedback has included words such as “fantastic”, “absolutely brilliant”, “learning a lot”, “more in depth than anticipated”, “incredible”, “great to see women of all ages together” and “so useful”.
Due to the demand identified, additional courses will be coming in the New Year thanks to the support of the Inner South Community
Committee, alongside working with partners to explore other funding pots to further support this work in the future.
For those inspired, there’s also a range of weekly martial arts groups for all ages that take place across South Leeds.
Our community chest pot is still available to support the ideas from residents and partners in Beeston & Holbeck or Hunslet & Riverside ward areas. The Community Chest Pot is up to £300 for community good ideas which support people to move more, as well as providing training and upskilling opportunities.
We are always keen to hear your ideas for what may support the community to move more.
E-mail karen.peck@leeds .gov.uk or getsetleedslocal @leeds.gov.uk to share your insight, ideas or to find out more.
But now the hard work starts. The club will play in the Championship in 2025 against teams like Bradford, Widnes, Halifax and Batley. Support is essential and Hunslet will ask that army of supporters that got them over the line to back
Work behind the scenes in hospitality and improving the stadium is underway and with new shared tenants South Leeds FC and Hunslet Wolves RUFC the South Leeds Stadium may become a hotbed of sport. With local Hunslet ARLFC also having yet another successful season it shows Rugby League is alive and well in the area.
As a supporter run club Hunslet RLFC can thank each and every member for what will go down as one of the club’s best ever seasons. 2024, you were great! On to 2025!
Coach Dean Muir celebrates promotion. Photo: Craig Irvine
Promotion caps a brilliant season for Hunslet
by Ian Pickles
There’s nothing like sport for creating highs and lows. This time last year followers of Hunslet RLFC were in the doldrums.
Their best season in 10 years, that had promised so much in the play-offs ended in disappointment at the hands of North Wales Crusaders.
But on Sunday 13 October 2024 the club were victorious at Heywood Road, Sale beating Swinton Lions to win the Promotion play-off and see themselves promoted to the games second tier for the first time in ten years.
It came at the end of a stunning run in the play-offs, but we are getting ahead of ourselves. How did they get in this position?
At the end of last season Hunslet were Coach-less. Alan Kilshaw had taken the job at Swinton and after impressing in his interview former Keighley and West Bowling Coach Dean Muir was given the job. Hunslet fans may not have known Muir, but he was popular at his previous clubs and had a good back room staff led by Ryan Jackson for advice.
Popular players such as Jimmy Watson, Josh JordanRoberts, Jordan Syme and Michael Knowles were retained, and former favourites Ethan O’Hanlon and Cam Berry made a return. Muir brought some trusted allies from Keighley and recruited Ross Whitmore and Brandon Wilkinson from Doncaster. Over a season players come and go, some unfortunately get injured, and also some step up to be heroes.
One eye opening signing was Jude Ferreira. The former Hull FC man looked to be a quality centre and the happy news that Matty Beharrell and Jack Render were back onboard set the fans mouths watering.
The season started with a 16-6 defeat at Barrow in a friendly, where Hunslet tested themselves on the road against Championship opposition. But in the 1895 Cup the team, still finding its feet suffered 12-62 and 0-36 defeats against Featherstone and Batley respectively. In both games Hunslet played well, but against quality opposition it was a tough ask so early in the campaign.
Hunslet did however retain the Harry Jepson Trophy 18-16 over a young Leeds Rhinos team, but were knocked out of the Challenge Cup by Keighley Cougars 14-22, with former Hunslet man Adam Ryder scoring a full length try to seal
the game.
Coach Dean Muir had stressed the League was the most important thing, and shaping a team to be competitive come the end of the season was imperative.
Hunslet started at home to Newcastle with a 48-12 victory in a game they were expected to win, but opened people’s eyes a week later with a victory away at Rochdale. Coming from 10-0 down the game swung either way and was 20-20 with 10 minutes to go. A Harvey Hallas try converted by Matty Beharrell was the difference as Hunslet got home 24-26.
That confident start was soon wiped away as Keighley Cougars and then Oldham both scored large victories at the South Leeds Stadium (14-42 and 0-62). Early days, but certainly cracks to fill, especially in defence.
Now Hunslet faced a difficult game on the road at Midlands Hurricanes. Again, Hunslet gave the opposition a start as Midlands shot into an 18-0 lead at Sheffield’s Olympic Heritage Stadium, but resilience got Hunslet back in the game and late tries by Cam Berry and Jude Ferreira sealed a 26-30 Victory.
The following week Hunslet welcomed Workington Town to South Leeds. With injury and personnel changes Matty Chrimes had come on loan to sure up the right hand side. Hunslet led at the break 18-12, but with Chrimes injured and the big Workington pack in control, the visitors ground out
an 18-30 victory. Food for thought for the Parksiders.
Hunslet had taken Mackenzie Scurr on loan from Bradford Bulls, and he showed his worth a week later as late tries by Scurr and Jack Render saw off a tough North Wales Crusaders side 22-14.
With Wakefield Trinity loanee’s Jack Law and Isaac Shaw playing well Hunslet were starting to gel and upset all the odds a week later by beating Keighley Cougars 18-26 on their own patch. Jude Ferreira’s 4 tries definitely shone, but the Hunslet defence held out and by the end of the game Keighley looked a demoralized outfit.
The end of May saw a 42-16 victory over Cornwall, before Hunslet took the daunting journey up to Derwent Park, Workington. With new signing Matty Fletcher shining, Hunslet ended the first half 10-24 up. But Workington were never going to give in. On the hour they got the score back to 2224. But for 20 minutes Hunslet’s defence was impenetrable. On the road this Hunslet team was really showing some grit and determination.
June saw a 25-18 victory over Midlands Hurricanes, even though Hunslet again gave the visitors a 10 point start.
A week later confidence was rocked as Rochdale Hornets inflicted an 18-48 victory at the South Leeds Stadium. Rochdale had the luck of the bounce of the ball, but Hunslet
were miles off in a game against a team who they may be contesting for a top four spot.
The following week a visit to Oldham was a chance to avenge the earlier 0-62 score line. Although Hunslet gifted Oldham two early tries, they were in the game for large parts despite losing Matty Beharrell to injury. In the end losing 30-6.
A hastily re-arranged game at Blaydon RUFC saw Hunslet beat Newcastle on the road 1642, before a visit to Colwyn Bay to play North Wales Crusaders saw probably Hunslet’s best 40 minutes of the season. Leading 10-12 at the break they blew the Crusaders away with a superb performance winning 16-46 and including another Liam Carr try. The forward claiming the mantle of supersub.
Hunslet now had George Flanagan Jnr on loan from Huddersfield Giants. The halfback/fullback had been a young boy when his dad played at Hunslet, and was now becoming an important cog in the Parksiders’ wheel.
Elation soon turned to despair as Workington Town were victorious again at the South Leeds Stadium. A poor first half gave Hunslet too much to do and they ran out 24-32 losers. A few weeks off gave Hunslet something to think about.
A tough trip to Cornwall was navigated 26-33, before Hunslet turned round a 0-18 deficit at home to beat North
again, 28-20.
Turner, on-loan from Oldham getting a late try to seal it.
The following week at Keighley Hunslet were in the game at 10-10 when Blackmore was sent off for the home side. This should have been positive for Hunslet, but the Cougars consolidated and ended up winning 40-22 to the frustration of the Hunslet coaching staff.
It was now clear Hunslet were going to get a top four finish, but whether third or fourth depended on the last round of matches.
A late Josh Jordan-Roberts try saw Hunslet pip Midlands 22-28 at the Alexander Stadium, Birmingham, but a Rochdale victory over Keighley meant Hunslet finished fourth at the end of the regular season.
Not having won a play-off game since 2014 meant Hunslet had to perform, having two bites of the cherry meant they were likelier to go far, but a tough first match at in-form Rochdale Hornets was going to be a fiery baptism.
A vocal contingent of Hunslet supporters roared the Parksiders into a 0-10 lead, but Rochdale hit back and led 2014 at the break. Although Rochdale won the game 30-18 it was felt injuries had cost Hunslet and they could have got much closer.
The play-offs were now do or die. Midlands Hurricanes were the visitors to South Leeds, and the three previous victories
counted for nothing. Leading 12-6 at the break it was looking good, but Midlands clawed a 12-14 advantage with minutes remaining, until Jack Render again saved the day with a late try. Hunslet winning 18-14.
Back to Rochdale, and knock-out football. Hunslet now knew they had to win at Rochdale, Keighley and Swinton if they were to be promoted to the Championship. A tough ask. Both sides traded blows in the first half in front of a vocal crowd and tense atmosphere. 18-18 at the break, but in a stunning 20 minutes of Rugby League Hunslet scored four tries to take the game away from Rochdale, winning 26-46 with on-loan forward Ethan Wood starting to make a difference.
So it was to the Play-off Final at Keighley Cougars. Now, Hunslet were a different beast. Their defence had shored up and took everything Keighley threw at them. Aaron Levy was magnificent against his old club, and Alfie Goddard found a new position in the centres. Hunslet won the day 6-20 and celebrated with their fans after holding the Play-off Trophy aloft.
Controversy after the game saw the Hunslet fans raise money for winner’s medals not provided by the Rugby League. This brought fans, players and families together in preparation for a tough ask the coming week.
Continued on page 23
Wales Crusaders
Mackenzie
Matty Beharrell holds the League 1 Playoff Trophy aloft at Cougar Park. Photo: Craig Irvine