South Leeds Life 115 January 2025

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

DECISION IN THE BALANCE

School safety versus heritage debated at footpath inquiry

by Jeremy Morton

Apublic

inquiry has heard arguments for and against the closure of a footpath next to Cockburn School in Beeston during a two-day hearing last month.

Helen Heward, the Planning Inspector, conducted the inquiry to decide whether to confirm the Diversion Order made by Leeds City Council last year in respect of Leeds Footpath 207, known locally as the ‘cobbled path’. A number of objections had been lodged, which led to the inquiry.

The diversion order resulted from the expansion of Cockburn School in 2020 to create more secondary school places in South Leeds. A 3G sports pitch has been built along with tennis courts on land that was formally part of South Leeds Golf Club. The planning permission included security fencing which would enclose the sports facility withing the school site, but this would block the public right of way (PROW) and permissive bridleway 207.

The hearing almost stopped before it had started as a sealed copy of the closure notice had not been received by the Planning Inspectorate.

Both sides agreed to continue and receipt was confirmed at lunchtime on Tuesday.

The council’s barrister, Shemuel Sheikh, set out the case for closure arguing that the “continuous and secure boundary would significantly improve the security of the and visitors.”

In evidence, Emma Watson, Chief Operations Officer at Cockburn Multi-academy Trust said the school was following new legal safeguarding requirements and Department for Education guidance. She

arrangements where students were supervised to cross the PROW was not sustainable as it impacted the school’s budget. She added that the PROW posed a security risk which couldn’t be assessed as it posed too many unknowns in

terms of the different users who students might encounter. She said the path was used by illegal motorbikes and for other anti-social behaviour.

John Harker from the Peak and Northern Footpaths Society raised a letter written in Continued on page 3

A ‘hollow way’ or a safety problem? The cobbled path by Cockburn School in Beeston

About us

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

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Aire Park gains approval to build one of Europe’s largest EV car parks

Vastint

UK the developer behind Aire Park, Leeds’ new 24-acre mixed used district on the former Tetley brewery site, has received planning permission from Leeds City Council to bring one of Europe’s largest electric vehicle charging car parks to Leeds.

The private multistorey car park which will be located to the north of Great Wilson Street will serve the occupants of Aire Park’s commercial district, offering 433 spaces, all with electric vehicle charging capability.

In line with the development’s commitment to encouraging healthy and sustainable lifestyles, the car park will also provide a secure cycle hub at its ground floor with 516 spaces, bike wash and service stations.

Set to be built on land originally used as warehousing for the Tetley brewery, designs for the new car park building will be in keeping with the sensitive development already seen across Aire Park.

Designed to be a safe and easy to use parking facility, the car park building will conveniently connect with Aire Park’s office facilities and provide an attractive new link street connection from Great Wilson Street onto South Brook Street and into the heart of the development.

This link street will also offer additional opportunities for planting and landscaping, building on the 700 new trees Vastint will bring to

Aire Park as part of its eight-acre park, set to be the largest new public park in the UK.

On the planning approval, Simon Schofield head of development North, commented:

“We’re really proud to be bringing one of Europe’s largest EV car parks to Leeds and our plans for this car

we’re applying throughout the development of Aire Park.

“We want to make sustainable and environmental choices an easy option for the future users of the development, from the convenience of charging their car in any parking space to having a bicycle service station on hand for quick fixes if

and attention we’ll be bringing throughout the creation of Aire Park as we build a brand new community in the Leeds South Bank with wellbeing and sustainability at its heart.”

Once complete, the Aire Park development will span 24 acres of the city’s South Bank, delivering an expansive eight-acre public park, over 1 million sq ft of commercial space and 1,400 high-quality homes with easy access to Leeds city centre and convenient routes to the train station in only seven

Refurbishment of Grade II*

listed gate lodge completes

Property

development and investment company, CEG, has completed the extensive refurbishment of the Grade II* listed Gate Lodge, located adjacent to Temple Mill in Holbeck with its famous Egyptian façade.

The extensive programme of

repair work was designed to seek the removal of the building from the Historic England Heritage at Risk Register in its 2025 publication. The project was also a prototype for the masonry repair of the Mill’s east elevation.

CEG’s project manager, Aaron Duggan, explains:

“Our specialist team started work on the Grade II* listed Gate Lodge in spring 2023, with the key ambition of seeing the building’s removal from the Heritage At Risk Register next year.

“We have opened up the

structure, removed the remnant roof slab, repaired, repointed and pinned fractured masonry, replaced corroded cast iron ties and reinstated the roof structure before laying a modern roof covering and fitting sash windows and new doors.”

The works were made possible due to a funding contribution from Historic England. CEG was supported by a team including contractor Pinnacle Conservation Limited, principal designer, Sycamore Square Group, ARUP’s structural engineers and Stephen Levrant Heritage Architecture.

Giles Proctor, Historic England Architect, said:

“The successful restoration of the Gate Lodge marks a significant milestone for the Temple Works site. Through our funding support and working alongside CEG and their specialist team, we’re proud to have helped secure the future of this important historic building.

“The high-quality conservation work undertaken gives us confidence that the Gate Lodge will be removed from the Heritage at Risk Register in 2025, ensuring it can be enjoyed by future generations.”

Plans for the main building remain as home to a new British Library public-facing centre for the north of England as we have previously reported.

CGI of the new private car park at Aire Park

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Email: info@southleedslife.com

First menopause support drop-in a great success Lowell supports TLA to convert offices into supported housing

Work is underway on creating new supported accommodation for homeless young people in Leeds thanks to a partnership between the UK’s leading credit management company, Lowell and local homelessness charity, Turning Lives Around.

Lowell, whose headquarters employ 2,000 people and are located at Thorpe Park in Leeds, has been working with Turning Lives Around (TLA) as their regional charity partner for nearly two years, supporting the West Yorkshire charity which works to prevent homelessness amongst the most vulnerable people in society, with both practical help and fundraising.

They recently gave a generous donation which is helping to fund the creation of Lowell House, transforming former offices in South Leeds into purpose-built accommodation for five young

people aged 18-25 with complex needs.

Lowell House is part of the government’s Single Homelessness Accommodation Programme (SHAP) which aims to provide up to 2400 homes and support services for multiple disadvantaged adults and young people at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness or rough sleeping.

On track for occupation in Spring 2025, Lowell House will comprise five studio apartments plus communal areas. It will be staffed 24/7 by support workers experienced in working with young people with complex needs. As well as receiving support around independent living skills, budgeting, education, training and employment, the young residents will also have access to specialist counselling, occupational therapy and other services they may need to

address personal challenges and enable them to live full independent lives.

Steve Hoey, CEO of TLA, said the charity’s relationship with Lowell has been a true partnership in so many ways.

“Lowell and their people have taken the time to get to know TLA and what we stand for. They have shown their support by getting involved, refurbishing communal areas and transforming outside space at many of our services, donating Christmas gifts and chocolate at Easter and Eid for our clients and raising thousands through regular fundraising activities for us.

“We are appreciative of all their efforts and support. Lowell House will be a lasting legacy providing a home for young people in need and the support they require to go on and live healthy, independent positive lives.”

John Pears, Lowell UK CEO,

added: “We are incredibly proud of our partnership with Turning Lives Around and the meaningful work they do to prevent homelessness among the most vulnerable in our local community. At Lowell, we are committed to making a tangible difference to the lives of those in need, and the creation of Lowell House embodies that commitment.

“This project represents more than just a building; it is a safe haven and a stepping stone for young people to rebuild their lives with the support and resources they need. Seeing the progress at Lowell House, made possible through our donation and the hard work of everyone involved, is inspiring.

“We look forward to its opening in Spring 2025 and to continuing our collaboration with TLA to create a lasting impact for those young people in Leeds, who need it most.”

Safety versus heritage debated at footpath inquiry

Continued from page 1

2020 by David Gurney, Executive Headteacher at Cockburn MAT, which stated that it would not be necessary to close the footpath. Mr Gurney, who was present, said that the plans had changed several times between writing the letter and the planning application and the closure was now necessary.

Other objectors including Suzanne Grace from Save South Leeds Former Golf Course Community Group and Alan Shaw from the Friends of Middleton Park raised the importance of the path as a heritage asset. Ms Grace said the cobbles had been laid 200

years ago to protect a much older path, and that the route is a parish and ward boundary. They both said that local people valued the path, describing it as like a country lane or ‘hollow way’ leading into the woods. The proposed new path also proved controversial. Charlotte Hamer, the council’s Definitive Map Manager, explained that the route and construction were compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act with a maximum gradient of 1 in 12. The path, which would still be a permissive bridleway would be 3m wide to allow horses or wheelchairs to pass each other and would be

surfaced with ‘Flexipave’ a porous rubber crumb product. The route would also provide greater safety as it was more open with greater surveillance.

However, the objectors argued that the solution was unnecessarily intrusive, creating a wildlife barrier, whilst not leading to accessible

Thefirst South Leeds Menopause Support drop-in group, held on 10 December, was a great success.

Facilitated by Niki Woods, a local menopause and midlife health expert and author, a diverse group of women from across South Leeds met up and discussed a wide range of topics around menopause, including symptoms, their experiences, feelings, and their desire to share knowledge with their wider family and community to help others.

Attendees were given a free Active Leeds 7 day gym pass and some moisturiser samples.

The session was was part of a 6 month pilot project run by Best Midlfe CIC offering a combination of in-person and online support to women living in the Inner South community, which has been funded by the Councillors representing Beeston & Holbeck, Middleton Park, and Hunslet & Riverside wards – which the ladies who attended the group expressed huge gratitude for.

The project has two aspects. Firstly there are the in-person drop-in menopause support sessions held on the second Tuesday of each month from 7-8pm at the Hamara Healthy Living Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston, LS11 6RD. The next session is Tuesday 14 January.

Women can simply turn up to these sessions and receive information, support, some freebies, and the chance to make new friends in a safe and

confidential supportive environment.

The second aspect of the project is a free 4-week online course for women in midlife, covering perimenopause and menopause management within the context of supporting not just the menopause transition but also wider midlife health. The course will include expert advice and coaching on nutrition, fitness, habits and lifestyle to support health improvements and symptom management, as well as how to communicate more effectively about menopause.

The course will require attendance at one hour-long live session per week, and be supported by online material which attendees can absorb in their own time.

Course attendees will also receive a free book on menopause (worth £10.99) and a month’s free gym membership at 360 Fit Performance Centre gym in Holbeck (worth £30).

Further information can be obtained by emailing bestmidlifecic@gmx.com

routes at either end of the new path. They criticised the choice of materials saying Flexipave has a 15 year lifespan compared to the 200 years of the cobble sets; and the rubber crumb would break down and pollute the nearby nature reserve and semi-ancient woodland. They also claimed the recent tree planting would impede any surveillance benefit.

Ms Grace described the diversion as:

“… less convenient, less practical, less safe, less enjoyable, characterless, unsustainable and harmful to local wildlife. The council has lost its way in justifying this diversion.”

In his closing statement Mr

Sheikh argued that the Closure Order should be confirmed saying:

“The potential disadvantages (from the) loss of the existing footpath do not outweigh the benefits to the school and safety of the students, staff and visitors.”

And that “the proposed diversion provides a route of a suitable width, surface, gradient and length to service the permitted users of the route.”

The inquiry concluded with a site visit where the two routes were walked and locations that had been referred to in evidence were pointed out to the Inspector.

A written decision is expected early in 2025.

A safe, supportive space

Checking on plans and progress at Lowell House – (from left) Olivia Tomlinson, Lowell, Kevin Peirson, Lowell, Steve Hoey, TLA CEO, Ian Atkinson, TLA John Pears, Lowell UK CEO, Haseeb Ashraf, Lowell, Beth Ash, Lowell

The diversion route marked with blue paint

Council budget proposals impacted by rising social care costs

Leeds City Council has released its initial budget proposals for 2025/26, which include the possible leasing out of Middleton Leisure Centre and a review of day opportunity buildings for adult social care which include Hillside and South Leeds Stadium, amongst many other cuts to services.

Leeds City Council has released its initial budget proposals for next year, looking to deliver approximately £106.4million of further overall savings as the cost of supporting social care demand and other pressures continues to increase for 2025/26.

Leeds, like councils across the country, faces significantly increased costs to provide services and rising demand, especially in social care for vulnerable children and adults.

This is being seen in supporting looked after children, especially the most vulnerable with high levels of need requiring costly external placements, as well as for adult social care with increases in demand for older people, adults with learning difficulties and those needing support with mental health.

The latest figures for Leeds show the scale and the impact of the national care system of external residential provision for children which is being felt

Hunslet

by councils across the country.

In Leeds in the last four years the costs associated with looking after children in external residential care has risen by 75%, from £68million to £119million this year. The average cost of an external residential placement has gone up by 45% since 2021/22 to currently £6,300 per week or £340,000 per year for each child being cared for.

Costs for those children with especially complex needs, however, can be up to £1million per year per child.

In adult social care, the

number of working age adults and older people being supported has increased by 20 per cent in the last three years, and the overall demand budget for these groups has risen by £100m in the same period.

Of the overall rounded £106.4million savings required in the council’s proposed budget for 2025/26, £23.8m were already built into the financial strategy, £37.4m of proposals were considered by the council’s executive board at its October meeting, and a further £45.3m are being put forward for consideration this

opticians wins Branch of the Year Award for second year running

ALeeds opticians is celebrating having scooped a Branch of the Year Award in recognition of its outstanding customer service for the second consecutive year.

The Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care branch in The Penny Hill Centre, Church Street, Hunslet won the accolade after coming top in its region to clinch the title at the company’s annual conference and awards ceremony.

Branch manager Paula Townend, who has worked for the company for more than 18 years, said:

“The team and I are delighted to be recognised at our annual awards for the second year in a row. This accolade is thanks to a positive, strong team who work really well together with our optometrist and audiologist to provide both a professional and

friendly service, which our customers really appreciate.”

To be considered for Branch of the Year, branches must demonstrate that they deliver first class customer care, a positive attitude, optical and hearing expertise and all round professionalism.

Commenting on the annual awards, Scrivens chairman Nicholas Georgevic said:

“Our success is thanks to the fantastic people who work in our branches to deliver a great community and customerfocused service.

“Congratulations to our Hunslet branch, who are once again very worthy winners! Paula and the team have worked so hard during the past year, even adding additional clinics to allow even more customers to experience Scrivens’ first-class service.”

Family business Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care was established in 1938 and has over 168 branches.

recruitment, as well as on nonessential spending except where necessary for health and safety or statutory reasons.

The initial budget proposals to deliver the additional savings required next year include the following specific service areas to be reviewed:

month to achieve the balanced budget legally required each year of all councils.

The budget proposals include an increase of 4.98% on council tax, of which 1.99% is dedicated to adult social care costs.

Council tax in Leeds in 2024/25 was the lowest of all comparable core cities in England.

All council assets and services are being continuously assessed and reviewed to see how they can help mitigate the financial position. The council has also enacted a freeze on

Non-statutory grants

commitment to trade union consultation to avoid, reduce and mitigate the needs for compulsory redundancies. However, given the size of the financial challenge for 2025/26 the council may find itself in a position where compulsory redundancies cannot be avoided.

• across adults and health services

Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor James Lewis said:

In-house care delivery

• service and day opportunities buildings

Impact of a preventative

• programme in adult social care services

• social care

Passenger transport in

“The large increase in demand for many services, particularly social care, means we need to take action to ensure we meet our legal requirement to balance the council’s budget each year.

Transport savings in

• children and families services

Savings around reducing

• numbers of children in Leeds care system, providing ‘right provision for the right time’ support

Children’s centres in

• Leeds and more integration in local services

Possible leasing out of • Middleton Leisure Centre

Potential introduction of • ‘pay as you feel’ admission charges at city centre museums and galleries sites

Closure of Abbey House

• Museum

• and locality working

Community committees

“Around 60% of the council’s budget is spent on social care in Leeds, and the increase in council tax helps towards this. We expect to receive further detail on national initiatives to support local government towards the end of December.”

Consultation on possible

• savings and income around bowling green provision

Print and sign services

• The impact of the savings proposals is an estimated reduction of 243 budgeted fulltime equivalent posts in the council, with a continued

Rates relief will create

new jobs in Beeston

ABelgian firm has been offered nearly £300,000 in rates relief to relocate to Beeston in a move that the Council say will safeguard 18 jobs in Leeds and create a further 32 over the next five years.

Dirickx Systems, which makes fences, gates and access controls, is experiencing rapid growth having secured several contracts recently. They now need to expand their production capacity and have identified Network House on Middleton Grove in Beeston as their preferred location.

The move and expansion represent a £9 million investment, but will significantly increase their operating costs, which is why they approached the Council for support.

The Council has agreed to 75% relief in the first year and 50% in the second year, worth £292,110 in total. However the council will still receive a net increase in rates income of £875,000 over the next five years.

Beyond next year, the council is provisionally expecting to need to find further savings of £35.2million in 2026/27 and £29.6million in 2027/28. The initial budget proposals for 2025/26 were considered by the council’s executive board on 11 December before going out for consultation with the public, partners and stakeholders. Final proposals will be presented in the new year to be discussed and voted on by full council in February. The initial budget and savings proposals report can be seen at bit.ly/lccbudget25 Consultation on the proposals is open until Wednesday 8 January at: lccbudget.commonplace.is

Nearly half of the cost of the rates relief will be met by central government.

The decision has been made under the Council’s new discretionary rates relief policy, approved in June 2022, which supports SMEs, Social Enterprises, and Charities. Network House has been empty for over a year and was formerly used by Amazon as a distribution centre.

Leeds Civic Hall

Regional managers Natalie Eaton and Dan Abraham with branch manager Paula Townend

Network House, Middleton Grove. Photo: Google

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Beeston in Bloom’s Busy Bees

If you’ve passed along Cemetery Road, Beeston Road, Old Lane, or Dewsbury Road you may have noticed the colourful artwork displayed on a number of utility boxes and small power sub-stations. Some were covered in graffiti, others were abandoned as technologies change, and in one case, a door was missing. Beeston in Bloom with help from funding, stencils, and some talented residents, have transformed them. We hope you appreciate our efforts.

Local resident Zoë Mitchell who painted the beehive box commented: “The inspiration for the box really came to me whilst walking around the area and I just wanted to do something that reflected nature and the work that Beeston in Bloom do to keep the place looking beautiful. I wanted to be a part of that, and I’m very keen to do lots more if they’ll let me.”

TheKurdish House community association, based in south Leeds, are taking on a very big new challenge for 2025 - and want everyone to get onboard!

The group – co-led by prolific local volunteer Rebwar Sharazure – have been litterpicking across Leeds and beyond for many years, and have picked thousands of bags of rubbish up to now. But they want to go up a gear in 2025 –and would love others to support them.

They aim to pick 5,000 bags of litter across West Yorkshire between January and June 2025. And they’re keen for others to support them – either by joining them with the litterpicking, or sponsoring them. All sponsorship income will go into their new community centre, at the old Golden Lion pub on Beeston Road, where they are

developing a programme of activities for all, featuring sports and martial arts, education and advice services, support for the homeless and those in need, and more.

The campaign launches on Sunday 5 January, with a big local litterpick in Beeston. Meet at 1pm (or join them anytime before 4pm) at their centre in the old Golden Lion pub; they aim to tackle the housing estates nearest the centre, including the Northcotes, Disraelis, Bismarcks, and Normantons. All kit, and snacks and drinks, will be provided.

Then the following months will see them out at locations across West Yorkshire, working with others to tackle litter and waste in their communities.

Rebwar comments: “We're so proud to play a part in keeping our communities clear and tidy - it's the natural

Playground refurbished at Beggars Hill in Beeston Kurdish House Leeds take on litter challenge

response to the environment we live in. We've picked thousands of bags of litter, these past years - but now, we really need support from others, to develop our work. Thank you in advance if you can help."

Cllr Ed Carlisle is supporting the campaign, and adds: "Litter and waste really drag our communities down, but many thanks to the Kurdish House team, and all those involved in this brilliant work. This isn't just about picking up litter, but also inspiring and educating people not to drop litter or dump waste in the first place. We - as communities - can make a stand, and turn the tide."

For full information on the campaign, including how to donate, and how to request a litterpick, search for ‘The West Yorkshire Litter Challenge 2025’ on Facebook, or call 07828 533 331

Kids in Beeston and Holbeck can now enjoy a newly renovated playground at Beggars Hill, with works recently completed including colourful ground markings to encourage active play.

The playground now has snakes and ladders, alphabet jump, hexagon hopscotches and a roadway track marked, replacing damaged basket swings.

The rock stack at the playground has also been refurbished, with the area underneath it now fully covered by grass matting.

The work was funded by s106 contributions, which are paid by developers to cover the costs of community projects in nearby areas.

Councillors Annie Maloney,

Andrew Scopes and Shaf Ali (Labour, Beeston and Holbeck) said:

“We’re so pleased to see the playground at Beggars Hill get an overdue glow-up and would encourage families with young children to make the most of the new play facilities.”

New markings encourage active play

Join Kurdish House Leeds on Sunday 5 January

Top: Zoë Mitchell with Beeston in Bloom Secretary, Linda Stanley Middle: Before and after photos of a box at the bottom of Cross Flatts Park Bottom: Bloomers Sara Withill and Linda Stanley used stencils to brighten this box on Cemetery Road

Leeds museum tops TikTok and increases visitors

TheRoyal Armouries museum at Leeds Dock in Hunslet is the only UK museum to be included in the TikTok content round-up of the year.

Every year the social media giant TikTok, famed for its short form mobile video content, scour channels from all over the world for the best content. This year they highlighted the Royal Armouries’ TikTok channel, which uses a lighthearted approach to explore the national collection of arms and armour.

After only launching their TikTok channel earlier this year, the Royal Armouries quickly grew their audiences, and went viral in September 2024 with their take on the trend of marketing videos featuring Gen Z marketing scripts and language. Since gaining almost 9 million views, the video has helped increase the number of people visiting the museum, showing that online can lead to onsite visitors. The national museum, based in Leeds, is free to visit and people can explore thousands of objects of arms and armour, from ancient times to the present day.

Recent data from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport shows that between July and September, the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds has increased visitors by 62%

since pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This bucked the national trend for museum visits which saw a 14% decrease according to government figures.

A spokesperson for TikTok said:

“Established cultural institutions embraced TikTok to reach new audiences, from empowering Gen Z to write their marketing scripts, as popularized by the UK’s Royal Armouries Museum, to collaborating with creators to hone content and even bringing us onto The Met Museum’s Met Gala red carpet through Vogue’s TikTok LIVE, sparking conversations about

historical artifacts, and showcasing the power of creative and innovative marketing.”

Florence Symington, Director of Brand & Audiences at the Royal Armouries:

“This is a fantastic achievement for the team, and shows that social media can help to underpin success and drive visitors. We’re delighted that TikTok have chosen to showcase us. It’s wonderful that a fun video that brought different generations together to explore our collection with some humour and positivity thrown in has been enjoyed by millions across the world.”

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Curator Mark Murray-Flutter stars in viral TikTok video

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Asha Neighbourhood Project celebrates a year of work at its AGM

by Tahena Ahmed

The Escapologist shortlisted for

councillors Cllr

Hunslet & Riverside ward

Mohammed Iqbal (Labour), Cllr Paul Wray (Labour) and Cllr Ed Carlisle (Green) joined partners, different organisations, and women from the South Leeds Community who came together to celebrate the Annual General Meeting (AGM) with Asha recently at Rowland Road Club.

Vice Chair of the Management Committee, Afia Khattun, welcomed everyone to the meeting and initiated the AGM Business.

She spoke briefly about Asha Neighbourhood Project’s variety of weekly groups which includes a Friendship group every Monday and Friday; a 50+ Gupshup (chat) group run by Shazia Aslam; Monday’s Mums with under 5s group and Wednesday’s walking buddies group run by Tahena Ahmed.

These groups allow a variety of women from diverse backgrounds to get together and take part in various activities such as arts & crafts, mindfulness sessions, gentle exercise and sharing liked experiences, board games as well as local outings and learning basic English.

These interactions give our service users a sense of community as many are living in isolation and may not have the opportunity to socialise otherwise.

Afia highlighted our Sanctuary project in which our support worker, Syedun Nahar offers support for vulnerable individuals and families who need ‘sanctuary’ in order to keep them safe from domestic violence and abuse.

Students who attended ESOL Entry level 1, IT and women supporting women courses spoke about their experiences of Asha and the activities.

Certificates were presented by Vera Media to IT students and participants who completed the Women supporting Women course delivered by Human Being Project at Asha. Women from the community who took part dressed in different shades of blue to show unity for 16 days Activism Against gender-based violence. The domestic violence safeguarding quiz organized by

Tahena Ahmed (Health Development worker) went very well, everyone participated with some getting support with translation/interpretation.

After almost 20 years we had to sadly close our preschool this July, we want to say a huge thank you to our wonderful prechool staff Shahida Khan, Noor Aljanabi, Naseem Akhter, Rani Phull and Zifreen Ahmed as well as all the amazing parents and children for their support and hard work through the years. Helen King, Asha’s centre co-ordinator and administrator retired on 4 July 2024 after 39 years of service.

Entertainment was provided by Sarah Stead from Vera Media who sang for the community and managed to get others to join in!

One of our service users made the following comment:

“I didn’t have the confidence to go out of the house or meet other people or join a course. I’ve been poorly and not attended any courses at Asha since 2000.

“I’ve learned a lot on this course, I have the confidence to speak to others and go out of the house, and I’m no longer shy. I am finding it easier to communicate in appointments with my doctor. I feel very good – I am proud of myself. In the 6 weeks I have had the confidence to talk to people, to talk to doctors and start doing things for myself. What’s next..? ESOL course.”

As 2024 draws to a close we are all looking forward to many positive changes due to take place at Asha, with one of the biggest so far being Alibun Nessa joining Asha as the new Director.

Better Beeston says “Yes we Can!”

Just imagine if we could turn litter into money. Well, we can! Better Beeston is a campaign to tackle litter and waste, and create a more beautiful community, in Beeston Hill. Over the past year, they've held dozens of local litterpicking and

gardening events, worked with schools and community associations, and more. And now, for 2025, they're undertaking a new project, called the 'We Can' campaignand they need your help. They're inviting local organisations (schools, faith and community centres,

businesses, youth clubs, and so on) across south Leeds to collect aluminium drinks cansand also used canisters and vape pens.

The team will then collect these, and cash them in at a local scrap yard. They're also looking for businesses or others to sponsor them - for

Business of the Year Award

Thebusiness behind the escape rooms and cocktail bars found in the White Rose Shopping Centre has been shortlisted for TheBusiness Desk.com Yorkshire Business of the Year Awards.

These awards highlight the dedication, creativity, and achievements of businesses across the region, and being named a finalist is a testament to The Escapologist's incredible journey so far.

The Escapologist has built a reputation for offering unique and unforgettable experiences, and creating spaces where families, friends, and teams can connect.

Co-founders Ellie and Olly McClaren credit their passionate team and loyal customers for helping The Escapologist reach this milestone.

"This recognition is a reflection of our team's creativity and commitment," they shared. "It's also thanks to the enthusiasm, feedback, and continued support of our

customers, who inspire us to keep innovating."

The Escapologist's success story reflects years of hard work and a mission to deliver exceptional entertainment. Despite their growing acclaim, the team remains committed to pushing boundaries and enhancing the customer experience.

Yorkshire is home to a vibrant community of thriving businesses, and The Escapologist is honoured to be among such outstanding company. As the owners prepare to present to the judging panel, their focus remains on delighting guests and creating lasting memories for all who walk through their doors.

The full shortlist of nominees for the awards can be found on TheBusinessDesk.com

Whether they take home the award or not, The Escapologist celebrates this recognition as a significant achievement and a reminder of the incredible journey so far.

example, matching whatever money is raised in a given month. Then all income raised will be donated to community projects and other good causes.

Cllr Ed Carlisle, one of the Better Beeston team, comments: "Litter and flytipping are clearly big negatives in our communitiesbut we hope this is a way to make something positive of them. Together, we can spotlight and reduce litter, build local action towards a cleaner community, and raise money for good causes: lots of wins. Please everyone, spread the word, and get involvedthank you."

For more info on the We Can project, and the wider Better Beeston campaign, visit www.facebook.com/ betterbeeston, or call 07738 921 277

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Course certificates were awarded

Ease your financial burden in 2025 Money matters with Leeds Credit Union

Whenyou think of new year's resolutions or plans for the coming months, the first things that pop into most people's heads usually include getting fit, drinking less alcohol or taking up a new hobby. But what about financial planning?

Whether you're determined to pay off your debts or serious about saving, making financial plans is a great idea. But how do you stick to them? Greg Potter, Head of Member Experience at Leeds Credit Union, takes a look.

Deal with debt

Thanks to credit cards and easy payment options, debt is easy to get into but much harder to get out of, especially when you take into account the regular interest payments that come with it.

If you can, use any surplus cash to pay off your debts asap, prioritising any that could jeopardise your accommodation or heating, or land you in legal trouble if you fail to keep up repayments, then moving onto the most expensive and working your way down to the least costly. It may also be worth considering applying for an affordable debt consolidation

loan from a reputable financial institution.

Start saving

Although it's widely recommended that everyone should have between three to six months worth of earnings set aside in case of an emergency, for many people this is simply impossible. However, there's no denying that regularly saving as much as you can afford - even if it's only a few pounds per week - is a great idea, so make sure you have an active savings account.

The best way to start saving is to work out what you're spending money on, identify what you can do without and save that money instead. Take a look at what subscriptions you have, whether it's Netflix, Amazon or 'bolt-ons' related to your mobile phone and if you can live without them, cancel them and start saving what you would have spent.

Set a budget

Making a budget is one of the simplest and most effective ways of keeping tabs on your finances, so sit down with your bank statements and work out how much you need to spend on essentials (your rent/mortgage, utility bills and

Leeds Credit Union saves people over £9 million

groceries), how much you can afford to spend on hobbies/treats and how much you should therefore be able to save each month.

By ensuring you always know how much money you have coming in and going out, you can identify potentially expensive periods ahead of time and take proactive steps to ensure you have sufficient funds set aside to cover the cost without getting into more debt.

If you don't already make regular budgets, now is the time to start. Lots of budget planners are available for free online to help you get startedthis one from Money Saving Expert is particularly useful.

Shop around

Although the cost of energy is currently high regardless of supplier, it's worth shopping around for cheaper deals on your energy bills and, if you can find any, save the difference.

Similarly, shopping around for cheaper groceries, broadband and mobile phone providers and fuel prices are also easy wins.

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

Leeds Credit Union (LCU) has announced a significant achievement in its mission to support the financial wellbeing of its members and the broader Leeds community –between September 2023 and October 2024, it saved residents over £9,000,000 in high-interest loan repayments.

This milestone demonstrates the credit union’s commitment to providing its members with affordable and ethical financial solutions. Offering competitive loan rates and personalised financial guidance has helped people across Leeds avoid the burden of the costly, highinterest debts associated with doorstep lenders and loan sharks, positively impacting their mental health and wellbeing in the process.

If it wasn’t for the products and services provided by LCU, many of these people would have no option other than to turn to a loan shark, as they would be highly unlikely to meet the necessary criteria required by high street lenders to take out a loan or access their savings accounts.

By the numbers:

Over £9,000,000 saved • in high-interest loan repayments when compared to high-interest doorstep lenders operating in the area

More than 4,000 lower- • cost loans to Leeds residents

Continuous support and • financial education for the community

Mark Fleet, CEO of Leeds Credit Union, commented:

“We are delighted to share this outstanding achievement with our community. Saving our members over £9 million signifies more than just financial relief; it means

greater financial stability, peace of mind and improved quality of life for thousands of families in Leeds. This accomplishment is a testament to the power of cooperative finance and our dedication to prioritising the needs of our members.”

The importance of organisations like LCU to the communities in which they operate has never been more apparent, with the findings of a recent survey of its members revealing that:

98.6% of respondents • had been negatively affected by the cost of living crisis

Those borrowing from • LCU to pay for birthdays/Christmas/special occasions rose 1.5%, from 10.5% in 2023 to 12% this year

The proportion of • respondents who would have gone without if they hadn’t been able to borrow from LCU rose significantly, from 27% in September last year to 43%

this year

Based on LCU members’ • responses, there has been no sign of cost of living pressures easing

The findings come at a key time with many people struggling to meet the financial pressure that comes with the Christmas period. One in 10 respondents to the survey said that without LCU, they would be forced to turn to doorstep lenders and loan sharks. As such, LCU has announced it will extend the period where people can get a loan in time for Christmas until Thursday 19 December 2024.

Leeds Credit Union offers a range of financial products and services that cater to its members’ diverse needs, including savings accounts, personal loans and financial education resources. The credit union’s member-focused approach ensures that all products are designed with the community’s best interests at heart.

This space is 1/16 page and costs just £60 or £150 for 3 inserts Ring: 07894 583966

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A festive season full of cheer thanks to Holbeck Together

The festive season in Holbeck was in full swing in December with a wealth of activities, lunches and parties hosted by the wonderful Holbeck Together.

From the Holbeck Together Christmas Market and Light Switch On through to the craftlovers in our community making beautiful wreaths –there was something for everyone.

The Christmas lunch events were also well attended with support from a number of local businesses on the day who volunteered their time to help serve, wash up and generally make it a special time for everyone attending.

Companies included: Irwin Mitchell Solicitors, TransUnion, British Gas and Northern Monk.

And of course, the wonderful children from St Luke’s Primary School Choir who sang for us at our lunches.

In addition, Leeds United excelled themselves this year again with the lunch they hosted in the Eddie Gray Suite at the Stadium for some of the people in the community who use our services.

Elissa Newman, Chief Officer at Holbeck Together said:

“Knowing that just around the corner a local football club cares about their local community is really special, and it’s been fabulous celebrating with people from our community today. It’s created a real feeling of belonging during the festive season.”

Looking into the new year at Holbeck Together why not check out what they have on over the coming months – or enquire about volunteering and get involved in 2025!

You can view their full schedule of activities or find out more about volunteering online at: holbecktogether.org or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

Staying warm this winter may be a challenge for some with rising utility bills. You can pop along to St Matthew’s Community Centre for a warm drink and some social activities, such as reading, or tabletop games on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10am-12pm.

Headstar volunteers join Zarach in the fight against bed poverty

Leeds-based finance

recruitment consultancy

Headstar has partnered with Zarach, a children’s bed charity, to tackle bed poverty by providing vital support to local families in need.

As part of its Donate A Day initiative, seven Headstar employees helped deliver more than 40 beds to children across Leeds and Bradford who otherwise would not have a bed of their own. Additionally, they assembled over 50 bed bundles, each containing a duvet, pillow, sheet, pyjamas, a Christmas book, and a festive selection box, ensuring children have a place to sleep and a touch of holiday cheer.

Zarach, headquartered in Hunslet, is dedicated to ending child bed poverty in the UK, a widespread issue that affects over 900,000 children nationwide.

The charity provided a record 9,067 beds last year, but the need remains urgent – an

Zarach’s

Christmas Appeal aims to change that for 1,000 more children, offering them not just

beds but brighter futures. All referrals for beds are made through schools, and

Zarach has a specialist family engagement team that provides ongoing support beyond bed deliveries. This team ensures families can access vital resources such as food, fuel, and key support services. By partnering with The Sleep Charity, NSPCC, and trauma-informed practitioners, Zarach is able to work with families in a way that prioritises safety and well-being for everyone involved.

Andy Peers, Chief Executive of Zarach, emphasised the importance of partnerships in achieving their mission:

“The continued growth of Zarach relies on increasing our funding, donations, and volunteer support. There is great power in community action, and we are so thankful for companies like Headstar, whose volunteers help to make a lasting impact on the lives of local children.

“Every bed will last at least eight years, giving children the

opportunity to engage at school and a chance to break the future cycle of poverty.”

“Zarach is such a great charity, and we were really happy to help,” added James Roach, Managing Director at Headstar. “It’s nice to know more children will have beds to sleep in tonight as we continue our work to support our local community.”

The Donate A Day initiative is part of Headstar’s employee wellbeing programme, providing the team with an opportunity to support regional charities and give back to local communities.

Headstar has run this initiative for several years, enabling the team to support a range of organisations including the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust and Hull Animal Welfare Trust. To learn more about Zarach’s incredible work or find out how you can support their mission, visit www.zarach.org

estimated 24,000 children in Leeds and Bradford still lack a safe place to sleep.

Pupils from St Luke’s Primary sing carols at the Christmas Lunch

Crowds gather for the Christmas Lights switch on

Wreath making workshop

Cockburn School awarded Artsmark Platinum status

Cockburn

School’s provision in the arts has been awarded Artsmark Platinum status for the second time in recognition of the school’s commitment to, and excellence in, arts education.

Artsmark is Arts Council England’s award recognising excellence in cultural education. It celebrates schools’ commitment to embracing arts across the curriculum and bringing creative learning to life for children and young people.

Artsmark is the only creative quality standard for schools, accredited by Arts Council England. It transforms teaching through creativity, empowering teachers with the skills they need to embed arts, culture and creativity across the whole curriculum, and is proven to support pupil outcomes and wellbeing.

Cockburn School has a longstanding involvement with Artsmark and has previously held the Artsmark Gold and Platinum status. The Platinum

Award has been achieved following two years of development, which began with an assessment of the arts and cultural experiences already on offer in the school.

As of September 2024, 51% of Artsmark schools have achieved Artsmark Silver, 40% Artsmark Gold and just 9% hold Artsmark Platinum

Arts Council England aims to ensure that every child and young person has the opportunity to experience the richness of the arts and they have recognised Cockburn as being a top provider.

The process was incredibly rigorous and the school were assessed on many areas of their provision including arts in

Leeds College of Building students triumph at national SkillBuild competition

Leeds College of Building is celebrating after four students took podium positions at the national final of SkillBuild 2024 – the largest multi-trade skills competition in the UK for construction trainees and apprentices.

Delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), SkillBuild showcases some of the brightest talent in construction. The prestigious competition brings together highly skilled learners and apprentices to battle it out to be crowned winners across ten trades.

Leeds College of Building apprentice Holly Taylor Whitehead took first place in the Wall & Floor Tiling category, with fellow student Ben Gordon achieving third position. Not only is Holly the first Leeds College of Building entrant to attain top position in the tiling category, but she is also the first female student to enrol on the College Wall & Floor Tiling apprenticeship.

Holly’s lecturer said:

“I’m very proud of the skill and talent that both Holly and Ben displayed throughout the competition, and this really shows the proficiency of our

apprentices at Leeds College of Building.

“I was confident that Holly would win the SkillBuild gold medal and I’m immensely proud of her achievements and development throughout her apprenticeship. This year she also won Wall & Floor Tiling Apprentice of the Year award at the College BIG Awards due to her outstanding level of work.

“As the only female Wall & Floor tiling apprentice, I’m sure Holly is an inspiration to all women who are considering a career in construction and the built environment.

“She’s a fantastic young professional and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for her.”

Elsewhere at the competition, Leeds College of Building student Alfie Waddington took second place in the Roof Slating & Tiling category. NFRC Vice President and head judge for the category, Andy Rowlands, stated that in all the years of his involvement, he had “never seen it so close” after all six finalists completed their rigs to an exceptionally high standard.

In Plastering, Leeds College of Building apprentice Wesley Proud also achieved third place

after a hard-fought battle. Across three days, competitors were tasked with constructing a project designed by an expert panel of judges within an 18hour timeframe. The project tested their knowledge and skills, as well as the ability to work under pressure and manage time.

The National Final at Milton Keynes Marshall Arena in November attracted 1,500 visitors, highlighting the variety of skills and career opportunities available within the industry. The top scoring 75 competitors earned their place at the event following Regional Qualifiers held at various UK colleges, including at Leeds College of Building on 4 June.

Leeds College of Building has an exceptional track record in SkillBuild competitions. Student Newton Robinson achieved first place in Plastering in 2023, and apprentice Zara Dupont received first in the Plastering and Drywall Systems category in 2022.

Mark Sims, Leeds College of Building Skillbuild Coordinator, commented:

“We are so proud that eight of our students secured a

The assessor was particularly impressed stating “Can we come to your school, please? It sounds brilliant! We were impressed by your strong, long-term commitment to the transformative power of the arts, which is making a difference to arts-based practice within school and to other professionals within the local area.”

The school’s partnerships with the Leeds SCITT/Leeds Trinity University and Leeds33 were seen as huge strengths.

England, said:

the curriculum, extra-curricular arts activities, how they work with artists and arts organisations and how well their arts provision impacts on staff development and the wider community. They are thrilled with the decision as they know just how creative and talented the young people of South Leeds are.

place in this year’s national SkillBuild final. The dedication, hard work, and commitment applied by both learners and staff is second-to-none.

“All our students demonstrated exceptional commitment and professionalism, and we were very proud of every one of them. SkillBuild is a fantastic opportunity for students to really showcase their skills, push them to the limit, and represent our amazing college on a national stage.”

With CITB’s Construction Skills Network (CSN) report

The assessor also highlighted that Cockburn School supports “other secondary specialists and primary staff across the MAT” and that “there is strong SLT and governor support. Pupils can access an established range of timetabled provision throughout the school, with increased numbers taking qualifications at KS4, alongside many extra-curricular activities.”

Dr Darren Henley OBE, Chief Executive of Arts Council

forecasting a need for over 250,000 new construction workers by 2028, SkillBuild is more important than ever to spotlight the industry and its wide array of roles.

Richard Bullock, Head of Careers Products at CITB, said:

“Each year I look forward to SkillBuild and this year definitely did not disappoint.

“Now more than ever before is a critical time for skills development in construction, and SkillBuild has the power to turn interests and hobbies into rewarding careers. The past few days have been great. It’s

“I would like to congratulate Cockburn School on their Artsmark Award. Creative activities and cultural experiences enrich our lives, open our minds to new possibilities and help us make sense of the world around us. As an awarded Artsmark school, you’re demonstrating that by offering a broad, ambitious and creative curriculum, your young people will develop character and resilience, increasing their knowledge, curiosity and skills that will remain with them through to adult life.”

Rob Dixon, Head of School at Cockburn School said “I am delighted that we are celebrating Platinum Artsmark status again after going through such a detailed and rigorous process. This attests that arts and cultural provision continue to flourish in the school. I am extremely proud of the professional work that our creative and talented students and staff create.”

been excellent getting to meet talented individuals and learn about their passion for their chosen trade.

“Congratulations to all our winners and participants at the SkillBuild National Final 2024. It’s a fantastic accomplishment, and everyone involved should be incredibly proud of their efforts.”

Learn more about courses, training, and apprenticeships on the Leeds College of Building website at www.lcb.ac.uk or register for the next College open night in March.

Cockburn students celebrate another Platinum Artsmark

Holly Taylor Whitehead

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Cockburn and Ruth Gorse in Yorkshire’s top ten schools

Yorkshire is a large region.

From Sheffield to Ripon, Hull to Bradford, many excellent schools celebrated excellent results last summer.

There are over 500 secondary schools in Yorkshire.

The government’s new preliminary performance figures for state-funded secondary schools were released last month.

The Ruth Gorse Academy is third and Cockburn School is in tenth place in Yorkshire’s highest-performing state secondary schools for the 2023/24 school year based on this data - using their latest Progress 8 scores.

This is a unique figure based on GCSE and vocational results, based on how pupils are learning and progressing compared to peers arriving from similar primary schools

nationwide.

Any score above 0 is positive, while any above 0.5 is considered ‘well above average’ - the highest band available.

According to government progress data for the academic year 2023-2024, these secondary schools rank as

“well above average” for pupils achieving over half a grade higher in each qualification, compared to similar pupils across the country.

Yet again, compared to some schools in Leeds, pupils at Cockburn School are on average achieving a whole grade higher than pupils from

other schools.

David Gurney, Executive Headteacher of Cockburn Multi-academy Trust said:

“We are extremely proud of the Class of 2024 for their academic achievements. They worked hard, had high aspirations and were incredibly resilient.

“I applaud the dedication and excellence of the Cockburn School staff who are relentless in their determination to secure the very best outcomes for the young people.”

big at National Teaching Awards Fundraising triumph for Verona McShane Foundation

Aninspirational Leeds Headteacher has won silver at the ‘Oscars’ of the teaching profession.

Carrie Green, Executive Principal of Bramley Park Academy and Elements Primary School in Middleton has been honoured for her exceptional contributions to education through commendation at the Pearson National Teaching Awards. Carrie’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. She is deeply committed to supporting her community: implementing initiatives such as providing free school uniforms and partnering with the Greggs Foundation to offer essential support to families in need. Her dedication to her students and their families is truly inspiring.

Mark Wilson, CEO of Wellspring Academy Trust said, “We are immensely proud of

Carrie’s accomplishments and her recognition as a finalist in the National Teaching Awards. Her exceptional leadership, strategic vision and tireless dedication have been instrumental in transforming the provision available for young people in Leeds. Carrie’s achievement is a testament to her hard work and passion for transforming education. It is a great privilege to work with such a talented group of professionals who are committed to providing exceptional education to our students.”

When asked about the honour, Carrie said, “I am truly honoured to have been awarded silver winner at the 2024 Teaching Awards. Teaching is in my blood, I never wanted to do anything else.

Making a difference has been my driving passion right from my first days teaching in an

outside classroom in Morley to now running two inspirational provisions in Leeds. I certainly would not be here without the support and dedication of the teams around me at Bramley, Elements and Wellspring. They,

along with our remarkable pupils, drive me every single day to make our schools even better and provide a truly world class education, which inspires everyone to be a world changer.”

TheVerona McShane Foundation has achieved an outstanding milestone in its recent fundraising efforts, with over £500 raised to support vital causes.

Established in memory of Verona McShane, a beloved former teacher at Cockburn John Charles Academy, the foundation seeks to honour her legacy of kindness, compassion, and dedication to others.

The funds collected will be directed to two critical initiatives: providing assistance to local families in need and supporting the Save the Children Gaza and Lebanon Crisis Appeal.

These efforts are aimed at making a tangible difference in the lives of those facing hardship both within the community and abroad.

"Verona was a guiding light in our school community, and it’s

heartwarming to see everyone come together to celebrate her memory in such a meaningful way," said Head of School, Mrs Roberts. "Her dedication to helping others continues to inspire us all."

Students have also shared their memories and reflections on Verona McShane’s enduring influence.

"She was always there for everyone, whether it was a kind word or extra help after class," said a Year 10 student. "The events have been a great way to come together and remember her while doing something positive."

As the foundation continues to rally support through upcoming events, community members are encouraged to join in and lend their support to this meaningful cause. Together, we can help create a brighter future for those in need.

Charity cake sale

Two of the best: The Ruth Gorse Academy and Cockburn School

Legally Blonde a Evie bus character brings children’s book to life for Beeston Primary pupils

Achildren’sbook to help young minds begin to understand about reducing carbon and environmental choices has been published by First Bus in North and West Yorkshire.

‘Tinyfoot and Evie’s Adventure to Tiny Street’ features Evie the electric bus and her friend Tinyfoot. And a life-size Evie character visited Beeston Primary School in South Leeds to the surprise of youngsters in its Year 1 class, who enjoyed a first reading of the book by local councillor Annie Maloney (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck).

This colourful tale takes young readers on a trip where they meet lots of characters and learn about how electric buses can help reduce their carbon footprint and the cleaner air benefits to communities.

To accompany the book, First Bus has also created an activity pack with colouring-in sheets, word searches and education resources for use by schools and parents.

Also travelling on the bus were Cllr Andrew Scopes (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck) and is a governor of the school and Cllr Peter Carlill, Deputy Chair of the

West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) Transport Committee.

Lucy Mottram from First Bus North & West Yorkshire said:

“This is a little book with a big message. We came up with the idea as a simple and engaging way to tell the story of how much bus travel is changing and its role in supporting climate change targets.”

Cllr Maloney, who is also the transport engagement lead for Leeds City Council at WYCA, said: “We had so much fun reading all about Evie the electric bus, whilst sat on an

electric bus! It was lovely to see the children so excited at learning and talking about sustainability.”

Copies are available from www.firstbus.co.uk/westyorkshire/about-us/first-busstorybook. All proceeds raised from sales will go to Macmillan Cancer Support, the national charity partner of First Bus.

Cllr Carlill said:

“This book is a fun way of introducing children to the importance of choosing more sustainable ways to travel and the impact electric buses have on our environment.

Local children attend the 2024 Into Film Festival

The 2024 Into Film Festival

provided an exceptional opportunity for local students to immerse themselves in the world of filmmaking.

Hosted at the Cineworld White

Rose Centre, Middleton Primary School (MPS) proudly participated with approximately 230 children from various year groups.

This year's festival aimed to

inspire and engage young people, aged 5-19, to watch, understand, and create films. Through a series of screenings, students were encouraged to unleash their creativity and express their unique stories.

This stimulating environment fostered enthusiasm and connections among peers while highlighting the importance of creativity.

Staff at MPS recognise the value of such immersive experiences in enhancing our curriculum. Overall, the festival effectively enriched the students' understanding of social issues, cultural diversity, and environmental awareness, and they look forward to seeing their creativity flourish in the months to come.

“We want to create a zeroemission bus fleet here in West Yorkshire by 2036, so our youngsters will be seeing many more of these buses on our roads in the years to come.”

Cllr Scopes added:

“We’re always keen to find new ways to encourage reading and it was great to give the children an experience to bring the story to life and help them hear about sustainability.”

Lucy Mottram added:

“The story not only introduces the benefits of public transport in a fun way but also encourages children to think about making greener choices from an early age. We’re really pleased with the result – the designers and illustrator have done a brilliant job.”

The book has been designed by an agency Cravens and illustrated by Emily Cooksey.

Thisyear’s Christmas production at Cockburn School in Beeston was ‘Legally Blonde - the musical’.

The show was seen by a total audience of 1,000 people at four evening performances and one matinee for local primary schools.

We went along to the matinee which was attended by pupils from Hugh Gaitskell, Park View, Hunslet Carr and Middleton

Primary Schools.

During the interval we spoke to Hareem, Delma, David and Jacob, all Year 5 pupils at Hugh Gaitskell Primary School. We asked them what they if they had enjoyed the first half of the show, David said:

“I thought it was absolutely fantastic. I liked the movement, it was very smooth, clean and it happened really fast. I also liked how they had all memorised their lines and the singing is amazing, they’ve put a lot of

Cockburn Laurence Calvert Ac supports Shoebox appeal

Cast members: Lola, Rosie, Devon, Parva, Maisie and Ronnie

Cllr Annie Maloney reading the book to pupils on the bus by Jeremy Morton

Website: www.southleedslife.com

at Cockburn

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Ronnie: “Always be yourself, don’t let others tell you what to do.”

effort into it. I’m looking forward to the second half.”

Delma added:

“It’s really creative and I loved the music. I was so shocked when Elle’s ex-boyfriend proposed to her.”

After the show we caught up with the lead actors to hear about their experiences of being in the show:

What lessons can we draw from Legally Blonde?

Rosie: “Well, as Vivienne says in the last scene ‘Be true to

cademy

What do you enjoy about performing?

Devon: “I think it’s the excitement. Just before I go on stage I always get really nervous, but I enjoy the feeling of having been so nervous but then going out there are doing it.”

Rosie: “When I’m on stage performing I just feel like I wish I could do this forever, it’s just a really special thing to use the talents we have to make people in the audience happy.”

Maisie: “It’s also an opportunity to meet new people make new friendships and have so many new experiences that can help you in the future, like knowing how to project your voice if you’re in an interview.”

How do you balance school work and rehearsals?

Parva: “Our school makes it really easy to balance study and the show. The teachers always make time for us.”

Devon: “People in the cast can teach you anything that you’ve missed and there’s still time for us to fit in revision or homework.”

Thank you from Cockburn Reach Academy

The school said a big ‘thank you’ to Manning Stainton for the Christmas chocolate selection boxes; and to Morley Glass for their kind donation of £500. They have purchased bug hotels, bird and squirrel feeders, benches, bunting and wind chimes to make our Woodlands Area a fun place to do our learning in

yourself never goes out of style’, even though some people just see Elle for her hair and what she looks like, it’s a good lesson to know that no matter what you look like, no matter who you are, you can be amazing.”

Devon: “If someone tells you you can’t do something you need to prove to them that you can otherwise they’re going to carry on seeing you as smaller than you are.

Maisie: “Never judge a book by its cover.”

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the amazing students, families, and teachers of Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy have once again come together to make a significant contribution to this year’s Leeds Shoebox Appeal.

Aiming to support the homeless across the city, nearly 80 shoeboxes filled with essential items and thoughtful gifts were donated by the school community, spreading warmth and care during the festive season.

The Leeds Shoebox Appeal, an annual initiative that gathers donations for local charities, plays a crucial role in providing much-needed support to vulnerable individuals facing homelessness at Christmas.

The donated shoeboxes contain everything from warm clothing, toiletries,

Rosie: “It’s really taught me to plan. I make a schedule at the start of the week so when I get home from rehearsals and my mind is full of the show, I have time to go over a scene, or work on English or Science or whatever I had planned that night.”

Lola: “Most of the rehearsals have been after school, but when we’ve rehearsed during the day, some people have had catch up lessons after school. When you go back into class the teachers help you with stuff that you’ve missed.”

and blankets to small treats, offering recipients a bit of comfort and hope during a difficult time of year.

The generosity shown by the Cockburn Laurence Calvert community is truly remarkable, highlighting the school’s commitment to making a positive impact both locally and beyond.

Teachers and students worked together to collect and prepare the boxes, while parents and carers generously supported the initiative with donations.

The shoeboxes will be distributed to various charities and organisations across Leeds, ensuring that people experiencing homelessness will receive much-needed support and compassion this winter.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved for making this year’s Leeds Shoebox Appeal a big success.

Cottingley on tour

Pupils from Cottingley Primary Academy are ‘on tour’ this week, bringing festive cheer to locations around South Leeds this week.

sang at B&Q

and Year

Jessica Walton from the school explained:

On Monday 9 December children entertained shoppers at White Rose Shopping Centre. Pupils have also visited St Mary’s Church in Beeston, whilst younger pupils sang for parents at school. Year 5 pupils

Children from each class have visited different venues to sing carols and raise money to help improve the outdoor play facilities at the school.

“We’re doing this to build up our links out in the community and we’re raising money for play equipment, all things to develop the children’s play and learning in the outdoor area and to spread some community spirit and festive joy.”

at Junction 1 retail park

6 pupils sang at Asda on Old Lane in Beeston

Pupils from Cottingley Primary Academy performing at White Rose Shopping Centre

In our view

A new year has just begun

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

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

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

One of South Leeds Life’s aims is not just to tell you what’s going on, but also how you can join in. Because when we get involved we add a new thread and strengthen the tapestry that is our community. Last month we revealed how Beeston Festival needs people to strengthen their organising committee; perhaps you could paint utility boxes, but weeding beds is just as important for Beeston in Bloom; could you drive a minibus for one of our elderly groups - they all need help from volunteers; Middleton Railway need help with the locos and carriages, but also front of house staff in the cafe and shop; there are many organised litter picks you could join, such as Kurdish House, or collecting cans; you could join the pantomime group; or support one of our many sports clubs - they need coaches, but also people to make the tea and staff the bar on matchdays. The list goes on and on, there really is an opportunity to suit everyone, so what are you waiting for?

The February issue of South Leeds Life will be out on Wednesday 29 January

The deadline for submissions is Thursday 23 January.

Your letters and comments

Attend council meetings

I have recently been attending Leeds City Council, at the Leeds Civic Hall, & West Yorkshire Combined Authority(WYCA) meetings, in Wellington House, Leeds.

Sitting in the public gallery area I noticed that despite Leeds having a population of near 1 million souls, and West Yorkshire with nearly 2 million. I was the sole person in attendance who didn't work for the authority or LCC.

While a lot of the meetings were procedural, with officers reporting their work to committees, many of the discussions and questioning done by Councillors and our Regional Mayor were really interesting and I learned a lot about how our Councils and the Combined Authority operate.

I heard discussions of how to improve housing insulation, highlighting the work done by Civic Enterprise Leeds to provide food to schools and elderly residents. The WYCA Executive voted to approve funding for improving Bus Services across the region including reducing the Westminster Bus Fare increase from £3 to £2.50, which is a reduction in bus ticket prices not seen in areas without a Devolved Regional Mayor, and they approved an investment in machinery for local businesses, while approving a £7 Billion regional plan for investment, growth, and public grants in West Yorkshire over the next 10 years.

All of which shows how local government improves our lives faster than Westminster Government does.

I also was excited to hear at the LCC Climate Committee, a speaker invited from the Yorkshire & Humber Climate Commission, who spoke about their work identifying areas of deprivation in Fuel Poverty, and how this data can help local, regional and national government help deliver grant funding that is targeted at helping people who most need it in homes across Yorkshire.

In summary, I ask readers to perhaps make a New Year’s resolution, to take a few hours of their time out one day in 2025, to attend a meeting of their Community Committee, Council, or Combined Authority. Councillors work better during committees when there

are public eyes in the gallery, and you will also likely learn something interesting about how your area is governed. Councillors will certainly appreciate your input.

Tyler Wilson-Kerr

Landlord licensing

Who in the UK charges £1,200 for a 1 hour visit? Whose hourly wage is £1,200? Yes, only Leeds council. Even dentists don’t charge £1,200 if he or she spend 1 hour. The council is just looking for an excuse to rip off people.

Another question: the council says selective licensing has had a positive impact on Harehills and Beeston, so why after 5 years put back licences in these areas again? The answer is money. Always follow the money if you need an answer. If the area is rough it’s the police and council’s responsibility to improve the area from their own pocket, which has already been paid by tax; not from landlords’ pockets.

Shahin Aftab Azari

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

Business rates relief

There was I thinking the council was strapped for cash, as they led us to believe. You can’t believe everything you read can you?

Jay Owen

Beggars Hill playground

Wow, what a disappointment. I can’t believe they’ve removed both sets of swings when there was only one seat missing that could have been replaced.

Paul

It's the saddest, cheapest park refurb ever.

Kirsten Foster

What no bus or cycle lanes ?

Mick Smith

Cobbled path closure

Our ancient paths, our rights of way, need protecting. Intrusive building should not trump the rights of people to walk in the way of their ancestors.

Ian Bentley

Gosforth Pit Disaster

The people working in the pit at the time of the disaster (p16, Dec 24) were aged between 5 and 60; men, women and children. Yet apparently the Brandlings were among the “better” mine owners / employers. Readers who want to know more about the conditions under which men, women and children

worked in the pits in the 19th century might want to listen to the song ‘The Testimony of Patience Kershaw’ by the Unthanks, it’s based on transcriptions from the Royal Commission.

Sue Talbot

Legally Blonde at Cockburn

Really amazing performance by all in the play. I had a great time watching. Ruchi Srivastava

It was amazing. I went to see it last night. They are all very talented and the music was amazing.

Brenda Barlow

Brickfield Park

Many years ago I lived on Coupland Street in Beeston and knew the area next to Lady Pit Lane as the brickfield. I see that it's now a park. Do you have any information as to how it got the name 'brickfield'?

Lynne Mawson

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.

A Plans Panel meeting at Leeds Civic Hall

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

MP’s notebook

with Hilary Benn MP

AHappyNew Year to all readers of South Leeds Life.

I’m not really a big fan of New Year resolutions, but this year I have promised that I will finally get my hearing tested. I've come to realise that my answer to too many questions put to me these days is “Who?” because I can’t always hear when there is a lot of background noise, and so it’s time to take some action.

Mind you, my Mum used to say that my Dad’s deafness could be quite selective. When he didn't want to hear things, he said that he couldn’t, whereas when he did want to hear - quite remarkably - he appeared to have no trouble at all!

She also once told me a story that when I was very young I appeared to be suffering from deafness and she started to worry that there was something

was, “Has he got any relatives who are hard of hearing who he might be imitating?" The answer was my grandfather William, and once this was pointed out to me apparently my hearing miraculously improved! But now time has caught up with me.

The festive season is over now, but it brings all sorts of joys with it.

Just before Christmas I visited an Irish language integrated nursery school in east Belfast. It was a real pleasure to meet the wonderful children and staff at Naíscoil na Seolta and I had great fun with them cutting out cats from playdoh as the children taught me some Irish words. It turned out that the little boy sitting next to me speaks French at home and now he's acquiring Gaelic as a second language.

Research appears to show

brains are at their most flexible stage. Anyway, I was really impressed. What a skill to have.

I also visited the famous Harland & Wolff shipyard on the day that its future was secured. It’s a company with a very proud shipbuilding history, including building the Titanic, but in recent years it has been in some difficulty. The staff there had been understandably anxious about the future, but one of them told me that the yard was buzzing with optimism once they had heard it confirmed that a new owner for a company had been secured and that they would be playing an important part in building three new support ships for the Royal Navy.

As Christmas presents go, it doesn’t get much better than this. And if you get the chance to visit Belfast, you’ll have no difficulty working out where the

dominate the skyline.

Like everyone else who attended, I greatly enjoyed the Lantern Festival in Cross Flatts Park just before Christmas. There was a huge crowd and a very festive atmosphere as carols were sung and the magical lanterns - as well as the sheep - were admired. A big thank you to all of those who worked so hard to put on such a special occasion, and particular thanks to the Salvation Army for keeping us all supplied with refreshing cups of tea!

Looking to the year ahead, there’s a great deal of uncertainty in the world, with conflict continuing in Ukraine and the Middle East, much discussion about possible trade tariffs and the rise of populist cynicism about the capacity of politics to achieve anything.

Social media has a big part to play in all this. Being in government is a heavy enough responsibility at the best of times, but let’s try and agree that cynicism doesn’t get us anywhere. It doesn’t achieve anything, it doesn’t help and it has nothing to contribute to solving the problems before us. What will assist ? The answer

is ideas, hard work and lots of effort. This shouldn’t really come as a surprise because it’s how anything worthwhile is achieved.

To take one recent small example, 112,000 former miners have been campaigning for a very long time to reverse an historic injustice as £1.5 billion from their own pension scheme has for years been denied to them by successive governments.

The newly-elected UK Government, however, promised to do something about this and in a recent landmark decision, my colleague Ed Miliband announced that the fund will be handed over to the pension scheme, so ensuring that former pit workers who powered the country for decades finally get their just rewards.

These former mineworkers will receive a 32% boost to their annual pensions – an average increase of £29 per week for each member and this will help 128 families living in Leeds South and many more across the country. Our country owes a debt of gratitude to these mineworkers.

The news of this decision didn’t make the headlines, but it really matters to the former miners who will now be treated fairly.

I want to pay tribute to the many people who have campaigned for. justice on this vital issue and to the elected representatives who made a promise and kept their word. So the next time somebody tells you that politics never achieves anything or that no one ever does what they promised, just bear this story in mind.

Constituency

Santa visited The Hunslet Club

Local history

with Ken Burton

South Accommodation Bridge

Continuing our series on the bridges over the River Aire and canals, we now leave Crown Point Bridge and walk south along the towpath until we come to our next and final bridge the Hunslet and South Accommodation Bridge.

Very little information has been found about this road and bridge. It was a road that ran from the Leeds & Wakefield Turnpike on Hunslet Lane /Road to the Leeds & York and the Leeds & Selby Turnpikes on York Road via a road that became known as Accommodation Road with a bridge over the River Aire.

In July and August 1825 the Leeds Mercury reported that several meetings had been held and the sum of £16,000 had been subscribed to the project. On 12 November 1827 a notice of Application to Parliament for an iron suspension bridge was made and on which included roads from the bridge to the Leeds & Wakefield Turnpike at Hunslet to the Leeds & Selby Road near

Pathways for positivity

with

Shannon Humphrey

New Year, New Diet

Here we go again. The "New Year, New Me" mantra. Still stuffed from the indulgence of December we often turn our minds to our physical appearance, exercise and food…But what if this year, we focused on a different kind of diet? One that can impact our lives just as much, if not more than what we eat: our mental diet When we think of "consumption," we usually imagine food—what we eat to fuel our bodies. But our diet is much more than just what’s on our plate. It includes what we take in mentally and emotionally every day—through TV shows, newspapers, films, social media, books, the news, radio and even the conversations we have. This

mental diet plays a powerful role in shaping our mindset, mood, and overall mental health. So as we step into a fresh year, it’s worth asking: What are we feeding our minds, and how is it affecting us?

Just like with food, some mental “nutrients” are healthy, while others are not. Watching an uplifting film or reading an inspiring book can leave us feeling motivated, hopeful, and more connected to the world around us. On the other hand, consuming too much negative news, violent media, or getting caught up in social media drama can leave us feeling anxious, stressed, or even hopeless. It's like filling up on junk food—momentarily satisfying, but ultimately

harmful if we do it too often.

In today’s world, the news is constantly at our fingertips, and often it emphasises disaster, conflict, or fear. While staying informed is important, constantly consuming negative headlines can distort our view of reality. It can make the world seem darker than it actually is and lead to heightened feelings of anxiety, worry and fear.. Worse, in the age of fake news, misinformation can create confusion and mistrust, making it harder to feel grounded or secure in what we know.

Similarly, the conversations we have shape our views. Surrounding ourselves with positive, supportive people who engage in healthy discussions can lift our spirits

namely what should be called a bow and string suspension bridge. Instead of using chains as the usual means of suspension two strong cast iron span over the whole space between two abutments. These arcs spring from below the proposed level of the roadway but rise considerably above it. From the abutments the traverse beams which support the platform of the bridge are suspended by malleable iron rods. On the bridge the space between the abutments or span of the suspending arch is 152 feet wide and spans both the River Aire and the towpath with small land arches of stone on either side. The footpaths are on the outside of the two suspending arcs with the carriageway passing between them, these are each 44 feet to give a total bridge length of 240 feet.

Each of the suspending arcs is cast in six parts and dowelled together and the ends fitted into cups cast on the springing or foundation plates to form a ball and socket joint. The cast iron transverse beams which support the roadway are suspended at about every five feet. The roadway is of timber, this was to save cost as against using iron, the timber having iron guide plates on either side; while on top of the planking were also laid malleable iron bars ranging longitudinally for the wheel tracks and transversely for the horse tracks. The foundations of the

and nourish our minds. But spending too much time around toxic people or negative conversations can weigh us down emotionally, feeding feelings of anger, cynicism, or despair.

Much like our physical diet, balance is key. We can’t (and shouldn’t) avoid all negative content or uncomfortable conversations, just like we can't eat desserts all day, there has to be balance. But being mindful of what we mentally consume and making conscious choices to include positive, enriching content and meaningful conversations can help us maintain a healthier mental state.

The New Year is the perfect time to reset, not just our physical habits, but our mental ones too. Consider how often you check the news or scroll through social media. Do these activities leave you feeling

bridge rest upon bearing piles and the total expense was about £4,200.

The approach roads known as Accommodation Road (Upper and South) were not built as originally proposed but entered York Road at the Riding School which was about half a mile to the west of Black Bank. The extension to the Leeds & Roundhay Road was never carried out.

The Trustees held an Annual General Meeting on 30 April 1830 and it is thought that the bridge and its road were open by then. It would appear that the road and bridge were not well used because in April 1831 at a Special Meeting a proposal was made that the tolls should be reduced. However, it wasn’t until 17 February 1860 that the road and bridge was made free of tolls.

By the 1890s could no longer cope with the volume of traffic crossing the river so this original bridge was demolished in 1899 and replaced by a lattice girder bridge once again this as with Monk Bridge was designed by Thomas Hewson the City Engineer with a span of 146 feet and a width of 50 feet.

In 1992 Thomas Hewson’s bridge was replaced by a new Inner Ring Road bridge that was completed alongside the Hewson bridge before this too was demolished leaving a much altered area in the district.

informed and inspired, or overwhelmed and anxious? Are the shows you watch and the books you read helping you grow, or just filling your time? Even the people you surround yourself with are part of your mental diet—are they lifting you up or pulling you down?

This year, instead of only focusing on cutting calories or carbs, think about cutting back on mental junk food. Just as we

balance our meals with a variety of nutrients, we can balance our mental diet by consuming content that inspires, having conversations that uplift, and seeking out the interesting bits that make us feel wonderful! And all this without treadmill in sight!

Shannon Humphrey is a first aid for mental health instructor find out more about her work at pathwaysforpositivity.com

Black Bank (now Ivy Street) then to the Leeds & Roundhay Turnpike at Harehills Lane.

George Leather of Bradford was named as the Engineer

and a small cost saving measure on the cast iron bridge was that it was to be floored in timber instead of iron plating. In June 1828 the Royal

Assent was received for the Act of Parliament.

George Leather chose to use the same design of bridge that he had used at Monk Bridge,

South Accommodation suspension bridge

Leeds expands support to help more smokers quit for good

Healthbosses in Leeds have expanded their stop smoking services to help encourage residents to kick the habit – as figures show there are currently more than 111,000 people in the city who still smoke.

Recent data taken from GP practices shows 16.6% of the adult population in Leeds are regular smokers, equating to 111,774 people.

Of these, most are in the age range of 30-59 (62%) and higher rates can be seen among men compared to women.

The data also shows fewer people are starting to smoke, with some of the lowest smoking rates seen in the 1829 age group.

Leeds City Council has recently been awarded additional funding from the Department of Health and Social Care to expand its local stop smoking services and help more people to successfully quit the habit.

Most people who smoke have made numerous attempts to stop in the past and studies show people are three times more likely to succeed when accessing specialist support such as that offered through Leeds Stop Smoking Service, rather than attempting it alone.

To help raise awareness of the service and the many benefits of quitting, a city-wide campaign has been launched.

And it appears to be striking a chord as November alone saw a record 624 people sign up to the service – the highest monthly total since the contract began in April 2023 and almost double the 346 people who signed up last November.

A key reason cited by many when seeking help was the desire to save money, with smoking estimated to cost someone with a 20-a-day habit around £5,500 a year –enough to fund a family holiday or help towards rising household bills.

The health benefits of

quitting are also clear. Tobacco is a uniquely harmful product, responsible for one in four of all cancer deaths and killing up to two-thirds of its long-term users – around 80,000 people a year in the UK.

Almost every minute, someone is admitted to a UK hospital because of smoking and up to 75,000 GP appointments can be attributed to the habit.

Research shows quitting halves the risk of a heart attack

within a year and has also been shown to improve mental health through reduced anxiety, depression and stress.

The Leeds Stop Smoking Service provides free help to people who wish to stop, with individuals being assigned an expert health coach for ongoing support.

As well as offering one-to-one appointments – both digitally and face-to-face – the service also offers group sessions in community venues across the

city for peer support.

The government funding is part of a national ambition to create a ‘smokefree generation’ by 2030. MPs recently backed plans to make it illegal for anyone currently aged 15 or younger to ever buy cigarettes in the UK in future.

The proposals form part of the new Tobacco and Vapes bill currently going through Parliament and include extending the smoking ban to any public place or vehicle.

Councillor Fiona Venner, Leeds City Council’s executive member for equality, health and wellbeing, said:

“Stopping smoking is the single most effective step a person can take to improve their health, wealth and wellbeing.

“Leeds City Council is committed to supporting residents to quit smoking for good and figures show our estimated smoking rates have halved since the start of the millennium, from 33 per cent to the 16.6 per cent seen now.

“I would urge people to contact the service for help –whether directly or through your GP.

“Even if you have tried to quit before, we will keep supporting you.”

Victoria Eaton, Leeds City Council’s director of public health, said:

“Stopping smoking brings big rewards in all aspects of your life and this is true of quitting any age.

“Undoubtedly, the earlier a person stops, the greater the gain and research shows people who stop before the age of 35 can revert their life expectancy close to that of a non-smoker.

“Our services are ready to support you on your journey to being smoke-free. Please take that step today towards a healthier, happier future for you, and your family.”

Leeds Stop Smoking Service in the community is delivered by Reed Wellbeing on behalf of Leeds City Council.

Mental health charity Community Links will also soon be providing support for people living with long term conditions to stop smoking.

These community services are in addition to wider support available across the city, alongside other NHS Englandfunded support available in hospitals and pharmacies.

To find out more or sign up to the service, visit www.leedsstopsmoking.co.uk or call 0800 169 4219

Free* tickets for Leeds Playhouse

Once again we are offering free* tickets to shows at Leeds Playhouse this spring and summer.

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

As a city, Leeds forged an unlikely but enduring connection with Leeds United manager Marcelo Bielsa – a relationship that inspired Leeds playwright Chris O’Connor’s Through it All Together, which will enjoy its world premiere in the Playhouse’s Courtyard theatre in June. It focuses on an ordinary Yorkshire couple’s extraordinary passion for football, while exploring living with dementia and the bonds that unite both families and fans. The production has been closely developed with people living with dementia who attend Leeds United Foundation’s Corner Flag Café, a fortnightly football themed session for people living with dementia (23 June – 19 July).

The House Party is an adaptation of August Strindberg’s Miss Julie, and will launch its UK tour in Leeds. The production will feature members of Frantic Assembly’s Ignition programme, a free, nationwide talent development programme for young people.

(21 February – 1 March)

In the year George Orwell’s political fable marks its 80th anniversary, a fresh interpretation of Animal Farm comes to the stage. This chilling and thought-provoking story of treachery and rebellion provides a timely reminder of the perils of unchecked power.

(12 – 29 March)

Coraline – A Musical is a fantastically spooky new musical that will enjoy its world premiere at Leeds Playhouse in

ahead of a national tour. It has been adapted by awardwinning playwright and screenwriter Zinnie Harris, with music and lyrics by British musician and songwriter Louis Barabbas. (11 April – 11 May)

Sisters 360 is a new play by acclaimed Bradford playwright Asif Khan inspired by real-life skateboarding sisters Layna, Maysa and Amaya, and their Olympian hero Sky Brown. This production will open in the Bramall Rock Void and will be the Playhouse’s Community Tour offering to communities across the Leeds City Region. (7 – 10 May)

Tambo & Bones, one of the most talked about cultural events of 2023 is coming to Leeds Playhouse as part of its UK premiere national tour. Tambo & Bones was written by spoken word poet and playwright Dave Harris and is a blistering exploration of the intersection between race, capitalism and performance. (14 – 24 May)

A Thousand Splendid Suns, an unflinching, life-affirming drama, in which love grows and sustains the human spirit even during the hardest of times, the production is set in warravaged Afghanistan, where orphaned Laila is left alone in an increasingly threatening world. (28 May – 14 June)

Tracy-Ann Oberman is reprising her starring role as the first British actress to play Shylock in a new national tour of The Merchant of Venice 1936. (18 – 22 February)

You can find out more about all the shows at leeds playhouse.org.uk/whats-on

If you live, work or play in LS10 or LS11 and would like free* tickets to any of these shows please email info@southleedslife.com and tell us which show you’d like to see and why you would like to see it. Please note that the dates of press nights are still to be confirmed.

Art in the Community: Upcoming events from Creative Communities

by Penny Lewis

TheSwarthmore Creative Communities project is thrilled to share the exciting progress of their first artist residency in Hunslet.

Artist Rozi Fuller has been working diligently, and the results are inspiring. Keep an eye on our Facebook page search for Creative Communities) for sneak peeks of the amazing work. A celebratory installation event will be held in February, so stay tuned for dates and further information.

Please welcome Elnaz Yazdani to Belle Isle in January. Elnaz is a talented embroidery artist who will be based at Bitmo's Gate on Monday mornings and will be out and about in the community on Fridays.

If you're interested in getting involved, please get in contact with us. You can find examples of Elnaz's stunning work on her website.

www.elnazyazdani.com

Upcoming Workshops:

Don't miss out on the final set of 10-week workshops before the project concludes in June. These workshops offer a fantastic opportunity to engage with the arts.

Leeds Involve, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, LS10 2QE Tuesdays 10am- 2pm

14 January – 25 March

South Leeds United Reform Church / Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, LS10 3LG Wednesdays 10am-2pm 15 January – 26 March

Hamara Healthy Living Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD

Introducing Art Camp to The Hunslet Club

by Zoe Creasser

Historicallyknown for its strong focus on sports and other recreational activities, The Hunslet Club has recently expanded its offerings to engage young people who may not be as interested in sports but are seeking creative activities outside of school.

With the addition of our resident arts teacher Josh, the club has significantly broadened its arts programme. Over the past year, they have successfully planned and delivered a variety of arts sessions, workshops, and projects in their education provision and during free youth clubs.

The most recent initiative, Art Camp, brought together young art enthusiasts, providing them with the chance to learn new skills, explore different techniques, express their creativity, and have fun in a supportive, safe environment during the school holidays.

The art-specific school holiday programme at The Hunslet Club was a huge success, with all 60 places filled over two days. The

programme’s success can be attributed to a combination of factors: strong community demand, diverse artistic offerings, and a clear focus on providing high-quality, engaging experiences for young people.

Parents and young people were eager for creative alternatives during the school holidays, and we responded by offering a range of art forms— from sketching, scrapbooking and painting to acrylic canvas painting to printing. This variety

not only appealed to a wide range of interests but also gave participants the opportunity to explore different mediums, encouraging them to develop new skills and discover new passions.

By focusing on creativity and self-expression, we provided a safe, positive environment for young people to develop confidence, build relationships, and showcase their talents.

Additionally, the success of the programme highlights the

Thursdays 10am-2pm 16 January – 27 March

To register your interest, email creative.communities @swarthmore.org.uk or call me, Penny, on 07438 666342 You can find a registration form at bit.ly/SwarthmoreCreative Communities

growing interest in arts education within the community. It demonstrated the value of offering accessible, structured, and fun activities during the holidays, helping to combat boredom and engage young people in meaningful ways. This initiative has set a strong foundation for future arts programmes at The Hunslet Club. What do I need to do to attend? Tickets for Art Camp will be available to purchase on our website. Our art camps will run during various school holidays in 2025.

If you have any questions regarding Art Camp please get in touch admin@hunsletclub .org.uk or call us on 0113 271 6489

Children show off their work at Art Camp

Work by Rozi Fuller

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

St Andrew’s Pantomime Group presents Babes In The Wood

they

to make sure

This

Restoring

Hope Women’s Group, a peer support group, will be holding meetings in Belle Isle starting later this month.

The weekly sessions will run every Wednesday from 67:30pm at BITMO’s Gate Centre (LS10 3QH)

A spokesperson said: “As a women's mental health peer support group, we strive to overcome the isolating challenges many face. If you, or someone you know, is struggling with mental health and desires a supportive and inclusive community, please don't hesitate to contact us.”

Email restoringhopewomens group@gmail.com

Members

of the HALO project at Hamara Healthy Living Centre, which supports adults with learning disabilities and autism, have opened a cafe.

Offering Karak Chai and light bites, the cafe is open Monday to Friday between 1-3pm.

The cafe is run by members who have achieved their NVQ level 2 qualification in principles of food & hygiene for catering. Everything is homemade, delicious and very affordable.

Hamara Healthy Living Centre is on Tempest Road in Beeston (LS11 6RD).

This is always a seasonal highlight in Beeston and bookings have been busy, but it’s not too late to get your tickets.

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 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?

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: standrewspantogroup @hotmail.com

The cast and crew at St Andrew’s Pantomime group in Beeston have been working hard

are ready for curtain up on first night, Saturday 18 January.

year’s show is Babes In

The Wood, a show they haven’t staged since 2011.

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.

The cast are waiting to welcome you to St Andrew’s

Photo: Shutterstock

What’s On

Full

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, LS11 0HJ 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

Walking Group

1-2:30pm meet at Asha, 43 Stratford Street, LS11 6JG

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

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

1st SLAM Beavers (6-8 yrs)

6-7:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston

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

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Women only Exercise (HFA)

9:30-10:15am Beeston Village

Community Centre, off Town St IT & Computer Skills

9:30am-12pm Asha

Neighbourhood Project, Beeston

Toast & Games, Knit & Natter

9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road.

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

January

Saturday 4 January

Hunslet Cemetery Volunteers

10am-1pm Middleton Road

Coffee morning

10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road, Hunslet

Sunday 5 January

Kurdish House Community Litterpick

1-4pm former Golden Lion pub, Beeston Road, LS11 8RP

Monday 6 January

Middleton Community Group

6pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road, LS10 4LF Greenmounts and surrounding area Tenants & Residents

6pm Rowland Road Social Club

Wednesday 8 January

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

MEA Film Club: Educating Rita

1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4JQ

Thursday 9 January

Holbeck Wellbeing Breakfast

10-11am 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

Saturday 11 January

Leeds Dads Soft Play

10am-12pm Little Angels, Beeston, LS11 7HL

Community/Reflections Cafe

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

Sunday 12 January

Sunday Breakfast

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

10am-4pm Armouries Square, Leeds Dock, LS10 1LT Middleton Gosforth Pit Disaster Memorial Service

2pm St Mary’s Church, Town Street, Middleton, LS10 3TJ

Hunslet RLFC v York City Knights

3pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ

Tuesday 14 January

MEA Hearing Aid Clinic

10am-12:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4JQ

Wednesday 15 January

MEA Live Entertainment with Stephanie

1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4JQ

MHA Connie Crafters

3-4:30pm South Leeds

Conservative Club, Wooler Street, Beeston, LS11 7JH

Full

Thursday 16 January

SEN-tastic

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

Leeds Baby Bank

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

St Luke’s Tenants and Residents Association

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

Saturday 18 January

Repair Cafe

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

Tuesday 21 January

Police Contact Point

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

Your Voice Your Community: Garnets & Oakleys

6-7:30pm St Luke’s CARES Shop, 246 Dewsbury Road, LS11 6JQ

Wednesday 22 January

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Police Contact Point

10:30am-12pm Holbeck Moor Road, outside St Matthew’s MHA Social Afternoon 3pm Tommy Wass pub, Dewsbury Road, Beeston, LS11 7LJ

Thursday 23 January

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

Sunday 26 January

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

Monday 27 January

Beeston Hill Community Association

6:30pm Hamara Centre Tempest Road, LS11 6RD

Tuesday 28 January

Wednesday 29 January

Councillor surgery

9:30-10:30am Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4JQ

Holbeck Cemetery Volunteers

10am-1pm Fairfax Road, Beeston, LS11 8SY

Coffee Morning and Bingo 10am-12pm Cardinal Court, Beeston, LS11 8HP

Thursday 30 January

Hunslet Remembered

10-11:30am Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street, LS10 2NS

Friday 31 January

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

Saturday 1 February

Leeds Dads Soft Play 10am-12pm Little Angels, Beeston, LS11 7HL

Support for ice hockey grows with Leeds Knights’ success

by Mike Ullah

After a strong December Leeds Knights look to continue their strong form into the New Year.

Plenty of wins in December sees the Beeston-based ice hockey side currently second in the league table, winning 22 out of 29 games this season.

The Knights were unbeaten in the League in December having won all seven matches.

Additionally, they drew the first leg of the Cup semi final. If they can overcome Sheffield Steeldogs on 31 December (after we go to press) they will face the Romford Raiders in the Cup Final.

The sport of ice hockey

continues to grow in popularity in Leeds. Strong performances and good entertainment has certainly helped attract fans.

In January the Knights play nine league matches throughout the month. They play at home at Planet Ice, on Elland Road in Beeston on:

Sat 4th v Hull Seahawks

Sun 12th v Bristol Pitbulls

Fri 17th Sheffield Steeldogs

Sun 19th v Berkshire Bees

Sat 25th v Peterborough Phantoms

The top four in the NIHL National League table as of 29 December:

1. MK Lightning

2. Leeds Knights

3. Swindon Wildcats

4. Hull Seahawks

Hunslet RLFC and The Hunslet Club join forces in the community

The Hunslet Club has been the heart of South Leeds since it was established in 1940.

It has been a vital provider of youth services, affordable activities, and alternative education for young people in the area and beyond.

Known for its rich connection to Rugby League, the Club has produced several notable players, such as Graham King, Chev Walker, and Jason Robinson OBE. The Club’s

rugby section, Hunslet ARLFC, has been a dominant force in community Rugby League and now The Hunslet Club will proudly serve as the community arm for the region’s professional team, Hunslet RLFC.

CEO Dennis Robbins explained

“Over the last couple of years we have had a few conversations as to how we could work closer together for the benefit of the community.

Things have gathered momentum over the last few months and we are all looking forward to seeing what the partnership can bring.”

Hunslet RLFC’s Community Director Phil Hodgson is equally enthused:

“I was a member at the ‘Boys Club’ back in the day and will be forever grateful for what they provided me.

“They are Gold Standard at everything they do and you only have to walk through the door to feel the energy around the place. Promotion to the Championship means there needs to be a step up in all areas of our operation.

“Having the support and expertise of the Hunslet Club will be invaluable to us in delivering our community programme. For our part we will be providing match tickets for all the Hunslet Club members and promoting the fantastic work they do through our media platforms.”

Leeds Knights play at Planet Ice on Elland Road in Beeston

Hunslet CEO Neil Hampshire and President Peter Jarvis meet Hunslet Club’s Dennis Robbins and Andrew Beadnall

Football for solidarity

by Claire Blue

Holbeck Moor FC Women recently travelled to Doncaster to participate in a tournament hosted by Girl Power.

Girl Power is an organisation that works across Europe, the UK and the Middle East, to use sport and education as tools to empower, connect and unify women and girls from all cultures and social backgrounds

Khalida Popal, former

captain of the Afghan National team and founder of Girl Power, explained that:

“The tournament is a culmination of a leadership course we have been running with a group of Afghan women footballers who were forced to flee to the UK when the Taliban seized power in 2021”.

Many of the players had experienced death threats in their home country and had been prevented from taking part in the sport they love.

“Meeting this inspiring group

of women made us feel so grateful for the opportunities we have.

“Football can serve as a way to bring groups together to share experiences and offer support and solidarity. It’s about having fun and forgetting our problems,” said Holbeck Moor player Ruth Tucknott.

Holbeck Moor entered a joint team with fellow Leeds club Republica Internationale.

Other teams who played in the 11-a-side tournament were a team from Football Unites

Racism Divides in Sheffield and Route One Rovers FC from Bradford, who went on to win the tournament.

Back in March 2023, Holbeck Moor Women became the first ever Women’s Football Club of Sanctuary in the UK. Club Ambassador Wan Abdullah was quick to make connections between the two groups, explaining that:

“Both teams have very similar values, recognising the social value of football in bringing communities together.

The benefits that football brings are so much greater than the final result of a game”.

Local kids shine at Leeds’ first competition in years

by Tim Abeyie

The energy was electric at sprinting competition in Leeds last month as young athletes gave it their all, showcasing incredible talent and determination.

A massive thank you goes out to every child who participated — you made the event truly special with your outstanding performances.

This marks a significant milestone, as it was the first competition of its kind in Leeds for many years. The event wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support

from volunteers, organisers, and the local community.

For those who couldn’t attend, don’t worry — there’s more to come! Another competition is already in the works for 2 March, so mark your calendars and keep training hard.

You can find more photos and videos from the event on our Facebook page (Speed For Sport Academy) capturing all the action and excitement. The event was a reminder of the incredible talent and community spirit in Leeds — we can’t wait to see everyone back in March!

More success for Middleton teenager

represented Team England MMA in the youth IMMAF World Championships in Abu Dhabi recently. He won his first fight via stopage in just over 1½ minutes, one of the fastest submissions of the tournament. He then went on to place 10th in the world, a great achievement.

Theo then fought in the European BJJ tournament and won Gold, he is now the European Champion 2024.

Players from Holbeck Moor FC at the tournament

Theo Kenward from Middleton

Young people took on the sprint challenge

Boxing is thriving in South Leeds

by James Bovington

The local South Leeds boxing scene continues to thrive with three late autumn shows giving boxers the chance to showcase skills and demonstrate courage.

Middleton’s Rawa Rashid won his first boxing bout on Beeston promoter Tristan Haynes eleventh show at Leeds Angler’s Club. Sixteen-year-old Rashid beat his opponent Bradford’s Ibrahim Iddis by knockout in the second of three two-minute rounds in what a commentator described as “an aggressive and exhilarating encounter which made it clear just how tough and courageous these two teenagers are.” Rashid trains in Morley at Leeds Martial Arts and previously fought an MMA bout. “I was delighted with my boxing performance,” said Rashid, “and I want to thank my coaches for the time they’ve spent training me. I’m keen to box again soon.”

Gracjan Krupski trains at MSA in Beeston where Haynes also runs his club. Well known on the Muay Thai circuit, Krupski, 17, beat Wakefield’s Nathan Wilson to take the promotion’s novice boxing title. Krupski said “I’ve trained as a Thai boxer for six years and always wanted to be a champion now I also want to continue boxing and do well in both.”

Ben Finlay and Owen Ineson who train with Haynes also won their bouts. Finlay was awarded ‘Fighter of the Year’ by Haynes and has made a name for himself on the local unlicensed circuit having won thirteen of seventeen matches. Kieran MacMillan, 17, only started training with Haynes earlier in

2024 but has been named ‘most improved boxer of the year.’ MacMillan demonstrated what he’d learnt in a nonscored skills bout but hopes to have a decision match next time.

Uncle and nephew Ryan and Thomas Winstanley won bouts on separate shows organised by Hunslet’s Golden Team gym and local promoter Mark Holmes.

“I’m proud to have won the Holmes Promotions 72kg title belt,” said Ryan, 33. “I started boxing two years ago to help beat the usual addictions. I’m a typical lad with ADHD. Boxing’s given me the focus to change my life and it's all thanks to the training at Golden Team in Hunslet. Boxing makes me feel good,

but I don't like waking up the morning after a tough training session.”

Nephew Thomas, 17, admits that until he started boxing

Middleton’s Devin Myers made a further successful defence of his Holmes Promotions title belt against Retford’s Ethan Waring who

training a year ago “I was going off the tracks mixing with the wrong crowd. Uncle Ryan advised me that if I knuckled down, I’d find people would help and it’s true. I’ve fallen in love with boxing, hard though the four weekly training sessions are. Now I want to win belts and eventually become a professional boxer.”

“Thomas has had two bouts. He lost the first to a more experienced lad but won the second on the Golden Team home show decisively,” explained Ryan. “We should both next be boxing locally in February and maybe together.”

Plans

to bring a cricket net facility to the John Charles Centre for Sport have been granted planning permission.

The works, replacing a footpath with a four lane cricket net facility, will begin once a contractor has been appointed with the aim to complete the project before the 2025 cricket season.

The site lies between two sets of five-a-side football courts and a tennis court.

The cricket nets are fully funded by the England and Wales Cricket Board at a cost of £75,000.

Councillor Andrew Scopes (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck), said:

“It’s great that the John Charles Centre will get some extra sporting facilities on unused space at no extra cost to the council.

“I know our community wants more space for cricket, so this is an exciting development which we’ve been pushing for. I’d encourage keen cricketers to keep an eye out for the completion of this work and to use the nets when they’re up and running in 2025.”

Councillor Salma Arif, Executive Member for Adult Social Care, Active Lifestyles and Culture, said:

“We work hard to deliver topquality sport and wellbeing facilities that give people in Leeds the means and motivation to keep active.

“The new cricket facilities at the John Charles Centre will be an excellent example of the results being delivered by this approach and the difference we are making to our communities.”

boxed with courage and determination in just his second outing but failed to withstand the relentless pressure applied by Myers.

Golden Team can be contacted on Facebook or at goldenteamp1@icloud.com or on 07432 297690 . Owner Padraic McDonagh congratulated the Winstanleys “for fighting for the family name and turning their lives round for a golden future.” If you are interested in training with Haynes the email contact is thpaintersanddecorators @gmail.com or Tristan Haynes on Facebook.

Hunslet

RLFC have confirmed that their first pre-season friendly this year will be against York City Knights.

The match will take place on Sunday 12 January at South Leeds Stadium, kick off is at 3pm.

Admission for the game is: over 16s £10; Under 16s FREE ticket can be bought online at hunsletrlfc.com

At the end of the month Hunslet will start their Challenge Cup campaign away at either Lock Lane or Doncaster Toll Bar on the weekend of 25/26 January.

It will be the first chance to see Dean Muir’s new look squad in action against an established Championship team.

Photo: Shutterstock

Owen Ineson with his team

Rawa Rashid

Gracjan Krupski