South Leeds Life 123 October 2025

Your FREE community newspaper Issue 123 | October 2025

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

BLOOMING MARVELOUS!

Awards galore for South Leeds gardeners at Yorkshire in Bloom

by Jeremy Morton

Beeston

in Bloom led the charge for South Leeds at the Yorkshire in Bloom awards last week (25 September 2025), winning their fifth straight Gold medal.

Competing in the Urban Community class, the judges described the group as “rich with art, plants, community and talent.” They were impressed by the group’s sustainable planting, re-use and recycle ethos and pride in local history.

The painted utility boxes were praised as were the crocheted post box toppers whilst “the litter pickers from Beeston Womblers are vigilant and help keep the streets and green spaces safe, clean and inviting.”

Singled out for special praise was eighty-something year old Vivienne Bate, who received an Outstanding Achievement Award. Commenting on the award, Vivienne told South Leeds Life:

“Of course I am thrilled and honoured, but I also feel a bit guilty as I don't do much for Beeston in Bloom these days. But I've been a member since 2000 and I was the Secretary for about 8 years, including

when we represented Yorkshire in Britain in Bloom, so I suppose I did make some impact. Either way, I'm not giving the award back!”

Angela Gabriel, Chair of

Beeston in Bloom said:

“I’m highly delighted that we’ve once again won Gold. It shows how much work everybody puts in and how the Womblers keep Beeston really

tidy.

“Congratulations to Vivienne who won a well-deserved achievement award for her longstanding work, she’s an inspiration to the rest of the group.”

Also winning Gold, in the Small Business class was Middleton Railway. Judges commented that “everything is well maintained and planters are used to provide some colour in what is rightly an industrial zone.” They continued: “on the platform the planters provide an impressive display and illustrate how much work has been put into planting and maintenance.”

Charles Milner, Chair of the Middleton Railway said:

“We are delighted to once again take home a Gold Award. It’s a great accolade to our Gardener, Mick Jackson, who works so hard to produce the floral displays we all enjoy each year.”

Elsewhere, White Rose Shopping Centre was awarded Silver. The judges commented: “The hanging baskets looked very good and well maintained with a nice colour mix … The bees on the roof were an added bonus.”

Neighbours, White Rose Office Park won Gold, and

judges praised: “The border planting (which) includes many herbaceous perennials providing a vivid show from spring through to autumn as well as seed heads for structure and forage through the winter.”

Leeds Valley Park in Stourton was awarded Silver Gilt. The judges said “Some of the plants and borders have struggled in the intense heat and drought but, overall, the area still looks well maintained.”

Acre Court sheltered housing complex in Middleton was judged as part of the RHS It’s Your Neighbourhood scheme receiving a Level 4 ‘Thriving’ assessment. The judges commented:

“It was lovely to see the difference that this group makes to the residents of Acre Court and to see how many people are actually getting involved. It was very impressive to hear of residents, making their own wooden planting containers.

“The gardening club which meets every other week is a lovely idea. It was good to hear that so much recycling is taking place and that the group is composting and making use of a water butt.”

Vivienne Bate receives her Outstanding Achievement Award

About us

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

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

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

Our aims

To inform people of events, activities, issues and opportunities taking place in the South Leeds community;

To encourage the involvement of the wider community in communicating their experiences;

To foster community spirit and involvement; and

To provide a platform for local people to contribute and respond to community life more fully.

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

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

Contact us

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Padel courts plan for Holbeck film studio

Aplanningapplication has been made to covert one of the buildings at Versa TV and film studios in Holbeck into a Padel Tennis Centre.

Padel is a sport that combines elements of squash and tennis, which is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. Needing less skill and fitness than either tennis or squash it is seen as a more inclusive and social activity.

As we reported in March, permission was being sought for temporary padel courts at Aire Park, however this application was recently withdrawn.

The planned indoor Padel Tennis Centre will include six doubles courts and two singles courts. Two of the double courts will be classed as premium, designed to competition standards. These will be overlooked by a mezzanine viewing area and café service hot and cold food and drinks.

The entrance area will be

enlarged to include reception, shop and waiting area. There will be onsite parking for 32 vehicles plus cycle and motorbike spaces.

In their planning statement, the developers, Quantum Padel Leeds Ltd, say: “The development will generate

around 15 new jobs, contribute to the local economy, and create wider spin-off benefits for the city centre fringe. It will also deliver important social and health benefits, encouraging more people to participate in sport and promoting an active lifestyle within an inclusive and accessible setting.”

You can view and comment on the full planning application at: bit.ly/HolbeckPadel

New tenants move into Aire Park

Global

law firm Eversheds Sutherland have announced they will move into Aire Park, the former Tetleys brewery site in Hunslet, whilst Tesco have opened the first shop on the site.

Vastint UK the developer behind Leeds’ 24-acre Aire Park is set to welcome leading global law firm Eversheds Sutherland as the first tenant of its latest commercial building - Kellstone.

Due to move in early 2027, following the building’s completion, Eversheds Sutherland will occupy nearly two thirds of the building, taking a lease on floors three to five, and part of level six. In addition to this, the firm will have exclusive use of the building’s roof terrace, which offers panoramic views of the city and the evolving green space that is set to become the UK’s largest new urban park.

Stephen Lindley, Managing Director at Vastint UK, said:

“We are incredibly proud of Kellstone, which is not just our latest building but a landmark for Aire Park and Leeds as a whole. It’s fantastic to see a global business like Eversheds Sutherland recognise this and select it as its new home in the city.

“I look forward to welcoming the whole Eversheds Sutherland team to our growing Aire Park community, and what is becoming one of the leading office locations in the North.”

Simon Harris, Leeds Senior Office Partner, Eversheds Sutherland added,

“Our relocation to Aire Park marks a significant investment in our

colleague and client communities and our commitment to the city of Leeds.

Aire Park presents a unique and exciting offering and we’re looking forward to reaping the benefits of the regeneration of the South Bank and becoming a key part of the Aire Park community.”

Meanwhile, Tesco is the first retailer to open on the ground floor of Vastint’s first commercial buildings, 1 & 3 South Brook Street.

The new Express store opened on 19 August and the retailer occupies a 3,488 sq ft unit on the ground

floor of 3 South Brook Street.

Having already attracted tenants including legal firm Devonshires, workplace pensions provider TPT and investment platform interactive investor, Aire Park’s new commercial district at South Brook Street will eventually feature almost ¾ million sq ft of new office space on Leeds South Bank.

Stephen Lindley, managing director at Vastint UK, commented:

“Tesco is a welcome addition to 3 South Brook Street and will provide a convenient and reliable retail option for not only the employees at

South Brook Street but also visitors to the evolving eight-acre public park at the heart of the development, and the people who will eventually call Aire Park home.”

Tristan Emptage, Property Planning Manager at Tesco, said:

“We’re excited to be the first retailer at Aire Park and look forward to seeing the benefits the ongoing development brings to Leeds. Our new store will play an active role in the community and offer a wide range of products to customers and great value through our Clubcard prices promotions.”

Photo: Google

Baton of Hope visits Holbeck on World Suicide Prevention Day

by Jeremy Morton

There was a packed house at St Matthew’s Community Centre in Holbeck on Wednesday, World Suicide Prevention Day (10 September for a performance of Men’s Talk ahead of a visit from the Baton of Hope.

This powerful production was performed by six men with lived experience of mental health issues. The ensemble combined speech and movement to explore a range of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD; look at their roots for each man and explode the myths that poor mental health means you are weak and need to ‘man up’.

From childhood games to jibes on the assembly line the scenes played out leading to feelings of isolation and selfloathing. It didn’t shy away to reality of self-harm and suicide.

A powerful section went through the statistics of fuel debt, disability benefits and more, each topic interspersed with an ironic chorus of “We are the reckless, the feckless, the underserving poor; We’ve got our hands out, we’re demanding more.”

The over-riding message of performance was the importance of talking to someone when things aren’t going well.

In the question and answer afterwards it was explained that every episode depicted had happened to the men, but that the stories were mixed up so that no one had to tell their own story as that would be too difficult, too triggering, for amateur performers.

Asked about the process they explained that rehearsals

took place in a safe, nonjudgemental space.

“Dealing with performing in public helps you deal with other difficult issues in your life” explained one of the cast.

“It brings you out of yourself” said another “and it’s empowering to know that you’re making a difference.”

As we waited for the arrival of the Baton of Hope, I spoke to two women who would be carrying on its next legs across the city.

Lindsay Atkinson-Buckley told me:

“My brother unfortunately took his own life seven years ago and I also work as a Coroner’s Officer so I spend my days helping families so it was important to me to get involved.

“It’s lovely to see so many people come together. I think it’s really important to have these kinds of events where families and friends can come together, because I think it’s such a difficult form of grief, it’s like no other.

“When you meet others that have experienced it you do form bonds and you form a little community which offers more support when the events stop, when the anniversaries aren’t there, but the days are still hard.

“This is a really lovely area for me (to be carrying the baton). It’s where we used to park with my brother and my grandad to walk to Leeds United matches when we were kids and my great grandma used to live in the flats that used to be over

the road, so it’s the perfect area that my brother would have loved.”

Caroline Lipman explained:

“My daughter Alice who died when she was 20, three years ago. She was a young trans woman awaiting healthcare. We all know what our government is doing to trans people and limiting their rights and their access to care, so I’m walking to raise awareness of the impact of not acknowledging trans existence.”

When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.

Cockburn MAT: why we’re taking on Middleton

Leisure Centre

Wereported last month on plans for Cockburn Multiacademy Trust, which runs Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy to lease Middleton Leisure Centre from the council (We want our leisure centre, page 1).

Cockburn MAT were unable to respond to our request for comment before we went to press, but did send us a statement a few days later. Here it is in full:

“Cockburn Multi-academy Trust were approached by Leeds City Council regarding the potential lease of the Middleton Leisure Centre facilities asking if there was interest from the MAT to take over operations of the building, other than the multi-purpose gym, for use by students at Cockburn Laurence Calvert

which is managed by Leeds City Council lettings department. Cockburn School facilities are used 7 days a week for community lettings already as will Cockburn Laurence Calvert’s existing spaces which will increase community facilities available for community usage.

“Cockburn MAT remains committed to ensuring that their community schools are used by the community as much as possible and continue to invest in this. For example, the Cockburn School original 3G pitch is currently being resurfaced at great cost ready for the new football season. This will benefit the school students and the host of community groups that use it across evenings and weekends. If the lease of Middleton Leisure

Academy, so that the facilities were retained within the local community. This would prevent closure and safeguard the future of the leisure centre.

“As this academy is now full with 5 year groups including the first Year 11 cohort, the additional space for arts and sporting activity would be a huge benefit to their students from the Middleton community.

“The primary use of the facilities by the academy will be during the day when the leisure centre is currently at its quietest. After student use, all of the facilities would be promoted as available for lettings by the community

Centre goes ahead, Cockburn MAT is committed to making a major investment to improve the facilities for the benefit of students and the wider community.

“Cockburn MAT fully agrees that the Middleton facilities are a “vital community hub” and in no way want to have a negative impact on the community –quite the opposite in fact. The motto of the MAT is “Working in the Spirit of Partnership” and this most certainly applies here.”

Negotiations between the MAT and the council continue and no date has been set for the handover.

Middleton Leisure Centre

The Baton of Hope prepares to leave St Matthew’s Community Centre

On the beat

with Inspector Mark Lund

As summer draws to a close and the darker months fast approach I just want to say thank you for the community in supporting not only the police but the wider partnership to help us deliver in your community.

We need you, the people, to report and help us so that we can tackle the issues quicker and correctly, using the correct interventions for longer term problem solving.

I have been working on a new communications strategy along with the Councillors so that we can better inform residents on what we are doing and have done, along the 'you said, we did' principles.

South Leeds has a strong community with lots of people and groups doing lots of things to support the wider area as well as the local people, seeing and hearing about the good work that goes on is still humbling. Highlighting the good work, supporting one another will only make the communities stronger.

As we head towards October

and November we will all see an increase in firework related incidents. Your local neighbourhood team is currently undertaking a number of initiatives to educate young people about fireworks, conducting test purchases on shops as well as targeted high visibility patrols.

Please report incidents of anti-social behaviour relating to fireworks, this gives us more specific times and locations of repeat offenders.

Fireworks are liked by some and hated by others, if you are having you own small display,

please stay safe and use them correctly, consider your neighbours and the wider community and how they may be affected, as a general rule times are between 7am and 11pm apart from actual bonfire night, Diwali, New Years Eve and the Chinese New Year.

You are now able to contact local officers via this link: bit.ly/NPTcontact

Thank you again for your support, Please continue to report either utilising the 101 system on the phone or online, Crimestoppers, or 999 in an emergency.

Have your say on South Accommodation Road bus improvements

As we reported last November, Leeds City Council is proposing to introduce changes to South Accommodation Road and the Atkinson Street roundabout which aim to tackle congestion, make bus journeys quicker and more reliable, and promote sustainable travel options along this key route.

South Accommodation Road is a key route into Leeds city centre from Hunslet, with 15 buses using the route each hour. Congestion at Atkinson Street roundabout means that during peak hours, buses can take up to 20 minutes to travel 500 metres, highlighting the need for improvements.

The council is inviting businesses, residents, and those who use the route to share their views

on the proposals, which include: Part signalisation of the • Atkinson Street roundabout to improve traffic flow for all vehicles on South

Accommodation Road

Conversion of a general • traffic lane into a new 24-hour bus lane on Hunslet Road and South Accommodation Road for quicker and more reliable

Planning permission granted for Cottingley MUGA

As we have previously reported in March, the MUGA will be sited on the former skate park and accompanied with gym equipment, including a sit-up table, parallel bars and

bus journeys

Relocation of pedestrian • and cycle crossing facilities at Atkinson Street to improve safety and accessibility Changes are expected to have an overall reduction in journey times for other vehicles on South Accommodation Road together with a reduction of bus journey times of up to 5 minutes.

The South Accommodation Road proposals, which have been developed in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, align with

3m high fencing, tree and bulb planting, and concrete benches for seating are also planned for the site. The area will be well-lit from October to April until at least 8pm which Councillors have agreed to fund at a cost of £33,000. The works will be funded from the Morley Town Deal funding.

Councillors Andrew Scopes,

Leeds City Council’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions, promoting active travel, and supporting Vision Zero, which aims to eliminate road deaths and serious injuries in Leeds by 2040.

By improving access to employment, education, and health services, the schemes being delivered through the Leeds Transport Strategy, of which this forms a part, will create a more inclusive and connected network for all users, supporting the growth and sustainability of Leeds.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

“This scheme is another important step towards creating a transport system that reduces congestion, prioritises efficient bus travel and is part of our ongoing work to support sustainable travel, and make it easier for people to get around the city.

said:

“We’re so pleased that these new facilities have been given the go-ahead and hope that works will start soon.

“Cottingley residents deserve a safe and inviting outdoor space for young and old alike to stay physically active and we are confident that this will be a big improvement for the area.”

“We urge everyone that uses this route — whether you walk, cycle, drive, or take the bus — to take part in the consultation and share your views.”

Councillor Peter Carlill, Deputy Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transport Committee, said:

“Improving this key route into the city centre will support our plans to get more people on to public transport and make walking and cycling safer and easier.

“Proposals like these are vital as we make sustainable travel the first choice as part of an integrated Weaver Network so please make sure you have your say about the scheme by October 14 and help us build a greener, better-connected region that works for all.”

Have your say before 11.59pm on Tuesday 14 October 2025: Find out more and • complete a short survey at: saccommodationroad. commonplace.is

Attend a drop-in event, • see the proposal boards, chat to a member of the team and fill in an online or paper survey: Wednesday 1 October, 1:306:30pm, Hunslet Community Hub and Library, Waterloo Road, LS10 2NS

Request a paper survey • and freepost it back to us. Email or phone us for a paper survey on connectingleeds @leeds.gov.uk or 0113 336 8868

Local Councillors Andrew Scopes, Shaf Ali and Annie Maloney are pleased to welcome planning giving the go-ahead to a multi-use games area (MUGA) on Cottingley Drive.

an overhead ladder, as well as a concrete table tennis table.

Shaf Ali and Annie Maloney (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck)

The multi use games area will be built on the former skatepark. Photo: Google

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Hunslet’s handwriting competition winners

by Pat

The Hunslet RLFC-sponsored Handwriting Competition, now in its second year, had a bumper number of entries on display at The Great Middleton Park Show last month.

This year, six local primary schools entered their Year 4 pupils – 251 of them, aged 8 to 9 years – into the challenge to write out a poem on the theme of Reuse, Reduce, Recycle. Thank you to all who entered.

Each class which entered had a first, second and third

prize and all who entered received a special voucher to attend a Hunslet RLFC match free of charge, along with reduced admission for an adult.

Every first prize winner was also entered to be judged as to which was the very best out of all the entries.

This year this was such a tight contest that Hunslet RLFC kindly agreed to sponsor two overall winners who each received an exclusive Hunslet shirt.

The prizes were presented at

Jimmy Watson, and congratulated by the Lord Mayor of Leeds,

The two winners, Lexi and Chimnoya, will also receive a season ticket for next year.

We thank Hunslet RLFC for their continued support and look forward to see many of the children at next season’s matches.

Watch out for next year’s Handwriting Competition coming to the year 4 pupils in the local primary schools.

AJ Collins Dance Academy brings Holbeck’s youth energy and heart

Holbeck has a new beat, and it’s coming straight from the AJ Collins Dance Academy.

The family-run dance school has quickly become a vibrant part of the local community, and now it’s making even more noise by bringing its classes to the Kurdish Community Centre.

What makes AJ Collins Dance Academy stand out isn’t just the choreography or the music—it’s the heart behind it.

This little family business has created something much bigger than just a ‘dance class’ it’s instead created a safe, welcoming space, where young people can express themselves without fear of judgement.

‘Dance for all.’

For many local youths, the academy has become a sanctuary, offering not only dance lessons but also a place to belong. Through rhythm, movement, and creativity, students are discovering confidence, friendships, and a powerful sense of identity.

“Dance is about more than steps,” says founder AJ Collins. “It’s about giving young people the chance to find the song in their heart and the step in their feet. We want them to know that they are heard, valued, and free to be themselves.”

By opening classes at the Kurdish Community Centre, the academy is deepening its ties to Holbeck’s diverse neighbourhoods, making

dance accessible to even more families.

The move reflects the academy’s mission to unite people from all walks of life through movement, music, and community spirit. Above all else it carries a culture that shouts come as you are!

As word spreads, AJ Collins Dance Academy is proving that a small, family-run venture can make a big impact. In Holbeck, the sound of music and laughter spilling from the Kurdish community centre is more than just background noise — it’s the sound of a generation finding its rhythm. Find out more at www.facebook.com/Alahna collinsdance

How Northern Rail’s kindness opened doors for Holbeck youth

by Dave Kelly

In a heartwarming gesture of community spirit, Northern Rail in Leeds recently provided a group of 11- to 15-year-olds from Holbeck with free tickets for a day at the seaside in Bridlington.

These young people, who live near the train lines and were at risk of drifting into antisocial behavior, got to explore new horizons—both literally and figuratively.

The trip included a talk from Richard Isaac of Northern Rail about job opportunities and educational pathways, encouraging these kids to think of themselves as future ambassadors for the rail system. Local councillor Ed Carlisle (Green, Hunslet & Riverside) also supported the initiative, which focused on positive attainment and encouraging recreational activities.

The afternoon was filled with

beach football, rides on the pier, and of course, some obligatory ice creams. It was a refreshing break from their urban surroundings and a

chance to just be kids while imagining a brighter future.

In the end, this gesture from Northern Rail shows how a bit of kindness can open up whole

new tracks in young lives, encouraging them to work hard, dream big, and see the possibilities beyond their own neighbourhood.

the show by Hunslet RLFC fans’ favourite,

Councillor Dan Cohen.

L-R: Lexi, Chimnoya, Jimmy Watson, Lord Mayor Cllr Dan Cohen, Cllr Wayne Dixon (SDP, Middleton Park)

AJ Collins Dance Academy performing at Beeston Festival

Benatmane

Enjoying the beach at Bridlington

Landlords support Belle Isle clean up

Belle Isle landlords and contractors held a clean up day on Wednesday 17 September.

Housing associations Leeds Federated and Places for People as well as Belle Isle Tenant Management Organisation (BITMO) contacted tenants in three parts of Belle Isle and helped them clear rubbish from their gardens.

There were skips in the Highlands and The Clearings, and BITMO caretakers took things from Winrose Garth and Windmill Road with their flatbed truck. The day was also

supported by contractors Equans and Sure Maintenance and Middleton Park Ward Councillor Rob Chesterfield.

Staff also promoted the Belle Isle Tool Library, where BITMO, Leeds Federated and Places for People tenants can borrow garden tools such as strimmers and shears to maintain their gardens. The tools are held at the BITMO’s GATE Community Centre, near Kasa on Belle Isle Road.

“The day has made a big difference in Winrose Garth and Windmill Road” said BITMO’s Peter Sutton. “Our caretakers really worked hard

to make it a success and we plan to repeat it in other parts of Belle Isle. We are grateful for the support of Equans and Sure Maintenance and appreciate the partnership with Leeds Federated and Places for People.”

Peter added “BITMO is here to build a safer, stronger Belle Isle where people want to live. Clean up days and the tool library are just some of the ways we can support the vast majority of Belle Isle residents who take pride in their area”. To borrow gardening tools contact Tracey on 07891 270094

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Clearing gardens

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Innocent wins humanitarian award

by Jeremy Morton

The founder of All Communities Connect CIC, which runs a food bank in Hunslet, has been awarded a Golden Heart award for his humanitarian services.

Innocent Igiehon started distributing food to people in need during the Covid pandemic from his church and set up the social enterprise to cope with the demand. He runs a weekly food bank and warm space at Involve Community Centre every Wednesday at 12pm and another across the river in Richmond Hill.

“I feel very, very excited about winning the award because it was recognition of the humanitarian services I render” he explained.

“When people come to the food bank I make them welcome, give them a cup of tea and something to eat, and I talk to them about the need to remain positive. Then I give them a food parcel to take home.

“I want to thanks partners and supporters including Involve who give me space to run the food bank; and Fair Share who collect surplus food from supermarkets that is close it its use by date.”

Innocent is also busy in his trade union, the shopworkers union USDAW, where he sits on the regional council.

The Golden Heart awards are organised to recognise achievements within the Nigerian community and Innocent received his award at a glittering event in Leeds last month. The evening featured cultural performances, networking sessions, and tributes to achievers in the diaspora.

Speaking at the event, Festus Odunze, Chief Executive Officer of Wyte Image Media, said the awards were created to recognise Nigerians whose efforts uplift communities and inspire others.

“The Golden Heart Awards is our way of shining a spotlight on trailblazers,” he noted.

Cross Flatts FC: a hub for community, charity and change

Lastmonth Cross Flatts FC hosted yet another successful community event –this season’s kit launch –drawing families, local supporters, and residents from across Leeds.

While football remains at the heart of the club, the true spirit of Cross Flatts FC lies far beyond the pitch.

Founded with a passion for the beautiful game, Cross Flatts FC has grown into a vital community hub offering not just football training and matches, but a safe space for young people, a network for families, and a driving force behind local charitable causes.

Over the past three years, the club has raised funds for numerous local initiatives, supported food banks, hosted

interfaith gatherings, and created outreach programs aimed at reducing youth isolation and promoting mental well-being through sport and community involvement.

“We are not just a football club,” said Jonir Ali, Chairman of Cross Flatts FC.

“We are a family. A place where people from all walks of life come together — not only to play, but to connect, to support, and to uplift one another. The values of respect, unity, and giving back are stitched into the fabric of this club.”

The recent event included reminding everyone of the power of grassroots organisations in transforming lives.Local councillor Mohammed Iqbal (Labour, Hunslet & Riverside) a long-

time supporter of the club, praised its achievements:

“I am incredibly proud of what Cross Flatts FC has achieved in just three years. It’s more than football it’s about community spirit, opportunity, and togetherness.

“This club is proof that when people come together with passion and purpose, real change happens. We’ve seen young lives transformed, barriers broken down, and a real sense of pride built within our area. Cross Flatts FC is an example for others to follow.”

As the club looks to the future, it remains committed to expanding its outreach, supporting more families, and continuing its mission of making sport a vehicle for positive social change.

Aswell as working in local schools, Hunslet Rugby Foundation run free drop in sessions at Belle Isle Welcome Centre, at St John & St Barnabas church.

Wednesday Morning (9am–12pm) Free Seniors Coffee Morning at the Belle Isle Welcome Centre (LS10 3DN). Includes games such as pool, quizzes, bingo, and plenty of friendly conversation.

Thursday Evening (4:30pm–6:30pm) Free Youth Club at the Belle Isle Welcome Centre (LS10 3DN). Activities include pool, darts, basketball, indoor football, and arts & crafts.

Thursday Evening (6:30pm–8pm) All Girls Rugby (ages 9–14) at Leeds Corinthians (LS10 4AX).

Friday Evening (4pm–6pm) Free Youth Club at the Belle Isle Welcome Centre (LS10 3DN).

Activities include pool, darts, basketball, indoor football, and arts & crafts.

Saturday Morning (10:30am–12:30pm) Community All-Sport Sessions at Brickfield Park (LS11 6BR). Inclusive sports activities for all ages and abilities. The Foundation is also working in partnership with Barclays Bank to deliver workshops on online safety and fraud prevention, and with First Bus to offer apprenticeships and employability workshops for over-18s - all completely free of charge. Dates are yet to be confirmed for these workshops, but to register your interest please email Michael Nuttall, the Foundation’s Manager. For more information, please email: michael.nuttall@ hunsletrugbyfoundation.co.uk

Innocent receives his award

Loan Sharks are monsters Money matters with Leeds Credit Union

Although the problems caused by loan sharks are well known, recent reports into the number of people turning to them for financial help have revealed that a staggering three million Britons have used their services over the last three years.

So, with Halloween just around the corner and Christmas not too far away, what can be done to help get these monsters off our streets?

Greg Potter, Head of Member Experience at Leeds Credit Union, explains.

What exactly are loan sharks?

Loan sharks lend money to people who are struggling to make ends meet and who may have been turned down for a loan from reputable sources like credit unions or banks.

They promise to provide them with a quick and easy loan, only to apply sky-high APR rates, trapping their financially vulnerable victim in a cycle of debt, before resorting to intimidation and violence until the loan - plus interest - is repaid in full.

In the run-up to traditionally expensive times of year - like Christmas - more people may be tempted to turn to loan

sharks to help them afford more presents, a holiday or large family celebrations, so now is a vital time to make them aware of the dangers this entails.

Organisations like the Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT), on the other hand, work with local communities, educational facilities and the police to investigate and prosecute loan sharks, and offer support to those who owe them money.

The IMLT is estimated to have written off close to £100 million worth of illegal debt since 2004, highlighting just how serious the issue is.

To try and put a stop to this illegal activity once and for all, the IMLT hosts regular events, like Stop Loan Sharks Week, to raise awareness of the help that is available to people who have been targeted by illegal money lenders by encouraging conversations among friends, families and communities.

How do credit unions combat loan sharks?

Credit unions pride themselves on looking after their members' financial wellbeing. While they might not be out on the streets tracking loan sharks down to throw them behind bars, there are

Leeds Dock hosts artisan market to showcase independent businesses

plenty of things they can do to stop illegal money lenders from taking advantage of financially vulnerable individuals.

This includes lending money at affordable rates to their members, which helps keep them out of the hands of loan sharks and means they don't have to worry about high interest repayments. They also offer access to savings accounts and money and budgeting advice, so their members can avoid coming into contact with loan sharks altogether.

Seeking help if you're in debt

This Halloween, if you have borrowed from an illegal money lender or are worried about someone else who may have, you can contact the IMLT team 24/7 on 0300 555 2222 or fill out a secure online form here to report a loan shark.

Find out more at www.stoploansharks.co.uk

You can also seek help from your local credit union, who can offer support and advice, and whose products and services can help you get your finances safely back on track.

Leeds Credit Union provides affordable financial services to people in Leeds, Wakefield, Harrogate and Craven.

Leeds kitchen, bar and events space, Fearns, has announced that they will once again be joining forces with Leeds Dock Estate and Tilly & Primrose Markets to host its collaborative artisan market.

Following the successful debut earlier in the year, new dates have been confirmed for the market at Fearns with future dates on Sunday 26 October, Sunday 30 November, and the weekend of 13 & 14 December (all 11am-4pm).

Leeds locals will be able to browse products from independent businesses showcasing their work; from handcrafted accessories and artwork to locally-sourced, fresh produce.

The partnership between Leeds Dock Estate, Fearns and Tilly & Primrose Markets offers visitors the chance to discover high-quality, handcrafted goods while enjoying the vibrant dockside atmosphere.

Tilly & Primrose Markets, known for creating distinctive market experiences across the county, will bring their expertise in showcasing independent talent to Leeds Dock.

Tilly & Primrose Artisan Markets is owned and curated by Holly Brown who has multiple years of experience in the event industry, running her own creative business for five years before turning her attention to curating markets full time. With a strong attention to detail, Holly works with venues that are sure to bring something extra to the market’s visitors, handpicking only the best talented businesses to be home to the events.

Holly Brown, owner of Tilly and Primrose Markets, commented:

“I’m excited to bring our artisan market to Leeds Dock once more. Fearns is a beautiful space that really allows independent makers and creatives to shine, and it’s wonderful to see such a strong appetite in the city for supporting local talent.”

Dan White, Sales & Marketing Manager at Shiko Group, added:

“The markets are a fantastic opportunity for visitors to shop local and support small businesses in a unique setting, and this regular event will be a fantastic addition to the area.”

For business owners interested in running a table at one of the markets, a selection of stall sizes are available which start from £25.

Fearns is also home to a dedicated cocktail menu that includes classics and Specialties including the Fearns’ Signature, Bakewell Sour, Cosmo Daisy, and Solero. The venue also serves expertly crafted coffee and boasts a unique drinks menu with a large range of lowalcohol and non-alcoholic cocktails, mocktails and beers.

The venue is open seven days a week serving breakfast, twists on classic lunch dishes and, of course, increasingly popular Sunday dinners with vegetarian and vegan options, and is located in the same building as Department, a coworking space on The Boulevard.

“We’re delighted to welcome Tilly & Primrose Markets to Fearns and establish Leeds Dock as a destination for creativity, community, and independent businesses.

High quality, handcrafted goods

On the beach

Asha Neighbourhood Project’s annual trip to the seaside brought this year's family summer activities to a close.

This year demand was high and four full coaches - more than 200 women and children - headed to Blackpool for a wonderful day of fresh sea air, playing on the sand, breath-taking rides, fish & chips and ice cream. At a time when the cost of living puts experiences of this kind low on the priority list, it was brilliant for everyone's wellbeing to be able to have a day out at the seaside with family and friends.

A big thank you to Leeds City Council's Community Committee and Wade's Charity for the funding support that helped make the trip more affordable for participants.

Natalie is top dog after winning award

by Jeremy Morton

Natalie Kaye, a dog trainer from Hunslet, is celebrating after her business NK9 Dog Services was awarded Dog Training Company of the Year.

Natalie has been running dog training classes in Hunslet and Middleton for the last seven years, covering everything from life skills and recall to fun activities like

scentwork and trick training.

“I’m proud to be bringing positive, reward-based dog training to the local community” she said. “My aim is to help dogs and their families build happy, stressfree relationships.”

“I started after training my own dogs and building a passion and wanting to help others build positive relationships, and it’s grown from there.”

Classes run every Tuesday evening at Hunslet Methodist Church and fortnightly at Middleton Park Equestrian Centre and Natalie has recently started a Wag and Walk social session for people to join a walk in the local area have a chat and do some training.

For more information go to nk9.co.uk or fb.com/ NK9canineservices

Women’s World Cup matches to be played in Beeston?

Beeston

could be in line to host matches in the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup after senior councillors approved Leeds making a formal bid at a meeting last month.

At its meeting at Civic Hall on 17 September, the council’s executive board approved Leeds submitting a bid to the Football Association to be considered to host up to seven matches in the tournament at Leeds United’s Elland Road Stadium.

The United Kingdom bid to stage the prestigious tournament in 2035 is set to be unopposed, with locations in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland bidding for the right to be host venues for the matches.

Leeds City Council is working with Leeds United and key partners on the bid for the city, with all potential venues needing to meet set criteria in terms of its stadium and supporting infrastructure.

Leeds and Elland Road is expected to be one of the leading candidates due to the

redevelopment plans for the stadium which would see significant investment and an increase in capacity at the ground up to 56,500, making it one of the largest stadiums in the country.

As a city Leeds also has a strong reputation for hosting major international sporting events, including in recent years matches in both the rugby union and rugby league world cups, the World Triathlon Series, the Cricket World Cup, IRONMAN Leeds and the 2014 Grand Départ of the Tour de France, which earned global acclaim and admiration.

The city is also a renowned venue for arts, music and cultural events and festivals including Live at Leeds, Leeds Festival, Leeds Waterfront Festival, Light Night Leeds,

Leeds International Film Festival and the Leeds West Indian Carnival.

Women’s football as a sport is growing at all levels in the UK, inspired by the historic achievements of England’s Lionesses in winning then successfully retaining the European Championship title as well as reaching the FIFA World Cup final in 2023.

At grassroots level, the West Riding County Women’s Football League now has over 1600 players registered across seven divisions and is one of the biggest women’s leagues in the country.

Cities and towns bidding to host matches in the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup are expected to need to provide funding of up to £10million, but

each match is estimated to generate that amount through attracting thousands of visitors, so it could result in a total return of approximately £70million to the city.

Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture Councillor Salma Arif said:

“The possibility of Leeds and Elland Road hosting matches in a football world cup is hugely exciting and so we are delighted to be making our bid to be a host venue working with Leeds United and our partners. Women’s football is booming at all levels following the incredible success of the Lionesses, which is fantastic to see in terms of inspiring people of all ages to lead healthy and active lifestyles.

“And as a city

Leeds has a proven trackrecord for hosting major international events, so we look forward to being part of this bidding process and hearing on the next steps in due course.”

Leeds United Chief Business Officer Morrie Eisenberg said:

“We are thrilled at the prospect of bringing 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup matches to Elland Road, which would be fantastic for both the club and the city.

“As part of our vision to enhance Elland Road, which would put it amongst the elite stadia in Europe, we want to host Premier League football and world-class events, and this is an amazing opportunity to do so.

“The women’s game has enjoyed huge growth over the past decade, which will only continue over the coming years and we want Elland Road to be part of that legacy, this is another example of the city and club coming together to drive positive impact for the Leeds community.”

Elland Road stadium is set to expand before the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup

Natalie Kaye with her business award

Savage Martial Arts offers opportunities to young people in South Leeds

Middleton-based James Inge has taken on the Savage Martial Arts franchise for South Leeds and is offering exciting opportunities for local younsters. James explained:

“At Savage Martial Arts we know the importance of education, kindness and support networks. Every child at some point will struggle with something that may not always be obvious to parents. This could be poor confidence, focus, respect, discipline or self-esteem. Children go through many developmental stages that can affect the way they behave and communicate, causing challenges, friction and frustration at home for both them and their parents trying to support them through these changes.

“At Savage Martial Arts we help to build each and every child up, we are committed to their personal growth and emotional wellbeing. To break it down in one sentence we ‘build their foundation for life’, we are not the average martial arts class. We focus on life

skills, fun games and matchats. Sitting each and every child down and including all in a conversation on topics like confidence, gratitude,

kindness, etc.”

In fact Savage Martial Arts are so dedicated to the children they have in their classes that they have

developed a programme that allows all children the opportunity to become little leaders and mini instructors. This is in contrast to other

Leeds named Green Council of the Year with prestigious award success

Leeds City Council has officially been named as Green Council of the Year after winning the title at the prestigious Political Purpose Awards last month.

The council was presented with the award by the Nature 2030 campaign, which aims to recognise and promote efforts to tackle climate change through positive environmental and sustainability activities.

The Green Council of the Year award, sponsored by Keep Britain Tidy, recognises councils that have ‘demonstrated exceptional leadership in protecting and enhancing the local environment or that have developed the most ambitious packages of local environmental measures.’ Leeds was nominated for the award for its ongoing response to declaring a climate emergency in 2019, informed by a public conversation to set the ambition to become a net zero carbon city. A range of initiatives and service improvements across the council were highlighted for their positive environmental contributions to the city.

In presenting the award to Leeds on behalf of the judging panel, Allison Ogden-Newton OBE, Chief Executive of Keep Britain Tidy, highlighted the council’s progress in electrifying its vehicle fleet, the carbon benefits of the innovative Leeds PIPES energy from waste district heating scheme, and reserved particular praise for the reduction in the amount of household waste that ends up in landfill, from 26% ten years ago to less than 0.2% today.

The award also recognises a range of interventions and activities demonstrating how the council is successfully embedding environmental change and improvements into how it operates.

These have included almost a quarter of council vehicles having been transitioned to electric vehicles such as electric bin wagons which can be recharged from 20-80% in 75 minutes. Securing funding of £2.5million from developers to deliver the planting of woodlands and wildflower meadows, litter and fly-tipping removal and providing information boards to sites

across the city.

The council’s waste management service was also praised for its improved recycling offer and reducing use of landfill. Leeds provides the second-largest kerbside collection service of any council in the UK, emptying over 500,000 bins a week from 367,000 households. The continued investment in a free garden waste collection means overall it is the largest service in the UK. Leeds has met the government’s Simpler Recycling requirements for dry recycling two years ahead of schedule; with a resident and street friendly three-bin strategy that a year ago saw the introduction of glass as a further material that can be put in the Leeds green recycling bin, adding to the existing range of materials such as paper, card, plastic, plastic film and bags, foil and metal. A range of measures and a progressive approach to the procurement and renewal of waste disposal contracts, for example changing the processing and destination of waste streams like large electricals and offensive waste,

martial arts schools who require you to reach black belt level before you can become a leader/coach, and for children in other schools that black belt is not official until they reach the age of 15.

James continued:

“We are so passionate about transforming children’s lives that we commit to encouraging every child to work on themselves outside of class.

Worksheets are sent home each week with challenges, activities and things to help children overcome areas of struggle and build their personalities. These can be completed at home or taken in to school, or other classes they do and help develop focus, discipline, determination and dedication.

“Our programmes are for everyone. We are inclusive in all ways. We work with

executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space Councillor Mohammed Rafique said:

has helped reduce landfill to just 0.2% currently in Leeds. Importantly no food waste from Leeds households goes to landfill, where it would create methane emissions and harmful leachate.

Leader of Leeds City Council Councillor James Lewis said:

“We are deeply honoured to receive this prestigious recognition of our council’s dedicated work and leadership towards creating a healthier and more sustainable Leeds.

“Our comprehensive lowcarbon initiatives and innovative waste management solutions are creating tangible benefits for all residents, making Leeds a greener, cleaner and healthier place to live for current and future generations.

“We are particularly proud to see the Leeds recognised for achieving a near-zero landfill rate for our city’s household waste, together with the progress made to electrify our fleet and deliver an extensive energy recovery heating network that provides lower carbon heating to buildings across the city.”

Leeds City Council’s

individuals that are neurodivergent and with children from underprivileged areas and children that may be struggling.”

Savage Martial Arts also run free workshops for schools, clubs, community settings, charities and festivals.

Savage Martial Arts run session in South Leeds as follows:

Holbeck: Mondays at The Loft, The Warehouse in Holbeck,

4-7 years – 5pm – 5.30pm 8+ years – 5.45pm –6.30pm

Beeston: Tuesdays at Beeston Village Community Centre, Beeston Park Place, LS11 8DQ

4-7 years – 5.30pm – 6pm 8+ years – 6.15pm –7.00pm

Hunslet: Thursdays at Involve Learning Center, Whitfield Avenue, LS10 2QE

4-7 years – 6pm – 6.30pm 8+ years – 6.45pm –7.30pm

Middleton: Fridays at Dance Action Zone Leeds (DAZL), Acre Road, LS10 4LF

4-7 years – 5pm – 5.30pm 8+ years – 5.45pm –6.30pm

For more information find Savage Martial Arts on Facebook

businesses in Leeds for supporting our efforts to be as environmentally sustainable as possible.

“We are delighted to be named Green Council of the Year, which is a wonderful reflection of the dedicated work being carried out across the council and our partners as well as our residents and

“The impact of climate change affects us all, so this really is an ongoing ‘Team Leeds’ challenge as we strive to become a net zero carbon city.”

Alison Ogden-Newton OBE, KBT CEO, with Cllr Rafique

Committed to personal growth

Email:

Middleton Primary pupils’ adventure in the Dales

Last month, the Year 6 children from Middleton Primary School returned from a truly unforgettable residential trip to Buckden House, nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

For five action-packed days, the children took on new challenges, developed confidence, and made memories that will last a lifetime.

The week was filled with exciting outdoor activities that pushed everyone out of their comfort zones.

One of the highlights was caving, where the children crawled, climbed, and squeezed through ancient underground passages with determination and courage.

Back above ground, they tackled the thrilling high ropes course and took a leap of

faith—literally—with the daring Leap of Faith challenge!

Another favourite was gill scrambling, a wet and wild adventure up a mountain stream that involved climbing rocks and splashing through waterfalls. At Brimham Rocks, the children explored the natural rock formations and took part in climbing challenges that tested their agility and nerves.

Evenings were just as special. Children gathered around the fire to roast marshmallows, chat about their day, and enjoy the peaceful countryside. Throughout the week, they also took part in various problemsolving and team-building games, learning to work together and support each other in new and creative ways.

This residential was not only a fantastic way to mark the final year of primary school but also a celebration of friendship, teamwork, and independence.

Well done, Year 6 — you did your school proud!

Outstanding student achievements recognised at Building College awards

Leeds College of Building (LCB) students and apprentices from the 2024/2025 academic year have been honoured at the annual BIG (Building Industry Greats) Awards.

More accolades than ever before were handed out, including 44 trophies, seven Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) QUEST Technician Scholarships, and one medal from the British Tunnelling Society Young Members.

Virgin Radio and LUTV broadcaster Rich Williams hosted the awards dinner and

ceremony held at the Centenary Pavilion at Elland Road.

One of the most prestigious trophies of the evening went to Gracie Belwood for her exceptional approach to studies. Gracie, who works at Systra Group, won The Governors’ Award after completing a Level 3 Transport Planning Apprenticeship at the college. She is now progressing to a Transport Planning Degree Apprenticeship at Northeastern University London. Gracie also won the ‘Commitment to Industry and

Professional Development’ Award (sponsored by Turner & Townsend) and said she was “ecstatic” to be honoured: “My apprenticeship with LCB has been very helpful, especially in the transport planning course. I’ve had a lot of opportunities to go and do lots of field trips and experience new things that I can apply to my job role.”

Howard Civil Engineering employee, Daniel Heffernan, also took home The Principal’s Award after completing a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying at LCB. Daniel has been at the college

CLCA’s new dining hall extension

Students and staff at Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy (CLCA) in Middleton are celebrating the opening of a brand-new dining hall extension and toilets, marking another milestone in the school’s journey of growth and transformation to excellence.

Part of the academy’s multimillion-pound development, the spacious dining hall is a new feature of the Phase 2 building, which opened in September 2023. Designed to accommodate the growing student population, the extension provides a modern, welcoming space where pupils can enjoy meals, socialise, and recharge during the school day.

Students have responded enthusiastically to the new space, with one Year 10 pupil commenting, “It makes lunch and break time so much better!”

Costing over £1million and fully funded from the Cockburn Multi-academy Trust, the dining hall is not only a functional addition but also a symbol of the academy’s commitment to growth and to providing a nurturing and inspiring environment for all. As Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy continues its “Transformation to Excellence,” the new facilities are helping shape a vibrant and inclusive school community.

since 2019, progressing up from a Level 4 qualification in Quantity Surveying.

Daniel also won the ‘Commitment to the College’ Award and said he was surprised after only expecting to receive one trophy: “LCB has given me confidence in terms of reinforcing what you do at work, but also filling gaps in where the work can’t expose you to certain things. Studying here, you get an appreciation of the industry as a whole.”

In total, 16 organisations supported the evening, including gold headline

sponsor Marlborough, silver sponsor BAM, and bronze sponsors EPA Construction, Bentley and Sparta Systems.

Paul Donnelly, Managing Director at Marlborough, said the awards were a great opportunity to give something back: “We truly believe that without an influx of young people, there is no future for the industry. For us, we

sponsor these awards as a reward for everyone’s efforts and to show that there is a good future in this line of work.”

Ian Hunter, Technical Apprenticeship Manager at long-term industry partners BAM, said the evening “rubber stamps what we’re trying to do as a business in terms of developing emerging talent and bringing new apprentices into the industry. It’s a great industry to be in. I’ve been in it for more than 40 years, and it’s not just muddy boots and digging holes. There’s a lot more to it than you think!”

Reflecting on the evening, LCB CEO and Principal Nikki Davis added,

“This really has been a fantastic year for LCB. We’ve undergone a successful rebrand, our T Level students received exceptional grades, and we’ve been named one of the first ever Construction Technical Excellence Colleges.

“The BIG Awards are perfectly timed to celebrate all our excellent students and staff, and tomorrow we’re all back in college for the new academic year which we hope is even bigger and better than the last.”

The new dining hall at CLCA

Gracie Belwood

Daniel Heffernan

Team building and problem solving

CLCA launches firs Ambassadors and l Park View Primary Academy’s Ofsted report shows great improvement

Ofstedpublished their inspection report on Park View Academy in Beeston last month (18 September).

The inspection took place at the end of the summer term on 1-2 July 2025, when Park View were finally able to showcase their fantastic school and to show the incredible journey it has been on. Following two previous ‘requires improvement’ judgements in 2019 and 2022,

it is exciting to be able to share the inspection report which shows: Quality of Education – Good Behaviour and attitudes –Outstanding Personal Development –Outstanding Leadership and management – Good Early years provision –Outstanding Park View is and incredibly

special place and this was fully agreed by an Ofsted team that took the time to truly understand our community with an incredibly positive outcome.

The school team works tirelessly to ensure our pupils get the very best deal despite deprivation factors in the local area.

Ofsted recognised that the school places pupils ‘at the heart of all the schools’

decisions’ and every child knows ‘they are deeply valued’. ‘Parents are overwhelmingly happy with the school.’

We are a multiculturally diverse school community and ‘pupils are proud of this’. It is what makes Park View such an exceptional place and this shows in how our pupils celebrate their ‘local and global heritage’. Pupils thrive on being unique but ‘are excited to celebrate in each others’ achievements’.

After what felt like the longest wait, we are finally able to celebrate what we have known –that we are ‘an inclusive, aspirational and caring school’.

We continue to work on our next steps, but for now, we are incredibly proud of what our school community has achieved.

Louise Taylor, Head of Academy, commented:

“Park View is an incredibly special place to me. Previously know as Cross Flatts Park Middle School, it was the school I spent many happy years attending as a pupil. I feel privileged to have been part of Park View’s journey of improvement from Double RI to where we are now and it has the added reward of me being able to pay back the part it has played in my own educational journey.”

New uniform brings unity and pride at Ingram Road Academy

As the new school year begins, pupils at Cockburn Ingram Road Academy are stepping into their classrooms with a renewed sense of pride, thanks to the launch of a brand-new school uniform.

The change marks the school’s exciting new chapter as part of the Cockburn Multi-Academy Trust.

The smart new look has been warmly welcomed by pupils, staff, and families alike. Children have been keen to show off their crisp uniforms, which they say make them feel more unified and proud to belong to Ingram Road.

Adding to the sense of ownership and excitement, the new school logo – which now features proudly on jumpers, signage and the school website –was designed by one of the pupils. The winning design was chosen following a school-wide competition, making it not only a symbol of the school’s identity but also a celebration of the creativity within the school community.

Ted Theaker, School

Improvement Partner for the Primary Schools in Cockburn MAT, says “The uniform reflects a fresh start for Ingram Road, symbolising ambition, togetherness, and the high standards the school is setting for the year ahead.”

Pupils summed up the general feeling by saying, “It gives a new feel to coming to school”, “It brings us all together” and “I feel really proud to be part of Cockburn”.

As part of Cockburn MAT, Ingram Road Academy now shares in a wider family of schools committed to excellence. The new uniform is just one of many steps designed to raise aspirations and strengthen community spirit.

With children walking through the gates this September feeling confident and united, the future at Ingram Road looks brighter than ever.

The school will host an Open Morning on Saturday 18 October, 10am–12pm, inviting families to explore the school and see the hard work and opportunities on offer.

Thisacademic year marks a historic moment for Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy (CLCA) as they welcome their first full cohort of students.

With it comes the launch of our inaugural Student Ambassadors and student leadership team. The growth of the school community has brought new energy, ideas, and opportunities. They are thrilled to see their students stepping

into leadership roles that reflect the values and aspirations of CLCA.

These young leaders are already making a positive impact, and their presence signals a bright future for the academy.

The Student Ambassadors will represent CLCA at key events, support visitors, and help foster a welcoming and inclusive school culture. Their role is central to

The new Student Ambassadors at Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy

Personal development opportunity at Park View

Email: info@southleedslife.com

t Student leadership team

promoting student voice and showcasing the best of CLCA to the wider community.

Alongside them, the student leadership team will work closely with staff to shape school life. With representatives from each year group, this team ensures that every student has a voice in decisions that affect their experience.

This initiative reflects the academy belief in empowering students to lead, collaborate,

Fatima’s inspiring journey

Cockburn John Charles is celebrating the incredible success of former student Fatima, who has gone on to achieve national recognition in the world of performing arts.

Since leaving the academy, Fatima has pursued her passion for acting and secured a role in the critically acclaimed production Adolescence. Her performance has won praise from audiences and critics alike, marking her as one of the most exciting young talents to emerge in recent years.

Her success reached new heights when she appeared live on stage at the National Television Awards alongside the cast of Adolescence to collect one of the many awards the production has received. It was a moment of immense pride for the Cockburn John Charles community, as Fatima’s journey from school stage to national spotlight continues to inspire students and staff alike.

and grow. They are incredibly proud of their enthusiasm and dedication, and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have throughout the year.

“Being a Student Ambassador means I can help others feel confident and proud to be part of CLCA.” – Year 11 Student Ambassador Together, they are helping to build a school community where every student feels seen, heard, and inspired.

Apply for a secondary school place: closing date 31 October Apply for a primary school place: 1 November - 15 January

Headteacher, Siobhan Roberts said, “We are incredibly proud of Fatima and all she has achieved. Her success is a shining example of what can happen when young people are supported to follow their dreams. At Cockburn John Charles Academy, we place great value on the arts, knowing the confidence, creativity and resilience they build in our students.”

The academy continues to nurture the next generation of performers, with students preparing for their upcoming production of the awardwinning musical Come From Away.

This ongoing commitment to creativity and excellence ensures that students at Cockburn John Charles Academy are not only gaining an education but also the confidence to step onto bigger stages, just like Fatima. Her story is a reminder that with dedication, talent, and the right support, dreams really can become reality.

Fatima Bojang played Jade in Adolescence

In our view

Helping one another

Altruism, solidarity, empathy, compassion, public spirit – call it what you want, South Leeds has it in spades. There is a strong theme running through many of the articles in in this issue of people working help others. Of course, people get something back from this work. The feel-good factor that you have done something that has improved lives, the sense of being part of something bigger. But the initial spark to get involved or to start a project comes from a good place –seeing a problem and not looking the other way, but getting stuck in. We can all bring something to the table. By working together we can achieve great things. This is the real sense of community. This is what South Leeds is all about.

Keep on running

The Red Roses have just lifted the Rugby Union World Cup, capping a great summer for women’s sport. That’s inspired many women and girls to take up a sport.

But 60% of women have been jeered or cat-called whilst out running. We all need to get behind the Jog On campaign and make sure that our community is a safe space for women to exercise.

And if you’re one of the men who have cat-called - would you do that if it was your daughter, sister or mother who was running? No. So please don’t comment on other members of this big family we call a community.

The November issue of South Leeds Life will be out on Wednesday 29 October

The deadline for submissions is Thursday 23 October

Your letters and comments

Refugees welcome here

A heartfelt thank you for writing such a clear and thoughtful article in September’s South Leeds Life about the reality of the experience and status of refugees and asylum seekers, and outlining some of the reasons why public discourse around the subject has become so polarised.

A timely and much-needed piece which I hope has been widely read across our community.

Morven Macbeth

Well written article telling the true story. Well done South Leeds Life

Angela Gabriel

Well written you said exactly what I keep trying to tell people.

David Timothy

Who wrote this pack of lies?

Everything from ‘figures’ to hotel conditions is utter garbage, the fact is they are not ‘refugees’ or ‘asylum’ seekers, they are parasites, who want a free easy life, genuine refugees come the legal way. They are destroying the communities, get priority over everything to the detriment of locals, and giving us the bill to boot. If you cannot see this, I suggest you visit Holbeck say, where we are being erased by all these so called ‘asylum seekers’. You can choose to label me as racist, I don’t care, it is not racist to want to protect your country’s values, moral, ethics and culture, so please do not state these people are Welcome, because they are not.

Rusty Goodling

The article is very clear, and you can check with the UN if you don’t believe it. Seeking asylum is a legal process. No refugee is a refugee without being an asylum seeker first. If anyone is destroying communities it is the governments who started and carried on austerity. Are you aware that Leeds City Council have a funding gap of £38,200,000? Could that have something to do with it? Indeed if people seeking asylum could work they would contribute taxes and be part of public services.

I live in Beeston and it’s the best place I have ever lived – partly because of the multiculturalism. You say you want to protect Britain’s culture – but what culture is there without diversity? What a small life you must live if you don’t enjoy the food, books, music, games, sport, art and ideas of people from everywhere near and far. Refugees are always welcome and people you might think of as quintessentially British such as Freddie Mercury and Mo Farah –both refugees.

Becky

Cottingley MUGA

Shame to see the Skate Park going many kids used to use it. So good to see new plans for the Multi Use Games Area though.

Vikki Lewis

Ah buzzin, I remember going to meetings with the youth club as a kid and had to rally to the Bigwigs to get that skatepark. Nice to hear its being upgraded.

Dave Monaghan

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

The feedback from the kids askedaround 150 of them - they didn't use it for its purpose and wanted something bigger and better. The money was brought down here from Morley so it's a good opportunity to give them something not only better but safer and bigger. This estate has made do with bare minimum for the longest time it's good there's a boost and hopefully the kids will enjoy the new facility.

Christine Smart

Middleton Leisure Centre

I am one of the 800 who signed the petition but now I have seen what Cockburn say I want to withdraw. It just makes sense. Local school, local facilities, local community. Get it off the council and into the hands of those who want best for our kids and more. And they will invest which is more than the council are doing. Well done Cockburn.

Dan Michaels

Could the Cockburn spokesperson advise if the existing original 3G pitch at Cockburn School will be resurfaced without the tyre crumb microplastics?

DEFRA confirmed this year that plastic pitches are the largest source of ‘intentionally added’ microplastic pollution in the UK. Their days are numbered.

The pitch at Middleton Leisure Centre is also due for replacement. A FOI

revealed that the Middleton pitch was topped up with 14 tonnes of tyre crumb in 1 year. The average is 1 to 5 tonnes. So the Middleton Leisure Centre pitch was losing a considerable amount of tyre dust into the local environment. Can Cockburn assure the community that the Middleton leisure centre pitch will be replaced with more modern eco friendly infill or a non infill pitch?

Suzie

Hunslet Mills

Thank you Ken Burton for your interesting article about Hunslet Mills and Victoria Works. I didn’t know the history of these buildings until reading your article.

Mike

Brilliant article. Thank you for taking the time to write it.

Richard Walton

Join the debate

Comment online; by email: info@southleedslife.com; or post to: 28 Back Burton Grove, Leeds, LS11 5JH.

Letters may be edited for publication.

Keep up to date with planning issues in LS10 and LS11

We publish a weekly list of all new planning applications online at: www.southleedslife.com

Campaigners at this year’s West Indian Carnival

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

MP’s notebook

with

Hilary Benn MP

Irecently visited the Leeds South and East Foodbank in Millshaw. Through a number of sites in south Leeds, its help is in great demand. Indeed, three of their five busiest sites are at Belle Isle, St Phillips and Hunslet.

Last year the foodbank supported over 14,000 people with food parcels. About 10% of those receiving help were working, and just under a quarter were adults living on their own, some of them in bedsits that don’t have cooking facilities.

As well as providing food, the foodbanks also offer signposting to other support services like debt management or the Baby Bank which helps new families with baby clothes, cots and buggies.

There are lots of reasons why people come to seek support. For some, there’s been a catastrophic event in their lives like divorce or separation or loss of a job. For others, it’s a

real struggle to pay for everything – food, rent and bills – on the income they have. And in recent months they have seen some of the younger generation moving back in with their parents because they can’t deal with all the costs they face.

At the moment, because of the huge demand, the amount of food going out is more than that coming in in donations, so the foodbank is relying on donated funds to buy new supplies. And, of course, the whole operation is hugely dependent on the kindness and dedication of many volunteers.

It’s a sad reflection on a country that there is such a demand for help from foodbanks, but we all know what a hugely important job they do in helping people in desperate need.

A number of new towns and new developments have

recently been announced, and one of the locations identified to be considered is the South Bank in the centre of the city.

The change that we have seen there in the last decade or so since the Carlsberg Tetley Brewery closed down has been remarkable. Flats, offices, a new park and now – it seems –the possibility of a lot more.

The site will, of course, have to go through a full assessment and appraisal, but I think we should see this as an opportunity to be seized with both hands. There has to be affordable housing for families given the housing crisis we have and the number of people who have been on the waiting list for a long time, but any chance to move forward on this is to be welcomed.

Some wonderful news for the Middleton Park Avenue area. Through the Pride in Place Programme, the Government will be investing up to £20

Think about the future!

by Bruce Davies

Firstly, a big well done to all of the kids who received GCSE, A Level grades this year. The future is so far unwritten and you have the chance to shape it yourselves.

My own academic career at GCSE level was a washout; despite being a very hard working student I came out with only one grade above a D. (Combined Sciences -B) I retook a few, went to Art School, spent a few years working in retail, eventually took up a place at University and came out with a 1st Class Degree -in Art & Design!

Had you asked me in the days and weeks after my GCSE results what my view of the future was it would not have been a picturesque one. But, I persisted and got what I wanted, the key word here being want. Whether you see your future in academic success or the more practical side of life which may involve BTec or T-Levels, you must want it. So the second part of your decision must be -do you love it?

In my thirty-seven years of work and continued education since those GCSE results, life has been full of ups and downs, very highs -getting a first, very lows -every funding

rejection I receive, and believe me they are far more abundant. But, no matter how hard the circumstances of life it is important to be tenacious, go after what you want even harder than life comes at you.

Achievement is its own reward. It is harder as you get older to change direction in life, financial responsibility takes over and the fear of failure takes over for those without recourse to the “Bank of Mum & Dad”, so I would urge everyone, no matter what you have to do to survive: do it!

Earning the money to live is the side hustle, achievement is the goal. Go out there, work with others and make a difference in the world, god knows it needs it right now. Secondly, a message to the politicians, the teachers, the parents, the adults allegedly in charge.

A week is a long time in politics, or so they say, but news is much slower; despite this we have many 24hr news channels with their constant portrayal of

million over the next 10 years. The work will be overseen by a neighbourhood board and it’s a huge chance for us to shape the future of the area around Middleton Park Avenue. I can’t wait to see all of this start.

This programme is intended to be flexible and long-term, involving local people in making the decisions. In doing so, it’s drawn on what has been learned from the previous phases of the programme in focusing on smaller areas by targeting local pockets of deprivation which have too often fallen through the cracks.

A Neighbourhood Board will be set up to take this forward. It will be responsible for producing the 10 year vision for the area. The Board for Middleton should bring together residents, local businesses, grassroots campaigners, workplace representatives, faith leaders, the local MP, community leaders and those with a deep connection to the area.

Neighbourhoods will decide how to prioritise funding, based on three core objectives: building stronger communities by helping people to feel proud of their area and safe in their neighbourhood; creating thriving places with a good

range of local amenities; and empowering people to take back control.

And finally, and unusually, the money won’t be released until communities have set out what it is they’re wanting to achieve with it.

And finally, as I write these words, I am at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool where this morning I turned the corner to find a Leeds bus parked there.

It’s an electric bus built by Wrightbus in Ballymena in Northern Ireland. I have visited

their factory and seen how they are making electric and hydrogen buses for the future. It’s a very impressive place and the new buses bring huge benefits, not least the fact that they are zero emission. And at a time when there are some people going round saying that we should scrap net zero, that view really does leave me scratching my head when I’ve seen the benefits in terms of investment, jobs and manufacturing that the change to net zero is bringing. This is the way of the future and we really should jump on board!

Hilary Benn is our Member of Parliament He represents the Leeds South constituency

Email: hilary.benn.mp@parliament.uk

frightening scenarios; war, environmental chaos etcetera… But in reality this is part of the ‘doom loop’, a phrase that has become part of the lingua franca of political news programmes. As the historian Kenneth Clarke puts it, fear is the enemy of civilisation. “…fear of war, fear of invasion, fear of plague and famine, that make it simply not worthwhile constructing things, or planting trees or even planning next year’s

crops. And fear of the supernatural, which means that you daren’t question anything or change anything.”

By this reckoning, how civilised are we?

It is essential that we, the adults, the leaders within our communities, create an environment of hope and aspiration, and to do that we must be ambitious and less selfish. What does the future look like. To the exshopkeepers of Dewsbury

Road who “don’t see how art will help the area […] the children are the future of Dewsbury Road”; the children, I suppose, will be the ones spending their future pounds in the shops of Dewsbury Road. But this is all very short term thinking, what if no one in the future has any pounds to spare? it feels like we are entering into that shoddy future now, a few years ahead of most of the rest of the country; in this respect South Leeds could be considered trailblazing. There is a homeless guy who I have chatted to over the years, he has regularly listened to my talks to groups visiting ‘The Corner’ about the making of Jacob’s Ladder, who has commented on various occasions about how much “I love that, it really makes a difference”. Jacob’s Ladder exists not because it created wealth for someone but because it added value to the area, community and environment. His mate has also commented that “it’s great the things that you do, better than all the mess that the kn*****ds make”

It is essential that we, the adults, the leaders within our communities, create an environment of hope and aspiration, and to do that we must be ambitious and less selfish. What does the future look like. To the exshopkeepers of Dewsbury Road who “don’t see how art will help the area […] the children are the future of Dewsbury Road”; the children, I suppose, will be the ones spending their future pounds in the shops of Dewsbury Road. But this is all very short term thinking, what if no one in the future has any pounds to spare? it feels like we are entering into that shoddy future now, a few years ahead of most of the rest of the country; in this respect South Leeds could be considered trailblazing. There is a homeless guy who I have chatted to over the years, he has regularly listened to my talks to groups visiting ‘The Corner’ about the making of Jacob’s Ladder, who has commented on various occasions about how much “I love that, it really makes a difference”. Jacob’s Ladder exists not because it created wealth for someone but because it added value to the area, community and environment. His mate has also commented that “it’s great the things that you do, better than all the mess that the kn*****ds make”

Pathways for positivity

with Shannon Humphrey

There’s magic in the micro

According to researchers at Cornell University, the average adult makes around 35,000 decisions every day.

Most are so small we barely notice them, when and how we brush our teeth, what to eat, or choosing to have yet another “five minutes” scrolling on our phone before bed. On their own, these choices and decisions seem unimportant. But together, they create what’s known as the compound effect, small, repeated actions that create something bigger over time.

In December 2023, I decided to renew my gym membership. I’d been thinking about it for months. Micro-thoughts of not liking how I looked in photos, the too-tight jeans, feeling uncomfy in a dress I’d recently worn as a wedding guest, not to mention low energy and a general feeling of apathy. Deep down, I resigned myself to the idea that I’d probably go for a few weeks and then give up, as I had before.

The idea of committing day

after day, week after week, felt impossible. Then something in me shifted, instead of imagining the long term, I told myself, just go today.

It’s not simply the decision to ‘go today’ that has kept me on track five times per week almost two years later, it’s the smaller micro-decisions around it. Setting my alarm with high energy music to perk me up, the minute I open my eyes. Putting my gym kit out the night before. Leaving my trainers by the door. These micro steps reduce barriers and help to make the bigger choice, of actually going, a million times easier. And over time, I’ve built consistency. What took a lot of thinking about before has become an automatic no brainer, I just get up and go!

The same principle applies to life’s turning points. Ending a relationship, leaving a job, or breaking off a friendship rarely comes down to one single choice or thought. It’s not usually one argument, one comment, or one bad day. It’s

an accumulation of things that irritate us, lateness that becomes a pattern, an offhand remark that lingers, the feeling of not being heard or understood. Each perceived slight or disagreeable moment begins to add up, until something finally tips the balance and we say, enough is enough.

Did you know that the thoughts you choose, positive or not, deliberate or not, are reinforced by your brain? That’s thanks to the Reticular Activating System (RAS), a bundle of nerves in our brainstem that acts like a filter for information. It decides what to pay attention to among the endless noise of life.

When I started going to the gym, at first it was an effort, learning new routines, feeling a bit sore and achy. But once I began to feel the benefits, more energy, clearer thinking, a sense of momentum, jeans that fit, a cheeky compliment here and there, the reasons to keep going seemed to appear

everywhere. The RAS was highlighting the positives, showing me more opportunities to stay consistent. In simple terms, what we choose to notice, we train our brain to find more of…

Have you ever noticed how easily habits creep into your life? They often slip in quietly without us realising. I used to read a few pages of a book in bed each night, but recently I realised I hadn’t picked one up in ages. Instead, I was scrolling on my phone, which left me feeling exhausted in the mornings. I knew it wasn’t good for me, yet I’d still think “just one more scroll” or “ten more minutes”, which quickly became another hour.

The great news is that change doesn’t need to feel daunting. Choosing to be more aware of the habits and routines that don’t serve us makes it easier to shift them. For me, it was simply choosing to read a few pages of a book again each night and spending less time on my phone. And the

Famous Leeds artist lived in Hunslet

by Hon Ald Elizabeth Nash

Atkinson Grimshaw was born in 1836 in a back-toback terrace house in Park Street (now demolished) to a low-earning working class family and was the oldest of subsequent brothers and sisters.

On leaving school at 14 he became a clerk with the Great Northern Railway Company. But in his spare time he began to paint.

Atkinson married his educated cousin and they lived for a while in Wortley. Tragically three of his then four children died and a fourth was ill. To the great consternation of his parents, but with the support of his wife, he gave up his job as a railway clerk to become a fulltime artist.

He was sponsored in his early days by the Leeds Philosophical & Literary Society (which built and owned the original City Museum in Park Row, later transferring it to the Leeds Corporation in 1922).

And largely because of the support from the LPLS he became known and eventually

famous. The Victorians loved him and his pictures began to be sold well. He could then afford to move to a much larger property, a detached villa in Cliff Road in the up-market area of semi-rural Headingley Hill. The villa had a large garden with views towards Woodhouse Ridge from which he painted the surrounding area.

Atkinson became a prolific painter but he is most famous and remembered for his evocative scenes at night with light spilling from shop windows and gas streetlights and usually with a full moon shining on wet roads and footpaths. It has been said that “What Turner did for sunlight, Atkinson Grimshaw did for moonlight”. He is also known for his scenes of docks with moonlight shining on the water. He painted Glasgow, Liverpool, Thames and Leeds Dock.

Leeds City Art Gallery has some of his paintings, my personal favourite being that of Boar Lane with lit shop windows, gas lights and, of course, a moon shedding its light behind and over the roof

of a shop. But perhaps the most memorable for me is his painting of Park Row which shows the former Leeds Museum before it was bombed in World War 2, the former magnificent Westminster Bank

demolished in the philistine early 1960s and the former St Ann’s Cathedral in Cookridge Street. And, of course, with a shining moon.

The Park Row painting came up for auction in London in the

results speak for themselves, I feel more peaceful and ready to sleep, more energy in the morning and I’m enjoying reading again. What began as a micro decision has had a really powerful impact on my wellbeing.

In a world that often feels divided, one micro choice worth remembering is that you can step back from disagreement. Choose to listen rather than jump in. Choose to look for what connects us instead of what separates us. These may feel like small acts, trivial even , but they are things we can all do to contribute to a

larger sense of harmony in our communities and in ourselves one little thought or decision at time.

The big transformations we all seek, health, happiness, wealth, stronger relationships, a sense of purpose, rarely hinge on one defining moment or decision. They’re the result of thousands of micro choices, compounding quietly until one day we realise just how much they’ve shaped us.

Shannon Humphrey is a First Aid for Mental Health Instructor. Find out more about her work at www. pathwaysforpositivity.com

early 1980s for £20,000. Its value now could be anything between a quarter to half a million and could be more. At the time, I chaired the Council’s Leisure Committee and I was keen that the Art Gallery bought it. They refused with excuses that it was not his best and that the paint was thin. Without my seeing the actual picture, I told them it was a historic picture of Leeds and that we must have it. After threatening to remove their purchase budget I got my way.

Some while later, the Art Gallery staff asked visitors to name their favourite picture and Park Lane won!

When the former Leeds Mayor John Barron put up the money to purchase Roundhay Park (councils at the time could not spend more than £40,000) Atkinson painted three pictures of the park to raise its profile and they were very popular. A year later the Government removed that financial restriction on councils.

In 1870 as Atkinson Grimshaw became so popular and, therefore, wealthy, he and his family moved into Knostrop Hall in Hunslet (sadly demolished in 1960). He also bought a second property in

Scarborough next to the Castle. There are half a dozen of his paintings, which he painted locally, in Scarborough Art Gallery.

Sadly, he and his family lived beyond their means and in 1880 bailiffs were called in. However, the Grimshaws managed to stay in the Hall until Atkinson’s death from liver cancer in 1893 at the young age of 57. He is buried in what was originally Woodhouse Cemetery which is now called St George’s Field and is part of the Leeds University campus. The LPLS has erected a blue plaque there.

Of his six surviving children, four became artists. One of them, Louis Grimshaw, painted a lovely picture of the Leeds Parish Church, now the Minster, in Kirkgate. It is in a similar style to that of his father but he used artistic licence to remove the railway bridge which would have obstructed the view.

Leeds City Art Gallery is holding an exhibition of Atkinson Grimshaw’s paintings which opens this coming November. Admission will be free although any voluntary donations to assist the Gallery would be welcome.

Photo: Shutterstock Park Row © Leeds Museums and Galleries (Leeds Art Gallery)

Murder of a Camp Field man Local history with Ken

On11 June 1844 Charles Bland Child of Camp Field, Leeds and his brother John Child of Brewery Field, Leeds, both married men who were drinking together in the Black Lion Inn, Mill Hill, until a very late hour in the evening.

On the way home they began to quarrel and this developed in to a fight in Camp Field. During the fighting John Child drew out a clasp knife and stabbed his brother in three or four different places in the body with the knife. One of the wounds was three inches deep and had gone through the lungs and penetrated the heart, the unfortunate man only living for a few minutes.

John Child was arrested and committed for trial at York on a charge of manslaughter and at the Summer Assizes on 20 July he was found guilty of the charge and sentenced to be transported for twenty years.

Camp Field is a relatively

unknown part of Leeds and it is located south of the city centre at the end of Victoria Bridge, Victoria Road, Water Lane, Manor Road and the River Aire. Going back some 250 years it is shown on the map of 1775 as an area of fields and water meadows, also on the map an unmarked hall is shown, thought to be Camp Hall, although Water Hall is marked. It is thought to be named from Camp Hall but further research suggests that this is not so.

In the English Civil War in 1642 the greatest part of Yorkshire together with its capital York and the town fortresses of Leeds, Wakefield, Skipton, and Knaresborough were all in the hands of Royalist forces.

On 23 January 1643 the Parliamentarian Sir Thomas Fairfax was determined to attack the garrison based at Leeds and he marched from Bradford with six troops of

horse, three companies of Dragoons, 1,000 musketeers, and 2,000 clubmen. In the area south of the city centre 1,000 Clubmen and 30 muskets camped in the area overnight prior to the Battle of Briggate and since that time this area became known as Camp Field.

Fairfax despatched a trumpeter to Sir William Saville who was in charge of the Royalist forces and asked that the town be handed over to Fairfax and Parliament to which Sir William Saville gave a disdainful reply.

The Parliamentary General now approached from the south-west side with colours flying and began the assault about one o’clock in the afternoon and within two hours the Royalists were driven from their works and their cannoniers killed. Sir Thomas and his brother Sir William Fairfax together with Sir Henry

Fowlis and Captain Forbes cut their way through all the opposition and entered the town with sword in hand at the head of their troops and soon took possession of the town of Leeds.

Here they found two brass cannon with a good supply of ammunition along with 500 prisoners among whom were six officers. There is said to have been about 40 slain.

Sir William Saville fled from being taken by crossing the River Aire but unfortunately Sergeant-Major Beamont was drowned while making the same attempt and so ended the Battle of Briggate.

With the coming of the Industrial Revolution, Holbeck became heavily industrialised by firms such as John Marshalls Mills, Benyons Mills and the father of Leeds engineering Matthew Murray building his Round Foundry here among other firms. With the inflow of workers coming into an expanding Leeds housing became a necessity and the 1815 map of Leeds shows terrace houses had been built on Camp Field with the Hall still shown.

An interesting fact concerning Matthew Murray is that Boulton & Watt bought land on Camp Field to stop Murray expanding. The population seems to have been Irish and to cater for their religious needs in 1896 Kelly & Birchell built a Roman Catholic Church, this was called St Francis of Assisi in Manor Road this was demolished in 1979 because so few people were living in the area.

In the late 1930s the houses had been condemned as slums and were all pulled down, baring the public houses, which were left for the workers in the factories to enjoy. Although today only one still exists – The Grove Inn.

The street plan from the demolished houses was still visible but by the 1960s the Victoria Works had taken over most of the area and the remainder was filled by other firms. All this carried on until the 1980s when manufacturing became an ugly word with factory after factory closing both in Holbeck and Hunslet. In the 1990s warehouses, offices, and car

parking had taken over from production and in 2007 a prestigious building came on the site, Bridgewater Place, at the time this was the tallest building in Yorkshire and because of its shape it was nicknamed “The Dalek”.

Unfortunately, it turned into a disaster because wind force had not been considered enough, for years it was known by locals for this and a man was killed when a heavy goods vehicle was blown on its side. People were being injured by being blown off their feet. The method of coping with the wind has left the area looking a bit like a dilly house.

At least people have moved in to the area in flats, sorry apartments, to be near their work and entertainments and the Grove Inn should now be enjoying a new lease of life. Whether the buildings going up please people or not, it is nice to see this area coming to back to life.

Footnote: Matthew Murray died on 20 February 1826 aged 60 and next year will be the 200th anniversary of this: will it be celebrated?

Burton

The Grove Inn in 1999 ©Leeds Libraries via leodis.net

A map of housing in Camp Field

Slum clearance at Camp Field

Transform25 full programme Review: To Kill A Mockingbird at Leeds Playhouse

Transform,

the UK’s leading festival for inclusive, international performance, has announced the full programme for the 2025 edition of the festival.

Taking over the city of Leeds from 21– 25 October, Transform 25 will present 14 bold, socially conscious performances that reflect and respond to a rapidly changing global landscape.

29 artists from all over the world – including Australia, Brazil, Jamaica, Palestine, The Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Switzerland and the US – assemble alongside artists from Leeds and across the UK to present visceral performances, intimate installations and moments of assembly which will be presented in unusual locations and iconic venues throughout Transform’s home city of Leeds. Exchanging ideas, memories, stories and history, these 14 performances that sit at the intersection of different artforms, will challenge

premiere.

● Surrender is an experimental one-off event of entertainment, food and conversation by performance, possession + automation with an exciting line-up of artists exploring what happens when artists surrender themselves to forces they can’t control.

Doomsday Disco is a party at the end of the world as we know it…or the beginning of a new dawn. Transform 25’s grand finale is hosted by the creators of the iconic Leeds club, Love Muscle at Testbed in Hunslet.

Creative Director, Amy Letman says:

“Two years on from our last major international festival, the artists at the forefront of Transform 25 present performance works that respond to our complex and challenging moment. Transform 25 invites us to pause and reflect on our own responsibility for where we’ve been so far, and where we’re heading next.

perceptions and invite audiences and artists alike to imagine a different kind of future.

Three shows take place at The Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ:

● Eve Stainton’s unnerving choreographic performance explores societal suspicion with The Joystick and The Reins, accompanied by a soundtrack featuring music from an 80s horror film performed live by the Airedale Symphony Orchestra.

● A vulgar, visceral and vampy whirlwind performance from Samir Kennedy and Sean Murray, IT’S GOT LEGS!!!!!!! uses the basic tools of theatre and DIY performance to explore the peculiarity of constructing performance and of constructing the self. A UK

by Hazel Millichamp

Ihavebeen fortunate enough to see many fantastic plays at Leeds Playhouse but To Kill A Mockingbird is hands down the best performance I have seen there.

I still have the copy of the book I could not return to the college library because I loved it so much, so to see this Aaron Sorkin production of it for the theatre was a real treat. Sorkin’s stage adaptation was the highest grossing American play in the history of Broadway.

The set design brilliantly sets the mood and grounds you firmly in 1930s Maycomb, Alabama. It was fascinating to see the cast manipulate the stage furniture and suddenly you were on the Finch’s front porch or in the courtroom. The moving of the scenery and props was almost balletic and really helped to set the scene and make it an immersive experience.

The character of Dill, performed expertly by Dylan Malyn, helped to narrate the story and also added much of the comic relief. In real life, Dill was based on Harper Lee’s childhood friend Truman Capote. Played by Tom he quickly became my favourite character, I couldn’t wait to hear what he would say next.

For a play with such a heavy storyline there was a perfect amount of humour to offset the emotional and harrowing

New art

“The festival features productions by intrepid individual performers, largescale portraits of people and place, an intimate one to one experience, and the chance to resist and summon collective joy together through celebration and community. In a moment that feels so unrelenting, we need more than ever to create space for reflection, connection, hope, and to dream up new possibilities. It’s in this spirit that we assemble Transform 25 and build towards this October.”

Full details of all events and tickets at: transformfestival.org

Transform 25 is supported using public funding by Arts Council England and funded by Leeds City Council & UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

aspects of the tale. This was mostly provided by Dill and by Anna Munden as Scout. She helps the audience understand the Jim Crow segregation setting of Maycomb, where the black population were forced to work in servitude and are vulnerable to the machinations of a white man’s justice and to the very real possibility of being killed by those who take ‘justice’ into their own hands. Along with Jem, played by Gabriel Scott, these characters allowed you to see the story unfold through the eyes of children.

Richard Coyle played a fantastic Atticus Finch but as it points out in the programme in an article by Afua Hirsch, bestselling writer and

studio

in

Holbeck

filmmaker:

“From today’s perspective, it’s hard to escape the conclusion that Lee’s book is, at it’s core, what we might now call a ‘White Saviour’ narrative. Atticus Finch is a hero willing to put himself and his family in danger to fight racial injustice, but the black characters at the heart of that injustice are almost silent. The story reads instead as something of an ode to well-intentioned white people, where the life and death of an innocent black man served mainly to deepen their understanding of American racism.”

The character of Calpurnia, played wonderfully by Andrea Davy, the Finches’ maid, was necessarily enhanced by

for people with learning disabilities and autism

Holbeck-based

arts organisation, Pyramid, has opened the doors to its accessible art space, Studio Pyramid.

Formerly operating as an add-on for existing Pyramid members, the inclusive studio is expanding its reach to welcome more local artists with learning disabilities and autism. Studio Pyramid offers artists with learning disabilities and autism a space to work on their independent creative projects.

Studio sessions run on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays. As well as having a studio facilitator on site that can help artists source materials and resources for their work, Studio Pyramid also offers creative practitioners a chance to receive peer mentorship, professional

development sessions and access to exhibiting opportunities.

James Hill, Director of Pyramid, said:

“There are very few accessible spaces in Leeds where artists with learning disabilities or autism can work on self-guided creative projects.

“Offering a flexible, supportive arts studio that has artists with support needs in mind will enable more people to explore and develop their own creative practices and learn valuable workplace skills in the process.”

Studio Pyramid is a continuation of Pyramid’s Studio Days which launched in July 2024 exclusively for its members. The initiative was part of Finding the Flex, a project in collaboration with the

University of Leeds School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies and was funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

Sorkin in order to balance this out. We get to hear a black woman’s perspective, a glaring absence in Lee’s novel. When she criticises Atticus for expecting her to be grateful for his actions, this is especially powerful.

It was a packed out audience and the emotions in the room were palpable throughout the performance – it ended to rapturous applause and a rousing standing ovation from the whole cohort of theatregoers. To Kill A Mockingbird is showing at Leeds Playhouse until Saturday 4 October 2025 and if you get the chance to see it, you will never forget it. Full details and tickets at: www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk

Studio Pyramid is supported by Arts Council England and offers creative practitioners with learning disabilities or autism access to an open art studio and training opportunities. For more information and to access a free trial, please contact Alice at: info@pyramid.org.uk

Studio Pyramid exhibition

The Joystick and The Reins Photo: Lydia Garnett

Richard Coyle (Atticus Finch) Aaron Shosanya (Tom Robinson). Photo by Johan Persson

Community menopause support continues with event

Saturday 4 October will see a menopause support event held at Dewsbury Road Community Hub.

The event will run 10:30am to 12:30pm in the Annex of the Hub, and is part of a menopause and midlife health support project funded by the local councillors representing Beeston & Holbeck and Hunslet & Riverside wards.

Facilitated by Niki Woods, a

local menopause expert and author who's also a trained PT and nutritionist, the project has been offering women in South Leeds who want information or support around perimenopause and menopause an opportunity to meet other women in the same stage of life, to ask questions, and discuss issues around menopause since December 2024. It has already helped several women get HRT and

improve health issues caused by menopause, as well as providing opportunities to share experiences and give/receive support from others within the community.

The draft timetable for Saturday is: 10:30am - Meet, mingle and chat

11am - Information session and Q&A: covering peri/menopause signs, symptoms and diagnosis; tips

for talking to your GP; HRT and other treatment options explained; nutrition tips; weightloss/weight management tips; lifestyle and supplements recommendations; and more 12pm - More Q&A and group chat, experience sharing, freebies, raffle 12:30pm - close

No registration is needed to attend the session, women can simply turn up to receive information, support, some freebies, and the chance to make new friends in a safe and confidential supportive environment. Refreshments will be provided, and it's not mandatory to attend the whole two hours, although those who do so will of course gain the most from the session.

The project is a continuation of support funded by the local Area Committee which started in December 2024, and currently comprises a mixture of online menopause meetups (the next being in November and December), in-person meetups (the next being in October and January), and an online course for women who want to understand more about managing their

perimenopause and menopause, and also how to improve their wider midlife health through nutrition, fitness, habits and lifestyle.

You can register for the next course at: forms.gle/ yi8bwR2NxtN5w62S9

Women who want to attend any of the online meetups can email bestmidlifecic@gmx .com for the Zoom link, or

register at subscribepage.io/ VnmCMs

Further information about any of the project can be obtained by emailing bestmidlifecic@gmx.com

The project is run by Best Midlfe CIC and funded by the Councillors representing Beeston & Holbeck and Hunslet & Riverside wards.

Landmark event Light Night Leeds returns this October

Acaptivatingcollection of illuminated artworks is set to transform the city this October when the stunning spectacle of Light Night Leeds returns.

Taking place on Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 October, the hugely popular cultural showcase will be lighting up some of the city’s most recognisable buildings and locations with enthralling creations by artists from around the world.

With the theme of Landmarks, this year’s event will celebrate some of the city’s historic civic buildings, modern architecture and public spaces as well as asking visitors to contemplate their own personal landmarks and the places which are important and memorable to them.

Key pieces will include an enchanting projection on the face of the iconic Queens Hotel celebrating 200 years of the modern railway.

Entitled One Second Lovestory by German artist Dirk Rauscher, it captures the romantic moment when two people’s eyes meet at a busy train station and is sponsored

by Markel.

Leeds Civic Hall will also host a mesmerising new commission by Portuguese artists Ocubo, co-produced by the British Library. Entitled, Portals: The Machine of Worlds, it incorporates fantastical imagery from books in the library’s collection, inviting visitors to explore universes of science, illusion and discovery.

Working with cultural venues all over the city to create an inclusive, citywide festival, other installations will include large-scale projections, light artworks, performance and interactive pieces by international, national and Yorkshire-based artists.

Since it began in 2005, the event has grown in size, scope and popularity, with a record 210,400 people estimated to have attended last year over two days, an increase of 5% on 2023.

Last year’s Light Night Leeds also gave a huge boost to the local economy, generating an estimated £5.46m, a 58 per cent increase on the previous year.

The festival is organised and

supported by Leeds City Council and funded by Arts Council England National Lottery Project Grant funding and sponsors from the city’s business community.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said:

“Light Night Leeds is an event which truly exemplifies the very best of culture and life in the city, bringing thousands of people together for a collective experience which celebrates artistic ingenuity and the power of the arts to unite.

“The impact the event has on the city in terms of boosting our reputation as a cultural destination, supporting the local economy and promoting local and regional artists cannot be overstated, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to what will be an occasion like no other.”

Jamie Andrews, director of public engagement at the British Library, said:

“At the British Library we are thrilled to again be involved with Light Night Leeds, a

unique festival that brings art into public spaces in the city, brightening up dark autumn evenings. We’re delighted that artists Ocubo have taken inspiration for Portals: The Machine of Worlds from science fiction texts in our collection, including classics by H.G. Wells and Jules Verne. We hope visitors of all ages are

inspired by Light Night Leeds and the immersive, fantastical visions of other worlds that Ocubo’s artwork will conjure.

“Our collaboration with Light Night Leeds is part of a wider commitment, as we work towards establishing a major new public space for the British Library in Leeds, to engage with local people and partners

by opening up our collection through events in the city.” Light Night Leeds 2025 takes place across the city on 22 and 23 October 2025 from 6pm to 10pm.

Find the full programme at www.lightnightleeds.co.uk and follow Light Night Leeds on social media for more information.

Hall

Photo: Shutterstock

What’s On

our guide to events and activities across South Leeds in October

Please check that regular events are not affected by school holidays, 25 October - 2 November

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

Every Monday

Money Buddies

9am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Tea and Toast

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

9am-12:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Parents & Tots Group

9:30-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Let’s Play! (under 5s)

9:30am12:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD Women’s only Exercise

9:30-10:15am Beeston Village

Community Centre, off Town St

Trinity Network Tea and Toast

9:30-3pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle

MEA Crafts Group

9:30-10:45am Middleton Elderly

Aid Social Centre, Acre Road 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 Tea and Bacon Buttie

10am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3DU Story & Rhyme (under 5s)

10:30-11:30am Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Lychee Red Chinese Seniors Lunch Club

10:30am-1:30pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Digital 121 support drop in 11am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Coffee Morning

11am-12pm Aspiring

Communities, 49 Barkly Road, Beeston, LS11 7EN

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 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

Lunchtime meditation

12:30-1pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck

Walking Group

1-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3DU

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 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

Youth Group Multisports

4:30-5:30pm Beeston Village

Community Centre, off Town St

Community Sports Session

4:30-5:30pm Clapgate Primary School, Cranmore Drive LS10 4AW Boxercise

7-8pm Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, LS10 4AW

ANDYSMANCLUB

7-9pm Leeds College of Building, Cudbear Street, Hunslet LS10 1EF ANDYSMANCLUB

7-9pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, LS10 2QE

Every Tuesday

Tots Group

9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Digital Hub and Cafe

9am-12:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck 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 Grandparents Kinship Support Group

10am-12pm St George’s Centre, Middleton

Breastfeeding Support Group

10am-12pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX Woodwork

10am Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, Belle Isle

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, LS10 2NS

Chair Based Exercise

10:45-11:30am St Matthew’s

Community Centre, Holbeck

Bingo and Hoy

11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road

MHA Lunch and Social

11am-2pm Arthington Court, Balm Road, Hunslet

Hong Kongers Lunch Club

11:30am-1:30pm Beeston Village

Community Centre, off Town St MHA Walkie Talkies

11:30am-2:30pm Hunslet Nelson

Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston

Salvation Army Lunch Club

11:30am-1:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, LS11 6QB

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, LS10 3DU

Trinity Network Lunch Club

12:30-1:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle

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

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 Football 9-13 years

3:15-4:15pm Grove Road, Hunslet

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

4:30-5:30pm 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

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 NK9 Dog Obedience drop in

6:30pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace, LS10 2HR NK9 Dog Training Workshop

7:45pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace, LS10 2HR 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 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

Connected Hearts those with family caring responsibilities

10:30am-12pm Middleton Family Centre 256-262 Sissons Road LS10 4JG

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 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 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

12-1:15pm Ingram Gardens

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

Ladies Group

1:30-3pm Middleton Family Centre 256-262 Sissons Road LS10 4JG

Walking Group

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

Holbeck Together Craft Afternoon

1:15-2:45pm Ingram Gardens

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

2-3pm 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

4:30-7pm 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

Board Games Night

5-6:30pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX

DAZL Adult Dance Fit

5:15-6pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle 3rd Middleton Scouts

5:30-7:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR 1st SLAM Beavers (6-8 yrs)

6-7:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston 51st Leeds (Hunslet) Rainbows, Brownies & Guides

6-7pm Rainbows; 6:15-7:30pm Brownies; 7:15-8:30pm Guides

Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, LS10 2QE

Women & Girls Cricket

6pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston, LS11 5TT 3rd Middleton Rainbows, Brownies, Guides & Rangers

6:15-7:30pm Rainbows & Brownies; 7:45-9pm Guides & Rangers St Mary's Parochial Hall, North Lingwell Road, LS10 3SR 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 Camera Club

8pm St George’s Community Hub and Library, Middleton, LS10 4UZ photoleeds.com

Every Thursday

Tots Group

9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle, LS10 3RR Music & Movement

9am-1pm Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Parents & Tots Group

9-11am Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Digital Hub and Cafe

9am-1pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck 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

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 Gardening groups

10am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3DU Mindful Makes / Woodwork 10-11:45am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Craft Group / Digital Inclusion

10:30am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Story & Rhyme (under 5s)

10:30-11:30am St George’s Community Hub and Library, Middleton

Walking Football 11am-12pm The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road

Bingo and Hoy

11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Warm Space

11:30am-2pm Cottingley Community Centre Holbeck Together Line Dancing 11:30am-12:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck MEA Lunch Club

12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Crooked Clock Lunch Club

12pm Sussex Avenue, Hunslet Book: 07470 167243 Free Soup and a Roll

12-2pm Church of the Nazarene, Lupton Street, Hunslet Holbeck Women’s Group (HFA)

12-2pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, LS11 9SA Trinity Network Lunch Club

12:30-1:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Women Only Swimming 1-2pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston, LS11 6JG Warm Space & Computer support

1-5pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH

Website: www.southleedslife.com

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

Be Yourself Men’s Group

1-2:30pm Middleton Family Centre 256-262 Sissons Road LS10 4JG

Conversation Club for asylum seekers and refugees

1:30-3:30pm The Holbeck club, Jenkinson Lawn Walking Group

1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Social Group and Bingo

1:30-3:30pm 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 Fat Burn and HIIT

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 MHA Breakfast

9-11:30am Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Digital Hub and Cafe

9am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Menspace drop in

9-10:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle 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 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.

Hunslet RLFC Breakfast Club

Email: info@southleedslife.com

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

Bacon Butty Drop-in

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 & Raylands 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 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 Group and Bingo

1:30-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3DU Chair-based Exercise

1:45-2:45pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Councillor surgery

2:30-3:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston LS11 6RD 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, Coopers Field, 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 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)

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

Coffee Morning

10am-12pm Aspiring

Communities, 49 Barkly Road, Beeston, LS11 7EN

Adult Cycle Training

10am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston

Book: bit.ly/CycleNorth

Middleton Railway

10am-4pm Moor Road, LS10 2JG

Ultimate Dance Academy

10am-12:20pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre

ParkPlay

10:30am-12:30pm Brickfield

Park, Lady Pit Lane, Beeston

Champions Soccer Saturday

10:30-11:30am Hunslet Moor

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

Every Sunday

Junior parkrun (4-14 yrs)

9am Top of Cross Flatts Park

Healthy Minds Cycling Skills

10-11am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park

Middleton Railway

10am-4pm Moor Road, LS10 2JG 16 Guidelines To Life

10:30-11:30am Jamyang

Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck, LS11 9RQ

Play For All (7-13 yrs)

11am-1pm Cross Flatts Park

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

Greenmounts Tenants & Residents Association

6:30pm Rowland Road WMC, Beeston, LS11 6ED

Thursday 2 October

MEA Hearing Aid Clinic

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

Police Contact Point

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

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston

Open Evening

Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston, LS11 5TT

Hunslet Carr Residents Assoc

6:30pm Woodhouse Hill

Community Centre, LS10 2EF

Beeston Community Forum

7:30-9pm Beeston Village

Community Centre

Friday 3 October

MEA Legal advice drop-in

9:30-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4JQ

Saturday 4 October

Hunslet Cemetery Volunteers

10am-1pm Middleton Road

Coffee morning

10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road, Hunslet Menopause Info and Support

10:30am-12:30pm The Annex, Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library, LS11 6PF

Leeds United v Tottenham

12:30pm Elland Road, LS11 0ES

Beeston Repair Café

1-4pm St Luke’s CARES Shop, 246 Dewsbury Road, LS11 6JQ

Jumble Sale

1-3pm St Peter’s Church, Belle Isle, LS10 3QN

Creepy Boys

7:30pm Slung Low’s Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ

Sunday 5 October

Leeds Knights v Romford Raiders

5:15pm Planet Ice, Elland Road

Tuesday 7 October

Buy, Sell, Swap

10-11:30am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR

Wednesday 8 October

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:

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

Open evening

3:30-6pm New Bewerley

Community School, Bismarck

Thursday 9 October

Councillor surgery

9-10am Gascoigne House, Middleton, LS10 4YA Forest Garden Action Day

12:30-4pm Belle Isle Parade

Friday 10 October

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Cottingley

Community Centre, LS11 0HJ

Hunslet Tenants & Residents Ass 6pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, LS10 2QE

Saturday 11 October

Middleton Makers Market

Leeds Knights v Solway Sharks

5:15pm Planet Ice, Elland Road

Wednesday 15 October

MHA Connie Crafters

3-4:30pm South Leeds Conservative Club, Wooler Street, Beeston, LS11 7JH

Thursday 16 October

SEN-tastic

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

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston

Leeds Baby Bank

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Live Music Concert

12:30pm Penny Hill Shopping Centre (Church Street entrance) LS10 2AR

Saturday 18 October

Leeds Dock Market

10am-4pm Armouries Square, Leeds Dock, LS10 1LT

Belle Isle Repair Café

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

Councillor surgery

2:30pm BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle, LS10 3QH

Sunday 19 October

Leeds Knights v Milton Keynes

5:15pm Planet Ice, Elland Road

Tuesday 21 October

Police Contact Point

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

Open Evening

Sharp Lane Primary School, Middleton, LS10 4QE

Wednesday 22 October

Access To Work drop-in

10am-4pm Hunslet Community

Hub and Library, off Church Street

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Ingram Gardens

Community Centre, Holbeck

Transform25 : Surrender

12-5pm The Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ

Light Night Leeds

6-10pm various locations

Thursday 23 October

Police Contact Point

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

6-10pm various locations

Friday 24 October

Transform25 : The Joystick and The Reins

8-9pm The Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ

Leeds United v West Ham 8pm Elland Road, LS11 0ES

Saturday 25 October

Insight Table Top Sale

1-3pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, LS10 2QE

Transform25 : It’s Got Legs!!!!!!! 9:15-10:15pm The Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ Transform25 : Doomsday Disco 10pm-5am Testbed, Butterley Street, Hunslet, LS10 1ES

Sunday 26 October

Leeds Dock Artisan Market

11am-4pm Fearns, The Boulevard, Leeds Dock, LS10 1LE

Holbeck Together Sunday Lunch

12-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR

Book (0113) 245 5553

Leeds Knights v Sheffield 5:15pm Planet Ice, Elland Road

Tuesday 28 October

Wild Play Day (8-12 years) 10am-4pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, LS10 1RS

Wednesday 29 October Councillor surgery

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

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

MHA Kurling

10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Coffee Morning and Bingo 10am-12pm Cardinal Court, Beeston, LS11 8HP

Thursday 30 October

Hunslet Remembered

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

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Salvation Army Friendship Lunch 11am-1pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, LS11 6QB

Leeds Knights v Hull Seahawks

7:30pm Planet Ice, Elland Road

Friday 31 October

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Cottingley

Community Centre, LS11 0HJ Councillors’ Surgeries 4pm Beeston Community Hub & Library, Town Street, Beeston 5pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck 6pm Cottingley Community Centre Saturday 1 November Hunslet Cemetery Volunteers 10am-1pm Middleton Road

Coffee morning 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road, Hunslet Beeston Repair Café

1-4pm St Luke’s CARES Shop, 246 Dewsbury Road, LS11 6JQ Leeds Knights v Telford Tigers 6:30pm Planet Ice, Elland Road

October

Wednesday 1 October

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Ingram Gardens

10am-2pm Middleton Park Circus

Community/Reflections Cafe

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

An Attempt To Lose Time

7:30pm Slung Low’s Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ

Sunday 12 October

10am-12pm Phoenix Suite, South Leeds Stadium, LS11 5DJ

6:15-7:45pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston

Community Centre, Holbeck South Accommodation Road

improvements consultation

1:30-6:30pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, LS10 2NS

South Leeds Community Kitchen

4-5:45pm Beeston Parish Centre (St Mary’s), Town Street, LS11 8PN

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Contact us to make sure you time your application close to our publication dates

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Slung Low presents ...

SlungLow, Holbeck’s own theatre company, has two shows coming up in October, both at their Warehouse in Holbeck.

You're invited: The Creepy Boys, are throwing their 13th birthday party. It will have everything. Games. Gifts. Possibly Satan. Probably Cake. Combining 2000s sexy songs, satanic rituals, and Willam Dafoe, these horny little boys do whatever it takes to make their birthday dreams come true. This is one birthday party you’d be cursed to miss.

The twins recruit the audience to help them set up their party, with all the deference and direct eye contact you’d expect from attending a twin-teen birthday blast, before driving the show off a wild horror-comedy cliff. Through sexy dances, party games and reenacting their own birth, the Creepy Boys ramp up the chaos to the point of a blood sacrifice, all while interrogating the trappings of millennial nostalgia. From reallife-lovers-turned-identical-twin s, Sam Kruger (Winner - Just for

Laughs Comedy Award 2019) and SE Grummett (WinnerBest Theatre, Adelaide Fringe 2021) comes a bizarre comedy with just a splash of the occult.

Creepy Boys is on Saturday 4 October at 7:30pm.

Time is everywhere. We’re surrounded by it. We can’t escape it. Or can we…?

After five years of fast-paced burnt-out always-on city life, Miranda thought about time all the time - so she gave it up.

Musing on climate change, capitalism, human extinction and the ever-present threat that crabs might take over the world, this is the story of how Miranda left the city, took to the canals, travelled to a remote Scottish island and formed questionable relationships with moorhens in her quest to escape time.

In an offbeat mashup of storytelling, movement, existential angst and one outrageous musical number, Miranda will attempt to deconstruct and rebuild her own perception of time (and yours!) - all while wearing sparkly antlers.

An Attempt to Lose Time is a playful, surreal and surprising meditation on time blending the personal and the collective, a questioning of the status quo and an invitation to see time differently.

An Attempt to Lose Time is on Saturday 11 October at

7:30pm.

Both shows are pay-whatyou-decide. Book your ticket at www.slunglow.org/shows and pay after you’ve seen the performance.

The Warehouse in Holbeck is on Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ, entrance on Rydall Place.

An Attempt To Lose Time

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Boxing show a family triumph for South Leeds fighters

by James Bovington

Boxer

Kieran MacMillan was delighted that the unusual way in which he marked his eighteenth birthday turned out to be a success as he won his bout on the Haynes 13 boxing show at The Angler’s in Burmantofts.

Thirteen also proved a lucky number for MacMillan’s older brother Lewis and cousin Leighton who both won their bouts. All three boxers train with promoter Tristan Haynes at his Beeston gym.

Rodillian Academy sixthformer MacMillan explained that “the show turned out to be quite a family affair. It was my 18th birthday, and we enjoyed massive vocal support. I started boxing last year. I’d paused my rugby owing to a dislocated knee. I now train three times a week with my older brother. This is my second decision bout after a

few exhibition bouts. My opponent survived a count in the first round, but the referee stopped it after I dropped him again in the second. I can’t wait

for the next Haynes show in December when I’ll be fighting another Middleton lad Rawa Rashid. We’ll be putting on a proper derby for south Leeds.”

Lewis MacMillan and Leighton Campbell are both 26. Window manufacturer Lewis defeated Ricky Ward to remain undefeated in his three

Leeds City AC win medals at Northern Relays

The Northern Athletics Road Relay Championships took place on Saturday 20 September.

On a day when the rain never relented and the wind swept across Leigh Sports Village, Leeds City athletes rose to the challenge with courage and unity. Despite the extremely tough and wet conditions, every runner in yellow and blue showed true club spirit, making this a day to remember for all involved.

Leeds City’s Senior Women continue to set the gold standard for distance running in the North of England - and beyond. Their performance at Leigh Sports Village was nothing short of commanding, as they once again proved themselves untouchable at regional level. Every leg was

run with confidence, class, and a relentless drive for excellence, underlining why this group are not only reigning National Cross Country Champions but also the team every club aspires to emulate. What makes this team’s achievements even more special is the impact they have on the next generation. The Senior Women are more than just winners—they are role models whose work ethic, camaraderie, and competitive spirit inspire every young athlete in the club, especially our junior girls.

Leeds City’s Under 13 Boys made history by winning the Northern title for the first time in over 20 years, clocking a superb 31:28. William Reynolds ran the opening leg, handing over in 6th place. Roman Morriss then moved Leeds City into the lead, before

S Coffey-Wills anchored the team home to secure a famous victory in the worst of the weather.

The Senior Men’s A team delivered a strong performance to secure second place in a time of 1:53:47, finishing just behind a powerful Salford squad. Joe Sagar got the team off to a solid start, handing over in 6th, Jason Hall moved the team up to 3rd, before John Beattie, Mark Bostock, Ed Bovingdon and Richard Allen each produced determined runs to bring the team home in silver medal position. With such depth and quality on display, the upcoming autumn and winter campaign promises to be fiercely competitive.

The Under 17 Boys produced one of the standout performances of the day, finishing a superb fourth with a time of 28:01. Yaried Alem, a true national-class athlete, set the tone with a powerful opening leg. Jake Norris then delivered a sensational run, to move the team into the lead and underlining his status as one of the country’s brightest young talents. On the final leg, Alexander Smith showed just how far he has come this season, holding his own against some of the best in the North. This was a performance full of quality and promise, and the whole squad can be proud of how they represented the club on such a big stage.

bouts since taking up the sport seriously just two years ago. Leighton defeated his opponent Mark Feely with what was described as a “brutal, nasty and punishing first round knockout” but which pleased those in attendance judging from the roof-lifting noise of appreciation. “I’m a lad from Hunslet who works in a bank,” said Leighton. “Like my cousins I’ve always played rugby. They persuaded me to give boxing a go. Now this. It’s surreal. I’ll be back for more.”

There was disappointment for Haynes fighter Ben Finlay, 28, defeated by Scunthorpe’s Corey Holloway in an intense five two-minute round clash which saw the two evenly matched boxers hug in friendship and appreciation of each other’s courage and skill as Holloway was declared the winner. Finlay had won 14 of 17 Haynes bouts having gone back to the boxing he enjoyed as a child in 2021. “I wanted to lose weight,” said Finlay, “and this was the sport I knew. Tristan keeps me busy. I like the training. I love the action in a fight where I feel calm and comfortable but also excited to win. I’m now keen to win back my Haynes super middleweight title.”

The Under 13 Girls team put in a determined effort to finish 21st overall in a time of 39:28. Nya Williams ran the opening leg, followed by Amalie Merriman and Emily Kenworthy

The Under 15 Girls A team finished 12th overall in a time of 34:39. Evelyn Hodgkinson ran a strong opening leg, handing over in 16th position.

Isabelle Hall moved the team up to 13th and Ellie Keeler completed the final leg, bringing the team home in 12th place after a consistent and committed team effort.

The Under 15 Boys A team produced a strong performance to finish 12th overall in a time of 31:16. Caleb Emmett ran a confident first leg. Ben Bedford kept the team in contention and Tyler Griffiths brought the team home in 12th after a determined final leg.

The Under 17 Women’s A team finished 23rd overall in a time of 37:55. Sophia Hidayat got the team underway, handing over in 24th position.

Harriet Williams maintained the team’s momentum and Talitha Hodgkinson brought the team home, moving up to 23rd place. All three athletes showed great commitment and teamwork, representing the club with pride in challenging conditions.

A longer version of this report is available online at southleedslife.com

where Leeds Trinity sports student Gracjan Krupski trains. “I’m well known as a Thai boxer. Tristan persuaded me to give boxing a go and although I didn’t get the win, I was proud that my fight with opponent Bradford’s Kieran King was declared fight of the night.”

Anthony Miller’s son Kyren hopes to become a professional boxer. Anthony himself has just gone into formal partnership with Tristan Haynes to form Haynes & Miller Boxing and Fitness Gym and is well appreciated by all boxers for his commitment to them and the encouragement he consistently offers especially at the shows. “I came to see Kyren train and before I knew it Tristan had me holding pads. Soon boxers were asking me to assist with drills. I’m naturally a quiet person who enjoys helping people and seeing them develop over time.”

Haynes, 31, is from Belle Isle. “We’re about giving welltrained local boxers the opportunity to entertain while showcasing their skills and earning a bit of cash through ticket sale commission.”

Haynes runs his stable of fighters from the MSA gym in Sugar Mills Business Park

Tickets for Haynes 14 on 6 December are available from the boxers via social media. If wanting to train with Tristan Haynes contact him on Facebook or e-mail thpainters anddecorators@gmail.com

Disappointment as Hunslet’s season fizzles out

Continued from page 24

The Parksiders were depleted down to their last 17 fit men, and had to bring Michael Knowles out of retirement to field an 18 man squad against a fulltime French outfit.

It was always going to be one way traffic, but credit to Hunslet who hung in against the best side to visit South Leeds this season, who would have scored many of their tries against much better opposition.

It was 0-40 at the break, but Hunslet started the second half well and after Billy Jowitt forced a drop-out Jack Rampton went close. Hunslet were now getting decisions and Billy Jowitt was looking dangerous, but they couldn’t crack the French defence.

Toulouse kept scoring. Hunslet didn’t give up though and Billy Jowitt combined with Ethan Wood to break through, then quick hands to the left enabled Jack Rampton to touch down. Jowitt converting 6-62 with ten minutes to go.

Full time score: 6-68.

It’s been a tough season for Hunslet coming up to the Championship, but the change in League structure means no

relegation, which Hunslet were aware of. Meaning the squad can be strengthened next season whilst players this season have had some Championship experience.

Head Coach Kyle Trout has got to work straight away for what’s going to be an interesting 2026.

Announcements so far have confirmed that Player of the Season Billy Jowett has signed on for another year. Billy was recognised for his efforts by the coaching staff, his fellow teammates and supporters, as he went on to win ‘Coaches Player’, ‘Supporters Player’ and ‘Players Player’ of the season at the clubs’ end of the season awards night.

Club legend Jimmy Watson has also re-signed for what will be his 13th season at what he called his “second home.”

Returning to South Leeds Stadium will be flying winger Mo Agoro for a second stint with the Parksiders. The Jamaican international has signed a two year contract in a move from Oldham. Watch out for more announcements as the club builds a squad to challenge in the new look Championship next season.

by Celia De Maria Winners: Leeds City AC Senior Women

L-R: Leighton, Lewis and Kieran MacMillan

Disappointment as Hunslet’s season fizzles out

by Ian Pickles

Hunslet

RLFC set a new, and unwanted, club record by losing its last two games of a difficult season in the Championship.

Losses to Sheffield Eagles and Toulouse Olympique meant the Parksiders lost every home this season for the first time in their history.

Hunslet faced second to bottom Sheffield Eagles on 7 September at South Leeds Stadium.

It started so well for the Parksiders, on 4 minutes a Lee Gaskell kick was pounced on by Ethan Wood to score the opening try. Billy Jowitt converting, 6-0 and hopes were up, but 5 minutes later after Hunslet had knocked-on Danny Craven dummied and went over for his 100th career try. 6-4

The intensity shown the previous week at Widnes was not there and slowly Sheffield started to gain control. Although Coby Nichol came close to scoring in the corner Liam Carr had to make an excellent try saving tackle to

New campaign clamps down on harassment of female runners

People are encouraged to report incidents as the Leeds JogOn campaign sends a message that harassment of women and girls whilst exercising will not be tolerated.

A launch event for the campaign was hosted at the Royal Armouries in Hunslet on Wednesday 24 September, with speakers including the Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin and Olympian athlete Alex Bell. Leeds Dock Running Club then led a run through the city centre finishing at City Square.

The Leeds JogOn campaign is delivered through the Safer Leeds partnership and aims to make outdoor spaces safer and more inclusive.

Originally started in Bradford in 2024, the measures were taken after a survey by Runner’s World Magazine showed that 60% of women runners said they had been harassed when running.

A survey run by Women Friendly Leeds in 2021 also found that 85% of the respondents had experienced being leered at, catcalled or wolf-whistled. As a result, women stated they have changed their behaviour due to

feeling unsafe when using outside spaces, with some saying that they no longer exercise outside.

For the Leeds campaign, the Safer Leeds partnership and Get Set Leeds Local will be working with local running clubs and park runs to raise awareness and encourage women to report any harassment they experience.

Grace Whalley, who runs with Leeds Dock Running Club, spoke about her experience of being harassed, something she says has been happening ever since she started running at age 14. She said:

“Last year when I was running back from run club on my own a man on a bike cycled next to me the whole run home, it was seven kilometres.

“He kept trying to speak to me and reach out to touch me, I just kept looking ahead, turned my music up and ignored him as much as possible but there was nothing I could do to shake him off my case. I came home so unsettled and it really upset me how someone could make me feel so uncomfortable for no reason, how he couldn’t just take no for an answer.

“It doesn’t achieve anything, and I wouldn’t ever be impressed if someone catcalled me so I don’t understand why men continue to do it.”

For the campaign, plain clothes officers will also go running in ‘hot spot areas’ to identify perpetrators. Those found to be harassing could be issued with a fine or a fixed penalty notice.

Active bystander training can be booked through the campaign webpage, to build male allyship and change attitudes, encouraging people to intervene when they see harassment unfold.

Councillor Mary Harland, Leeds City Council’s executive member for communities, customer service and community safety, said:

“The safety of women and girls sits at the heart of what we do at Safer Leeds. No one should be made to feel unsafe when exercising and using public spaces.

“Some might think that catcalling or beeping their horn is harmless, but we want to send a strong message that this behaviour will not be tolerated and say to anyone

who experiences this to please report it.”

Chief Inspector Phil Gill of Leeds District Police said:

“We are pleased to be launching the JogOn campaign in Leeds, building on the success it has already achieved in Bradford, helping women feel safer when out running, knowing they are listened to and supported.

“We know some people might feel like these behaviours aren’t serious enough to report, but they absolutely are.

“The message is clear and simple, everyone should be able to go out running, without fear of harassment or unwanted behaviour.

Perpetrators need to be educated around the impact of their behaviour and where appropriate held accountable for their actions.”

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said:

“Every woman deserves to live their life without fear. The safety of women and girls is at

stop the Eagles. However, handling errors, penalties and a lack of ideas in attack, meant that the Eagles went in 6-20 ahead at the break.

A quarter of an hour of constant defence at the start of the second half was broken by Ed Battye going over for Sheffield’s killer try. On 62 minutes the Eagles scored again 6-30.

Frustration set in and Matty Fletcher was sent off. Now down to 12 men Marsh, Bower and Kris Welham added tries for Sheffield to rub salt in the wound and Joe Farrell ended the day with 5 conversions.

On the hooter Hunslet looked dejected. Speaking after the game coach Kyle Trout was upset, not just at the loss, but that the team hadn’t performed in a winnable game on Jimmy Watson’s 250th appearance for the club. Hunslet’s 2025 Season ended in defeat on 13 September to a Toulouse side finishing second in the Championship and gunning for Super League.

Continued on page 23

the heart of our mission for a safer, fairer West Yorkshire and that’s why we are committed to challenging sexist and intimidating behaviour.

“Harassment and abuse of women is unacceptable, and this initiative sends a clear message that we will not stand for it.”

Incidents of harassment can be reported to the police by calling 101 or www.west yorkshire.police.uk/LiveChat

In an emergency, when there is a crime in progress or a danger to life, always dial 999 Read more about the campaign at www.leeds.gov.uk /campaign/jogon

Members of Leeds Dock Running Club at the launch

Michael Knowles came out of retirement to face Toulouse. Photo: Craig Irvine