South Leeds Life 27 March 17

Your FREE community newspaper

Issue 27 | March 2017

What’s happening in Beeston, Belle Isle, Cottingley, Holbeck, Hunslet, Middleton & Stourton

All guns blazing?

In this issue:

Too many takeaways?

page 2

Award winners

page 5

Armed police raid raises alarm and frustration in Beeston Hill

by Ed Carlisle West Yorkshire Police last month carried out a highprofile operation in Beeston Hill, with several dozen officers – including a number with firearms – raiding properties suspected of arms and drug offences.

However, following the relatively limited results of the raids, local people have spoken out to question the scale of the operation, and the police’s priorities.

The police operation on Wednesday 8th February apparently followed tip-offs regarding the potential presence of firearms and other criminal activity locally.

It featured the closure of major roads including Dewsbury Road, Tempest Road, and Stratford Street – and generated both local and national media coverage.

Two arrests were made, and fifty cannabis plants were seized from one of the houses; but no firearms were found, nor other issues of serious

concern, and the two arrests only led to one caution being issued (for cannabis production).

Against the backdrop of events – including the recent fatal shooting of Mr Yassar Yaqub just outside Huddersfield in early January – West Yorkshire Police have therefore faced some local criticism.

Some residents have questioned the heavy-handed approach, and the alarm and risks that go along with such operations; and others have

Volunteers commit to Litter Free Leeds

argued that the police are meanwhile insufficiently responsive in tackling ongoing criminal matters.

Jo Holmes lives in Beeston Hill and witnessed the operation first hand. In comments that echoed those of many others on social media, she told South Leeds Life: “Of course the police need to act firmly, and weapons are a big deal, but this was ridiculous: there were more cops here than after the London bombings.

“There were loads of rumours going around: a machete attack, bombs, a hostage situation – but all they found was a weed farm, which isn't exactly uncommon.

“Then they let the guy off with a caution! The whole thing reinforced the negative image and press that Beeston unfairly gets.”

Virtual reality in Cottingley

page 11

Turn to page 2 for the Police response.

Continues on page 2

Walking group offers friendship and fitness

Rugby makes Coopa’s wish NEWS

PLANNING FEEDBACK

Litter. Dog poo. Flytipping. It looks awful, risks health and pollutes the environment.

This was the theme of an exciting one day event held at Pudsey Civic

Hall on 23 February. Around 150 people, groups as well as concerned individuals, met to discuss the issues and find solutions.

Full story on page 7

The BITMO GATE Walking group continues to go from strength to strength, with now 15 members.

The group meet up at the centre in

Belle Isle every Wednesday from midday.Walks last an hour and we often take in the lovely Middleton Park on our walk.

Full story on page 5

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SCHOOLS

COMMENT

page 16

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p8-9 p10

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WHAT’S!ON p14-15 SPORT!

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South Leeds Life | March 2017

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

The blog and newspaper are produced by South Leeds Life CIC, a social enterprise registered with Companies House.

Our aims are: 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 started as a blog in November 2010 and still posts news every day at: www.southleedslife.com

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Time to let the north decide on spending

by Hilary Benn MP

For quite some time now it has been clear that there is a NorthSouth divide when it comes to Government funding for infrastructure. The facts speak for themselves.

Public capital spending per person in the North is only half that in London, according to the think-tank the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR). And the total being spent on Crossrail (£4.6bn) - the project to build a new underground line in the capital - will be more than all the spending on projects in the North (£4.3bn) put together.

The North's equivalent of Crossrail is the plan to improve rail connectivity and journey times eastwest. It currently takes about 55 minutes to travel by train between Leeds and Manchester - two powerhouses of the northern economy - and you almost always wait about five minutes outside Manchester Piccadilly station for a platform.

The last time I did a day trip, some people had to stand most of the way.There is now a plan to improve things but why has it taken so long?

One reason is that for years all big transport projects have had to make the long journey down to Whitehall for civil servants to decide what's a priority, when we already know what we need! If the funding had been devolved to the North thirty years ago, I am sure that we'd be speeding on our way by now.

This is one reason why greater devolution of power really matters.

To keep our economy strong, especially amid the uncertainty created by Brexit, we need to invest - in infrastructure, skills, housing, and science and innovation - and transport which is the artery of economic activity is absolutely central to this. So let's get campaigning for our fair share.

I recently visited the foot health clinic at the diabetes centre at St James's Hospital. Diabetes is a major and growing public health problem.

The number of people with the disease has increased by 60% in the last decade and there are now an estimated 41,000 people in Leeds affected, with the highest rates found in the south and east of the city.

Diabetes is a serious condition and can result in damage to our lower limbs with the risk of amputation. As it was explained to me, people with diabetes can lose all feeling in their feet so they don't necessarily notice when they have injured themselves.

Up to 25% of people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer.

Half of these cases will involve infection, with one fifth of infections resulting in an amputation. It is no wonder that the unit at St James's describes itself as the limb salvage clinic.

I knew very little about diabetes before my visit but I came away with a much better understanding of why we all need to take it seriously. But most of all, I was so impressed by the knowledge, professionalism and care shown by the staff I met.

Hilary Benn MP One patient told me that he regards them as family, and they certainly represent everything that is wonderful about our NHS. At a time when we read a lot about the great pressures facing the health service, it is the staff in our hospitals, clinics and GPs' surgeries who - day in and day out - make sure we are looked after. Let's thank them for everything they do.

Too many takeaways in Beeston?

Councillors were left asking officers to speed up work on a new hot food takeaway policy as they were forced to approve planning permission for yet another takeaway in Beeston.

South Leeds Life counted 20 takeaways on Dewsbury Road alone between the Tommy Wass and Hunslet Hall Road; including 5 Fish and Chip shops, 5 pizzerias and 4 chicken shops.

Beeston & Holbeck Councillors objected to the latest application,

on Ring Road Beeston, on grounds of public health, litter and noise nuisance. But the Plans Panel were forced to approve it because of Planning rules.

Cllr Barry Anderson (Adel & Wharfedale) said “I have concerns, but I am unable to object to the application.”

Resident Jennie Stones commented: “Just what we need another take away in Beeston - and no doubt even more unwanted leaflets through our doors.”

Armed Police in Beeston Hill Continued from page 1.

Tony Tierney, on behalf of West Yorkshire Police responded: “We will understandably always treat reports of firearms very seriously and put an appropriate policing response in place until any threat has been negated. I think the public expect that from us in terms of keeping them safe from the dangers that firearms present – which has been clearly illustrated in recent incidents elsewhere in Leeds, such at the fatal shooting in Harehills. Talk of over-reacting is completely unfounded given the circumstances.”

He added: “We are working hard

to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in the area, and if people have any information relating to the supply of drugs or other issues in the community, they should contact their local neighbourhood team.”

But other residents have in turn expressed frustration that they’re facing major ongoing crime and anti-social behaviour locally – but find the police unresponsive. One resident of an inner south Leeds community, who wished to remain anonymous, commented: “Where I live, we’ve had serious drug dealing happening 24/7 on our doorsteps, for 10 years – and everything that goes with it:

vandalism, noise, violence, prostitution, intimidation, and more.

They think they can get away with anything – and in fact, it seems they can.

“Because everyone knows what's going on, and we've repeatedly tried to get the police involved – but nothing gets done. You never speak to the same officer twice, information never seems to get shared from one officer to another, you never get any feedback whether the info you’ve shared has gone anywhere, and so on.”

“We totally understand that investigations take time, that the police are understaffed, and about

confidentiality – but this has been going on so blatantly, for so long.

This recent operation was a show of strength, but based – it seems – on poor intelligence.

“The police always say they want local people to work with them, to give them local intelligence – but they lose any credibility or goodwill if they then seem inactive and unresponsive. It's all so frustrating, and it wears you down.”

To report criminal activity in your area, call the local neighbourhood teams on 101. If the activity continues, ask for a named officer with whom you can liaise over a period of time.

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CCTV approved for Cross Flatts Park

by Jeremy Morton Councillors on the Inner South Community Committee have approved spending £50,000 on

installing and maintaining three CCTV cameras in and around Cross Flatts Park in Beeston.

The decision came at their meeting on 15 February and follows a number of incidents

The Watsonian Pavilion in Cross Flatts Park

in the park over recent months.

One camera will be sited near the Watsonian Pavilion at the top of the park, with another below the sports courts. A third camera will be sited at the junction of Tempest Road and Maud Avenue. All three cameras will have 360 degree visibility and be linked to the LeedsWatch system which is monitored 24 hours a day.

Officers said that the Council could procure and install the cameras in around 8 weeks, but were dependant on BT and Yorkshire Electricity, so it might well take longer before they are operational.

Local resident Gohar Almass

Khan said: “It’s good news for all as we first asked for these to be fitted in 2012.

“One other trouble spot still needs attention is the entrance into the park from Wooler Avenue, the other side being Maude Avenue on the opposite end hopefully covered by one of the cameras installed.”

Another resident, Julie Bush commented: “Isn’t there a risk that only filming one side of the main criminal rat-run through the park, at Maude Avenue, will just mean drug dealers will be even more likely increase their activities at Wooler Avenue entrance instead? As I know all too well that they do now.”

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Councillors call for more health and social care funding

Councillors at the Inner South Community Committee last month discussed plans to improve health services across the city, but said they had no faith in the outcome without substantial increase in funding from the government for both NHS and adult social care.

They heard from Dr Ian Cameron, the Director of Public Health for Leeds, that the area has the lowest life expectancy in the city; the highest level of death from cardio-vascular disease; and the second highest level for deaths from cancer. He was introducing the city’s ‘Sustainability and Transformation Plan’.

But Cllr Paul Truswell said he couldn’t support the plan because it was based on saving £2 billion over two years.

“The plan wants to keep

people out of hospital, but we have a massive shortfall of GPs in our area. If you have to wait three weeks to see a GP, it’s no wonder people go to A&E” he said.

“There are huge cuts to Public Health spending, so how are we supposed to keep people out of hospital?”

Cllr Elizabeth Nash wanted to see a reopening of convalescent homes to relieve the pressure on hospital beds.

She also pointed out that “It is much easier to make cuts to individual’s care at home. If you close a home or a hospital ward everyone knows about it” she said.

Cllr Kim Groves was concerned that wider issues such as employment and debt were not being taken into account but have a significant affect on people’s health. She called on the government to cancel the NHS’s PFI debts, just

as the banks had been bailed out of their crisis.

Cllr Judith Blake was concerned about the damage caused by poor diet and loneliness. “Studies show that a child’s birth weight affects their educational attainment down the line” she said. She suggested that bringing people together to share healthy food could help tackle both problems.

But “the government are in denial about the scale of the crisis in the NHS and in social care” she said. “I have no hope that more funding will be made available.”

Nick Jones, a Middleton resident and health campaigner, said “The council should be boycotting the Sustainability and Transformation Plan, there is no friendly version of an STP.”

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Digital Angels: here to help you get online

Age UK Leed’s Digital Angels has been working in South Leeds since September 2016.

Digital Angels is all about getting older people who are socially isolated and living in South Leeds online, through both one to one interventions with volunteers and group activities delivered in community venues.

This service is offered to people over 50 living in south Leeds who identify as lonely and isolated We connect older people living in south Leeds with trained and friendly volunteers who teach them digital skills, to help reduce social isolation. The volunteer

will visit them in their own home to help them get online. We can lend equipment or help with technology that people already have. The project encourages digital friendships, contacts gently opening doors to new worlds. We are fully funded by Time to Shine and there is no cost to taking part in the project.

One of our learners Vera says that learning how to use a tablet has helped her to relax and feel closer to her children despite the distance between where they live. She doesn’t feel scared about new things anymore and is excited to continue learning.

Training for railway work

Young people are encouraged to make tracks down to Holbeck to start their career on the railway.

Opportunities are available right now to join a training scheme learning track maintenance skills. Training company Realskills are looking for young people aged 16-18 who are interested in a chance to gain skills and experience in an outdoor role. No formal qualifications are required and necessary functional skills will be taught on site.

The historic Holbeck loco depot on Bridge Road is now home RTS Infrastructure who work on all sorts of trains, from cleaning local commuter trains to maintaining the latest state-of-the-art track maintenance vehicles.

Operations Director Chris

Reid said: “We get all sorts of rolling stock coming into the depot and to see the latest vehicles is a real inspiration for the young people.”

RTS Infrastructure have teamed up with Realskills to offer training in a real life work environment.

Trainees undertake a six week course at the end of which they choose to move onto the apprenticeship programme.

The trainees we met were very enthusiastic saying they all intended to finish the training and get work on the railway.

Once qualified they can expect to earn £10-14 per hour as track men.

For more information contact Nichola Shenton on 07904 565288 or email: nichola.shenton@realskills.co.uk.

Cllrs Kim Groves and Angela Gabriel meet staff and trainees on site in Holbeck

We also run group sessions in sheltered accommodation and community venues to help build relationships and connect older people to their local communities. Our recent “Techy Tea Party” held at BITMO GATE was a huge success and helped our learners to meet each other and show off what they have learned.

If you would like to refer anyone to the service or if you would like more information please contact Morag or Rachel on 0113 389 3017 or send an email to digital.angels@ageukleeds.org.uk.

Foodbank hatches Easter Egg appeal

Volunteers in South Leeds were joined by local Councillor Judith Blake this week as she went to see how the South and East Foodbank operates.

The Foodbank is run by around 280 volunteers who have come together to help people who are facing some form of crisis and have been referred through to them from organisations such as Belle Isle Tenant Management Office (BITMO).

Councillor Blake joined John Casey, Wendy Doyle, John Newbould and other volunteers as they sorted donations, collected from sites around the south of the city including Middleton Asda, ready to go to the 11 distribution centres.

The Foodbank relies completely on donations, both in terms of food and other non-perishable items, but also cash donations to help pay the costs of renting warehouse space and keeping distribution vans on the road.

Councillor Blake asked if any recent trends had been identified regarding foodbank use and was told that the only real trend was an increase in the numbers of people accessing them. Clients vary from single people to families, are usually only accessed once in a time of crisis and that

Cllr Judith Blake talks to Foodbank volunteers John Casey & Wendy Doyle many people who have benefitted from them themselves then come back and volunteer so that they can help others who find themselves in a similar situation.

The Foodbank launched an appeal last November for Advent Calendars and selection boxes, the response was such that every child whose family accessed a food bank in December last year was given a calendar and section box. A large donation of presents meant that the food bank was also able to ensure that the children in each family who accessed their services were able to open a present on Christmas Day. A similar appeal has now been launched for Easter eggs and people are encouraged to

bring donations to any of the 11 distribution sites. Anyone who wishes to help though donating or volunteering can contact Wendy Doyle, the Project Manager, on (0113) 271 5866.

Councillor Judith Blake said: “It is a damning indictment of the Government’s welfare reform that there has been such a sharp increase in the numbers of people accessing foodbanks. From visiting here today it is clear that anyone can find themselves in circumstances where they suddenly need help. I have heard stories about people on zero hour contracts, people who have had their tax credits stopped, people who have just started a new job and don’t get paid for six or seven weeks.

These are hardworking people

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who find themselves needing a helping hand.

“The work that John and the other volunteers do is incredible and I would like to thank them for their hard work and dedication.

Donations are always needed and people can drop things off at the distribution centres or log onto the website to make a cash donation to help the food bank continue to run.”

John Casey, Chair of Trustees said: “The foodbank was set up in 2013 and it has been a mammoth effort to bring it all together. It is particularly encouraging to see the joint working with Leeds City Council and other food aid providers across the city to ensure that there is a coordinated programme across all areas.

“I think that Leeds is ahead of the game in that respect and that is very much due to the relationship between us, the Council and other providers.

We recognise that this is not a long term solution and our aim is to be able to address some of the root issues such as employment and that is why we want to continue to build on the great relationships we already have.

“This is essentially about people helping people and we will continue to do that for as long as is necessary.”

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A Valentine’s Day thank you to volunteers

Volunteers at Trinity Network were the guests of honour at the regular Tuesday lunch club on 14 February as they were given a Valentine’s Day thank you.

Lynda Williamson, CEO of Trinity Network, said: “Our volunteers are fantastic. We only have a small staff team so having such a caring and dependable group of volunteers is invaluable.”

Tony Lee, Chair of Trinity Network added: “We simply couldn’t provide the activities we do without them.”

Duties range widely from making tea and coffee, befriending, pushing wheelchairs on trips, running craft classes and serving meals to calling

the bingo. Although they put in a lot of work, the volunteers clearly enjoy themselves.

“I get pleasure out of it, the members are such good company.”

Said Glenys Asquith who is carrying on a family tradition – her mother cooked lunchtime meals for 21 years.

Anne Parker enjoys befriending and talking to members “They are all really nice to talk to. I love to listen to their stories, they’ve all led such interesting lives.”

“They’re extraordinarily funny, worse than teenagers sometimes” agrees Jannine Holmes. “I love it and I hope that when I’m that position there will be someone to help me.”

Amongst other things, Jannine accompanies members to doctor’s and hospital appointments and helps people get online with their tablets and smartphones.

Barbara Beck started the craft group – Crafternoon Tea – which combines a proper afternoon tea with the best china. Members make all sorts of things from cards, sewing to Easter baskets.

Trinity Network is clearly an important lifeline for its members. A place to come and meet or make friends, get a hot meal in good company and take part in the many games and activities.

It runs two centres at Nesfield

Volunteers at Trinity Network Road in Belle Isle and at Dewsbury Road in Beeston. Trinity Network is currently looking for new volunteers.

Walking group offers friendship and fitness

by Ken Ingram The BITMO GATE Walking group continues to go from strength to strength, with now 15 members.

New members are welcome.

The group meet up at the GATE centre in Belle Isle every Wednesday from midday.

Walks last an hour, but when there are no time restrictions and people are up to it, they can take up to 90 minutes.

We often take in the lovely Middleton Park on our walk, sometimes stopping off at the café half way for a hot drink.

We even had a game of crazy Table Tennis overlooking the lake and café.

If no more than four people come on the walk I have been known to get in my car and drive up to and walk in Cross Flats Park and also walk alongside the Canals such as the lovely Woodlesford Lock.

I took over the group from Carla 15 months ago, as she found it hard to run the group with her office management

The group at Middleton Park pond duties.

So we got together, and after going on a walk leader course I got my certification to lead the group.

Although not all members can make it every week. Lately we’ve had nine members out, a record. I have no doubt we can make it 10 in coming weeks as weather gets better.

What surprises me that people who struggled with the walk, and I stayed with them at the back of the group, are now at the front. So the exercise must be doing them good.

The group is open to all

people, no matter how young or elderly people are.We go at a pace that is OK with them.

I recently got Dementia Friendly accreditation, which

means I will look after anyone with Dementia coming on the walk. So thanks to Sarah and Carla, to make this happen.

I make sure they have hot drinks and help them get transport after the walk.

I’m already looking at grants for this year to buy things for the group.

I was lucky last year to buy things such as pedometers, polo shirts, jackets, t-shirts, pens, arm bands and key rings with a torch. Even some foot spray!

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/ 1917338155157205/; or just come along to the GATE any Wednesday at 12 noon.

Walkers ready to set off. Photos: Ken Ingram

Toy Library opens

Connor browses the library with help from Dad Ewan and Abbie

Does your child need new toys that you can’t afford or are too big to store in your home?

Parents in Beeston Hill can make use of the St Luke’s Toy Library.

The library runs out of St Luke’s Church on Malvern Road and is open every Tuesday morning from 9:30-11:15am during the regular Tots, Tea and Toast sessions.

Abbie, one of the organisers,

explained: “It’s just like a book library. You can come and browse our selection of toys, you can even try them out during the play session.Then you can borrow them and bring them back next week.

“We plan to extend our stock of toys, games and books for 0-7 year olds, so if you have any that are no longer used and are gathering dust, please bring them down.”

If you would like to find out more please ring (0113) 270 3935; or email: info@trinitynetwork.org.uk

Coopa appeal reaches target

The ‘Coopa’s Wish To Walk’ campaign has touched the hearts of people in Hunslet and wider South Leeds. An extraordinary £35,000 has been raised in just 12 weeks to fund the operation and postop physiotherapy.

Five year old Coopa was born with cerebral palsy and needs a walking frame to get about. She would love to be able to walk under her own steam.

Parents Wayne and Louisa learned that there is an operation that can be performed, but that it is not available on the NHS and requires months, if not years, of physiotherapy.

Soon the community started rallying round. The Peggy Tub club got the ball rolling followed quickly by the Crooked Clock. Supporters’ wristbands, or “Wish Bands” flew off the shelves at £2 a go.

A bag pack at Morrisons and a Christmas jumper day at RAM Tracking took the appeal total to £6,564 at Christmas.

The Hunslet Club shared the funds from their annual Fitness Challenge and agreed to host the charity rugby match between Hunslet Club Parkside and Hunslet Old Boys Legends.

Leeds Rhinos donated a

signed shirt which was auctioned by the Peggy Tub, who also held a race night for Coopa.

Whip rounds at work and collection tins in local shops kept the funds coming in and Hunslet Carr Primary School donated £300 from their Christmas concerts.

The campaign’s Just Giving page saw hundred of small donations, plus bigger ones from companies such as Sigma (Leeds), Alton Cars, Wragg’s Seafoods, plus a massive £2,000 donation from David Dockray.

The focus now fell on Saturday 25 February. As well as the rugby match an auction was organised and items started being donated. More signed shirts, plus a driving experience donated by Mercedes Benz Leeds. Local band 0113 stepped up to play live and sponsorship of beer barrels and players flooded in.

The day itself raised an incredable £16,400 (see p16) and the once daunting target of £35,000 had been reached.

Wayne Adams commented: “Want to say a massive thank you from myself, Louisa and our families for yesterday.

“We have raised 35k in 12 weeks, no charity help just you guys out there. You should be so so proud of yourselves.”

Coopa Ellis-Adams at the shirt presentation

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Child Friendly Leeds awards come south There was definite South Leeds feel to the winners of the annual Child Friendly Leeds awards which were announced at a glamorous ceremony at Leeds City Varieties on 2 February.

The awards, organised by young people, celebrate some of the people, places and organisations helping to make Leeds a child friendly city.

The Belle Isle Family Centre won the award for the Best Place for Children and Young People. The Centre runs many activities and groups including

Rhyme Time for toddlers, Little Chefs cooking courses and is home to the Young Dads project.

Into University, the Beestonbased charity that works with children in both primary and secondary schools, received the award for Inspiring Schools. Whilst Keepmoat and Construction Housing Yorkshire were awarded for their work on apprenticeships, many of which were undertaken on the Holbeck and Beeston Hill housing regeneration project.

Staff at Into University show off their certificate

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Hunslet volunteers welcome superstore generosity

by Ed Carlisle The volunteer team at Hunslet Methodist church were this week presented with a £200 donation by Leigh Bell-Peirce, the Community Champion at the Middleton Asda superstore.

The team co-run popular weekly coffee mornings – featuring free breakfast, toys and games, access to clothes donations, and more – every Wednesday at their centre on the Telfords in Hunslet, alongside the local foodbank that runs upstairs.

Last year saw them undergo a major refurb at their centre, as we reported in September.

Pauline O’Riordan, who helps coordinate the group, commented: “We’re delighted to accept Asda’s generous donation: we’re happy to take help from anyone. And we were also touched to have The Methodist team with Jamie from Asda. Photo: Ed Carlisle been nominated for it by the ladies who join us corporation – have their HQ Foundation. To apply or here in Leeds, run 525 stores nominate a local group or each week.

“We run a tight ship, so this across the UK, and made charity for the Foundation will cover our food costs for profits of £947m on sales of scheme at the Middleton store, £23bn in their last financial go to: quite some time.” year.

They give out about £1m storelocator.asda.com/store/ Asda – part of the per year through the Asda middleton/nominations/new international Walmart

Valentine’s party at BITMO I arrived back from the Walking Group on Wednesday 15 February to a packed room for the Annual Valentine tea party at BITMO GATE run by Joanne Earnshaw (Lettings, Tenant & Supported Services Manager) and helpers.

Me and Sue managed to get the last 2 seats on offer.We did not have to wait long for Keith to bring some cups of tea.

I quickly did a count up of about 60 sheltered housing residents drinking tea from the best Royal Doulton china.

Sandwiches came a bit later,

ham, cheese and my favourite Egg. Keith was serving at our table, he’s well known for his wit.

Jonathon Chapman played some background music from his new PA. Damien sang some hits from the 60s and 70s to keep us all entertained.

As well as singing, he did some fantastic work on guitar, I really enjoyed the Shadows numbers, Foot Tapper and Apache. Plus two more I quite can’t put the names to.

He also did a fantastic guitar solo of Telstar, originally of the Tornadoes.

As the afternoon progressed cakes started to be served much to the delight of

Councillors approved a number of grants from the Wellbeing Fund at the Inner South Community Committee last month.

They approved funding for commemorative benches to honour the contribution made

by Matthew Murray, the pioneering South Leeds engineer. Holbeck In Bloom have worked with Middleton Railway and hope the benches

will be seen by school children following a history tail around the area which is “drenched in history.”

The benches and accompanying interpretation boards will be sited by the Matthew Murray monument in St Matthew’s churchyard Holbeck and at Middleton Railway’s Moor Road station in Hunslet.

Funding was also approved

by Ken Ingram

Keith serves the tea everyone.

We had two games of bingo.

Sue, who is a bingo fan, was unlucky on this occasion winning zilch. Never mind there’s always next year.

That’s how the afternoon finished with people drifting away into the cold night to go home, with the knowledge they’d had a fantastic afternoon.

for two Speed Indicator Devices for Beeston Road and Lady Pit Lane and for Red Ladder Theatre’s community acting courses.

Future meetings of the Inner South Community Committee will take place on: Wed 14 June 2017 Wed 6 September 2017 Wed 6 December 2017 Wed 7 February 2018 all meetings will start at 7pm

Councillors decided to drop the workshop format and engage more closely with community groups, attending existing meetings and inviting the group to choose the topic for debate.

Matthew Murray bench grant

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Website: www.southleedslife.com

March 2017 | South Leeds Life

News 7

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Leeds plans how Park improvements to go litter free

by Al Garthwaite Litter. Dog poo. Flytipping.

It looks awful, attracts rats and other vermin, risks health, kills wildlife and pollutes the environment.

Leeds City Council spends tens of thousands a year clearing it all up, money that could be put to very much better use.

Community groups like the Friends of Cross Flatts or Middleton Parks, or Beeston in Bloom, do clean-ups – and back it comes. So why does it persist, and what can be done about it?

This was the theme of an exciting one day event held at Pudsey Civic Hall on 23rd February. Around 150 people, groups as well as concerned individuals, met to discuss the issues and find solutions. We wanted to make suggestions for positive change, and work out what we can all do about this menace.

The Junior Green Team, 5 pupils from Windmill Primary School, came early to the stage to give their views. They spoke of the dangers of broken glass to themselves and to wildlife, the mess on the streets and in playgrounds and parks, and encouraged everyone to pick up after themselves. They spoke clearly and with passion and inspired us adults to do better.

Keep Britain Tidy presented fascinating figures about our habits. Apparently, 62 % of the population drops litter at some time. Of these, 43% - mainly women aged 45+ - consider themselves “beautifully behaved” but do still occasionally drop litter, such as apple cores (yes, that’s me) and sweet wrappers, especially if they think they are unobserved. Others are

Offers to be matched up with requests for help “blamers”. They say it’s everyone else’s fault, but do still litter themselves, while 4% are “justifiers”, their reasons for dropping litter or failing to pick up dog poo range from keeping people in jobs to claiming it’s not harming anyone. Finally, there are the 2%, mostly men under 25, whose view is that “life’s too short – I’m not bothered”. For these, peer pressure is a big deterrent, and posters showing litterers looking like pigs have been very effective.

“If you live in a nice clean place, you yourself feel better” Dog fouling, it’s found, happens more at night and during the winter as people reckon they can't be seen in the dark.

To tackle this, Keep Britain Tidy has 'We're Watching You' posters, visible in darkness, which 'charge up' during the day and glow-in-the-dark at night. Dog fouling has reduced by to 90% where the sign’s been introduced. Groups across Leeds, including the Friends of Cross Flatts Park, were very interested in this.

Other suggestions made at workshops during the event included

• Bottle deposit schemes • Approaching florists about their cellophane wrappers, which litter cemeteries • Asking businesses to sponsor litter bins – free advertising in return for emptying • Recognition of responsible retailers with awards and certificates; create an urban environment quality mark • Encouraging businesses and local groups to work together – many of us already do this • Ask Leeds City Council not to charge small builders for using household waste sites – this might prevent countryside fly-tipping and be cheaper in the long run • Writing “bin it when it’s empty” on takeaway food cartons • Use speed cameras/ mobile CCTV to identify drivers who chuck rubbish out of cars All the ideas were recorded and will be circulated. People wrote offers and requests for help on sheets tacked to the wall (see picture).

Finally, we decided on a city wide campaign, Litter Free Leeds. You can join this on Facebook and exchange news and views. A Leeds Clean Up day is planned.

As a Belle Isle representative said, “If you live in a nice clean place, you yourself feel better”.

Founding members of Litter Free Leeds

Environmental improvement work has been agreed for areas of Hunslet that will include landscaping work and improvements to some play areas.

City & Hunslet Councillors Nash, Iqbal and Davey have pushed for funding to be allocated to the development of the play area at Hunslet Lake including the removal of the disused bowling green, maintenance work at Hunslet Moor’s ball court where the disused bowling green will also be removed, as well as landscaping at the Pepper Road play area.

Local Councillors are confident that these improvements will be welcomed by the local community and encourage increased use of these amenities.

Funding has been made available by developers who have been granted permission to build in the ward.

Councillor Elizabeth Nash said: “We are

Pepper Road play area in Hunslet delighted that local residents will be able to benefit from these improvements and hope that they encourage people to become more active and enjoy their surroundings.

“The sites that are scheduled to receive this funding are well loved by the public and this will ensure that they can be sustained for future generations”.

South Leeds Life | March 2017

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www.southleedslife.com

8 Planning and development

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

Controversial Ice Pak plans set for public enquiry

It’s four years since Beeston-based charity Aspiring Communities first floated its plans to convert the former Ice Pak factory on Barkly Road.

At the end of March an independent Planning Inspector will hold a four day public enquiry into their controversial planning application.

The charity state their application is for a sports hall, to be used by the local community, together with a prayer room, classroom and office.

But opponents Save Our Beeston claim the building will host international meetings and have dubbed it a multistorey car park.

The plans are also opposed

by Beeston Community Forum, Beeston & Holbeck ward Councillors and Hilary Benn MP. A key concern for opponents is the extra traffic the centre will generate. The site is in a largely residential area and close to St Anthony’s primary school.

Aspiring Communities argue

that community facilities need to within the community and that they increased the number of car parking spaces in response to feedback on their original plans.

The enquiry will focus on the merits of the planning application and not the dispute between Aspiring Communities and Leeds City Council about the way the application was handled.

The Inspector will make a decision on the application which is binding on both sides, although the decision will not be made public until some weeks after the hearing.

South Leeds Life will be publishing reports each day from the enquiry on our website.

THE ICE PAK TIMELINE January 2013: Aspiring Communities present their proposals to Beeston Community Forum.

June 2013: Aspiring Communities make a PreApplication presentation to the South & West Plans Panel.

Beeston Community Forum also address the panel setting

out their objections.

December 2013: Aspiring Communities submit their first full planning application.

March 2013: In the light of significant opposition from local residents, Aspiring Communities withdraw their application in order to scale down the size of the development.

September 2014: Aspiring Communities present new plans for the site for public consultation. The plans no longer include a large meeting hall, catering and funeral facilities and no longer use the rear entrance and have increased parking spaces.

A public consultation meeting attracted 150 people.

October 2014: Aspiring Communities submit their second (revised) planning application. 80 individual objections are submitted plus a petition of 2,610 names.

August 2015: The South & West Plans Panel is due to decide on the application, but planning officers withdraw the item from the meeting’s agenda.

November 2015: Aspiring Communities lodge an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate for “non determination” (ie that Leeds City Council haven’t made a decision on the application within a reasonable timeframe).

February 2016: The South & West Plans Panel decides that Council should inform the Inspector that officers do not have enough information from the applicants to be able to make a decision.

September 2016: The Planning Inspectorate announce that the case will be decided at a four day public enquiry starting on 28 March.

alongside the new leisure extension planned for completion in autumn, which will include an 11-screen Cineworld IMAX cinema and six new restaurants, including Wagamama, TGI Fridays, Pizza Hut and Chiquito.

Steven Foster, General Manager at White Rose Shopping Centre, said: “The multi-million pound Next expansion will offer

visitors an exciting shopping experience and strengthen the already impressive line-up we have here at White Rose.

“We have so many exciting additions planned this year and the shopping centre is constantly evolving.

“This fantastic news, along with our leisure extension, is proof that we’re making ongoing investments into improving our customer experience.”

White Rose Shopping Centre. Photo: Jeremy Morton

Website: www.southleedslife.com

The notorious Winston’s “Health & Leisure” club on Dewsbury Road has submitted an application for a licence to sell alcohol and play recorded music.

The premises, which have variously been known as Winston’s and Churchill’s,

last held a licence in 2006. That licence was revoked within two months after a review brought by West Yorkshire Police.

A further application in 2013 was withdrawn after the Police objected outright to its granting.

The Police are once again opposing the licence. In his report the Leeds District Licensing Officer for West Yorkshire Police describes Winston’s as “still

operating as a brothel.” Having visited the premises and been shown “massage / treatment” rooms he said “there were a minimal amount of treatment tables present, the majority of furniture in the rooms being beds.”

Ward Councillors have also objected on grounds of public nuisance. Cllr Elizabeth Nash stated that the proposed opening hours of 11pm–5am are “unsuitable” and suggested that 5pm11pm was more normal for licensed premises.

Details of the Licensing SubCommittee, papers and reports can be found on the Leeds City Council website.

The application was due to be considered by the Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee on 14 February, but the meeting was adjourned to 28 February.

The Police did not oppose the request for an adjournment, but did request that the panel make a site visit to the premises on Dewsbury Road in order to see “how it is laid out and what kind of business it actually is.”

South Leeds Life went to press before the hearing, but will publish the result online at www.southleedslife.com.

Winston’s on Dewsbury Road

Planning and development 9

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Beeston “brothel” seeks alcohol licence

by Jeremy Morton

The Next big thing at White Rose Centre

Popular fashion and home retailer Next, will invest £6million in a major new 55,000 sq ft flagship store at the White Rose Shopping Centre in South Leeds.

Next, one of Britain’s most popular fashion retailers, will upsize and re-locate from its existing 29,000 sq ft store at the centre, taking nearly double the floor space to create a new twofloor flagship site.

The new branch will take over the former BHS unit, and is due to open in June 2017.

South Leeds life understands that the new store will include children’s and homeware departments which are not available in their current White Rose store.

The reconfigured store will feature more external glazing with a double height external frontage.

Next is just one of the many exciting updates and additions to the shopping centre,

Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife

March 2017 | South Leeds Life

Safety works for Dewsbury Road

by Becky James

Road) due to start on Monday 27 February 2017. The works are programmed to take approximately 20 weeks.

Although disruption will be kept to a minimum, some delays may be experienced.This can be frustrating

Work will start shortly on a new road safety scheme on Dewsbury Road. You may remember reading about the proposals in South Leeds Life last July.

As locals are well aware, Dewsbury Road is a key traffic artery in the south west of the city but as well as traffic simply passing through the area, at the bottom of Beeston and Cross Flatts, it becomes a busy high street. Here the road is bordered by housing and local businesses and facilities.

Because of its purpose as a high street, and because about half of the people injured on the road were pedestrians or cyclists, work will begin shortly to make some improvements to the road.

The changes are designed to improve road safety for all Dewsbury Road. Photo: Jeremy Morton journeys whether it is making a local trip or a vehicle passing for everyone, but the completed through the area. There is a works are expected to lead to particular focus on improved improved safety and accessibility for facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. everyone.

Local Councillors Elizabeth Nash, The work will be undertaken in Mohammed Iqbal and Patrick Davey two phases, with the first phase have been helping to raise (from Hunslet Hall road to Burton

awareness of the scheme and are urging local people to also help raise awareness by promoting the Lookout Leeds slogan.

Councillor Elizabeth Nash (City and Hunslet) said: “I am extremely pleased to see this initiative come

to Dewsbury Road, particularly as it is one of the busiest stretches of road in our ward. Someone’s Son of course could be someone’s wife, daughter, husband, brother or sister, and that is exactly the point; we all need to take road safety seriously

and take extra care when we travel.

“In addition to the on-road improvements, residents will also see streetscape enhancements which should further help the creation of safe and secure environments. Footways will be resurfaced, toucan crossings installed, and road markings better used.

“My ward colleagues Mohammed Iqbal, Patrick Davey and I greatly urge all residents to blog, tweet, and share the Someone’s Son website, so as many people as possible know about the forthcoming changes.

“And of course, we want everyone to consider even the smallest of ways in which they can help maintain safety on our roads.”

Find out more details of the planned works at: www.someones-son.co.uk /lookoutleeds.

Remember: road safety is everyone’s responsibility and there are simple things that we can all do to help keep our roads as safe as possible.

- Be considerate - Slow down - Give the road your full attention - Look, look, and look again.

Could Middleton woods Go Ape? Plans approved for Middleton flats

by Ed Carlisle

South Leeds residents look set to launch a campaign to bring a ‘Go Ape‘ treetop adventure course to Middleton Park, after a proposal to establish one in Roundhay Park was blocked by local opposition there.

Last October saw the idea first floated for Roundhay. However, a petition against the scheme, led by Friends of Roundhay Park, gathered over 3,000 supporters – concerned about issues including risk to wildlife, parking and congestion, and a section of the park being leased to a private company.

Leeds City Council and Go Ape have now announced that they no longer intend to progress the site at Roundhay, but remain keen to seek another location in the city.

Meanwhile, a number of south Leeds residents are pushing for a local campaign to bring Go Ape to Middleton Park. A lively debate on social media and in the community, suggests manylocal people are behind the scheme.

Craig Sweaton, local resident and business owner – who launched one of the debates in the Middleton Facebook group – commented: “This is just the kind of thing

south Leeds needs. We often get overlooked, but this would bring people in, provide something positive for kids and families, and potentially boost local business.

“It’d be especially interesting if it linked with other amenities like Middleton Railway and the Bike Hub. Providing it’s done sympathetically, it would be a great addition to the park and the area.”

Other positive comments online included the following: “This kind of tourist attraction can only be a good thing; get Middleton on the map for the right reason” (Christine Venus). “So much woodland is wasted in LS10, especially after the closing of the golf club. This would be great” (Sarah Carney). And “It would generate jobs and money for the area; I personally would love a job doing something like that” (Mark Holroyd).

But some were against the idea, with comments including the following: “No no no no. Leave our beautiful park alone. We have already lost so much of our heritage and Middleton history. North Leeds are welcome to it” (Michelle Travis).

“I’m not sure we could cope with more traffic in area; our council love building things without looking at the impact on the roads, and add no infrastructure to deal with potential

Photo: Kelly Last via Creative Commons problems” (Wayne Dixon). And “I think Miggy woods should be left as it is: it’s not a cheap day out at Go Ape, a walk through the woods is free” (Demi Hickinson).

South Leeds Life have spoken with both representatives for Friends of Middleton Park, and the Middleton Park councillors, and all have expressed interest in finding out more – especially the thoughts and wishes of local people – and seeing how the proposal develops.

But they also stressed that there are many barriers and challenges, and

that they cannot take a position until they know more.

‘Go Ape‘ is a national outdoor adventure company which runs 30 tree-top courses in woodland around the UK, featuring rope ladders, zip-wires, rope bridges, swings, and more. They are a multi award winning company, including for sustainability – but it comes at a cost, with tickets costing up to £33 per head.

Their proposed Leeds scheme would cost an estimated £300,000, and create 35 jobs.

Leeds City Council’s South & West Plans Panel gave planning permission to a controversial scheme to convert Middleton Methodist Church into housing at their meeting on 16 February.

Introducing the plans for the church, planning officer Victoria Hincliffe-Walker said the the building was not listed, but was a “nondesignated heritage asset”. As such the Council would prefer to see the building retained and a new use found for it. She said that the main objections were on the grounds of noise and disturbance and that officers had worked with the developer to reduce these issues.

Mr Kenneth Hepples spoke on behalf of local residents, objecting to the plans. He said he was concerned about the numbers of people that

Middleton Methodist Church Photo: John Slater via Creative Commons would be on site and the noise they would create moving around site as they came to and from their homes.

He was worried about the extra traffic and said that the entrance to

the car park, effectively through a tunnel from Hopewell View was “an accident waiting to happen”. He said residents had already asked for traffic calming measures as the roads were

used as rat runs by motorists avoiding the speed cameras on Middleton Ring Road.

“There are 103 objections to this scheme including Councillors and our MP, but we feel we are not being listened to” he said.

The developer, Mr Rose, said that the only interest the church had received from potential buyers was for turning it into housing. “We’ve worked to deal with the parking issue and bought an extra piece of land to create a car park” he explained.

In discussion Cllr Thomas Leadley (Morley North) said “What are the realistic options for this site?

Demolish the church and build a row of houses?” He suggested the panel should approve the plans.

Planning permission was approved with conditions.

Building college to expand in Hunslet Leeds College of Building is planning to expand its facilities in Hunslet.

Its plans for a new building to the north of the existing site on Black Bull Street were supported by the City Plans Panel last month.

The proposal site is on vacant brownfield land between Cudbear Street and Black Bull Street, in the

South Bank of Leeds City Centre.

Subject to planning permission it is intended the new facility will be completed by July 2018.

The building is primarily to accommodate students studying courses related to Mechanical Services (Plumbing, Heating and Ventilation) plus other courses relating to infrastructure.

Leeds College of Building. Photo: Jeremy Morton

South Leeds Life | March 2017

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www.southleedslife.com

8 Planning and development

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

Controversial Ice Pak plans set for public enquiry

It’s four years since Beeston-based charity Aspiring Communities first floated its plans to convert the former Ice Pak factory on Barkly Road.

At the end of March an independent Planning Inspector will hold a four day public enquiry into their controversial planning application.

The charity state their application is for a sports hall, to be used by the local community, together with a prayer room, classroom and office.

But opponents Save Our Beeston claim the building will host international meetings and have dubbed it a multistorey car park.

The plans are also opposed

by Beeston Community Forum, Beeston & Holbeck ward Councillors and Hilary Benn MP. A key concern for opponents is the extra traffic the centre will generate. The site is in a largely residential area and close to St Anthony’s primary school.

Aspiring Communities argue

that community facilities need to within the community and that they increased the number of car parking spaces in response to feedback on their original plans.

The enquiry will focus on the merits of the planning application and not the dispute between Aspiring Communities and Leeds City Council about the way the application was handled.

The Inspector will make a decision on the application which is binding on both sides, although the decision will not be made public until some weeks after the hearing.

South Leeds Life will be publishing reports each day from the enquiry on our website.

THE ICE PAK TIMELINE January 2013: Aspiring Communities present their proposals to Beeston Community Forum.

June 2013: Aspiring Communities make a PreApplication presentation to the South & West Plans Panel.

Beeston Community Forum also address the panel setting

out their objections.

December 2013: Aspiring Communities submit their first full planning application.

March 2013: In the light of significant opposition from local residents, Aspiring Communities withdraw their application in order to scale down the size of the development.

September 2014: Aspiring Communities present new plans for the site for public consultation. The plans no longer include a large meeting hall, catering and funeral facilities and no longer use the rear entrance and have increased parking spaces.

A public consultation meeting attracted 150 people.

October 2014: Aspiring Communities submit their second (revised) planning application. 80 individual objections are submitted plus a petition of 2,610 names.

August 2015: The South & West Plans Panel is due to decide on the application, but planning officers withdraw the item from the meeting’s agenda.

November 2015: Aspiring Communities lodge an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate for “non determination” (ie that Leeds City Council haven’t made a decision on the application within a reasonable timeframe).

February 2016: The South & West Plans Panel decides that Council should inform the Inspector that officers do not have enough information from the applicants to be able to make a decision.

September 2016: The Planning Inspectorate announce that the case will be decided at a four day public enquiry starting on 28 March.

alongside the new leisure extension planned for completion in autumn, which will include an 11-screen Cineworld IMAX cinema and six new restaurants, including Wagamama, TGI Fridays, Pizza Hut and Chiquito.

Steven Foster, General Manager at White Rose Shopping Centre, said: “The multi-million pound Next expansion will offer

visitors an exciting shopping experience and strengthen the already impressive line-up we have here at White Rose.

“We have so many exciting additions planned this year and the shopping centre is constantly evolving.

“This fantastic news, along with our leisure extension, is proof that we’re making ongoing investments into improving our customer experience.”

White Rose Shopping Centre. Photo: Jeremy Morton

Website: www.southleedslife.com

The notorious Winston’s “Health & Leisure” club on Dewsbury Road has submitted an application for a licence to sell alcohol and play recorded music.

The premises, which have variously been known as Winston’s and Churchill’s,

last held a licence in 2006. That licence was revoked within two months after a review brought by West Yorkshire Police.

A further application in 2013 was withdrawn after the Police objected outright to its granting.

The Police are once again opposing the licence. In his report the Leeds District Licensing Officer for West Yorkshire Police describes Winston’s as “still

operating as a brothel.” Having visited the premises and been shown “massage / treatment” rooms he said “there were a minimal amount of treatment tables present, the majority of furniture in the rooms being beds.”

Ward Councillors have also objected on grounds of public nuisance. Cllr Elizabeth Nash stated that the proposed opening hours of 11pm–5am are “unsuitable” and suggested that 5pm11pm was more normal for licensed premises.

Details of the Licensing SubCommittee, papers and reports can be found on the Leeds City Council website.

The application was due to be considered by the Council’s Licensing Sub-Committee on 14 February, but the meeting was adjourned to 28 February.

The Police did not oppose the request for an adjournment, but did request that the panel make a site visit to the premises on Dewsbury Road in order to see “how it is laid out and what kind of business it actually is.”

South Leeds Life went to press before the hearing, but will publish the result online at www.southleedslife.com.

Winston’s on Dewsbury Road

Planning and development 9

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Beeston “brothel” seeks alcohol licence

by Jeremy Morton

The Next big thing at White Rose Centre

Popular fashion and home retailer Next, will invest £6million in a major new 55,000 sq ft flagship store at the White Rose Shopping Centre in South Leeds.

Next, one of Britain’s most popular fashion retailers, will upsize and re-locate from its existing 29,000 sq ft store at the centre, taking nearly double the floor space to create a new twofloor flagship site.

The new branch will take over the former BHS unit, and is due to open in June 2017.

South Leeds life understands that the new store will include children’s and homeware departments which are not available in their current White Rose store.

The reconfigured store will feature more external glazing with a double height external frontage.

Next is just one of the many exciting updates and additions to the shopping centre,

Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife

March 2017 | South Leeds Life

Safety works for Dewsbury Road

by Becky James

Road) due to start on Monday 27 February 2017. The works are programmed to take approximately 20 weeks.

Although disruption will be kept to a minimum, some delays may be experienced.This can be frustrating

Work will start shortly on a new road safety scheme on Dewsbury Road. You may remember reading about the proposals in South Leeds Life last July.

As locals are well aware, Dewsbury Road is a key traffic artery in the south west of the city but as well as traffic simply passing through the area, at the bottom of Beeston and Cross Flatts, it becomes a busy high street. Here the road is bordered by housing and local businesses and facilities.

Because of its purpose as a high street, and because about half of the people injured on the road were pedestrians or cyclists, work will begin shortly to make some improvements to the road.

The changes are designed to improve road safety for all Dewsbury Road. Photo: Jeremy Morton journeys whether it is making a local trip or a vehicle passing for everyone, but the completed through the area. There is a works are expected to lead to particular focus on improved improved safety and accessibility for facilities for pedestrians and cyclists. everyone.

Local Councillors Elizabeth Nash, The work will be undertaken in Mohammed Iqbal and Patrick Davey two phases, with the first phase have been helping to raise (from Hunslet Hall road to Burton

awareness of the scheme and are urging local people to also help raise awareness by promoting the Lookout Leeds slogan.

Councillor Elizabeth Nash (City and Hunslet) said: “I am extremely pleased to see this initiative come

to Dewsbury Road, particularly as it is one of the busiest stretches of road in our ward. Someone’s Son of course could be someone’s wife, daughter, husband, brother or sister, and that is exactly the point; we all need to take road safety seriously

and take extra care when we travel.

“In addition to the on-road improvements, residents will also see streetscape enhancements which should further help the creation of safe and secure environments. Footways will be resurfaced, toucan crossings installed, and road markings better used.

“My ward colleagues Mohammed Iqbal, Patrick Davey and I greatly urge all residents to blog, tweet, and share the Someone’s Son website, so as many people as possible know about the forthcoming changes.

“And of course, we want everyone to consider even the smallest of ways in which they can help maintain safety on our roads.”

Find out more details of the planned works at: www.someones-son.co.uk /lookoutleeds.

Remember: road safety is everyone’s responsibility and there are simple things that we can all do to help keep our roads as safe as possible.

- Be considerate - Slow down - Give the road your full attention - Look, look, and look again.

Could Middleton woods Go Ape? Plans approved for Middleton flats

by Ed Carlisle

South Leeds residents look set to launch a campaign to bring a ‘Go Ape‘ treetop adventure course to Middleton Park, after a proposal to establish one in Roundhay Park was blocked by local opposition there.

Last October saw the idea first floated for Roundhay. However, a petition against the scheme, led by Friends of Roundhay Park, gathered over 3,000 supporters – concerned about issues including risk to wildlife, parking and congestion, and a section of the park being leased to a private company.

Leeds City Council and Go Ape have now announced that they no longer intend to progress the site at Roundhay, but remain keen to seek another location in the city.

Meanwhile, a number of south Leeds residents are pushing for a local campaign to bring Go Ape to Middleton Park. A lively debate on social media and in the community, suggests manylocal people are behind the scheme.

Craig Sweaton, local resident and business owner – who launched one of the debates in the Middleton Facebook group – commented: “This is just the kind of thing

south Leeds needs. We often get overlooked, but this would bring people in, provide something positive for kids and families, and potentially boost local business.

“It’d be especially interesting if it linked with other amenities like Middleton Railway and the Bike Hub. Providing it’s done sympathetically, it would be a great addition to the park and the area.”

Other positive comments online included the following: “This kind of tourist attraction can only be a good thing; get Middleton on the map for the right reason” (Christine Venus). “So much woodland is wasted in LS10, especially after the closing of the golf club. This would be great” (Sarah Carney). And “It would generate jobs and money for the area; I personally would love a job doing something like that” (Mark Holroyd).

But some were against the idea, with comments including the following: “No no no no. Leave our beautiful park alone. We have already lost so much of our heritage and Middleton history. North Leeds are welcome to it” (Michelle Travis).

“I’m not sure we could cope with more traffic in area; our council love building things without looking at the impact on the roads, and add no infrastructure to deal with potential

Photo: Kelly Last via Creative Commons problems” (Wayne Dixon). And “I think Miggy woods should be left as it is: it’s not a cheap day out at Go Ape, a walk through the woods is free” (Demi Hickinson).

South Leeds Life have spoken with both representatives for Friends of Middleton Park, and the Middleton Park councillors, and all have expressed interest in finding out more – especially the thoughts and wishes of local people – and seeing how the proposal develops.

But they also stressed that there are many barriers and challenges, and

that they cannot take a position until they know more.

‘Go Ape‘ is a national outdoor adventure company which runs 30 tree-top courses in woodland around the UK, featuring rope ladders, zip-wires, rope bridges, swings, and more. They are a multi award winning company, including for sustainability – but it comes at a cost, with tickets costing up to £33 per head.

Their proposed Leeds scheme would cost an estimated £300,000, and create 35 jobs.

Leeds City Council’s South & West Plans Panel gave planning permission to a controversial scheme to convert Middleton Methodist Church into housing at their meeting on 16 February.

Introducing the plans for the church, planning officer Victoria Hincliffe-Walker said the the building was not listed, but was a “nondesignated heritage asset”. As such the Council would prefer to see the building retained and a new use found for it. She said that the main objections were on the grounds of noise and disturbance and that officers had worked with the developer to reduce these issues.

Mr Kenneth Hepples spoke on behalf of local residents, objecting to the plans. He said he was concerned about the numbers of people that

Middleton Methodist Church Photo: John Slater via Creative Commons would be on site and the noise they would create moving around site as they came to and from their homes.

He was worried about the extra traffic and said that the entrance to

the car park, effectively through a tunnel from Hopewell View was “an accident waiting to happen”. He said residents had already asked for traffic calming measures as the roads were

used as rat runs by motorists avoiding the speed cameras on Middleton Ring Road.

“There are 103 objections to this scheme including Councillors and our MP, but we feel we are not being listened to” he said.

The developer, Mr Rose, said that the only interest the church had received from potential buyers was for turning it into housing. “We’ve worked to deal with the parking issue and bought an extra piece of land to create a car park” he explained.

In discussion Cllr Thomas Leadley (Morley North) said “What are the realistic options for this site?

Demolish the church and build a row of houses?” He suggested the panel should approve the plans.

Planning permission was approved with conditions.

Building college to expand in Hunslet Leeds College of Building is planning to expand its facilities in Hunslet.

Its plans for a new building to the north of the existing site on Black Bull Street were supported by the City Plans Panel last month.

The proposal site is on vacant brownfield land between Cudbear Street and Black Bull Street, in the

South Bank of Leeds City Centre.

Subject to planning permission it is intended the new facility will be completed by July 2018.

The building is primarily to accommodate students studying courses related to Mechanical Services (Plumbing, Heating and Ventilation) plus other courses relating to infrastructure.

Leeds College of Building. Photo: Jeremy Morton

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South Leeds Life | March 2017

10 Opinion

In our view

Policing by consent

No one doubts the Police have a difficult job to do. Too often they get blamed no matter what they do. But sealing off streets and sending in armed Police can damage as many relationships as it reassures. West Yorkshire Police don’t yet have the full confidence of our communities.

Planning for change

The only constant is change.

There’s so much going on right now we had to give over the centre pages to planning issues.

There are so many considerations from ensuring enough homes are built to protecting our heritage; from helping more people enjoy the natural world to protecting flora and fauna. A planning system that lets a factory site sit empty for four years is far from perfect, but is there an alternative?

Making Coopa’s Wish come true

The response of the South Leeds community has once more been fantastic. A little girl from Hunslet will get her operation and the chance to walk unaided. At South Leeds Life we are not surprised that £35,000 has been raised in just 12 weeks, but we are impressed and immensly proud to be part of a community that can look after each other.

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Your letters and comments

Top Tweets

Go Ape plans

From what I read one of the objections to Roundhay Park was that it was an ancient woodland, which also applies to Middleton Park.

I live in Beeston and walk up there regularly. I meet friends up there – friends from Rothwell and Wakefield who love walking through the woods. My niece brings her dog over. We have attended many of the events but generally walk up as parking can be an issue.

I walk different routes each time and love the wildlife and the variety – and all the oak trees.

As much as I can see the attraction, I can also see the damage to such a historical site.This site dates back hundreds of years – I believe the ancient woodland status is that the woods have been there for over 500 years.

And it isn’t just a Middleton thing – doesn’t the bottom part of the woodlands still belong to Beeston?

Sara

CCTV!in Cross Flatts Park

They won't look through the CCTV footage though if it's for minor stuff, unless you know the exact time because they always claim it's too expensive.They'll look through it for murders or rapes but if it's vandalism I doubt they would bother.

Sharon Ripley

Middleton woods - under threat? Photo: Jeremy Morton a dog toilet to get fines. Last year it was discusting. I am not against anybody playing with a dog in there but to not clean up after it just spoils it for everybody else.

Linda Anne Meikle

Club. It's a residential area not the strip in Magaluf, there's plenty of drinking spots in town and already plenty nearby, we don't need another.

Kelli Hepworth

I like how they are going ahead with something I suggested years ago, and was told by a Police Community Support Officer that it was a terrible idea.

Ian Kemp

Dyslexia

Winston’s

If this was a "Brothel" wouldn't the police have closed it and prosecuted somone by now?

I just hope it’s a great success and paves If it is a "Gentlemen's" club then what is the way for more putting up in needed the problem of an alcohol licence and a places. We can't change the past but I for music and dancing licence? I'm sure there one think this is the way forward. has been an application for a "Swingers" I can’t wait for all those people who let club recently approved ? their dogs use the bottom tennis court as As this premises is on the corner of an industrial Estate it is not causing a problem to its neighbours why object?

There are other "massage" Beeston & Holbeck ward parlours in the city as well as lap Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park up to the Co-op, Cottingley, old dancing premisses and they have Holbeck. The three councillors are: not caused serious problems David Congreve 0113 257 1679 david.congreve@leeds.gov.uk recently in Leeds so why not live Angela Gabriel 07946 632 468 angela.gabriel@leeds.gov.uk and let live?

Adam Ogilvie 07969 680 024 adam.ogilvie@leeds.gov.uk I am not a member of the club and do not intend becoming one!

People complain about City & Hunslet ward prostitution on the streets but Includes the city centre, Holbeck Urban Village, Beeston Hill and Hunslet. The offer few solutions.This premises three councillors are: has operated for a long time in Patrick Davey 0113 267 1282 patrick.davey@leeds.gov.uk various guises and unless you visit Mohammed Iqbal 0113 226 8796 mohammed.iqbal@leeds.gov.uk it you can have no idea of what Elizabeth Nash 0113 275 8594 elizabeth.nash@leeds.gov.uk goes on inside the club I certainly don't and expect other than members everyone else is just Middleton Park ward guessing.

Includes Belle Isle and Middleton. The three councillors are: Jim Strachan

Your Councillors and MP

Judith Blake Kim Groves Paul Truswell

0113 247 7761 judith.blake@leeds.gov.uk 07891 741 832 kim.groves@leeds.gov.uk 0113 247 6922 paul.truswell@leeds.gov.uk

Leeds Central MP – Rt Hon Hilary Benn Hilary Benn is our MP. He represents the Leeds Central constituency which covers Hunslet, Middleton, Belle Isle, Beeston, Holbeck, Cottingley in south Leeds as well as the city centre, Hyde Park, Woodhouse, Little London, Lincoln Green, Burmantofts, Richmond Hill and Osmondthorpe.

Contact: hilary.benn.mp@parliament.uk, www.hilarybennmp.com Constituency office: Suite 7, Unity Business Centre, 26 Roundhay Road, Leeds LS7 1AB; phone: 0113 244 1097

This is a bad idea. I live nearby and every Friday and Saturday night we have drunk people roaming the streets arguing and fighting after they leave the Broadway, Tommy Wass or Social

Vikki, I am one of the lucky ones in that my mother taught me the alphabet and reading simple things (the cat sat on the mat type stuff) before I started school or who knows how badly it would have affected me. I can read and write well but I put that down to educating myself once I left school as dyslexia was rarely acknowledged in the 60s and I got no help there – but only suffered one detention session for failing to spell station (my mother created merry hell and they never dared do it again!).

In fact I can probably read better and faster than the average reader. However I am still an atrocious speller (thank goodness for spellcheck!) an abominable typist, really struggle to read out loud (I have to read sections to myself first) and am ‘form blind’ – questions seem to be written in gobbledygook and the harder I try to understand them the worse they get, stress then builds up and the letters begin to slide off the page.

And yes, I’m dyscalculate too and no amount of effort on my part has improved that, but not dyspraxic. I was the best rounders player at school, I prefer a manual car and when young was a keen horsewoman. I’ve not had it as hard as you yet have still struggled but have never been ashamed and am pleased you have never felt that way either.

Lindsey Russell

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

Twitter is the 140 character ‘micro blogging’ site. It’s free and you can sign up at twitter.com. It’s a great place to find the very latest news.

Here are some of our favourite recent tweets: @BeestonFestival Book your stall NOW for Beeston Festival on 15 July 2017. Download your booking form here: www.beestonfestival.org.uk @WYP_RPU Vehicle seized Beeston, insurance had been cancelled by insurance company on December. driver reported @FoMP_Leeds Winter walks in the woodlands are a great chance to appreciate natures hidden beauty #Nature #MiddletonPark #Leeds @Middletoncentre Check out what's going on at Friday Night Project run by @BreezeLeeds Plenty of things going on for kids aged 8 and above. #BreezeLeeds @SthLeedsLakers #StormDoris

@fixitleeds Now at the @Gtt_Leeds lab in Cockburn School, Beeston.

Great room for learning about IT - enquiries welcome! @AdamPOgilvie We are getting ready once again to provide a delicious Sunday lunch to older people in Holbeck @HEALeeds

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

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

@IanWhiteNews In Beeston & Harehills in Leeds today filming with @WYP_RPU for future @BBCLookNorth item.

Thanks to officers at Carr Gate for good day

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March 2017 | South Leeds Life

Schools 11

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Year 4 takes a trip to the Great Barrier Reef

by Jeremy Morton

It was a special day at Cottingley Primary Academy as Google brought virtual reality headsets into school.

I sat in with Year 4 as they spent 30 minutes exploring Australia’s Great Barrier Reef with their teacher. They had studied the reef in class, but now had the chance to explore it – corals, sharks, shipwrecks and all.

They saw Manta Rays and learned that their markings are unique, like fingerprints. They visited the wreck of SS Yongala which sank in 1911 and wasn’t discovered until 1958.

Elicia, Isobel and Freddie

were very impressed.

“It was cool. It made you feel a bit sick it was so real.You felt you were in the water and you were going to fall.”

“It really helped us learn a lot.”

“It much better than TV, you can’t see the room you’re in.”

All three agreed that they would like more lessons like this one.

Year 6 teacher and science lead at Cottingley, Hannah Marshall, came across Google Expeditions on Twitter and made contact. When they came to Leeds she snapped up the opportunity to bring them to Cottingley.

Every class had an opportunity to try the virtual

reality experience. Each teacher selected an expedition, such as the Seven Wonders of the World, Meet the Dinosaurs and Explore the Great Barrier Reef, linked to the topics they are learning about in class and the children’s interests. It linked with a range of subjectsincluding science, history and, of course, computing.

“It has been a really exciting opportunity to engage their children with their learning and help them to see things they otherwise might not be able to. Whilst we have a broad range of enrichment opportunities- a school trip to the Great Barrier Reef isn’t quite within our budget!“ she said.

Children at Cottingley Primary use virtual reality headsets to explore the reef

US ski trip rewards excellent school work

Thirteen students from the Ruth Gorse Academy enjoyed the trip of a lifetime, skiing in America last month.

To qualify for the trip the students had to be outstanding across all subjects, have at least 97% attendance and not have been in detention. They then had to write a Pride Piece over the summer holidays setting out why they deserved to go on the trip.

They were originally competing for four places on the trip but all their work was of such a high standard that the school decided to reward all thirteen.

The group visited Killington in Vermont.

None of the students had skied before and

On the slopes

Ruth Gorse students visit New York’s Central Park only one had visited the USA. They were very impressed with their surroundings, describing it as “amazing” and “a beautiful landscape.”

The experience started with a ride in iconic yellow school buses, then two days on the nursery slopes learning the basics.

“The first two days were hard, but then it was fun.”

“The best day was the third day. You could enjoy the skiing, but not be too tired.”

The trip ended with a day in New York City. They visited Broadway, Times Square the Rockefeller Centre and did some shopping before flying home.

“We’re very grateful to the school for giving us this life changing experience” explained one student, clearly speaking for the whole group.

“I’m very proud of the way the students represented the Academy” said teacher Miss Rhodes. “Their behaviour throughout the nine days was exemplary.”

Inclusive Learning Centre

You may have noticed builders on site at the former Mariners Resource Centre on Hunslet Hall Road in Beeston.

The building is being converted by Cockburn School to become the new home for their Inclusive Learning Centre. The centre provides short term placements for children with behavioural problems who are at risk of permanent exclusion from school.

The service currently runs from

Family Learning Centre in Middleton and caters for up to 30 children.

As well as classrooms the new centre will feature a multi-sensory room, used to help children relax and overcome anxiety.

Cockburn works in partnership with primary schools throughout South Leeds. The staff are supported by Educational Psychologists and Social Workers who work one-to-one or in The former Mariners Resource Centre small groups.

South Leeds Academy still “inadequate” The latest inspection of The South Leeds Academy

by Ofsted has once again found the school to be ‘Inadequate’ in a report published on 30 January.

The report states that “Outcomes for pupils are too low. Pupils do not attain as well as they should.” However the school has not been placed in ‘Special Measures’ as inspectors recognised that senior leaders were now “addressing the school’s weaknesses with much-needed urgency”.

South Leeds Academy Principal Graham Moffatt, who has been in post since autumn 2016, said: “We accept the inspectors’ findings and know there is much work to be done.

However, inspectors highlight the pace of change in recent months and staff and students have responded positively.

“The inspectors see that we have the capacity to improve and that senior leaders are taking the necessary steps to

address the issues raised in the report and that we have identified the key priorities moving forward.

“We are grateful for the support we have received in the community and from our sponsor, also noted by inspectors.

“There is a tangible determination within the academy to improve and we are hopeful that this will be reflected in better exam results in the summer.”

South Leeds Academy is owned by the Delta Academies Trust which runs 45 schools across Yorkshire and the Humber.

Inspectors said South Leeds Academy’s principal, senior leaders, members of the Education Advisory Board and the Trust were addressing weaknesses with “muchneeded urgency”.

The Trust had a “wellinformed and accurate view” of South Leeds said inspectors.

The academy formally joined the Trust in September, 2015.

The South Leeds Academy

South Leeds Life | September 2016

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12 People

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Me & my dyslexia Monica’s 104 not out

witj a horrid rain down theit main….. I can not rwad a full page or even look at a full page of riting as all the words one This is very long but i hope you are read it and it helps you to see this justlikethisanditsdifficulttoebenlookath disorder more clearly. Dyslexia…. epage.The letters can jimp around jtsu Dyslexia – a disorder that primarley lkei thsi. I panic when im asked to read effexts reading and riting, something.

Riting is so much like reading. I can Dyspraxia- a coodnation disorder, Dyscaluclia – basically Maths right but i get muddled up with my dyslexia. All these disorders are letters expecally if i rite lots. very closley related if you have one Sometimes i know how to rite you more then likley have traits of something but something happens the other 2 or another one. from my brain to my hands and its However you may just have one of ritten rong. I have to visulise each letter as i rite it. I still have to look at these disorderd. my hands for bs and ds.

I also seem to miis whole words out of a sentance It slightly effects my coordnation.

For instance i could not drive a manuel car even though i had a few lessions in one. I can not seem to the clutch and gears. It was impossible for me so automatic it is.

Speaking. I sometime find it difficult to put it across what i want to say or i will say something but mean it differently. I am always appologising for this. I sometimes stutter or i forget waht im saying in the middle of whay i am sayinh. Inwill repeat Photo: Kristine Lewis via Creative Commons what i am saying i I can and will not speak for everyone know i am doing it but cant help who is Dyslexic as its like a finger myself.

Other stuff. I am slow very slow at print. Although it is primaerly reading and riting it can also efferct other doing things. People say something to me and sometimes it takes me a few things in everyday life.

I have struggled all through my life seconds to take in what they say. Some with reading and riting but other things time people think im.being ignerant also.Through school i was bullied,i was but i honetly am.not. or i have to think given detention every day or had to about what to say.

My confidence is so low..i have been stay behind in class to finish my work.

I had no help what so ever not from in my job for 15 years now and its only school.or at gome. Even though it was been this last year that i have felt i have clear i was struggling. It seemed to me fitted in and joined in conversations, the further i got in school the harder putting my opinions across, or being a it got the worse my work was. When i bit more indwrpendent at the job i do.

People have had a go at me pleanty went to college i was tested for dyslexia i was diagnosed with the of times for either being slow or condition. I have got where i want to ignoring them or doing things slightly be. I have 2 beautiful girls, the man of diffetent. I can not explain why i do my dreams, and a job to die for my what i do or how i do it as i feel that people will think i am using my donkeys.

Let me try and explain abit about dyslexua as an excuse. I can honestly say i have never or will never do that. me.

I find it extreamy difficult to read. However i have never hidden that im For i stance i have only ever read 1 dyslexic i have always been very open book cover to cover word for word. about it.

This is my Dyslexia. Every dyslexia id That book was Black Beauti. It took me 2 and a half years to read. When i like a finger print no 2 people have it read i read word for word and the same. Noone can wkno how you picturise the scene (i am not sure if are with your disorder no matter you anyone elese does this or if this is the have. However i hope this has given norm) e.g when reading black beauti i you a insite of dyslexia May i say thank you for reading this i would pictur a black.horse next to a chesnut harnesed up in a carrage know its been long but i hope it helps having their heads vilontly forsed up you understand it better.

by Vikki Blake

by Jeremy Morton

Monica Budge celebrated her 104th birthday in style at the Assisi Place retirement apartments in Hunslet last month.

She was joined by her fellow residents, family and friends for a lunchtime celebration. Monica was born in Colne, Lancashire and spent most of her life in Burnley before moving to Leeds to be close to family. Staff went out of their way for her, finding some of her beloved Lancashire Black Pudding for her birthday breakfast.

Monica worked for many years in a range of jobs, having left school at the age of 14 in 1927. She had two spells in the weaving mills where her mother worked, but she hated it there.

“The noise was terrible.

You had to learn to lipread because you could

hear what the person next to you said. There was cotton dust everywhere on the floor.” She explained.

She moved to the local hospital where she worked in the laundry. Then when war broke out in 1939 she

moved to Lucas making parts for aircraft. Later she worked at Belling assembling electric fires.

She married Edmund Budge in 1936. He served in the Royal Navy through the Second World War and later died from cancer

Monica Budge at her birthday party

aged just 54.

Monica led a long and active retirement and was still doing exercises classes when she celebrated her hundredth birthday with the Lord Mayor four years ago.

She has finally had to slow down following heart and mobility problems, but still does her own washing up and keeps her flat tidy.

Asked about the secret of her long life she says her mother and grandmother both led long lives. For her keeping busy has always been important and she is not impressed with having sit all day.

Geoff Ellis the Methodist Homes chaplain to Assisi Place said of Monica: “She has a fantastic spirit and many interesting memories. She is an encouragement to others, taking part in many of the activities. Residents look up to her as a good friend, she’s loved by everyone here.”

Walking Around in Holbeck

by Bruce Davies

On a rainy Saturday afternoon, I find myself sat in the back room of the Holbeck Working Men’s Club, Leeds United are playing at Elland Road whilst a small group of Norwegian fans down beers and sing songs in the other room.

Group (WARG) is the brainchild of Dr Simon Bradley in collaboration with Anzir Boodoo. WARG is a complex web of ideas that takes its cues from many movements that have dealt with art, politics and society over the course of the last century.

Whilst the background to the formation of this idea may be

Who’s got the map? Photo: Bruce Davies I am here for a presentation that will ignite a new project for the Holbeck area at a time when it’s identity is in question, due in part to the South Bank regeneration project.

The Walking Around Research

complex, the aim is not. Simply put, this is a project designed to get people walking for no other reason than the act of walking itself. Bradley and Boodoo are clear to state in their humorous introduction that

WARG is defined by what it is not.

WARG is not about any stated health benefits, even if for some it may be an unintentional outcome; it is not about heritage although this may indirectly have some input as the area is steeped in such a rich, and largely forgotten history.

WARG is, by its own definition about connectivity, the connection between people and the people with the area of Holbeck through personal reflection.

The intention of WARG is to create a highly personalised phenomenological map of the area through the memory and desires for the future of those that engage with the concept.

The next dates for WARG events will be Friday 10 March and Sunday 19 March. The times and starting locations for these are yet to be confirmed, but you can find out by joining the group on Twitter at twitter.com/wargista, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wearewarg/ or alternatively contact them directly for information via email: warg@transcience.co.uk

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March 2017 | South Leeds Life

Comment 13

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On The Buses: In praise of dogs

by Frank Regan With the possible, but not guaranteed, exception of your mum, no one will ever love you as much as your dog. And chances are the feeling is mutual.

You may have read the story of Kuyu this week. Kuyu is a Kangal puppy, a breed native to Turkey, who was stuck down a well for ten days. The entire Turkish nation, more recently accustomed to wondering who their despotic leader would arrest en masse next, or just getting on with being at the epicentre of world chaos, was gripped by the story of the plucky pup.

Once the nation had bestowed a name on the ownerless canine – showing all the ingenuity of professional footballers when it comes to nicknames by choosing Kuyu (translation – well) – all the ingredients for a gripping drama were in place: a loveable but endangered innocent in a ticking-clock race against fate.

In many ways it was the story of the alien invasion film

Independence Day with humanity being played by Kuyu and Jeff Goldblum replaced by a metal clamp. Once you give anything a name it matters ten times as much as it did before.

Kuyu’s survival suddenly mattered in a way that the survival of a goldfish or a budgie never could, perfectly serviceable pets though they are. Because we all know that dogs are special in a way that goldfish aren’t. They’re also special, dare I whisper it, in a way that cats, with their frosty hauteur, could only aspire to.

Dogs are the best of us.

Back to the tale of Kuyu.The dog named after the thing it was stuck down. Like naming me after my greatest nemesis – Frank Bad Eyesight PotatoShaped Head. Anyway … the pup survived on scraps of food thrown down the hole, a system of rearing youngsters still used in some parts of South Leeds to this day.

Meanwhile, more practical and intelligent members of human society grappled with the problem of how to extricate brave Kuyu from his subterranean nightmare. If

they’d rung me, I’d have said straight away “Night vision, a metal clamp, wait till he goes to sleep before you try and grab him and in the meantime chuck sausages down the hole,” but they didn’t ring me, or if they did I thought it was something to do with mis-sold PPI and so didn’t answer, and thus it took

desire to kick, made the drama all the more engaging.

My own dog is now in her twilight years, or as I like to call them, her “potentially large vet’s bill versus cutting my losses” years. As I have aged so I have begun to measure my remaining lifetime in terms of dogs. I have maybe 3 dogs left.

The Editor’s dog them ten days to come up with these answers.

Obviously there are few, if any, things more popular than a “stuck-down-a-well” drama with a happy outcome.The fact that the “stickee” was a cute puppy as opposed to a human child, something most of us have occasionally felt the

I know this but I worry about my dog and whether she knows it. Does she understand her mortality? Does she know that she will die? Knowing that being separated from me for only ten minutes leads to her giving me the sort of greeting that Nelson Mandela received upon his release from Robben

Island, I desperately hope that she cannot contemplate the fact that someday there will be a separation that doesn’t end.

Dogs give us a human lifetime’s worth of love packed into a dog’s lifetime. I’ve often thought that the shortness of a dog’s life is one of the greatest tragedies. Imagine if our dogs could grow up and then grow old with us. Some of us would have little need for human companionship if that were the case.To be faced with that degree of love is daunting but wonderful. And it’s the unique quality of the love of dogs that is so special.

Dogs love us with 100% of their heart and it’s a big, goofy, falling-over, stupid, lob-sided grin, kind of love. Once they are part of our lives we become their pack and their only desire is to serve the pack and ensure its safety and happiness. Circumspect fellows though I’m sure gerbils are, they don’t strike me as unselfish givers in the love stakes. Dogs enrich our lives in countless ways and even when everyone else despises us they still treat us like A-list

celebrities. Even when we don’t like ourselves that much, our dogs take up the slack.

They should come on prescription for all ailments (barring allergies and gout).

There is really only one problem with dogs and that’s their owners. Not all of them are up to snuff and that’s a crying shame because this most noble of animals deserves the best because that is what they always give in return. I know that if you came up to me in the street and told me a guinea pig had fallen down a well I’d say “That’s a shame. Anyway, I’m off to buy some chips.” but if you said “Frank! There’s a dog stuck down a hole!” I would shout “Put everything on hold for ten days and bring me my robotic arm and metal clamp as well as my hole-throwing-sausages!”

Dogs.They’re better than me and you. Especially you.

You can read Frank’s column, On The Buses, every Monday at www.southleedslife.com (Frank Regan is a pseudonym)

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South Leeds Life | March 2017

14 What’s On

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What’s On

Your guide to events and activities across South Leeds in March Every Monday Swimming 9:45am Holbeck Elderly Aid Happy Chinese Families Gp 9:30am-12pm Beeston Village Community Centre Friendship Group 10am-12pm Belle Isle Family Centre General fitness for over 55's 11:30am-12:30pm St Andrews Community Centre, Beeston.

Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Men’s games group 1-3pm Belle Isle WMC Triathlon Training 4:15-5:45pm Middleton Park Bike Hub Kickboxing 6-9pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street This Girl Can Run 6.15pm Middleton Bike Hub, Ring Road, Middleton St Matthew’s Youth Club 6:30-8:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Zumba 7pm Middleton Parochial Hall Prize Bingo 7-9:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Middle Tones Singing Group 7-9pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Adult Jazz & Tap Dance 7-8pm Cottingley Community Centre Zumba 7-8pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Every Tuesday Keep Fit for over 55’s 9:30am Trinity Network, Belle Isle, Nesfield church hall Tots, Tea and Toast 9:30-11:15am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Breastfeeding Support 10am-12pm Middleton Family Centre, 252-262 Sissons Road General fitness over 55's 10-11am St Anthony's church

hall, Beeston South Leeds Life News Cafe 10am-12pm Brew Coffee Shop, Beeston Road Singing Group 10:30-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Knit & Natter 10:30am-12pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Chair based mobility session 11.30am-1pm Cottingley Community Centre Active mums, bumps & babes 11:45am-12:45pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton Lunch Club 12:15-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Rainbows, Brownies, Guides 4:30-9:15pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Skate Light 6-8pm Middleton Community Centre South Leeds Lakers running 7pm from Beeston Co-op Every Wednesday Parents and Toddlers 9:15am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street City Tots 9:30-11am City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road Pop Up Council Services 9:30am-2:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Chair mobility 10-10:45am Trinity Network, Belle Isle, Nesfield church hall Breaklfast Club & Foodbank 10am-12pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace Computer Club 10am-12pm Holbeck Elderly Aid, Balm Walk Shopping Trip 10am-1pm Holbeck Elderly Aid, Balm Walk CAP Job Club 10am-12pm Two Willows Children’s Centre, Cardinal

For up to date event information make sure you go online to

www.southleedslife.com and check the What’s On Calendar

Square, Beeston Community Craft Cafe 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Hunslet Hall Road Walk and Talk 12-1pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Free Zumba 12-12:45pm Middleton Leisure Centre Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Line Dancing 1:45pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Knit and Crochet Group 3-5pm Costa Coffee, Crown Point Retail Park Aerobics and Dance 3:30-4:30pm Cottingley Primary Academy DAZL Dance class (6-12yrs) 4:45-5:45pm Watsonian Pavilion Cross Flatts Park, Beeston DAZL Dance class 5-6pm Cottingley Community Centre City Kids (R-Y6) 6-7:15pm City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road Basic Bike Maintenance Class 6-8pm Middleton Bike Hub, Ring Road, Middleton General fitness 6:15-7:15pm Belle Isle Family Centre Cottingley Youth Club 6:30-8:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Zumba 6:30pm Middleton Parochial Hall, Town Street Zumba 7-8pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Martial Arts 7-9pm Beeston Juniors, Cardinal Square South Leeds Sisters running 7.15pm Improvers Middleton Park Bike Hub, Ring Road Clubbercise 7:30-8:30pm St John & St Barnabus Church Hall, Belle Isle Camera Club 8pm upstairs at St George’s Centre, Middleton Every Thursday Charity Shop 9:30am-3pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Heart Cafe 10-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Middleton Park Estate Volunteers 10am-3pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre New Lives Group 10-11:30am Cottingley Children’s Centre Chair based mobility group 11:15am-12:30pm Beeston Village Community Ctr Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Line Dancing

1pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle New Lives Group 1-2:30pm Two Willows Children’s Centre, Cardinal Sq Digital Photography Club 1:15-3:15pm Cockburn Skills Hub, Gipsy Lane Craft Group 1:30-3:30pm Cleveleys Court, Holbeck Mashed up fitness session aerobic dance 1:45-2:45pm Beeston Village Community Centre Vale Circles Autism Hub 2-7pm Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Women only running with South Leeds Sisters 5.45pm Intermediates Middleton Park Bike Hub Women’s Rounders 7pm Middleton Leisure Centre Indoor Bowls 7-10pm The Holbeck (WMC), Jenkinson Lawn Youth Drop In 7-9pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Clubbercise 7:30-8:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Zumba 7:15pm Middleton Parochial Hall Every Friday Tea & Toast 9am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Charity Shop, Tea & Toast 9am-12pm Beeston Hill United Free Church, Malvern Road South Leeds Life News Cafe 9-11am BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Breastfeeding Support Group 9:45-11:15am Mothercare cafe, Crown Point Retail Park Under 5s Storytime 10-11am Dewsbury Road Library Ladies Singing Group 10:30am-12:30pm Tenant Hall, Acre Close, Middleton Luncheon Club 12-1:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Fish & Chip Lunch Club 12:30-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Krok Po Kroku (Polish Gp) 12:30-2:30pm Beeston Village Community Centre Games Afternoon 1:30-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Urban Dance 4pm Cockburn School Holbeck Skate Park 5-6:30pm Holbeck Moor Friday Night Project 6-9pm Middleton Leisure Centre Every Saturday Breakfast Club 8:30-11am Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston

Cross Flatts parkrun 9am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Coffee morning 9am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Police Contact Point 9:30-11:30am St George’s Centre, Middleton Kidz ‘n’ Co 10:30am-12:30pm Beeston Village Community Centre Every Sunday Cross Flatts junior parkrun 9am, top of Cross Flatts Park Wednesday 1 March Lego Club 3:30-4:30pm Beeston Library Thursday 2 March Hunslet Carr Residents Ass 6:30pm Community Centre, Woodhouse Hill Avenue Beeston Community Forum 7:30pm Beeston Village Community Centre Saturday 4 March Community Litter Pick 10am Beeston Co-op Irish Music & Song 2-5pm Garden Gate pub Whitfield Place, Hunslet Sunday 5 March Litter Pick 11am-1pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Tuesday 7 March Pop Up Council HUB 10am-3pm Crosby Road, Holbeck Mostly Men! 10am-12pm Northcote Community Centre, Beeston Wednesday 8 March Hunslet Memories 12-2pm Garden Gate pub, Whitfield Place, Hunslet Code | Craft | Connect 3:30-4:30pm Middleton Library, St George’s Centre Cottingley Hall TRAC 6:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Sunday 12 March Sponsored Walk 11:30am St Mary’s Church, Town Street, Beeston Sunday Lunch 1-3pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck Eurohouse 5pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck

Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife Monday 13 March Free Dog Microchipping 11am-3pm BITMO GATE Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Thursday 16 March Comics Club!

3:15-4:45pm Dewsbury Road Library St Luke’s Tenants & Residents 6pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Hill Bereavement Support Group 7-8:30pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Friday 17 March St Patrick’s Night 7:30pm St Joseph’s Catholic Club, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet Saturday 18 March Leeds Young Archaeologists Club 10am-12pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Sunday 19 March Leeds Dads 2-4pm The Tetley, Hunslet Road Everglow 5pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck Tuesday 21 March Pop Up Council HUB 10am-3pm Crosby Road, Holbeck Wednesday 22 March Code | Craft | Connect 3:30-4:30pm Middleton Library, St George’s Centre Saturday 25 March Holbeck Feast Cafe 9-11am Ingram Gardens Marksman 7:30pm Slung Low Theatre, 6771 Bath Road, Holbeck Sunday 26 March BITMO Lunch Club 1-3pm BITMO’s GATE Centre, Aberfield Gate, off Belle Isle Rd Maltings Lunch Club 1-3pm Maltings Court, Maltings Road, Beeston Wednesday 29 March Cop Shop Memory Cafe 1-3pm Elland Road Police HQ Charity Medium Evening 7:30pm New Middleton Club Saturday 1 April Breeze Family Fun Day 1-4pm Middleton Leisure Centre, Ring Road Middleton Sunday 2 April Am I Dead Yet? 5pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck

Publicise your event with South Leeds Life Send full details of your event to: info@southleedslife.com or post to: 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Leeds, LS11 7BW Ring/text: 07894 583966

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March 2017 | South Leeds Life

What’s On 15

Email: info@southleedslife.com

It’s Irish history month Best Start for baby

Did you know that throughout the month of March-the month in which St Patrick’s Day is internationally celebratedIrish History Month takes place?

An initiative brought about by the Irish Arts Foundation, first celebrated in Leeds in 2007, it is now in its eleventh year.

Irish History Month, exists to promote the many positive contributions that Irish people have made in Leeds and also to introduce new audiences to the vibrancy of Irish arts, heritage, culture and history.

So what’s involved then?

There is a programme of events to suit all tastes.

Particular highlights this year include a screening of the new documentary “Chasing Michael Davitt” about one of the most important Irish personalities of 19th century.( 11.30am, Friday 10th March, Montague Burton Centre), ‘The History and

Development of the Gaelic Athletics Association (GAA) in Yorkshire’: talk and presentation by Jason Rooney, Community Development Administrator, Yorkshire GAA. (12.15pm, Friday 17 March Headingley Enterprise & Arts Centre) and ‘The Story and the Tune’: supported by Deirdre Tasker on flute and whistle, author David Dunlop discusses how he developed the notion of "the broken fiddle" as a metaphor for partition in Ireland (8pm, Friday 24 March Seven Arts) On Saturday afternoon 4 March (4.30pm approx.) an informal Traditional Irish music and singing session will be taking place at The Garden Gate in Hunslet.

Up until the late 1950’s The Garden Gate was also a wellknown meeting place for the Irish community in Leeds, particularly before going to the dances that took place in the now long gone St Francis’

Dance Hall in nearby Holbeck.

Irish History Month 2017 will be officially launched on the evening of Friday 3rd March at Seven Arts in Chapel Allerton.

The Leeds St Patrick’s Day Parade now in its eighteenth year will take place on Sunday 12th March leaving Millennium Square at 11am.

To see the full range of events throughout the month in please see: www.irisharts.org.uk

The Garden Gate

Big Brew Free Zumba

As part of Fairtrade Fortnight Anne and Barry Parker are hosting a ‘Big Brew’ on the afternoon of Saturday 4 March from 2-5pm at Beeston Hill United Free Church in Malvern Road, Beeston.

There will be free refreshments served including cake and biscuits and a raffle and a competition to promote fairlytraded goods.

There will also be stalls selling Fairtrade products including crafts and goods made in Palestine.

Fairtrade enables reasonable prices to be paid to individuals and groups in many parts of the developing world and guarantees orders for these goods so that investment can be made on a longterm basis, thus providing security for many thousands of families.

For further information please telephone 0113 276 1797 or email annebarryprkr@btinternet.com

Want to lose weight and tone up but still have fun? Then ditch the gym and Zumba your way into a fitter, healthier you.

Zumba incorporates dance and fitness moves to a variety of music genres including (but not limited to) Salsa, Cumbria and Regaetton making it a great alternative to the gym.

If you are serious about losing weight then come along to a class and dance your way to a slimmer, fitter you.

- The classes are open to all women aged 14+.

- Be prepared to be dazzled!

Venue: Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD Every Monday AND Wednesday from 7-8pm Contact: Nahida Khan on (0113) 277 3330 or email: nahida@hamara.co.uk

A special event is being held at Belle Isle Family Centre on Wednesday 8 March for pregnant women, families and their babies (02 years old).

There will be a chance to find out about what is available for young dads and male carers; help with breast feeding from Bosom Buddies; baby massage courses; and help to stop smoking.

The Library service will there and you can bring your unwanted baby clothes to swap in the Baby Boutique.

Staff will be on hand from a range of agencies who can help including midwives, local Children’s Centres, Health Aor All, Homestart and community

parents groups.

There will also be activity taster sessions with Bumps and Babes (mother and baby exercise); mini sports; baby first aid and more.

The event runs from 10am2pm and there is a free creche, plus a free lunch served at 1pm.

For more information call 0113 277 4819.

Leeds Autism Services are launching their new film at a gala showing on Wednesday 15 March at the Vue Cinema in The Light - and you are invited!

The one night only, brand new film premier of documentary ‘A Different Way of Thinking’ on the big screen and charity dinner. The 20 minute film provides an insight into the work of Leeds Autism Services and the impact the service has on the lives of the people and families of people they support.

The 20-minute documentary features Leeds-based Kay Mellor OBE writer of 'The Syndicate', Peter Bowker writer of 'The A Word' & Henry Normal a comedian, television producer, and poet who has a son on the autism spectrum.

You'll get the chance to meet Kay, Peter and Henry.

The aim of the documentary is to raise awareness about autism, along with raising the profile and much-needed funds for Leeds Autism Services.

Ticket price for the event is

£35.00, to include a drinks reception, followed by a 3course evening meal buffet at Zizzi restaurant with a networking opportunity afterwards.

The money raised on the night will be used to purchase new and updated equipment for the adults we support with autism here in Leeds.

To book your tickets please visit https://www.eventbrite.co. uk/e/charity-documentarypremier-and-dinner-event-ti ckets-31410121519

Photo: E Cohen via Creative Commons

Kay Mellor to launch new autism film

Kay Mellor

New carers and youth groups in Cottingley

Four new groups are starting up activity and support sessions at Cottingley Community Centre Firstly, a new Carers group is starting, particularly aimed at people who are caring for people still awaiting a diagnosis.

For example a diagnosis that someone is on the autism spectrum can take two years.This is a period that can be very

difficult for carers coping with uncertainty as well as the caring issues.

The organisers have personal experience of issues such as chronic pain, hearing impairment, autism and other issues.

They will be bringing that experience, together with help from Carers Leeds, to help carers avoid social isolation, find support and work out coping strategies.

The Carers group meets every Friday from 1-3pm at Cottingley Community Centre.

A multi-sports activity for young people runs every Monday from 4-6pm, whilst new Family cooking sessions start on 28 February and run every Friday 3:30-5:30pm. Both have been funded by the Inner South Community Committee.

Youth activities for 8-11 year Cottingley Community Centre

olds using play, crafts and games to look at team building and address issues of anti-social behaviour and inter-generational issues. 3:455:45pm every Thursday.

Funded from the Police & Crime Commissioners Safer Communities Fund.

To keep up to date with everything going on at the centre look for Cottingley Community Centre on Facebook.

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South Leeds Life | September 2016

16 Sport

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Everyone a winner at charity match

Two teams, one cause. Photo Phoenix Photography

by Phil Goodfield Saturday 25 February saw a brilliant day of activities at The Hunslet Club on Hillidge Road in support of “Coopa’s Wish to Walk”.

Held to raise funds to enable Coopa Ellis-Adams who has Celebral Palsy to have the operation and post op physio that she needs to achieve her ambition to be able to walk, the day was a massive and unequivocal success.

Coopa’s family have been able to announce that an amazing £16,400 was raised on Saturday – meaning that the £35k target has been raised in just 12 short weeks, a brilliant achievement!

The centrepiece of the day, the much awaited rugby league game between the present day high-flying Hunslet Club Parkside and their predecessors from yesteryear the Hunslet Old Boys Legends was a great success.

As Coopa’s dad said in an emotional thank you to everyone involved in helping

to organise the day: “All the lads who put a shirt on for both teams – you should be so proud of yourselves.

Without you this day could not have happened and the family appreciate it so much.”

Hundreds of supporters lined the touch line in anticipation of top Superleague referee Ben Thaler’s whistle to get the match underway in wintry weather probably more familiar to the Old Boys Legends than their opponents.

The game was played in a fantastic spirit with good skills on display from both sides despite the wind and rain. The opening sets were evenly contested but, as might have been expected the younger and fitter Hunslet Club Parkside boys built up a 20-0 lead in a first half with tries to Jack Kirkmond, Andrew Hullock, Craig McShane, and Dale Harris – a long range effort – plus two conversions from Jamie Fields.

Danny Harrison, Danny Rowse, crossed for Hunslet Club in the second half with two conversions to Danny

Rowse.

The loudest cheer of the game was however saved for the next six points – all scored by 13 year old Jack Briggs for the Legends.

Representing the future of Hunslet Club Parkside Jack took the ball from the back of a scrum ten metres out and scampered over under the posts, then landed the conversion to take the score to 32–6.

Jack also had a hand in the final score of the game keeping the ball in play before prop forward Sam Thorpe crossed again for the Old Boys Legends. The game came to a fitting conclusion with every player from both squads playing out the final sets.

After the game both teams, families and friends made their way back into the Club for refreshment – light and not so light! – music from 0113 and dance well into the night.

Squads (as announced in the match day programme) Hunslet Club Parkside: Craig McShane, Jack Kirkmond, Dale Harris, Michael Waite, Danny Harrison, Andrew Hullock,

Danny Rowse, Adam Biscomb, Jamie Bradley, Jamie Fields, Kieron Murphy, Jamie Milburn, Craig Miles, Ryan Gaunt, Ben Shulver, James Healy, Luke Pettman, Mackenzie Tennant, Rocky Price, Chris Boyce, Lewis Buxton, Ben Thorpe, Arron Pratt, Chris Thompson, Dean Bowles, Luke Medley, Charlie Magee, Karl Hargreaves, Jake Southern, Tom Boardman.

Coaches: Paul McShane and Martin Rowse.

Hunslet Old Boys Legends: Alwyn Whittaker, Damian Beggs, Glenn Cunny, Micky Davies, Steve Nichol, Luke O’Malley, Tony Dobb, Wayne Foster, Wayne Adams, Darrell Robinson, Richard Pickersgill, Ryan Bew, Carl Briggs, Mark Holmes, Dave Sadler, Simon Ramsden, Amraz Hamid, James Silverblade, Mark Cass, Danny O’Connor, Sam Thorpe, Ben Lawton, Martin O’Malley, Craig Jones, Steve Miller, Chris Houlker, Matthew Stocks, Mick Starsky, Chris Nicholson, Jason Shipley, plus special guest Jack Briggs.

Coaches: Kevin Bew and Tom Saunders.

A defibrillator for Hunslet Green

L-R Alex King, Pat Benatmane and Lizzie Jones

Lizzie Jones presented a Defibrillator to Hunslet Green, home of the Hunslet Warriors ARLFC. The Danny Jones Fund was set up by Lizzie after the sudden death of her husband, Danny, whilst playing for Keighley Cougars RLFC. She aims to help every amateur rugby league club to have a defibrillator. Hunslet Green, opposite Morrisons in

Hunslet, raised funds of over £1000 to pay for the defibrillator and several of the committee and parents have been trained in its use, thanks to cooperation from neighbours ERS who run an ambulance service.

The presentation was made at South Leeds Stadium ahead of the Hunslet RLFC v Hunslet Club Parkside match on Sunday 29 January.

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Running roundup

by Ben Fraser

Middleton Park has been at the centre of attention this month, hosting the 3rd charity ‘Running For Skye’ and preparing to launch its own weekly parkrun.

On Sunday 12 February just shy of 100 people braved the terrible weather for the annual Running for Skye fun run event. The fun run began in 2015 on Valentine’s Day in support of local youngster Skye Sutcliffe who was found to have acute lymphoblastic and myeloid leukaemia; two rare forms of blood cancer. Skye sadly passed away on 1 December 2015.

With dismal weather blighting this year’s event, it was with great joy to see that many runners, walkers and families were far from put off by the freezing rain.

Participants were encouraged to don their favourite fancy dress, with this year’s warm-up led by none other than Darth Vader!

A total of £2,000 was raised for the Candlelighters charity through a combined effort of ticket sales and a generous raffle of over 60 prizes, all donated by stores at the White Rose shopping centre.

Cross Flatts parkrun celebrated its 200 run on Saturday 25

February. The free, weekly, timed 5km walk or run has seen 2,687 participants since it started in 2013.

180 people took part on Saturday, 22 of whom set new Personal Best times.

The event takes place every Saturday morning at 9:00am starting near the Beeston Road entrance. Every Sunday at 9am there is a 2km Junior parkrun for children aged 4-14 years.

Middleton Park seems set to join Cross Flatts Park to offer a second parkrun event in South Leeds.

Friends of Middleton Park (FoMP) are working with Run Leeds on the venture. Frances Jones said: “Our mission at Friends of Middleton Park is to promote this fantastic green space in the heart of south Leeds. It is one of the biggest and most varied parks in Leeds and offers scope for a wonderful parkrun.

FoMP puts on a programme of free events every year to entice people into the park, so parkrun fits perfectly with what we do.”

To register your interest in directing the event or becoming a part of the volunteering team follow this link: http://runleeds.co.uk/r/middleton -park-parkrun-volunteer/

Waiting to sart the 200th Cross Flatts parkrun Photo: Paul Barber

A tale of two cups Hunslet RLFC are through to Liam Mackay. Danny Ansell kicked 5 the 4th round of the Ladbroke’s goals.

This victory was based on fine Challenge Cup after their first performances from a number of win of 2017.

A poor pre-season has seen players – the return of Jimmy them beaten by Hunslet Club Watson brought solidity to the last Parkside and dumped out of the line of defense and half backs League 1 Cup by the Newcastle Gibson and Ansell worked with Jack Thunder, 10-34 on 19 February.

Lee to take good advantage of the They bounced back the following platform laid down by a number of week, seeing off the Coventry strong showings up front.

Bears 34-0. Head Coach James Coyle was very pleased withthe defensive efforts shown by his players in preventing keen opponents from scoring any points.

Hunslet scored through Jack Lee, Marcus Webb, Cameron Leeming (2), Joel Gibson and Photo: Phoenix Photography