South Leeds Life 56 November 2019

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Issue 56 | November 2019

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

HUNSLET’S SPIRE IS SET TO STAY

In this issue:

Fighting for the No 1 bus

page 3

Linda’s fund raising challenge

page 6

Council and Church in negotiations to keep the iconic South Leeds landmark

R

by Jeremy Morton

umours that the tower and spire of St Mary’s church in Hunslet might be demolished have been firmly scotched by the Church of England and Leeds City Councillors at a meeting last month.

The spire, visible from many parts of South Leeds, dates from 1864 and is a Grade II Listed structure. The original church was demolished and replaced in 1975, but the new building proved structurally unsound and was itself demolished earlier this year.

The meeting was called by a group of concerned residents calling themselves Save Our Spire (SOS).

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal told the meeting: "We know how much the spire means to local people, but unfortunately there is no magic wand. However, we are talking with the Church of England about the future of the site, plans are perhaps coming together, we can't say anymore at this time, but we will do our very best to save the spire."

Cllr Paul Wray added: “There has been no agreement as yet.

Once we are at a stage when the Diocese is happy and we are happy as a Council, to say what we’ve discussed we will inform the residents’ associations.”

The Church of England who

still own the spire and the land are prepared to sell the whole site (including the spire for £1 to the right buyer.

“The spire is a liability, but the land is worth something, it’s an asset. They have to go together. We will give away an asset if they (a future buyer) will take on the liability” explained Charlotte Lilley from the Leeds Diocesan Board of Finance.

The hope is that a buyer can be found who will provide a development on the land that is of benefit to local people, but is also financially sustainable so that they can dasely take on the risk and expense of maintaining the spire.

A number of facts about the tower were clarified at the meeting: The tower is structurally sound. It was not relying on the church building, in fact the building was causing it problems.

The eight bells, as well as the clock chimes, are still in the tower. The bells are not valuable and the church wishes to give them to another church where they can be used by another congregation.

The building is Grade II listed and although the listing mentions the bells, removing them would not alter the listing status.

Charlotte Lilley clarified that if a suitable buyer wasn’t found imediateley they would go on

looking. Whilst the possibility remained that the spire might have to be demolished if it proved impossible to find a suitable scheme, such a decision was many years away.

Cllr Elizabeth Nash told South Leeds Life: “The Council has a responsibility to see that owners of listed buildings keep them in good repair and have been in discussion with the Diocese regarding the Spire`s future.

“My colleagues, Cllr Iqbal and Cllr Wray and I have pledged funding for the restoration of the clock with an automated wind-up equipment, but we need the permission for this from the Diocese.

“I can assure readers that your councillors are giving their fullest attention to this muchloved landmark. We will be reporting the final outcome for the spire’s future to Hunslet Carr Residents Association and Hunslet Tenants and Residents Association, the properly recognised community groups.”

Ideas for a future use of the site suggested at the meeting included social housing, a community centre, a museum and a remembrance garden.

What do you think? What could that space become?

What would best serve the local community? Please get in touch and share your ideas.

Cockburn wins platinum award

page 10

The last tram in Leeds

page 18

INSIDE NEWS SCHOOLS

12-13

OPINION

14-15

LOCAL LIVES

The tower and spire of St Mary’s church is not under threat

2-11

15

ARTS

16-17

WHAT’S ON

18-22

SPORT

23-24

Get the latest news at www.southleedslife.com - new stories posted daily

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South Leeds Life | November 2019

2 News

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

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

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

Our aims To inform people of events, activities, issues and opportunities taking place in the South Leeds community; To encourage the involvement of the wider community in communicating their experiences; To foster community spirit and involvement; and To provide a platform for local people to contribute and respond to community life more fully.

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

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

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Bridgewater Place restrictions lifted after wind solution testing C

ouncillors have agreed to lift traffic restrictions during high winds at Bridgewater Place after a period of extensive testing of the building owner’s solution to the wind problems there.

Leeds City Council’s executive board approved a report recommending that the high winds closure of the road junction near the building is no longer necessary since the wind mitigation scheme has been demonstrated to have been effective.

Wind issues had emerged after the building’s completion in late 2007, despite the developer’s preconstruction modelling that indicated it would not cause any problems. The council addressed this by implementing interim safety measures such as pedestrian guardrails, screens and warning signs.

The council went on to introduce the high winds protocol that governs the junction’s closure on the advice of the coroner after the inquest into the death of Dr Edward Slaney when a soft-sided truck blew over there in high winds.

The coroner also ruled that the

building was creating “a public nuisance” and that its owners CPPI Bridgewater Place were responsible for putting that right. The council worked to ensure an appropriate permanent solution was put in place by them, which led to their wind mitigation scheme.

Detailed testing of that solution to prove it had worked in a variety of high winds events was required by the council and the wind mitigation scheme, which involves a series of over-road “baffles” and screens on and near the building, was completed in summer 2018.

None of the measurement points they regularly tested along the Water Lane and Victoria Road junction have exceeded the wind speed levels considered safe of 15 metres per second. Their conclusions are supported by independent wind experts RWDI, who have peer reviewed their research and analysis on behalf of Leeds City Council.

Martin Farrington, Leeds City Council’s director of city development, said: “Right from the start we have been adamant that safety is the priority at the Bridgewater Place junction and we

Wind baffles on Water Lane at the foot of Bridgewater Place have done everything in our power to ensure that. We have also worked exhaustively to facilitate the owners bringing forward the best possible permanent solution to the dangers caused by their building.

“Now that solution has been extensively and comprehensively tested in a series of high winds conditions over a lengthy period by two leading expert engineering companies who have concluded it is effective.

“During this time there have been no complaints about adverse wind

affects and we now have to consider that the time has come to release that junction from the restrictions that slow the movement of traffic and pedestrians.”

The executive board noted the results of the testing and confirmed on the basis of the expert advice that the high winds protocol can be stopped once the call-in period has expired. However they added that monitoring of wind conditions in the area should continue and asked for regular reporting on the ongoing effectiveness of the measures.

New river footbridge opens in Hunslet

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Resident Marlene Marques Scott and Hilary Benn MP cut the ribbon of new Citu bridge ustainable urban bridge. It will now be used by District will feature more developer Citu hosted a the growing community as a than 800 low carbon Citu special event on Friday 11 pedestrian and cycle route Homes including October to mark the into the city, halving the apartments and houses, completion of a £1.5m walking time from 20 alongside leisure, offices, pedestrian bridge at its minutes down to 10 minutes public realm and green Climate Innovation District and allowing a healthier, community spaces. in Leeds. safer journey along the River Speaking at the ceremony, The eye-catching 50m Aire.

Hilary Benn said: “This is a structure provides a vital link The rust coloured steel bridge to the future. It’s across the River Aire from bridge, designed by Halifax- about building communities Hunslet in Leeds’s ‘South based Gagarin Studio and as it will connect residents in Bank’ to the city centre.

Hebden Bridge-based DP the new homes to the city Leeds Central MP Hilary Squared, links Citu’s Phases centre and will encourage Benn conducted the official One and Two of the Climate more people to walk over the ribbon cutting, joining the Innovation District either river as the South Bank developer and residents in a side of the River Aire. develops. ceremonial walk across the When completed, the “It is a fantastic

S

development and I want to say thank you to Citu for what you are doing as you are showing what is possible. We want more developers to build homes in this way, as this is how we are going to beat the threat of climate change in this country.”

Resident Katrina Welsh, one of the first residents to move into the District, who helped organise the event added: “The new bridge connects our community to Leeds and really opens things up for us and our visitors. Walking along the river into work will be a lovely way to start the day.”

As part of the celebrations, residents and stakeholders joined the Citu team in a newly created popup park, commissioned by the developer, on the south bank of the bridge on Clarence Road. The urban park, which will be open to the public, is transforming an area of derelict land which will eventually be home to phase two of the District. It currently features colourful murals designed by local artist, Emma Hardaker, alongside upcycled wooden planters and new riverside seating made by Leeds Wood

Recycling.

As well as creating an integral and important link for the city and communities in Cross Green, Hunslet and beyond, the 3-metre wide bridge has been engineered to accommodate Leeds City Council’s planned £40m district heat network as part of the South Bank regeneration project. The district heat network is not required for the homes in the £250m Climate Innovation District due to the airtightness and low energy needs of the innovative timber-framed design.

However, it will offer both existing and future developments in the area the opportunity to benefit from the Council’s flagship district heat network, which will harness heat from the Recycling and Energy Recovery Facility (incinerator) at Cross Green.

Citu Development Director Jonathan Wilson said: “The bridge is an eyecatching landmark that the city can be proud of. Not only does it offer a crucial physical link across the river, better connecting the area to the city centre for pedestrians and cyclists; it’s a stunning piece of architecture in its own right.”

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November 2019 | South Leeds Life

News 3

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Community Heroes

Fighting to save the no 1 bus O

n 5 October bus users attended an angry and frustrated meeting at St Mary’s Church in Beeston.

They were there to discuss the changes that were made to the number 1 bus route at the beginning of September; and the alarming response from First Bus West Yorkshire in reply to a Tweet querying if the 1 route will be returning to normal once The Headrow Improvement works are complete that “at present we are unable to confirm this”.

The meeting was addressed

by Cllr Andrew Scopes and everyone in the meeting shared the impact of the changes on their lives, and the lives of those they cared about, and

Some of the winners of the Inner South Community Committee Community Heroes Awards

T

he glue that holds South Leeds together is how Cllr Judith Blake described the audience of award winners.

Over a hunded local residents attended an event at South Leeds Stadium on 22 October.

Organised by Councillors on the Inner South Community Committee, it recognised the groups and individuals that do so much in their communities.

Whether its helping older people, sports clubs, gardening and environment groups, galas and festivals; events and

activities would not happen without an army of volunteers.

Speaking on behalf of all nine Councillors, Judith Blake said: “We know how many people are really struggling out in our communities. It’s a difficult time on so many levels, and we all rely on you. The incredible work you do, the dedication you give, the hours and hours of volunteering. That incredible magic of greeting people out in the community, people who come to your events always to get a warm welcome and a

White Rose Honours Community Spirit

smile. You provide the glue, the sparkle as well, of everything we do in our communities.

“I hope that you’ve all got the message now that in Leeds we believe in putting our people first, absolutely at the heart of everything we do. We recognise how important all of your contributions are and that we can’t take it for granted. It is sometghing very, very special indeed. So this really is our opportunity to say an enormous thank you to each and every one of you.

“Your contribution is beyond

words and beyond calculation, it is just so important. It’s what makes our communities hold together.

“We need to do this more often, get out and celebrate everything that is good about Inner South Leeds.

“I want to thank all of you for what you’ve done over the years and more importantly I want to thank you for what you’re going to do over the coming years!”

A full list of winners can be found online at southleedslife .com/communityheroes.

Local heroes from across South Leeds were honoured at the White Rose Shopping Centre Community Awards on 17 October. This year’s winners included Frances Jones, Treasurer and Trustee of the Friends of Middleton Park, which will be celebrating its centenary in 2020. Each winner was awarded a handcrafted glass trophy created by The Glass Room at Cockburn School. The trophies were designed by students Kayra Demirkol and Long Pham, both age 12, who were inspired by the brief of ‘Recycling’. The design includes elements relating to the environment, energy, and community. Steven Foster, General Manager of White Rose Shopping Centre, said: “We’re incredibly proud to work alongside these hard-working individuals and organisations, and we believe we can all be inspired by the work they do each and every day.”

shared, which brought home the real life day-to-day challenges this decision to split our service into two has brought about.

Many Beeston residents do their shopping in Morrisons at the Merrion Centre and take the opportunity to visit other services nearby such as the Post Office and banks. Without being able to get on a bus that comes straight back is proving difficult for people carrying lots of shopping.

Workers are affected too. A carer who works in Headingley now has to leave home at 5:45am instead of 6:15am and she has an extra hour and a half travel each day since the route was changed.

Campaigners protest the cutting of the No 1 bus route expressed their concern that this change could be made permanent.

Some in the meeting talked about the impact on family life such as one local resident whose sister lives in Holt Park at the end of the 1 route.

There are worries about what this could mean for young people studying at Notre Dame Sixth Form and Lawnswood School from this area. Local residents also go to the University of Leeds and they are now finding it much harder to get there and back.

The number 1 route also serves major sporting facilities in Leeds. One Beeston resident who regularly goes to support the Leeds Rhinos at Headingley Stadium with his disabled daughter now faces four buses in total (and four fares!) and they will find the journey home almost impossible.

It was clear from the meeting that the impact on disabled and elderly residents is substantial, especially considering the fact that the journey from Infirmary Street to Albion Street is uphill, through extremely busy streets with multiple crossings.

Examples of residents who have diabetes, difficulties walking and from someone who is partially sighted were

Residents travelling home at night are frustrated by the decreased frequency of the new number 10 service. A woman expressed her fears about having to wait alone for lengthy periods of time for two different buses at night.

It was remarked that we are being encouraged to stop us using our cars as much to help the climate, but some now feel forced to get back into their vehicle or get a taxi as the current bus route isn’t taking people where they need to go.

Questions were asked too – why has the number 1 been spilt in half and not sent up East Parade like the 27 and 28?

The overall feeling of the meeting was that the number 1 bus route is an iconic route and the possibility that it’s splitting in half could be permanent will add to the isolation that people in south Leeds already experience. The meeting ended with campaigners determined to fight this cut in our bus services.

You can support the campaign by signing the petition online at 38degrees.org.uk, paper copies are also available via www.facebook.com/Defendthe-Leeds-number-1-bus-route102945494430974/

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South Leeds Life | November 2019

4 News

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On the beat

by Insp Lucy Leadbeater

I

have now been in post as the South Leeds Neighbourhood Policing Inspector for 6 months and have had the opportunity to meet a number of residents right across Inner South and discuss various issues affecting the community.

One of the discussions that I have on a regular basis is the issue around drugs and the anti-social behaviour that is affected by this type of criminality.

Our Neighbourhood Policing Team officers like to be proactive, tackling the supply of drugs and bringing offenders to justice. In October officers from the NPT were supported by other district colleagues and colleagues from our Operational Support Unit and

participated in Operation Momentum which was a day of action of the Beeston Hill, Beeston and Holbeck areas of Leeds. During this operation three warrants were executed at addresses in these areas which resulted in four arrests on the day, the recovery of Class A and Class B drugs as well as stolen property being recovered. Further enquiries have resulted in a further arrest (see page 6).

In order for the police to be able to act on community concerns in relation to drug dealing we need community intelligence. If you have concerns in relation to a person or property in your area who you suspect is involved in this type of criminal activity there are a number of ways, the police can tackle this. If the police want to search premises, they have to apply to the Magistrates' court for a search warrant. The Magistrates' court will only grant a search warrant if they believe that the police have reasonable grounds to suspect that an offence has been committed, and that the premises needs to be searched as it may contain evidence that will be of benefit or important to a trial. Therefore, it is essential that intelligence is

received to assist police with the application. Information from a number of sources or detailed information will assist with this application.

When a premises has been identified as being involved in drugs supply or associated antisocial behaviour another way that police and partners can tackle this is through a closure order on a premises. This order is also granted by a Magistrate at Magistrates Court and requires sufficient evidence to satisfy the court that: • If a person has engaged, or (if the order is not made) is likely to engage, in disorderly, offensive or criminal behaviour on the premises or • That the use of the premises has resulted, or (if the order is not made) is likely to result, in serious nuisance to members of the public, or • That there has been, or (if the order is not made) is likely to be, disorder near those premises associated with the use of those premises Once granted the order lasts for 3 months and can be granted as a full or partial closure order of the premises.

We have been working closely in partnership with colleagues from the Leeds Anti-Social Behaviour Team and over the past six months there have been a number of full and partial closure orders have been served on premises in Holbeck and the surrounding areas.

As stated community intelligence is the key for us to be able to take action to tackle such issues therefore please report any suspicious activity to us using the below methods: • Ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 (this can be dome anonymously).

• Ring 101 (police non-emergency phone number) or use the 101 online system or report it on-line www.westyorkshire. police.uk/report-it /report-drug-use-drugdealing.

• Alternatively you can contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) via email at inner.south @westyorkshire. pnn. police.uk.

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Work starts on new residential scheme in Holbeck W

ork has started on the Ironworks development off David Street in Holbeck Urban Village. Archaeological and enabling works have already commenced with the PfP igloo scheme expected to be complete by Autumn 2021.

Ironworks will be a key part of Holbeck Urban Village in the emerging South Bank of Leeds.

Once the crucible of the Industrial Revolution in the city, the area is graced by significant landmarks of heritage architecture. Now a hub for Leeds’ creative and digital businesses, as well as an established and diverse scene of independent food and drink businesses, Ironworks marks a new phase in the area as a place to live, as well as to work and play.

The mixed-use development will see the former car park between David Street and the Round Foundry Media Centre transformed into 53 apartments, 15 town houses, two commercial units, complete with an under-croft car park and has an approximate build cost of £12million, partially funded by Homes England.

Designed by Leeds company Nick Brown Architects Ltd, the Ironworks project covers a 0.35hectare site.

The apartments and townhouses are arranged within a ‘mill’ building, with ‘chimneys’

Artist’s impression of the Ironworks development concealing lift shafts and ventilation. The homes will be clustered around a private landscaped garden and courtyard, which will be used to ingeniously hide the car parking beneath and ensure that there is active frontage on all sides.

The already award-winning scheme (Housing Design Awards 2019) sees a return for Igloo to Holbeck Urban Village which was crowned the UK and Ireland’s ‘Best Neighbourhood’ at the 2015 Urbanism Awards.

Honor Massarella, Development Director at Igloo Regeneration, said: “This project will breathe new life into a fantastic part of the city and will provide Places for People with an outstanding space. We know that this area is already loved by the creative and tech workforce and now it’s going to be a place where more people can put down roots,

building an attractive community and neighbourhood in an important area of Leeds.”

As part of the scheme, Esh is placing emphasis on social value, including STEM sessions within local schools, work experience placements, local employment and procurement.

An extensive archaeological dig took place before works began.

Stuart Leslie, Divisional Director of Esh Build in Yorkshire, said: “We understand that when we undergo major redevelopments in an urban environment, we must focus on ensuring minimal disruption for both residents and businesses.

However, we know that we can also provide a lot of social value as part of the work and are pleased to be able to support the local economy and give back to the community in more ways than simply the end build product.”

Alfie’s Scouting Award A

by Kushmina Begum

local Beeston boy, Alfie, 8, has achieved his Chief Scout’s Bronze Award alongside his brother Charlie.

Alfie has been attending the 11th South Leeds St Luke’s Beaver colony for over two years and has attended every parade night. Through working on the award he has spent nights under the stars during camp, roasted marshmallows, learned archery, climbing and discovered he is very good at football.

When asked how he felt about the achieving the award, Alfie remarked “Amazing!”

His Mum Abbie further commented: “I felt proud of him not only because he is my little boy, but because I watched him grow as an individual and stretch himself mentally and physically to achieve all the elements required.”

The hardest part for Alfie was learning new skills and working up towards achieving the actual award but he has good friends that attend with him so that made it more fun and helped Alfie persevere on. Alfie’s Mum, Abbie added: “Alfie has grown up a lot and takes a lot more ownership of his actions and takes more pride in

his work and achievements.”

The badge he was awarded is now sewn onto his jumper. Alfie, like many youngsters, wants to be a footballer when he grows up so is now developing his teamwork and resilience skills by working towards the silver and gold awards, which he already has set his eyes on.

Alfie has achieved his Chief Scout’s Bronze Award

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November 2019 | South Leeds Life

News 5

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Holbeck Residents discuss Managed Approach, Leeds United and more T

Nature’s bounty

Sweet chestnuts gathered in Middleton Woods. These are the edible kind - the ones chestnut sellers roast - as opposed to regular conkers.

Photo: Stuart Petch stuart-petch-photography.co.uk

Hunslet Hub officially reopened R

by Ed Carlisle

esidents and dignitaries gathered on 21 October to officially mark the reopening of the Hunslet Community Hub and Library.

50+ people gathered in the former library, on Waterloo Road, down the side of the Penny Hill Centre – which was given a £600,000 makeover earlier this year. The building is now a bright modern venue, within an acclaimed ‘art deco’ style that reflects the 1930s era when it first opened. The centre reopened in August, but this was the official relaunch.

The building is now home to a wide range of services, including: access to all Council departments; drop-ins with the Citizens Advice Bureau, Leeds Credit Union, Pathways, the Police, and other partners;

regular community events and workshops (on coding, photography, storytime, writing, heritage, and more); tai chi and other well-being sessions; jobshop and employment advice; a free meeting room, and a new public toilet; and a large computer suite, and extended library services.

The event saw performers including a local Bollywood dance group ‘D Dance Theatre’, and solo singer Tracy Edos. Cllr Debra Coupar (Executive Member for Communities) told attendees: “We’re delighted with the transformation of Hunslet Community Hub, and I’d like to thank everybody involved for their continued hard work to provide this support for the people of Hunslet.”

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal also spoke, and especially stressed

his pride at having helped save the library from potential closure in 2008. And Cllr Jools Heselwood (the Council’s lead member for women) flagged up that the hub was going to be

the national pioneer – as the first government venue in the country to provide free sanitary products, as part of an innovative Leeds-wide scheme to beat ‘period poverty’.

Cllr Debra Coupar and Cllr Mohammed Iqbal cut the ribbon

by Abbie Randall

he Holbeck Residents Association met on 10 October at The Holbeck club to discuss issues concerning their local area.

The discussion kicked off with the Managed Approach (MA) and residents were clearly still quite passionate about this topic and that it wasn’t working.

Children are being exposed to things they shouldn’t see at such a young age and one resident commented that it felt like Holbeck was a “dumping ground.”

The University of Huddersfield is undertaking research into the impact the MA is having on residents as well as the voices of the women involved; agencies such as Basis, Joanna Project and Teen Challenge; and nearby businesses. They estimate that this review will be completed by May 2020 when findings will be made public.

Alongside this project the Voice of Holbeck (VOH) are holding discussion forums and groups to gather similar data and reported back that they have had over 299 conversations with people ranging from informal chats in the playgrounds of local schools to more structured conversations involving language barriers where translators have been utilised to access non English speaking residents.

VOH encouraged the residents to keep reporting any incidents, photographs and videos to enable them to compile a good thorough overview of what the community is facing.

Although the residents were

disheartened that not much action seems to be forthcoming, it was communicated that once the findings of the studies come back they will be better equipped to find a positive way forward.

There was good feedback for the Cleansing Team who work within Holbeck and are keeping the streets clean and free from litter, one member of the team was met with a loud round of applause and cheers from the crowd from grateful residents.

Positive change was also promised from Leeds United Football Club (LUFC) who sensitively took on questions from upset residents ranging from the parking issues caused by football fans to antisocial behaviour around match times.

There is a lot of work being done in the background to find an alternative way of getting fans to the stadium rather than them driving and clogging up local streets.

He also touched on the ‘Park Life’ project which will see new artificial pitches close to the stadium, for use by the local community to play football or other games.

Linking into the subject of safe playing spaces, Nick Hunt from Highways discussed the potential for making green spaces on low traffic streets in Holbeck which is an exciting prospect for residents.

Residents also had their concerns regarding speeding cars in their streets and commuters parking in their roads, possibly the streets can be changed into permit parking only or double yellow lines but this has also been taken away for further discussion and to be looked into.

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South Leeds Life | November 2019

6 News

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Police operation Linda’s lighthouse targets drug fundraising challenge dealing S

by Jeremy Morton

ix years ago Linda Carroll’s world changed when she was involved in a motorcycle crash.

She suffered brain injuries as a result of the accident, which still affects her movement and short term memory. Three years ago her Occupational Therapist encouraged her to start volunteering. The first suggestion of working in a hospital setting was not appealing as Linda could see herself getting hopelessly lost every day. But her mother was a regular at Holbeck Elderly Aid and Linda started volunteering with them.

“I started on meals service

Police raid a house in Holbeck

A

n operation targeting drug dealing and other criminality in south Leeds has seen four people arrested and drugs recovered in a series of raids.

Officers from neighbourhood policing teams across Leeds focused their attention on Holbeck, Beeston and Beeston Hill on 9 October as part of Operation Momentum, which supports the force-wide Programme Precision initiative to tackle serious and organised crime that impacts on local communities.

Along with specialist officers from West Yorkshire Police’s Operations Support, the teams executed three drugs warrants at addresses in Crosby Street, Cross Flatts Place and Brompton Grove resulting in the arrests of two men and two women and the recovery of drugs and suspected stolen goods. A substantial cannabis farm was found in Cross Flatts Place.

At the same time officers worked in partnership with HM Revenue & Customs and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency to stop and inspect vehicles more than 20 vehicles in the area to ensure the safety of all road users. A number of road traffic offences were identified.

Detective Superintendent Jaz Khan, Head of Crime for Leeds District, said: “Today’s activity is just the latest instalment of Operation Momentum which started earlier this year and which gives us a regular opportunity to proactively target those whose criminality impacts on the lives of people in our communities.

“This work directly supports the ongoing Force initiative Programme Precision to tackle serious and organised crime, such as drugs supply which causes harm both to individuals and communities and fuels acquisitive crime and anti-social behaviour.

“We will be repeating Operation Momentum over the coming months in other parts of the district and we hope it will continue to have a significant impact in tackling crime and improving people’s quality of life.

“Information from the community remains an absolutely vital part of this work and we would encourage anyone who has information on those involved in drug dealing or other crime in their area to report it to us either directly or anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers.”

Journey’s end

Goal of the century

and front of house, collect the money, organise the raffle, shout bingo, and general chit chat with the members.”

Linda, comes in twice a week and also helps out with promoting trips and taking bookings for them.

“It’s getting me out and meeting people again. I Linda and Andy on their way to Flamborough Head had forgotten walk up 110 steps at the how to communicate, so it’s beginning plus 80 steps up to nice to have a conversation and the lighthouse. It took me five get to know the service users. I hours to do what a normal don’t think I’m giving much person would manage in an back, to what they’re giving me. hour and a half.

So I decided to raise a bit of “It was really hard. Thinking money for HEA and thank them of our service users was the that way. only thing that kept me going at “My boyfriend has a caravan times.” at Scarborough and I set myself Linda’s efforts, which were a the challenge to walk to the year in the planning have lighthouse at Flamborough raised £400 for HEA, but she’s Head. Andrew (Smith) carried not finished yet. Next up the bucket and everyone we abseiling down a building for met were really friendly. I had to the Headway Brain Injury

Group, and then a tandem parachute jump for RNLI and Air Ambulance.

“What Linda brings to us far outweighs what we do for her” said Bryony Redwood-Turner from HEA. “We are incredibly grateful for the work you do It’ds so great to hhave some who knows the clients and becomes part of the HEA family. It’s really special that she’s done this fundraising for us and were chuffed for Linda that she’s achieved this challenge for herself.”

A new mural in Holbeck by Andy McVeigh (AKA Burley Banksie) depicts Eddie Gray’s goal against Burnley in 1970, voted the best ever by Leeds United fans. Co-inciding with the club’s centenery celebrations, the mural was commissioned as part of the On Your Side project by the English Football League and the charity Mind to mark World Mental Health Day. “While talking about our favourite goal can be easy, more than half of people are not comfotable talking about how they feel. Ask someone how they feel today - it could make all the difference.”

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A warm welcome awaits you at

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Sisters Are Doing It For Each Other

South Leeds Sister, Sheli and her team of workmates from Vets4Pets, staged a successful fundraising dinner at South Leeds Stadium on 19 October. £4,300 was raised for Leeds Charity, Breast Cancer Action. Sheli was motivated to stage the event, in Breast Cancer Awareness Month, when another member of the Sisters running group, Laura Turnbull, contracted Breast Cancer aged just 31.

DePuy Synthes staff support local foodbank

Come and experience the vibrant flavours of India together with our famous hospitality ...

EARLY BIRDS

Some the walkers made new friends

S

taff at Beeston-based DePuy Synthes gave up their weekend back in July to take a walk or cycle challenge, raising £10,000 for a local foodbank in the process.

The Holbeck & Beeston foodbank has had support from DePuy staff for some years with Kerry Seymour and Catherine Hawkin personally

Kerry Seymour with a cheque for £10,061.20 delivering up to 8 emergency food parcels in their lunch hour each day.

Regular collections from staff at the medical devices company (part of Johnson & Johnson) contribute £250 worth of food a week.

Now 278 took a sponsored 88 mile cycle, or 28 mile walking challenge in a figure of

Cyclists completed an 88 mile course in the Dales

eight route around Kettlewell in the Yorkshire Dales.

Organiser Kerry Seymour commented: “It was amazing to see so many people coming together and it shows a real demonstration of the commitment that we have as individuals and as a business at J&J to making a difference.”

£10.95 per head *3 course meal Mon-Wed 5:30-9:00pm *T&C apply

1-3 Finkle Lane, Gildersome, Leeds, LS27 7DX Tel: 0113 253 0964 / 253 2751 Opening times: Mon-Thurs 5:30-11:00pm (Closed Tuesday) Fri-Sat 5:30-11:30pm Sun 4:00-10:00pm

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South Leeds Life | November 2019

8 News NEWS IN BRIEF Library fines abolished Leeds Libraries have abolished all fines and ID requirements, making it even easier for local residents to access their services and enjoy everything from free resources to inspiring activities. All members returning overdue books will benefit from a ‘fines amnesty’, with historic fines written off.

Andrea Ellison, Chief Librarian said: “By changing our policy and also making it easier to join, Leeds Libraries will be accessible to more people than ever during the Leeds Year of Reading and beyond.”

Find out more at : leeds.gov.uk/leisure/libraries

Support for migrants Leeds City Council has set up the Community Connectors programme to support migrant communities and to help them to access services and connect with the wider community. Areas of need may include: housing, safety, education, health and wellbeing, finance and basic needs (food, clothing etc.) Call 07595 210083 for the Beeston Hill area, or 07891 279173 for the Holbeck area.

Spruce up for Gym Pure Gym, located near The Range in Hunslet has just undergone a refurbishment.

There is new functional equipment such as dumbbells and kettle bells, a tough nut which is a tyre you step inside and carry. Lighting to the Studio has been upgraded to help encourage your exertions during Pump, Spin or Circuit classes. The equipment is accessible and if you need support there are always personal trainers (PTs) around to help you.

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Pyramid Reetwirlers Majorettes celebrates 30 hold Cash for Kids Gala years with A ambitious plans for new centre

by Alannah Marsden

H

by Helen Robinson

olbeck-based arts charity, Pyramid, celebrates its 30th anniversary this Autumn.

Pyramid supports people with learning difficulties from all backgrounds to discover the arts and develop their own creative practice. The charity campaigns to remove institutional barriers that prevent artists with a learning disability from accessing work and exhibition spaces, and ultimately from progressing in a career in the arts.

people with learning disabilities and a resource for which Leeds can be truly proud.”

James Hill, Director of Pyramid adds: “We are hugely proud of our artists and have supported them to apply for funding, win commissions and create high profile work which has been exhibited across the UK and Europe.

“Our artists are some of the brightest talents in the UK right now but are often overlooked for gallery shows, new commissions and other

The Sausage Atlas by Andrew Towse To mark the anniversary, Pyramid also revealed ambitious plans for a new headquarters by 2023, which will provide its artists with access to studios, maker spaces and exhibition space.

The new centre is set to become an industry hub for artists with learning disabilities sharing best practice from across Europe and beyond.

Trustee and practising artist Liam Hirst, who has worked with Pyramid since age thirteen, said: “Our vision is that all artists with a learning disability will have the opportunity to discover and explore the arts and to develop their creative practice to the full extent of their dreams and ambitions like I have been able to. We have some of the most talented and exciting artists in the region in Pyramid and we want them to be recognised as such.

“Most excitingly, Pyramid plans to raise the money over the next four years to build our new headquarters, which will be the most exciting centre for contemporary art in the north of England. It will be run by

opportunities as they require additional support to undertake these projects.

“As we look back on thirty years of fantastic art from artists with learning disabilities, we’re really excited to reveal plans for our future starting with a programme of events, exhibitions, talks and tours to celebrate our milestone birthday in style and invite new audiences to discover the work of our artists.

As part of the Pyramid 30 celebration the charity will host a series of events across the city from now right through to December 2019.

very wet Sunday saw New Bewerley Community School in Beeston brimming with visitors as if it was a school day.

People from all around the local area came to enjoy a gala, which was organised and ran by the Reetwirlers Majorettes.

It was part of Radio Aire’s Cash 4 Kids Sports Challenge, with Reetwirlers efforts being matched by Cash 4 Kids to fund much needed equipment for the group. The whole majorettes troupe was doing their bit throughout the day to help raise money for the great cause.

There was a host of fun and games for all the family including a bouncy castle and kid’s games to keep the children entertained. The tombola and raffle both proved popular with guests too, as did the glitter tattoo and hair stand!

Toys, clothes, bric a brac and various foods and drinks were

sold to raise even more money.

It’s safe to say that there was plenty to do for everyone!

A highlight of the day was definitely the troupe performances. The majorettes themselves came out and danced their hearts out for the crowds of spectators. There was a clear sense of pride for the dancers’ resilience, as Rachel Bulloch perfectly put it: “The weather didn’t even dampen our day, as we danced in the rain.”

Rachel and Sarah Bulloch, who are both trainers at

Reetwirlers Majorettes, worked hard to organise this gala. And it’s clear that their hard work paid off, as the event raised £632.19, topped up with £1,000 from Cash 4 Kids.

Anyone aged 3+ is welcome to join the troupe, and no training is necessary as it will be provided.

For younger children (3-12) training sessions are held at City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road, Beeston on Tuesdays. Older members train at St Luke’s Primary school in Beeston on Thursdays.

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November 2019 | South Leeds Life

News 9

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Leadership programme F

Glittering Prize for Lili

Erneliana (Lili) Daniel from Beeston, studying a Level 3 Building Services Engineering Apprenticeship with NG Bailey, was given the Faculty Outstanding Contribution Award and the highly coveted Governors’ Award at the annual Leeds College of Building ‘The BIG Awards.’

Gambian Councillor meets Leeds Lord Mayor O

by Yanks Sawo

n Monday 16 September, a Councillor from The Gambia met the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Eileen Taylor, at the Civic Hall.

Councillor Sainey Kanuteh from Basse Area council was welcomed by Councillor Mohammad Iqbal (Hunslet & Riverside Ward) who led the delegation including Assan Jaiteh, Ajie Fatou Jeng Secka (Phaatu Food Republic), Sarata Sawo, Lolly Sawo and myself into the Lord Mayor’s office.

Basse is situation at the Eastern part of The Gambia and it’s the country’s second capital; administrative capital of Upper River Region and a thriving business centre linking with the neighbouring Senegal and beyond.

Councillor Kanuteh brought with him greetings from the Smiling Coast, as The Gambia is known. He congratulated the Lord Mayor on her recent

historic appointment as the first black mayor of the city. He also expressed his gratitude to Leeds City Council for the warm welcome accorded to him and his friends who accompanied him to the council and thanked the council on behalf of the Gambian citizens living in Leeds, to whom Leeds is now their home.

Leeds City Council has always been supportive to the Gambian community in Leeds and the city has a large presence of people from the Basse region so meeting the Lord Mayor was instrumental and monumental in showing appreciation to the leadership of the council.

Councillor Kanuteh said: “My visit to your lordship the Lord Mayor of Leeds City Council was a red letter one from all angles.

“A warm reception was accorded, and I use that medium to thank her lordship and council for beautifully

taken care of our Basse native’s and Gambians in a broader picture here in Leeds.”

During the meeting methods of revenue collection were discussed – Basse area Council methods of revenue collection differ remarkably from the Leeds City Council.

Basse operates a manual system where collection solely relies on the mercy of collectors assigned this task, whereas Leeds operates electronic system with no cash handling, removing any risk of corruption.

The Lord Mayor also highlighted the work Leeds City Council is undertaking for example investing in community projects, good governance, social housing, schools, recreational parks and healthcare.

Councillor Kanuteh was hugely impressed with the work Leeds City Council is doing and hoped to implement these good practices when he returned to Basse.

by Shamin Miah

or two weeks in September I had the honour of being part of the 2019 University of Oxford, Young Muslim Leadership Programme.

This is an exciting and intense programme which allows inspirational young professional Muslims to collaborate on ideas and skills to strengthen their leadership potential.

From meeting guest speakers in the political field to specialists in medicine, journalism and engineering - I have learnt from a plethora of knowledge on leadership and how to implement this within professional life.

This experience gave me an

Tenants vote for Belle Isle TMO BITMO are celebrating a successful continuation ballot.

Record numbers turned out to vote for BITMO to continue to providing landlord services to Leeds City Council tenants in Belle Isle. 96% voted for BITMO to continue providing excellent services and investment in their homes for the next five years. A total of 1,093 tenants took part in the vote.

Fencing for St Peter’s New perimeter fencing has been installed at the St Peter’s Court sheltered flats in Beeston. Residents and staff at the accommodation – at the northern end of Dewsbury Road, overlooking Hunslet Moor at the back – have been plagued by trespassing from the adjacent moor over the past year .

Young Muslim Leadership Programme 2019 cohort in Oxford

Solar Dome for Clapgate Primary Clapgate Primary School have launched a campaign to change the local landscape and give the community a fantastic resource.

The solar dome can be used for a range of activities within school and also for groups out of school time. The possibilities are endless from after school clubs to a science lab, from community toddler groups to a beautiful art space to get creative!

What is so unique about the dome is that it can be whatever you want.

They are asking for donations towards the cost, so please give as generously as you can and help make a difference in Belle Isle. Go to: donatemyschool.com/clapgat eprimaryschool

Light Fantastic

The delegation including Gambians living in Leeds met Lord Mayor Cllr Eileen Taylor at the Civic Hall

opportunity to question the main issues facing Muslims in relation to education, foreign policy and employment. The programme taught me how to empower and strengthen the wider community whilst working with other leaders to make a real difference.

I would highly recommend anyone to apply to the YMLP programme, an opportunity meet inspiring people and learn from a whole range of knowledge and expertise.

As a young person from Leeds, I never thought I would have the opportunity to be a part of something so prestigious and reputable. To apply for the 2020 cohort, visit the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies website.

NEWS IN BRIEF

As part of last month’s Leeds Light Night, this installation gave people a chance to see how the new Aire Park will be developed as part of the Tetley site in Hunslet.

Photo: Stuart Petch

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South Leeds Life | November 2019

10 School Life

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Greening Grey Beeston

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Cockburn School Awarded Artsmark Platinum Status

Beeston Primary School pupils meet the RHS judges attract birds, bees and butterflies. As well as arlier this year, Beeston funding, the project also in Bloom and Beeston had the help from an RHS Primary School were outreach worker.

To help kick start the fortunate to be awarded a grant of £500 from the project we were lucky to RHS as part of their have 2 groups of volunteers Greening Grey Britain from DePuy Synthes who cleared the site of bark and campaign. moved a The money has been membrane, used to renovate the number of existing plants unloved space on Beeston and improved the soil. A Town Street in front of the member of the PTA repaired school, with the idea of a damaged brick wall and creating an area that will DePuy painted the wall along the path at the back of the garden.

Pupils were part of the planning group and had hands on experience of planting Planting spring bulbs last month seeds and

E

by Linda Stanley

Poster Girls

plants of their choice. The work has now been completed with the addition of spring bulbs, certificates handed out to those involved and the garden has been officially handed over to the school.

The garden was a welcome addition to our Yorkshire in Bloom route and looking at the judges’ comment “We were impressed by the knowledge and enthusiasm of the children we met” I’m sure it helped us achieve our gold medal.

Listening to comments from local residents the hard work has really been appreciated. The area has been totally transformed and has looked great all over the summer. A big thank you to those involved and we look forward to seeing the display next spring.

Natasha Urikova, left, age 10, of Ingram Road Primary School won the competition to design a poster for the Middleton Park Bonfire. The bonfire and firework display which takes place on Tuesday 5 November from 7pm, is organised by Leeds City Council and sponsored by the White Rose Shopping Centre. The poster for Springhead Park in Rothwell was designed by River Whitaker

Jazz hands: Cockburn students celebrate their school’s Platinum Artsmark status

C

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

Artsmark is Arts Council England’s award recognising excellence in cultural education.

It celebrates schools’ commitment to embracing arts across the curriculum and bringing creative learning to life for children and young people.

Cockburn School has a long standing involvement with Artsmark and has previously held the Artsmark Gold status. The Platinum Award has been achieved following two years of development, which began with an assessment of the arts and cultural experiences already on offer in the school.

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

The process was incredibly rigorous and the school were assessed on many areas of their provision including arts in the curriculum, extra-curricular arts activities, how they work with artists and arts organisations and how well their arts provision impacts on staff development and the wider community. They are thrilled with the decision as they

know just how creative and talented the young people of South Leeds are.

The assessor was particularly impressed stating that “Cockburn School demonstrates a strong and longstanding commitment to maintaining an arts rich curriculum.”

The school’s partnership with the Leeds SCITT and Leeds Trinity University was seen as a huge strength. This partnership trains arts teachers of the future and is extremely successful.

The assessor also highlighted that Cockburn School: “acts as a leader and influencer for other schools within your MAT, regularly reviewing pedagogy and policies to extend the high quality arts provision to a larger percentage of students within the South Leeds area.

“You plan collaboratively as a MAT to ensure consistency. It was very encouraging to hear that a lead inspector for Ofsted was extremely impressed with the arts provision and drew particular attention to the confidence and enjoyment in the Arts by boys.

“Also, in March 2019 the Local Authority conducted a one day review and concurred with the Ofsted inspection that there is exceptionally strong practice at school noting that the provision in the Arts drives the school and has a significant impact on student progress and attainment.

Congratulations on your Artsmark Platinum Award!”

Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England, said: “I would like to congratulate Cockburn School on their Artsmark Award. As an Artsmark Platinum school, Cockburn School exemplifies how the Award can help schools to achieve a broad and balanced curriculum, ensuring that each of its pupils is given the opportunity to explore and build a love of the arts that will remain with them as they go through adult life.”

Rob Dixon, Head of School at Cockburn School said: “The Platinum Artsmark attests that arts and cultural provision is flourishing in the school, and there are so many more creative prospects lined up for the coming academic year and beyond.

“I am extremely proud of the professional work that our students and staff create. The process was incredibly rigorous and we are thrilled with their decision as we know just how creative and talented the young people here are.”

Students at Cockburn School have recently been supporting artists for the latest series of the BBC’s Last Tango in Halifax that has filmed in the school. They are also preparing for their annual musical, ‘The Addams Family’ which will be performed in December.

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November 2019 | South Leeds Life

School Life 11

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Greenmount children intrigued by London L

by Isa Majeed

ast month, children from Leeds went to sleep knowing the next day they would be able to go to London.

Children from Greenmount Primary School set off to London at 8am and arrived in the early afternoon. The children saw Buckingham Palace and were luckily able to see representatives from Sudan in the royal carriages.

They ate lunch in St. James’ Park. A child named Isa said, “We were lucky to be able to see the carriages and whilst we were eating, a horde of birds were hungry too!”

They stayed in a great hotel (Premier Inn) which the students said was perfect. They then ate in the Rainforest Café, which they said was amazing, however there were still some students uncomfortable being away from parents, but that was sorted.

At the end of the day, C Carr (Headteacher) said it was the best trip she had been on!

During the trip, C. Carr made sure it was educational by using the microphone to say facts about the area they were going through.

The next day, children were ready to go on a river boat cruise, the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament. First, the children went on the cruise, and a student called Ismail said, “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw The Shard and went

up on the London Eye (or Coca Cola London Eye). It was breath-taking.” They then ate lunch (provided by the packed lunch company) in the Coca Cola London Eye Lounge. As soon as they came out, unfortunately it started pouring with rain. T Potts (Caretaker) stated, “My feet were

MP, which was amazing.” They then had a workshop in the education unit about parliament.

Later, they arrived at Pizza Express. Danyal (year 6 pupil) said, “The food was great!

Thanks Miss Carr!”

The next day, the children woke up at 8am, setting off to

Exploring the Postal Museum swimming!”

They then walked along a bridge just in time to see Horse Guards Parade. They split up into two groups and some went to buy souvenirs. Ayaan (a pupil) said, “The soldiers looked really serious.”

After that, they had a tour of the Houses of Praliament and they saw the House of Lords, and the House of Commons. D. Wilson (year 6 teacher) said, “It was incredible seeing the Houses of Parliament. We even saw a debate happening, but best of all we saw Hilary Benn

the Postal Museum at 8.30.

They first went on the tram and Labeeb said, “It was very educational and fun!” After that they went to the exhibition and saw postal vehicles, historical stories involving guns and used old phones.

Finally, they drove home after a long few days in the capital.

A. Randall (inclusion lead) said, “Maybe one of these year 6s will be in parliament one day.”

The Year 6s at Greenmount Primary recommend other schools should invest into trips like this.

Other pupils on the trip added: “The highlight of my trip was the boat cruise because we got to see lots of exciting buildings and we learnt there was a place they would punish you for crimes in public.” (Atiya Ali) “I liked The London Eye because we were high up and everything looked so tiny, even the tall buildings!” (Sameera Khatun) “The atmosphere of London was unequalled, it was magnificent. It was more so the feel of actually being in London, that’s what made me take a deep breath of greatness.”

(Bailey Fielding) “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the famous Buckingham Palace for the first time. All of us also realised that the Queen was in her house as the flag was up!” (Naziha Yasmin) “What I really loved was when we met our MP Hilary Benn (who we read about beforehand). We asked him many questions like what he wanted to be before an MP. We also asked him if he really wanted to follow his dad’s legacy.” (Sharifat KwakyewahNkansah) “I would recommend other children in Leeds should go to London because it is an amazing experience and they will really enjoy it. Overall, I loved every minute and would totally go again.” (Sharria Brogden)

On the London Eye

We are looking for volunteers to join our governing body Westwood primary school is a caring, inspiring and highly performing school, with its pupils at its heart.

School governors are drawn from all walks of life, with each bringing his or her unique skills and experience to the role of school leadership.

Are you: enthusias!c, willing to learn, keen to make a difference, commi#ed to suppor!ng children?

Can you: a#end mee!ngs (8­12 hours per term) and read mee!ng papers, a#end training, understand school assessment data, visit school occasionally?

Do you want: the sa!sfac!on of being a member of a team within the school, working together to make a difference to the lives of young people in your area?

If this interests you and you would like to know more please take a look at our school website www.westwood.leeds.sch.uk or contact Carla Ramsey on 0113 271 2420 to arrange a visit

The group of Year 6 pupils from Greenmount Primary School at Westminster Hall

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12 School Life

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Switch it off! Storybook warns Energy Heroes children about the dangers of loan sharks are go C

hildren from 20 primary schools across Leeds are training to become Energy Heroes as they take part in an energy programme led by Kirkstall Valley Development Trust and sponsored by Northern Powergrid.

Pupils at Hunslet Carr and Hunslet St Mary's primary schools are among those who have learned about energy and developed their understanding of how being environmentally friendly can save the planet, and some pennies too!

Teachers use Energy Heroes resources including curriculum

materials and maths lesson plans to help children explore real and relevant energy data.

A series of fun maths activities help children to see how maths skills can be used every day and will learn how to become Energy Heroes, sharing what they have learnt in school with their families and wider school community.

Chris Hill, Kirkstall Valley Development Trust’s Director says: “The trust believes every school should have a programme like Energy Heroes.

We’ll be doing our best to make it happen.”

Hilary Benn MP and Cllr Paul Wray join author Sylvia Simpson, storyteller Robin Simpson, staff from IMLT and Dewsbury Road Community Hub and children from New Bewerley Community School to celebrate the launch Photo: Jeremy Morton

A

Primary pupils in Hunslet are becoming Energy Heroes

new book which aims to warn children, and their parents, about the dangers of loan sharks was launched on Friday (11 October 2019) at New Bewerley Community School in Beeston.

As we reported last December, Leeds City Council’s Dewsbury Road Community Hub was awarded a grant by the England Illegal Money Lending Team (IMLT) to produce the book, which has bee written by Sylvia Simpson, the Chief Executive of Money Buddies. Money Buddies is a scheme to support people with their personal finances and to get out of debt. They run regular sessions at Dewsbury Road community Hub. The book teaches youngsters about personal finance and how to manage money. It also introduces the theme of loan sharks and raises awareness of the dangers of borrowing from nasty lenders.

It encourages families to join credit unions such as Leeds City Credit Union instead of borrowing from loan sharks –

illegal lenders who often target low income families and charge extortionate interest rates.

Robin Simpson, a professional storyteller, came to launch the book at an assembly at New Bewerley Community School. The pupils received a copy of the book from national mascot ‘Sid the Shark’.

Tony Quigley, Head of the Illegal Money Lending Team, said: “Loan sharks are a blight on our communities, causing misery to thousands of families.

The Money Buddies storybook helps children understand the dangers of loan sharks and makes relatives more aware about their activities.

“I urge anyone who has fallen victim to this crime not to suffer in silence, but contact the team for help and support on the 24hour hotline 0300 555 2222.”

The book, funded by the IMLT from proceeds of crime, is set to be distributed to schools across Leeds and will also be available from all libraries in the city.

Councillor Debra Coupar, Leeds City Council’s executive

member for communities, said: “In Leeds we are undertaking a range of work with partners to tackle and clamp down on loan sharks, whilst also raising awareness to residents of the alternative and better forms of lending that are available.

“This new Money Buddies story book is a fantastic way in which we can engage with young people and explain why they should never consider using a loan shark when they grow up.”

Nationally, Illegal Money Lending Teams have secured more than 394 prosecutions for illegal money lending and related activity, leading to nearly 480 years’ worth of custodial sentences. They have written off £74.9 million worth of illegal debt and helped over 29,000 people.

Anyone who has been the victim of a loan shark, or knows of someone who has, can contact the Illegal Money Lending Team in confidence on 0300 555 2222. Lines are open 24/7 and callers can remain anonymous.

CJCA students meet Holocaust survivor Y

ear 11 history students at Cockburn John Charles Academy recently got the chance to meet holocaust survivor Dr Iby Knell BEM. They heard her inspirational story of surviving persecution, of her time in the Nazi concentration camp, Auschwitz and how she rebuilt her life in England after World War 2 ended.

Head of History, Tracey Chapman said “The students listened respectfully and asked a number of thought provoking questions following the presentation. They

Amir K Gaitsk

were a credit to the academy and the local community.”

Head of School, Siobhan Roberts added: “The academy is committed to providing opportunities such as this, which broaden our students' understanding of the lessons to be learned from the pages of history, which also add capacity to their cultural capital and allow them to develop as well-rounded members of modern society.

“We pass on our thanks to Dr Iby Knell for taking time to visit our academy and engage with our Holocaust survivor Iby Knell visited Cockburn John Charles Academy students.”

Great excitement in the playground as

H

ugh Gaitskell Primary School in Beeston had a very special visitor on 17 October when boxing champion Amir Khan called in to officially open the school’s library bus.

With space at a premium and wanting to do something special to promote reading, Headteacher Kate McNulty came up with the idea of converting a double decker bus into a library space at

Become a Sout

Sign

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Khan opens Hugh kell library bus

s boxer Amir Khan opens the Library Bus at Hugh Gaitskell Primary School

school.

“We believe that al children should have a love of reading” she explained. “That we should be sharing our books with them and helping them to develop that skill of losing themselves in a book (and not on a computer).”

Mrs McNulty worked with staff members Miss Huntley, Miss Hudson and Mrs Padgett on the project and brought an old Dublin

bus from York. The project was sponsored by DePuy Synthes, SDA Architects did the design work, IKEA provided soft furnishings, and the Foyle Foundation donated £17,000 worth of books.

Amir Khan said: “It’s amazing to have a bus here where you can go in to do your studies, to do your reading, because reading is very important.

“I want to give you all a little piece of advice to work hard in life, work hard in school, even though I’m a boxer and I always believed that one day I would become world champion, I always worked hard in school, I never gave up, I did my homework, I went to bed early. If you guys want to be happy in life and achieve your dreams you have to work hard in school.”

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14 Comment

In our view Dreaming Spires

Whether you’re waiting for a bus at the Tommy Wass in Beeston, or watching the rugby at South Leeds Stadium, or walking down Church Street in Hunslet, the spire of St Mary’s church will be in view. It’s iconic, it’s a landmark and we need to make sure it stays that way.

The church is sadly gone, so a new use needs to be found for the site.

It needs to benefit the community, compliment the spire and be financially secure to protect the spire into the future. If you’ve got ideas of what that could be, do put your ideas forward.

Trams: the past or the future?

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Your letters and comments No 1 and other bus issues

I wonder if splitting the No 1 route is a deliberate ruse to make passengers pay twice for what was a through journey? This service could have been easily re-routed without much trouble.

The bus could go up Park Row, across the Headrow onto Cookridge Street, then turn right up Great George Street and left back onto Woodhouse Lane to pick up its original route. The return journey would turn right down Great George Street on a new bus lane, and left onto Cookridge Street, then back down Park Row. It’s not rocket science. Can we get Hilary Benn MP on board to give official backing to the campaign?

Raymond Myers

Buses are not meeting passengers’ needs would have more empathy for the less fortunate.

I wonder if South Leeds Life readers, who may be effected by the fare increase and the seemingly preferential treatment toward smart phone users, think that it would be just as beneficial if First Bus were to create a top-up card, similar to the ‘MCard’. This could make it possible for both smart phone and non-smart phone owners to go paper-free and access the same fare deals. There could also be the addition of collecting frequent journey points to use towards purchasing a ticket.

This kind of card would promote passenger equality and fairness. That is if First Bus want to be seen as promoting equality and fairness.

Paul Hindmarch

see very well. I myself waited at Middleton District Centre to visit the care home at Hunslet Hall Road at 1:15pm and it never even turned up. By then it was too late for visiting. I rang the bus office and was told they would look into it. At least eight folk have told me how difficult this is now. Why just one per hour ? Half hourly was not enough.

D Dixon

I do agree that the MCard would be advantageous for those that do not have access to a Smart Phone. However I think that most people in Leeds do already have a smart phone. For the few who do not and want to take advantage of this then it is IMPRESS-ive relatively easy to buy an older smartphone South Leeds Life is now regulated either via the various shops around Leeds that offer second hand phones for sale or

by IMPRESS, the independent press via the internet. These older phones retail regulator. We don’t plan to make at vastly less prices than a new one and any mistakes, but if we do get are just as capable of utilising this system things wrong you now have the as the new ones. An alternative method of reassurance that your complaint getting an older style smartphone is if one can be dealt with by an impartial of your family members is upgrading their body. Full details of our complaints phone they could pass it on to those who policy are on our website. do not have one. The advantage of this is that the phone continues to be used and the person using it had an ‘expert’ to hand who can not only demonstrate how to use it but sort out any problems they Beeston & Holbeck ward may have.

Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park to the Ring Road, Cottingley and Holbeck.

Stephen Clayforth The three councillors are:

I read this entire article expecting to understand why there are homeless people on the streets of Leeds and why instead such effort can’t include them too.

Given that this is the very county they were born into and likely let down through no choice of their own by upbringing, mental health, education, abuse etc. But I found nothing. I am not a Sun reader, or Tory supporter or in any camp other than for all humans and it’s a kind thing to support migrants I do believe they play a role. I fully support us helping others but why can’t it include homeless people from here? When it’s our own system that’s likely let them down don’t you think that ought to be a priority too?

Georgina

Eric Smith’s recollections of the last Leeds tram are extremely poignant.

In the longer version of his article (southleedslife.com/lasttram) he has space to detail how and why trams came to be scrapped. And yet they moved people 50-60 at a time around the city, with a tram every few minutes at peak times.

Today too many commuters sit on their own in their car, clogging up the roads, often because they have no other way of getting to work.

The school run is even worse, poisoning the children in the car even more than those on the pavement.

It’s time to make public transport the priority and make it cheap and reliable to get this city moving again.

First Bus Leeds seem to be pushing their mobile tickets by making the prices cheaper than paying money for a standard ticket. They will be introducing an additional new flat rate ticket that allows the user to travel a single journey across West Yorkshire for the price of £2.00.

However, this saving incentive and others are only offered to those who can afford a smart phone, or know how to use one.

Yes, technology is advancing; using less paper is ecologically sound; and bus drivers will be safer, by having less need to carry money from the bus to the paying-inoffice. Yet the fact still remains that there are people, who are financially challenged, being left to pay greater fare amounts; greater fare amounts each year and greater fare amounts in comparison to smart phone users.

This is a sore point with many people who have seen their bus services: halved in frequency or split into two separate services; missing; late; full of school children that opt out of using school bus services. The list could go on. Perhaps other South Leeds Life readers would like to add to the list.

Passengers cannot do much about the annual fare increases because First Bus appear to have a public transport monopoly. But, perhaps First Bus could do something about their mobile technology that is punishing those who do not own or can not afford a smart phone. I would hope that large organisations, such as First Bus,

Your Leeds City Councillors Gohar Almass 07445 878 333 gohar.almass@leeds.gov.uk Angela Gabriel 07946 632 468 angela.gabriel@leeds.gov.uk Andrew Scopes 07860 400 645 andrew.scopes@leeds.gov.uk

Hunslet & Riverside ward Includes the city centre, Beeston Hill and Hunslet. The three councillors are:

Mohammed Iqbal 0113 226 8796 mohammed.iqbal@leeds.gov.uk Elizabeth Nash 0113 275 8594 elizabeth.nash@leeds.gov.uk Paul Wray 07528 512 649 paul.wray@leeds.gov.uk

Middleton Park ward Includes Belle Isle and Middleton. The three councillors are:

Judith Blake Kim Groves Paul Truswell

0113 378 9000 judith.blake@leeds.gov.uk 07891 741 832 kim.groves@leeds.gov.uk 0113 378 8811 paul.truswell@leeds.gov.uk

I would like to comment on the No 86 from Middleton District Centre to Armley. This was a half hourly service until June but since then only every hour. It covers the shopping centre and Asda, links to care homes, schools and St James’ Hospital.

Two friends of mine pick it up at Armley once a month to go to the Eye Centre. Last month they came out and missed it by five minutes, so they had to walk to the main road (ten minutes), catch a bus to Leeds and then go to the bus station for a bus home. They are over 80 years old and unable to

So we have one bus from Belle Isle to the White Rose Shopping Centre? I stood with my grandaughter on Friday night waiting for the No 12 to go home around 6.05pm. … at 6.50 we went for a taxi as we were cold and tired. One bus is not enough!

Susan Brearley

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Top Tweets 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: @Val_CarersLeeds Can we share this...#carers are entitled to a free flu jab.

This isn't always widely known.

Please share with #carers you know. Dont need to say " you know it makes sense" but I will. @KidzKlubLeeds ‘ A Cheery Party’ - kids from #Middleton Hub Klub hosted a family party last night. They ate great food and made cards to send to folk who needed cheering up in their community so thoughtful We think the world needs more ‘Cheery Parties’ #mentalhealth

Migrant Support scheme

Georgina, do you honestly believe that people are homeless in Leeds because money is getting divested to programs to help migrants? Or that only citizens end up on the street? I guarantee that’s not the case, but regardless, why would you get angry at this program? It isn’t taking from the mouths of the poorest, and I guarantee there are better sources of funding to support anemic social programs than whatever pittance is going to this one.

GTP

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.

@philkirby Loved the library at the end of Dewsbury Rd in the '70s.

Especially in weather like this when there were always old guys in there reading newspapers in the corner (they had special newspaper reading stands) mainly because it was warm and welcoming I expect. @LCCStGeorges1 Our friendly job shop staff are here to help. Are you unemployed & have an interview? We can help! Come & take a look at our working wardrobe

@isfromupnorth Back in 2011 I took up runnning. I didnt think I'd love it so much. Today I finished a C25k course with @SthLeedsLakers after a break from running. It was very wet but so much fun. I love the people I've met & hope to keep it going #loverunning

www.southleedslife.com

Website: www.southleedslife.com

November 2019 | South Leeds Life

Comment 15

Email: info@southleedslife.com

MP’s notebook A

by Hilary Benn MP

couple of weeks ago, I attended a very interesting presentation at a local GP surgery on social prescribing.

It’s all about trying to help patients with the illnesses and problems they have in a new and different way rather than by writing out yet another prescription.

One GP said that depression is the third most common condition he sees in his surgery. Drugs can help, but so can other things like encouraging people to get out and about, take up exercise, join a community group or have someone to talk to about their problems.

The causes of depression can be many, including what has happened to people in their lives, the loss of a job, relationship breakdown, being in debt or loneliness.

Leeds now has a new service provided by the voluntary sector. It employs link workers who take referrals from local agencies and GP practices. A link worker sees the patient and gives them time, focuses on what matters to them, agrees a shared plan and introduces them to community groups or others who can help them with things such as housing and benefit problems.

What really struck me about this new approach was being told that 59% of GPs who took part in the trial think that it will help reduce their workload. Why? Because they see a lot of patients for whom the answer is not another drug and what they really need is something else that up until now the NHS has found it difficult to provide.

Social prescribing is a new way forward. I think it’s a great idea and I really hope it succeeds, although we still have quite a way to go to provide enough specialist mental health support.

Complaints about bus services in South Leeds are sadly all too common. Reliability, fares, routes changing and above all not having any control over what happens. The recent changes made to the No 1 bus route at the beginning of September is a case in point, with First Bus at present being unable to confirm that the iconic route will be reinstated once the works on the Headrow have been completed.

Could we now have a chance to change this given the news that both First Bus and Arriva are putting their services in Leeds up for sale?

I’ll come straight to the point. I think our bus services should be

publicly-run, as they are in London. Then we can get a grip and make real progress on integration between bus and rail. The West Yorkshire Combined Authority is planning to invest millions in improving bus services in Leeds and across West Yorkshire. Our council Leader, Judith Blake, has been leading calls for bus services to be brought back under public control using a London-style franchising model. Judith says that “privatisation and deregulation has been nothing short of disastrous.” I agree. If bus regulation is good enough Hilary Benn MP for our capital city, then it’s certainly hard-working and utterly steadfast.

All our thoughts are with Sid and the good enough for Leeds. family at this very difficult time.

I recently heard the very sad news And finally, the campaign to that Pam Reed has passed away.

Pam was a long-standing Hunslet ensure that Hunslet’s spire resident and a well-known local continues to grace our skyline has figure. She was a school governor, a my full support. Our city is made up responsible adult - supporting young of lots of different communities, and people who have got themselves each one has its own landmark. The into trouble - and together with her spire of St Mary’s Church is a husband Sid, she represented the striking one. Let’s make sure we very best of Hunslet Labour; loyal, keep it.

Get involved with South Leeds Life This newspaper is brought to you by people like yourself. Apart from our Editor, everyone is a volunteer. They care about what’s happening in South Leeds and want to help keep other informed.

There are lots of jobs needed to keep the news flowing: • Writing articles • Taking photographs • Distributing newspapers • Selling advertising • Managing social media You don’t need to be an expert, we can help get to grips with the job.

You just need a bit of time and commitment.

Does this sound like you?

Get in touch and let’s have a chat about how you can join our team Ring 07894 583966 Email: info@southleedslife.com

Hilary Benn is our Member of Parliament. 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

Local Kurds speak out about fresh wave of warfare

Kurdish fighters

L

ast month saw another major upsurge of violence in the Middle East, with the heavily-armed Turkish army launching a major invasion into the Kurdish-held lands in northern Syria.

South Leeds Life met with Kurdish south Leeds resident Rebwar Sharazure, a local business owner and community leader, to hear his story and reflections on current events.

“I came to Leeds 15 years ago, aged 17, as a refugee fleeing the war in Iraq then. I’m so grateful to the welcome and safety I’ve received here in the UK – and my friends, family and I are trying hard to ‘put

back’.

We’ve opened shops and a bakery, and together run a community association called Kurdish House.

We run programmes for our community, like a weekend school – but are also working with different local residents on local litter picking, volunteering at events like Beeston Festival, bringing the community together, and generally trying to make Leeds better.

“I grew up in Kurdistan, a land with a 50 million strong Kurdish majority, and others – split since 1920 between Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran, although still not recognised by the international community.

We’ve lived there – alongside the Turks, Arabs, and other peoples – for over 1,000 years.

But the past century in particular has seen us (and other minorities) routinely marginalised and oppressed by the regimes in those four

countries.

“When the Syrian war broke out in 2014, our volunteer militias (the YPG) first fought against Assad and his aggressive regime. And from the chaos, we – and the other local peoples living amongst us in northern Syria – created a self-governing region called Rojava, based upon democracy, multi-faith and multi-ethnic rights, and peace.

“But as the war evolved, we found ourselves fighting mainly against ISIS – who were particularly perpetrating war crimes against us, and affiliated groups like the Yazidis. With support from the West, we led the fight against ISIS, on behalf of the world; but we paid a heavy price, with 11,000 of our people killed and 20,000 injured. Over decades, we’ve suffered plenty in the battle for freedom: my father was one of four brothers, but he is the only one not to have been killed in recent wars.

“The past week has been terrible. The Turkish regime has persecuted the Kurdish people within their borders for many

years, and also supported ISIS in their fight against us. But now, the huge Turkish army – with fundamentalist allies – have entered our land, and created carnage: bombings, killings, beheadings, and driving 200,000 people from their homes. The Kurds in Syria have not once attacked Turkey.

But the Turkish president Erdogan is playing power games, trying to use nationalism to boost his own popularity.

“We’re so disappointed by Trump and the US, for stepping back and allowing this to happen: we thought they were loyal allies. Long overlooked by the international community, we used to say “we have no friends but the mountains”. But now, many thanks to all those speaking out, showing their solidarity, joining us at our demonstrations, and joining the boycott of Turkish companies and refusing to holiday there – from here in

Kurds in South Leeds celebrate their culture with the local community

Leeds and across the world.

“We have absolutely no problems with the Turkish people, only with their government – we respect everyone. We just want our rights, our freedom, for everyone to have a normal safe life. We don’t want war, we hope for peace: war won’t solve anything. If you believe in humanity, please support us.

Contact us anytime if you want to hear more – and thank you again.”

www.southleedslife.com

South Leeds Life | November 2019

16 Art Life

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

New Pyramid Jadek: exhibition reveals J hidden art

by Hazel Millichamp

Artist Stephen Harvey

P

by Helen Robinson

yramid will launch a major new show at The Tetley this month.

'Hidden Art / Hidden Artists' will include photographs of three pieces of art work, never been shown in public before, created by the Arts Club within the walls of Meanwood Park Hospital, prior to its closure.

Three of Pyramid's most promising artists – Ria, Liam Hirst and Stephen Harvey - will create new and powerful pieces of work in response to these art works.

Pyramid was set up in 1989 within the walls of Meanwood Park Hospital as a weekly, volunteer run arts club for the patients who spent their lives there. When the hospital closed in 1996 the Arts Club became ‘Pyramid of Arts’, a project to keep the patients in touch with each other through arts activity.

Since then the charity has supported over 1,000 people with learning disabilities to discover and explore the arts, and to create high quality art for a wide public. Pyramid artists have exhibited work at every major cultural venue in the city, creating large-scale works for events like Light Night and creating three permanent sculptures at Thwaite Mills, Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, and Leeds Industrial Museum at Armley Mills.

Hidden Art / Hidden Artists will open on Thursday 28 November at the Tetley, Hunslet Road, LS10 1JQ and will run until the end of March 2020.

Stephen Harvey has been attending Pyramid groups in south Leeds for nearly 20 years. Stephen's artwork is playful, disruptive, and based around constructive criticism and as protest about his lack of independence in the care

adek (Polish for grandfather)

by Francesca Joy, opens with Tasha lying on the floor, curled up, in her 94 year old Grandad’s house.

The audience had to tip toe around her as they found their seats. Opening the play with Tasha in such a vulnerable position paved the way for where the play would be heading.

Grandad is blind and feels his way around the set to find his favourite seat. He dislikes “ventilation” and tells his 28 year old granddaughter off for coming home late. She is living with him after having lived in over 30 homes.

The interactions between the old man and Tasha are wonderfully written and performed; the relatives drive each other mad, but also rely on each other in so many ways, practically and emotionally.

As the play continues, the bond between the two of them blossoms. Grandad reveals to Tasha his horrific experiences as a young boy during WW2 and the audience becomes aware that Tasha has experienced traumatic experiences of her own. system.

For 'Hidden Art / Hidden Artists' Stephen will create textile banners referencing the fact that patients often died within the walls of Meanwood and were cremated there. The banners are covered in bones and say 'JOGGING YOUR MEMORY'. They will be hung from trees along the path around the surviving wall of Meanwood Hospital, which is a popular route for joggers.

Free Playhouse tickets

A

s part of South Leeds Life’s ongoing partnership with Leeds Playhouse we are able to offer a free* pair of tickets to a range of shows. *Of course there’s no such thing as a free lunch, so although the tickets are free we do ask for something in return.

We rely on our readers to review the plays they see. You can write the review yourself and send it us for publication,

or if you’re not confident to write it yourself, you can chat to one of our reporters who will write up your thoughts into a review.

Leeds Playhouse has undergone a major renovation programme this year its autumn programme has been

well received.

Unfortunately all our tickets for this season have already been allocated to readers. But make sure you you read next month’s paper when we will preview the spring programme and tell you how to get hold of your free* tickets.

Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife

untangling trauma

I found these sections deeply disturbing but beautifully and artistically portrayed by Francesca Joy. Without words she expresses her pain, anguish and shame. Her body contorting as the audience becomes aware where it is her

grinding against their identities – Tasha wants to get away from how she previously funded her life and Grandad needs to stop being a soldier, afraid and on the defensive.

Despite such deeply emotional issues being

Piotr Baumann as Jadek and Francesca Joy as Tasha Photo: Ant Robling Photography own trauma stems from.

Tasha is desperate to have her children’s book sold, but feels she is being asked to wash over the realism of her story by London publishers.

Grandad struggles with his infirmities and both family members struggle with their pasts. Grandad and Tasha are

portrayed throughout the play, there is much comic relief provided by the interplay between Tasha and her grandfather – this is increased as Alexa is introduced into the home.

Polish audience members are invited to share one of Grandad’s jokes at the very

beginning of the performance, which for the rest of the audience is not revealed until the end of play – see if you can spot it.

This was such a raw and realistic portrayal of two people from different generations struggling in their own ways and finding ways to help each other through. The fact that the play is based on a true story adds to the poignancy. Tasha and Grandad make their way through, they are able to leave their pasts behind and move forward together. There was some wonderful audience interaction towards the end of this performance that left me feeling touched and so happy for Grandad and for Tasha.

Francesca Joy (Tasha) opened the Imagine If theatre company in 2014 and aims to create and show work that is “thought provoking and unashamedly honest.” Judging

by Jadek, Francesca and her company have certainly achieved this.

Jadek comes to Slung Low at The Holbeck on Sunday 17 November, 5pm.

The performance will be Pay As You Feel. Don’t miss out, this play will stay with you for some time.

Launderette rebooted

by Christine Braithwaite

W

elcoming in the new with the old, the box fresh Playhouse takes us back to the past with My Beautiful Laundrette.

The audience took to their seats amongst bubbling sounds reminiscent of the opening of the 1985 film. This was gradually complemented by the “bovver” boys of the cast stomping around the stage (eventually joined by the remaining cast members) prior to the official start.

A nice-touch Underground roundel in the corner informs us we’re currently south of the river (Thames) in an industrialised feeling set with washing machine facades seemingly cemented into the backdrop. Much like the era itself, the dullness is punctuated by another 80s icon: neon – in the form of graffiti daubed over the set.

And who better to complete this 80s assault on the senses than the Pet Shop Boys who give us some of their classics including West End Girls and also tracks crafted for the play.

The story follows the main character Omar (Omar Malik)

going to work for his uncle Nasser’s (Kammy Darweish) garage upon his father’s (Gordon Warnecke) command.

For those of us old enough to remember the film, Omar in the film has grown up to play his own father in the play. Nasser likes the cut of his nephew’s jib and puts him in charge of his dead in the water laundrette.

Omar encounters a no hoper from school, Johnny (Jonny Fines), who has graduated to crime and fascism. He gives Jonny a job and we see their working and romantic relationship flourish (albeit with the minimal amount of chemistry in this particular production).

The same sex romance was ground breaking back in the day but three and a half

decades later lacks the impact thanks to more progressive attitudes. But what enables the play to sidestep any feel of being outdated is the modern day regression in regards to the play’s themes of racial division, the perception of marginalisation on home ground and the wrestling with cultural and personal identity.

Stand out performance for me was Salim, Nasser’s lesser favoured apprentice capitalist who brutally intimidates Omar much like Jonny did during their school days. He’s thoroughly unlikeable, but convincingly played with Daniel Day Lewis like commitment by Hareet Deol.

I thoroughly enjoyed the reboots of both the play and the Playhouse.

www.southleedslife.com

Website: www.southleedslife.com

T

his month we're excited to announce that we will be running a story project across Holbeck.

We'll be collecting stories from as many people who know the area as we can. The project is called Once Upon A Time In Holbeck and it will be running from now until the end of the year.

What’s your best Holbeck story?

CEG and Slung Low have teamed up to collect all the stories about Holbeck that we can. We want to celebrate the rich, varied and unexpected history of this area that we all love. We want to hear your stories of Holbeck – stories of times long gone, stories that your nanna told you, stories that you heard in the pub or stories of things that have happened to you. Stories of extraordinary individuals, glorious achievements, spectacular failures, tragic tales and farcical ones too.

What happens with your story?

We’ll be sharing the stories far and wide and using them to make a story tour of the whole area so you should feel comfortable contributing before you share them. Please include any supporting photographs you have that you are happy for us to reproduce.

There’ll be a special event on 15 January 2020 to celebrate all the entries and Holbeck generally, and to award prizes to the stories that really stood out. If you submit a story we’ll be in touch to invite you to the event.

How to share your story To submit your story, or to ask any questions about the project, email us using holbecktales@slunglow.org You can type it out, do a voice recording, write it by hand and send us an image, or however works best for you.

You can also drop into The Holbeck on Jenkinson Lawn, which will be where we are collecting the stories and talk to a member of the Slung Low team. We’d love to hear your story aloud and can always jot it down for you.

Leeds Art Market at The Tetley H

unslet’s own art gallery, The Tetley, is hosting its very first Leeds Art Market on the weekend of 8 & 9 November.

Join them for the first Leeds Art Market showcasing the highest degree of local independent artists, makers and designers, displaying and selling their finest contemporary creations!

There will be over 40 stalls around the building presenting the very best from jewellery, homeware and accessories to photography, textiles, prints and so much more! It's the

Art Life 17

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Tell us your Holbeck story

by Sally Proctor

November 2019 | South Leeds Life

perfect opportunity to grab some unique Christmas gifts!

There will also be the chance to take part in a variety of creative workshops over the weekend alongside some great offers in our Bar & Kitchen.

11am-4pm, free and open to all.

Artist wants your thoughts on Beeston A

rtist House 45, run by East Street Arts, is a back to back terrace house in Beeston exploring the impact of long term artist residencies.

Silvia Liebig, from Leeds’ twin city Dortmund in Germany, is currently living and working at Artist House 45. Artists are invited to spend time with the house, stay a while, get to know its immediate location and neighbours and make work in response.

What they produce might be something subtle, something remote or something unmissable.

Silvia has been in the house since the middle of September, talking to people, taking photos, making drawings, sculptures and installations,now she’s asking you to get involved. Tell Silvia

something about Beeston: your favourite place, something you like/don’t like, a question, your personal story, something about the history…

And then on Friday 8 November she is opening the

doors for you to see what she has done with the place… Is it going to be an animation? A comic? A travel guide? An experimental projection? A documentary radio play?

Send your contributions to

post@beingbeeston.eu Don’t miss seeing the results for yourself on Friday 8th November 2019, 6-9pm at 45 Garnet Terrace, Beeston, Leeds, LS11 5JX. Free, everyone welcome.

Home truths about Mushy O

by Kushmina Begum

n 8 October I was fortunate enough to be invited to go to view the exclusive premiere of Mushy Lyrically Speaking at the newly refurbished Leeds Playhouse. I was not disappointed.

I was already a fan of the main character based on the real life student Musharaf ‘Mushy’ Asghar who starred in the National Television Award winning Channel 4 series Educating Yorkshire.

The story of ‘Mushy’ is the basis for this rap and lyrical musical which conveys Mushy’s story from being a stammering, tongue tied GCSE student who turns into a charming and confident young Yorkshire man.

Rifco Theatre Company who have a rich and successful history of cultural story telling (The Deranged Marriage, Laila The Musical) have carefully depicted what it means to have dual identities for an adolescent, British Pakistani male in the millennium who is struggling to find his voice.

We see how Mushy is wrapped up in cotton wool at home by his mother and struggles to communicate in a formal setting like school. His close relationship with his stimulating English teacher, Mr Burton is nothing short of heart-warming. Quite fittingly, the real life Mushy is now a motivational speaker after having such inspiring teachers like Mr Burton at school.

Varun Raj & Oliver Longstaff in Mushy, Lyrically Speaking at Leeds Playhouse Through music, Mushy begins to express himself, discover his voice and a new found charisma and confidence emerge. The show is a real emotional journey of Mushy’s life over the past seven years or so – highlighting all the highs and lows that he has had to overcome. By the end of the show his newfound confidence leads him to make some bold career choices against his Mother’s wishes, “… you have never taken the easy road…” says Ammi.

The highlight of the show for me was the standout performance from Medhavi Patel as ‘Ammi’ (Mushy’s overbearing Mother) who did an excellent job of conveying

her struggles as a single, Pakistani mother in close knit Dewsbury who has lived with the shame of her husband leaving her years earlier. Her quick wit, sarcasm, temperamental outbursts and Punjabi anecdotes had members of the audience roaring in laughter.

She is a very relatable character for many South Leeds Life readers and her grasping relationship with her son Mushy is one that is very common amongst communities in South Leeds. It is great that Dewsbury has been shown in a positive light and Mushy’s strong performance reinforces that with determination and

Photo: The Other Richard

commitment anything is possible regardless of where you come from (only down the road in this case) or your background circumstances.

Towards the end of the play, ‘Ammi’ has a monologue that is both heartbreaking and true for so many south Asian women.

Her passion, intonation and heartfelt thoughts will resonate with multiple generations of Asian women and the struggles and stigmas that they still face in society today.

A Rifco Theatre production would not be complete without a traditional bhangra ‘get out of your seat’ dance set and the audience clapped and cheered to the feel good bhangra closing finale.

www.southleedslife.com

South Leeds Life | November 2019

18 Local History

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

William Henry Gibson: A Leeds Pal from Hunslet

by Peter Taylor and David J Owen

W

illiam Henry Gibson, Private 15/370, 1st Leeds Pals, com WYR, tr RFC/RAF Hunslet grew rapidly during the 19th century, becoming an important manufacturing centre, the workshop of Leeds.

Most of the factories have now gone, along with the houses for their workers, terraces and back-to-backs, but when William Gibson lived there it was still highly industrialised.

Not that he had lived there long.

William Henry Gibson was the second child and only son of Harry Gibson, plumber, and Mary Taylor, who had married in Bradford in 1888. He was born in Hornby, Lancashire, on 8 October 1890. The 1911 Census found them in Hunslet, and William, now old enough to have a job, was listed as a clerk in an engineering works.

William lived at 26 Hulland Street, close to St Joseph’s Primary School. The terraces of back-to-back houses were demolished in the 1960s when Hunslet Grange, also known as Leek Street Flats were built. In fact William lived on the corner of Leek Street.

War was declared on 4 September 1914, when William was almost 24. He wasted no time and volunteered the first day, one of 25 Hunslet men to do so. After a medical a week later he was posted to D Company and put into No.16 Platoon, where he ultimately became Platoon Bomber.

William was small in stature at 5’ 6”, weighed 140lbs and had blue eyes and brown hair.

He survived the war and was discharged as an RAF Lieutenant, being awarded the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. In

Leeds Pals

early 1917 he had been commissioned into the West Yorkshire Regiment, before transferring to the Royal Flying Corps, which in April 1918 became the RAF, but there appear to be no surviving records of his RFC/RAF service.

He went to Colsterdale for his basic training, followed by Ripon and Fovant, near Salisbury, where in October 1915 he received 7 days CB (Confined to Barracks) for being absent from an early morning parade. He went with the battalion to Egypt to guard the Suez Canal, and as a bomber he took part in the Battle of the Somme in 1916. He was severely wounded during the attack on Serre on 1 July (the first day of the battle) receiving gunshot wounds to the arm and shoulder. He returned to the UK on 5 July and was transferred to the West Yorkshire Regiment Depot, in September moving to the 89th Training Reserve Battalion, still a private soldier.

On 2 December 1916 he was sent to 16 Officer Training Battalion at Kinmel Park, Rhyl and on 28 March 1917 was commissioned into the West Yorkshire Regiment.

His address at the time was given as 39 West View, Beeston Hill, Leeds. His trade was listed as Commercial Traveller although on attestation it was shown as General Clerk. He had been educated at Leeds University and completed ‘commercial technical’ training at the Northern Institute, Leeds.

In Leeds in 1927 he married Lizzie Dixon, and on the 1939 Register they appear together, living in Broomfield Road, Leeds 6. William is listed as a manufacturer’s agent for the building trade, and also, significantly, as an RAF Officers’ emergency disability pensioner Lieutenant. He had survived the entire war, but not unscathed.

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Leeds’ last tram ride S

by Eric Smith

ixty years ago on 7 November 1959 the very last tram ran in Leeds. It marked the end of a long campaign by the car industry and ironically trams are the sort of mass transit system the city needs now to unblock its congestion.

A Royal Commission reported in 1931 that trams were obsolete, dangerous and causing congestion. Leeds held out until 1953, but decided to phase them out as they had become unaffordable.

The last Leeds tram routes were the services along York Road. For decades they had run across town to Upper Wortley (Whingate or New Inn) and then for nearly three years to Middleton. Now they were isolated: No 18 to Cross Gates, No 20 to Halton and No 22 to Temple Newsham. No 17 trams ran as far as Harehills Lane (The Shaftesbury).

The No 18 picked up in Kirkgate, before going right at the curve in front of the Yorkshire Penny Bank, and the 20s and 22s loaded in New York Street after the curve. As far as Lupton Avenue / Torre Road the tram tracks were in the middle of the road, but beyond, there was a railway like express, fenced off track on the central reservation as far as Cross Gates.

The track in Selby Road was on the central reservation and Halton terminus was a crossover alongside the Irwin Arms. Beyond Halton the line continued on the left of Temple Newsham Road. Just before the terminus there was a field to the left where the tram sometimes alarmed a pheasant or two.

On the last day, Saturday 7 November 1959, the weather

was gloomy and damp throughout. 22 trams were out in service (10 of Mr Horsfield’s “Showboats” and 12 ex-London “Felthams” all built in 1931).

Special souvenir tickets were issued at 1d, 2d, 3d, 4d, 5d, 6d. The penny ticket would be issued to children travelling for one fare stage. The last service trams left town by 4:40pm with buses taking their place for the rest of the day.

All of this was followed by a procession of ten “Showboats”, the first and last of which were decorated with coloured light bulbs. They set off from

A decorated tram leaves Swinegate as part of the final journey Swinegate depot at 6:15pm.

The decorated cars were for special guests and staff.

Members of the public had had to apply for a seat on the other eight. Demand was very high, leaving many disappointed.

After Halton Dial the first five cars went to Cross Gates, and the others to Temple Newsham.

They met up again on the return journey and continued in procession back to Swinegate depot.

Cllr Tom Smith My Dad, Tom Smith, was a City Councillor for Holbeck South ward (1949-51) and the new Holbeck ward (1951-69).

For 16 years he was deputy Chairman of the Transport Committee.

He was a railwayman, driving engines based at the sheds in Nineveh Road.

I wasn’t able to be in Leeds on 7 November because I was working in France. I returned to Leeds for five nights and Mam and I had our last tram rides to and from Temple Newsham on 4 November on tram No 528 driven by Charlie Wardle with conductress Betty Fox. Dad wrote to me on 11 November. Here are some extracts, with my comments in italics.

“Saturday was a real November day – misty and slight rain. After I finished work at 2pm I went to Cross Gates on 532. All cars were full. I had to stand all the way. This was

about 3:10pm. I took some photos hoping that the light was good enough and left about 4:05pm on car 187, got off at The Woodpecker and used up the film.

“The cars were very full all day. They tell me that the first car in the morning at 4:22am had a queue waiting for ticket No1. Car number 181 was the last service car to run. It went to Cross Gates. Mr Gill (Chief Traffic Officer) and two Policemen saw it off full, leaving about 30 people. It left at 4:40pm (ie from Kirkgate, before going round the Penny Bank curve into New York Street). Mr Gill then got a point iron and held the points while a workman scotched them up (why? To prevent any trams on the later procession from going back to York Road?).

“The first tram to run in was 177 from Temple Newsham.

The first Halton bus was No 848 at 4:43pm and the first Cross Gates No 851 at 4:45pm.

“I then went to Schofields for a cup of tea and arrived at Swinegate at 5:45pm. It was a job getting into the depot for the crowd was all around the doorway. Car No 1 in the procession (No 178) was just inside. Everything went off without any trouble. A Policeman and an Inspector were on each car. The oldest conductress was the only conductor on. She rode on No 1 in civvies.” (this was Elizabeth Hoyle, who was one of the first women allowed to work for Leeds City Transport in 1940.

Dad doesn’t mention the driver, Arthur Aisthorpe with his 39 years service, nor the Lord Mayor Alderman Gertrude

Stevenson). “Fancy Mam going to Swinegate to see the last tram home” (a good comment, Mam always pretended to be completely disinterested in transport matters, although she was certainly pro tram!

Later she visited the exhibition in the Art Gallery).

After the ten trams had returned to the depot, special guests went to a commemorative dinner in the head office, now the Malmaison Hotel. In a further letter, Dad sent me some photos and wrote in answer to a comment of mine “Yes, we were ‘full inside’ after the dinner. It was 1:15am when I got home (on duty at 6am Sunday morning) Councillor Mather and others got home at 4:30am. Mam and the Ladies had a good lunch.” (on the Tuesday I think at Swinegate).

At the Commemorative Dinner on 7th, Alderman Rafferty was presented with a chromium-plated fruit bowl which had been a tramcar warning gong. Other guests received a smaller dish, made from the bell rung by conductors for stopping and starting. I’ve still got ours. It’s stand is inscribed “In commemoration of the last Leeds tram – 7 Nov 1959.”

Ting! Ting! “Ho’d on missus” as conductress Lizzie Snaith used to call out.

A longer version of this account is available online at southleedslife.com/lasttram.

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November 2019 | South Leeds Life

What’s On 19

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Goldilocks announced Acts of Remembrance for group’s 50th show R B

ack in 1970 a group of budding thespians at St Andrew’s Methodist Church in Beeston decided to put on a pantomime.

They enjoyed the experience so much they put on another one the next year and have put on a show every year since. The St Andrew’s Pantomime has become a fixture of the Beeston social calendar with the annual run of shows regularly sold out.

For their fiftieth pantomime, St Andrew’s have chosen Goldilocks and commissioned a new script from Ian and Siobhan Noble ...

For years Minnie has been traipsing her circus all over the land with the help of her lovely daughter Goldilocks and Benny the Ringmaster. However, times are tough and the punters just aren’t showing up anymore.

Goldilocks has ambitions though and hopes to save the circus.

Unfortunately, another circus run by the ruthless Captain Max

keeps showing up in town just before them and taking all the business. And he’s plotting to become not just the best circus in the world, but the only circus in the world.

What Minnie and Goldilocks don’t know is that Baron Bloodless and his accountant Norris Pencil are just around the corner looking for the rent money. There may not be time for Goldilocks to save the circus

and they desperately need to find a way to bring the crowds flocking back soon.

Can Minnie get people rushing back to her circus and afford the rent? Will Captain Max get his way?

And how does a peaceful family of kindly bears fit into all this?

The group are staging thirteen shows between Saturday 18 January and Saturday 1 February, including evenings and matinees, at St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston, LS11 8AG. The performance on Tuesday 28 January will be signed for people with hearing impairments.

Tickets are on sale now at £6 for adults, £4 for childrenchildren. Contact the box office on 07988 349985; or email standrewspantogroup @hotmail.com. Find full details on the website at: www.standrewspanto.uk

emembrance Sunday falls on 10 November this year and it will be marked by events across South Leeds.

Following last year’s marking of 100 years since the end of the First World War, the service at Holbeck Cemetry (Beeston Road) will feature over 4,000 knitted and crocheted poppies that have been made by a team of volunteers over the last year.

The service will be led by Rev Alistair Kaye from St Luke’s Church, but the people of all faiths and none are welcome to attend the event, which stars at 10:30am.

After the two minute silence at 11am, the names of the 87 men and women who died in the First and Second World Wars and are buried in the cemetery will be read aloud. If anyone attending would like other service personnel buried elsewhere to be read out, please get in touch.

As each name is read out a stone with the name will be taken and placed on the Cross of Honour by those present.

St John & St Barnabas Church in Belle Isle will celebrate a Requiem Mass for

the Fallen, in Church, following the Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial at 10:55am.

Acts of Remembrance will also be held 1pm Hunslet St Mary's Tower at 1pm; Hunslet Cemetery War Memorial at

altar for each one – they are brought up as the names are read out by members of the congregation of all ages.

On Monday 11 November there will be a short service at the Cenotaph in the grounds of

1.30pm; and at the Stourton War Memorial at 2pm.

The Remembrance service at St Mary’s church, Beeston takes place at 9.30am. The names of all those in the remembrance book will be read out and a poppy laid on the

St Peters Court, Dewsbury Road, starting at 10.50am with two minutes silence at 11am and laying of wreaths.

There will also be an Act of Remebrance at Cottingley Community Centre on Monday 11 November from 10:30am.

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South Leeds Life | November 2019

20 What’s On

What’s On Your guide to events and activities across South Leeds in November Full contact details can be found in our online What’s On guide at www.southleedslife.com/events Every Monday GTT: Digital Access Holbeck 9am-12pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Hill Women & Girls’ Drop In 9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project 43 Stratford Street, Beeston Hobbies2gether craft group 9:30-11:30am St George’s Centre Middleton Lychee Red – Chinese Elders Gp 10am-12pm Parocial Hall, North Lingwell Road, Middleton Julie’s Ancestry Group 10am & 1pm BITMO’s GATE Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Crafts 10-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Avenue Breastfeeding Support 10:30am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston SLLAH Drop In Coffee morning 10:30am-12pm Assissi Place, Belinda Street, Hunslet Walk and Talk 11am-12pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle SLLAH Mixed Exercise 11:30am-12:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Bumps & Buggy Fit 11:30am-12:30pm Skate Park, Holbeck Moor MEA Lunch Club 11:30am-1pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave SLLAH Lunch Club 11:45am-1pm Cottingley Community Centre Luncheon Club 12:30pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Bowling 12:30-4pm Cross Flatts Park Women’s Wellbeing Group 1-3pm Middleton Family Centre, 256-262 Sissons Road Learning Disability Advice 1-3pm Connect In The North, Office 42, Sugar Mill Business Park, Oakhurst Road, Beeston Dance 2-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Avenue Men’s Boxercise 2:15-3:15pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Triathlon Training 4:15-5:45pm Middleton Cycle Hub Blossom Kinship Group 4-5:30pm Middleton Parochial Hall, North Lingwell Road Connected 4-5:30pm Middleton Family Centre, 256-262 Sissons Road DAZL Cheerdance Team (6-12yrs) 4:30-6pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton DAZL Urban Cheer (13-16yrs) 4:30-6pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Chocolate, Chat and Chill 5:30-7:30pm Laurel Bank Day Centre, Middleton Park Avenue DAZL Contemporary (7-12yrs) 6-7pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton DAZL Youth Company (13-19yrs) 6-8pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton

Kickboxing 6-8:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Hunslet Warriors Juniors 6-7pm Warrior Park, The Oval South Leeds Spartans Girls Rugby 6-7pm Corinthians RUFC, Ring Road Middleton, by Leisure Centre DAZL DanceFit (women 16+) 6-7pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road South Leeds Sisters running 6.15pm South Leeds Stadium Coffee & Craft Middleton 6.15-8:30pm St Cross Church, Acre Road, Middleton St Matthew’s Youth Club 6:30-8:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Beginners Meditation Class 6:30pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Girls Group 7-9pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle DanceFit 7pm Middleton Parochial Hall 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 Yoga 6:30-7:30pm; 7:30-8:30pm St Anthony’s Church Hall, Old Lane, Beeston

Every Tuesday Mums & Tots 9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Tots, Tea and Toast 9:30-11:15am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Heart to Heart Breakfast 9:30am Asha Neighbourhood Project, 43 Stratford Street SLLAH Breakfast Buddies 9:30-11:30am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Gentle Exercise 9:45am Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle HEA’s Tea & Toast breakfast 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Muslim Pensioners Group 10am-12pm Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Baking 10-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Breastfeeding Support 10am-12pm Middleton Family Centre, 252-262 Sissons Road Women’s Friendship Group 10am-12pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace, Balm Rd SLLAH Mixed Exercise 10-11am St Anthony's church hall, Old Lane, Beeston Community Coffee Morning 10-11:30am Beeston Library Knit & Natter 10:30am-12pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Storytime 10:30-11:30am Hunslet

Community Hub, Waterloo Street Tai Chi (gentle exercise) 11:30am-12:30pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Street SLLAH Chair Based Exercise 11.30am-12:30pm Cottingley Community Centre MEA Lunch Club 11:30am-1pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave SLLAH Lunch Club 12pm Arthington Court, Hunslet HEA’s Community Lunch 12-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Luncheon Club 12:30pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Bowling 12:30-4pm Cross Flatts Park Beginners Meditation Class 12:30-1pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Bumps & Buggy Fit 1:30-2:30pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Stay & Play 1:30-3pm Building Blocks Nursery, Maud Avenue, Beeston Craft Group 1:30pm Trinity Network, Oakley View, Beeston SLLAH Line Dancing 1:30-2:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston SLLAH Social Afternoon 1:30-3pm Arthington Ct, Hunslet HEA Afternoon Social 1:45-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Line Dancing 2-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Teen Spirit Boys Group 4-6pm Middleton Family Centre, 256-262 Sissons Road Kidz Klub Beeston 4-7:30pm Beeston Hill United Free Church, Malvern Road Rainbows, Brownies, Guides 4:30-9:15pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Girls Group 4:30-6:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston DAZL Streetdance (6+yrs) 4:30-5:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston Your Space Journaling Group 5-7pm The Happy Yak Café at Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck DAZL Streetdance (Learning Disability 13+yrs) 5-6:30pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road, Middleton Inside Out wellbeing group 6-8pm Middleton Parochial Hall, North Lingwell Road Women’s Fitness Boot Camp 6-7pm Leeds Urban Bike Park, Ring Road, Middleton, LS10 3TN Hunslet Rainbows, Brownies and Guides 6:15-8:45pm Hunslet St Mary’s Primary School, Church Street Coffee and Craft Middleton 6:15-8:30pm St Cross Church, Acre Road, Middleton Hunslet Nelson Rounders Team

6:30pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston DAZL DanceFit (women 16+) 6:30-7:30pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road Craft & Social Evening 6:30pm Woodhouse Hill Community Centre, Hunslet Carr Free Football Sessions 6:30-7:30pm 8-12 year olds 7:30-8:30pm 13-16 year olds Holbeck Community Centre, Elland Road, LS11 0AB Fitness Boot Camp 6:45-7:45 Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street South Leeds Lakers running 7pm from Beeston Co-op

Every Wednesday Bacon Butty Breakfast and Wednesday Weigh In 9-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Welfare Rights Advice Surgery 9am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Messy Time 9:15-11am Middleton Play & Learning Centre, Throstle Lane Parents and Toddlers 9:15-11:15am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Get Fit Where You Sit 9:15-10:15 Lane End Primary School, Beeston Road City Tots 9:30-11am City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road Pop Up Council Services 9:30am-12:30pm Cottingley Towers Open Doors Tea & Toast 9:30-11:30am St Andrew's Methodist Church, Old Lane, Beeston HEA Tea & Toast Morning 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Chair mobility 10-10:45am Trinity Network, Belle Isle, Nesfield church hall Breaklfast Club & Foodbank 10am-12pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace Rags to Riches Sewing Group 10am-12pm Tenants Hall Ent. Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Women’s Walking Group 10-11am BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle HEA’s Shopping Trip to Morrisons 10am-1pm Holbeck Elderly Aid, Domestic Street HEA Coffee Morning 10am-12pm Ingram Court, Holbeck Money Advice 10:15am-3pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Walk &Talk Walking Group 11am-1pm MEA Social Centre, Middleton Park Avenue Free Zumba 12-12:45pm Middleton Leisure Centre HEA’s 2 course Community Lunch 12:15-3pm Ingram Court, Holbeck Grandparents’ Support Group 12:30-2:30pm Tenants Hall Ent. Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Luncheon Club

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12:30pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Hatha Yoga 12:30-1:15pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Ladies Group 1-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck At Home In Holbeck 2-3pm Ingram Road Primary School Parnaby Pals Memory Cafe 2-4pm Parnaby Tavern, Middleton Road, Hunslet Carr Walk and Talk 2-3pm meet outside Greggs, Middleton Park Circus 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 1st Beeston Beaver Scouts 6-7:30pm St Andrews Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston Hunslet Warriors Juniors 6-7pm Warrior Park, The Oval South Leeds Spartans Girls Rugby 6-7pm Corinthians RUFC, Ring Road Middleton, by Leisure Centre City Kids (R-Y6) 6-7:15pm City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road HITT Training Class 6-7pm Belle Isle Family Centre Chocolate, Chat and Chill 6-8pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Cottingley Youth Club 6:30-8:30pm Cottingley Community Centre DanceFit 6:30pm Middleton Parochial Hall, Town Street Zumba 7-8pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Middleton Mavericks running 7pm South Leeds Stadium Free Walking Football 7-8pm Middleton Leisure Centre Youth Group 7-9pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle Martial Arts 7-9pm Beeston Juniors, Cardinal Square Clubbercise 7:30-8:30pm St John & St Barnabas Church Hall, Belle Isle Camera Club 8pm upstairs at St George’s Centre, Middleton

9-11am St Anthony’s Church Hall, Old Lane, Beeston Table Tennis 9:45-11:15am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck HEA’s Community Cafe 10-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Ping Pong 10-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Little Explorers Baby Group 10-11:30am Middleton Play & Learning Centre, Throstle Lane Community Craft Cafe 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Hunslet Hall Road Middleton Park Estate Volunteers 10am-3pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre New Lives Group 10-11:30am Cottingley Children’s Centre Storytime (under 5s) 10:15-10:45am St George’s Community Hub, Middleton SLLAH Yoga 10:15-11:15am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Craft Group 10:30am Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Storytime (under 5s) 11-11:30am Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Dru Yoga 11am-12pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck HEA Line Dancing 11:30am-12:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck MEA Lunch Club 11:30am-1pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave SLLAH Lunch Club 12-1:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Luncheon Club 12:30pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Beginners Meditation Class 12:30-1pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Bumps & Buggy Fit 1-2pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston New Lives Group 1-2:30pm Two Willows Children’s Centre, Cardinal Square Muslim Ladies Group 1-3pm Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Green Gym 1-4pm Lady Pit Lane Allotments, Linden Avenue, Beeston Breathe Easy gentle exercise 1:30pm Hunslet Methodist Church Telford Terrace, off Balm Road BAFF Dancercize 1:30-2:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street SLLAH Social Afternoon 1:30-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Fun and Games afternoon 1:30-2:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave

Every Thursday Mums & Tots 9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Stay & Play

Full details of every event including map and contact details are available at www.southleedslife.com/events

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HEA Craft Group 1:30-3:30pm Cleveleys Court, Holbeck Vale Circles Autism Hub 2-7pm Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Men’s Circuit Training 2:15-3:15pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Kidz Klub Middleton 4-7:30pm Middleton Primary School, Middleton Park Avenue Kidz Klub Holbeck 4-7:30pm The Holbeck club, Jenkinson Lawn DAZL Hip-Hop (6-12yrs) 4:30-6pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle Footbal sessions 5-8pm Old Cockburn Sports Hall, Primrose Lane, Beeston Community Choir 5pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane Mini & Junior Rugby 6-7pm Leeds Corinthians, Ring Road, Middleton South Leeds Lakers Juniors running club (8-14) 6-7pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston DAZL Hip-Hop (13+yrs) 6-8pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle General Fitness 6-7pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Hunslet Nelson Rounders Team 6:30pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Discovering Buddhism 6.30-8pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Ballet Burn 7-8pm South Leeds Conservative Club, Wooler Street, Beeston Bingo 7pm St matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Youth Group 7-8:30pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road Yoga class 7:30-8:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street

MEA Lunch Club 11:30am-1pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave SLLAH Luncheon Club 12-1:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street HEA’s 2 course Community unch 12-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Luncheon Club 12:30pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Bowling 12:30-4pm Cross Flatts Park Krok Po Kroku (Polish Group) 12:30-2:30pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton SLLAH Ballroom Dancing 1-2:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston The GATE Men’s Group 1-3pm BITMO’s GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road HEA’s Walking Football 1:30-3pm Holbeck Elderly Aid, Domestic Street HEA’s Afternoon Social 1:30-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Gentle Chair Exercise Class 1.45-2.45pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Rhymetime 2pm Beeston Library, Town St Family Boxercise (from 11 Oct) 5-6pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Girls Football 6-7pm Beeston Juniors, Cardinal Square Church Lads’ & Girls Brigade 6-8pm St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road Friday Night Project 6-9pm Middleton Leisure Centre 5th Middleton Brownies 6-7:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle 1st Beeston Cub Scouts 6:15-7:45pm St Andrews Community Centre, Cardinal Road Youth Group 7-9pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle 5th Middleton Guides 7:30-9pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle 1st Beeston Scouts 8-9:30pm St Andrews Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston

Every Friday Tea & Toast 9am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Charity Shop, Tea & Toast 9am-12pm Beeston Hill United Free Church, Malvern Road Welfare Rights Advice Surgery 9am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Toast and Games morning 9:30-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Breastfeeding Support Group 9:45-11:15am Mothercare cafe, Crown Point Retail Park SLLAH Stretch and Tone 9:45-10:30 St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Under 5s Storytime 10-11am Dewsbury Road Library HEA’s Tea & Toast Breakfast 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck HEA’s Shopping Trip to Morrisons 10am-1pm Holbeck Elderly Aid, Domestic Street Cuppa, Toast and Online help 10-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Middleton Minstrels Women’s Choir 10:30am-12:30pm Tenant Hall, Acre Close, Middleton Dancing In Time 10:30am-12pm St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road Breathe Easy gentle exercise 11:30 Parochial Hall, North Lingwell Road, Middleton

Every Saturday Breakfast Club 8:30-11am Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Cross Flatts parkrun 9am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston Middleton Woods parkrun 9am Leeds Urban Bike Park, Ring Road, Middleton Breakfast Club 9-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Police Contact Point 9:30-11:30am St George’s Centre, Middleton DAZL Urban Cheer (7-13yrs) 9:30-11am South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle DAZL Tinies (3-5yrs) 9:30-11am South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle Zumba 10-11am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Hunslet Nelson Rounders Team 10am Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Kidz ‘n’ Co 10:30am-12:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Yoga 11:30am-12:30pm Beeston

November 2019 | South Leeds Life

What’s On 21 Parish Centre, Town street Bingo Afternoon 12:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Tennis For Free 2-3:30pm Cross Flatts Park

Every Sunday Cross Flatts junior parkrun 9am top of Cross Flatts Park Street Cricket 10am-1pm Old Cockburn Sports Hall, Primrose Lane, Beeston Friday 1 November Halloween Party 6pm The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Rd Halloween Party 6:30pm Leeds Corinthians RUFC, off Middleton Park Ring Road Saturday 2 November Volunteer Rangers 10am-12pm Holbeck Cemetery, Beeston Road Coffee Morning 10am-12pm St Andrew’s Comm Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston Coffee Morning 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Family Art Workshop 11am-3pm The Tetley, Hunslet Rd Firework Display 7pm The Holbeck club, Jenkinson Lawn Sunday 3 November Commonism 5pm Slung Low at The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn, Holbeck Monday 4 November Mostly Men 10am-12pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Nature visits for Families and Childminders 10am-1pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, Stourton Creative Play with Duplo 10:30-11:30am Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Writers’ Club 1-2:30pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Road Future of Hunslet RLFC 7:30pm Phoenix Bar, South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove Tuesday 5 November Massage and Aromapherapy 9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Tiny Tetley Taster 10:30-11:30am The Tetley, Hunslet Road Middleton Park Bonfire 7pm bonfire lit 7:30pm Firework Display Friends of Stank Hall 7:30pm The Broadway pub, Dewsbury Road, Beeston Wednesday 6 November Table Top Sale with Living Well pharmacy 9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Hunslet Rugby Memories 12-2pm The Prospect pub, Moor Road, Hunslet Buddy Groups with Mummy Buddy 12pm Mothercare, Crown Point Pot-a-Tea Dementia Café 1:30-3:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Elvis tribute entertainment 2-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Code Club 3:30-4:30pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Road Hunslet Tenants & Residents 6:30pm Church of the Nazarene, Lupton Street, Hunslet Thursday 7 November Toy Library

11:15am-12:15pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Hunslet Carr Residents Assoc 6:30pm Community Centre, Woodhouse Hill Avenue Beeston Community Forum 7:30pm St Anthony’s church hall, Old Lane, Beeston Saturday 9 November South Leeds Community Orchestra 10am-12pm St Cross Church, Acre Road, Middleton Leeds Art Market 11am-4pm The Tetley, Hunslet Rd Bonfire & fireworks 6pm (Fireworks at 7:30pm) The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road Sunday 10 November Free Community Meal 1-3pm Church of the Nazarene, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Sunday Lunch Club 1-3pm Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston A Self Help Guide To Being In Love With Jeremy Corbyn 5-6pm Slung Low at The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn, Holbeck Monday 11 November Tea, Cake and Conversation 12:30-2:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Code Club 3:30-4:30pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Road Tuesday 12 November Learn My Way – computer skills 12:30-1:30pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Street Leeds Aphasia Cafe 1-3pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Camera Club 3-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Beeston Local History Group 8pm Beeston Parish Centre (small hall), Town Street Wednesday 13 November SLLAH Kurling 10:30-11:30am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston SLLAH Generation 55 12-2:30pm The Broadway pub, Dewsbury Road, Beeston Bereavement Support Group 1-2pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Free Tea Dance 1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Photography Club 3:30-4:30pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Road Lego Club 3:30-4:30pm Beeston Library, Town Street Drink & Draw 6-8pm The Tetley, Hunslet Road Thursday 14 November Litterpick & Clean up 10am Church Street, Hunslet HEA Carers Group 12:30-2:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Friday 15 November Holbeck Together Launch 2:30-4:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Saturday 16 November Young Archaeologists Club 10am-12pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Coffee Morning 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Hunslet TARA Coffee Morning 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Lupton Street, Hunslet Family Art Workshop 11am-3pm The Tetley, Hunslet Rd Craft Fayre 1-3pm Acre Court, Acre Road, Middleton

Christmas Fair 1-3pm Cardinal Court, Cardinal Walk, Beeston Sunday 17 November Sunday Lunch Club 1-3pm Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Leeds Dads meetup 2-4pm The Holbeck WMC, Jenkinson Lawn, Holbeck Jadek 5-6pm Slung Low at The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn, Holbeck Monday 18 November HEA Morley Shop or Swim 9am-12pm Transport frm Holbeck SLLAH Generation 55 12:30-2:30pm Whistlestop pub, Town Street, Beeston Wellness Space Afternoon 1-3pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck Tuesday 19 November Police Drop In 10am-12pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Street The Writers Club 1-2:30pm Beeston Library, Town Street True North calendar launch 6-8pm Northen Monk Refectory, Marshall Street, Holbeck Wednesday 20 November Code Club 3:30-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Thursday 21 November Computer Skills 10am-6pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Coffee Morning 10am-12pm Parochial Hall, North Lingwell Road, Middleton Toy Library 11:15am-12:15pm St George’s Centre Community Hub, Middleton St Luke’s Tenants & Residents 6pm St Luke’s Primary School, Beeston Road Leeds Film Club 6pm Cineworld, White Rose Shopping Centre Saturday 23 November South Leeds Hikers Kinder Scout 8am Transport provided South Leeds Community Orchestra 10am-12pm St Cross Church, Acre Road, Middleton Festival of Brewers 11am-4:30pm; 5-10:30pm New Craven Hall, New Craven Gate, off Dewsbury Road LS11 5NF Sunday 24 November Sunday Lunch 12-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Sunday Lunch Club 1-3pm Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston To Those Born Later 5-6pm Slung Low at The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn, Holbeck Monday 25 November Hunslet TARA Coffee Morning

10:30am-12pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Road Code Club 3:30-4:30pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Road Tuesday 26 November LCC Housing Advice Surgery 9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Learn My Way – computer skills 12:30-1:30pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Street Middleton Community Group 7pm St Cross Church, Acre Road Wednesday 27 November SLLAH Singing Sensations 10am-12pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Volunteer Rangers 10am-12pm Hunslet Cemetery Middleton Road SLLAH Kurling 10:30-11:30am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Tiny Tetley 10:30am & 11:45am The Tetley, Hunslet Road Cop Shop Memory Cafe 1-3pm Elland Road Police Station Arm-in-Arm Memory Cafe & PCSO Surgery 1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Thursday 28 November Hunslet Remembered 10am-12pm Hunslet Community Hub, Waterloo Street Litterpick & Clean up 10am Church Street, Hunslet Toy Library 11:15am-12:15pm St George’s Centre Community Hub, Middleton Beeston Christmas Lights 6pm Beeston Co-op, Town Street Festive Wreath Making 6:30-8:30pm The Tetley, Hunslet Rd Friday 29 November Free Legal Advice 2:30-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston The Unpublished Authors’ Fan Club 6-8pm The Holbeck club, Jenkinson Lawn, Holbeck Saturday 30 November Christmas Fair 10am-2pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Stained Glass Workshop 10am-1pm; 2-5pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre Family Art Workshop 11am-3pm The Tetley, Hunslet Rd Sunday 1 December Festive Wreath Making 11:30am-1:30pm The Tetley, Hunslet Rd The Year My Vagina Tried To Kill Me 5-6pm Slung Low at The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn, Holbeck Holbeck Christmas Lights 5:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck

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

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South Leeds Life | November 2019

22 News

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

IN BRIEF Chocolate, Chat & Chill

Family friendly roundup

by Helen Robinson

Chocolate, Chat and Chill, is a new wellbeing drop-in session. The sessions, run by Touchstone as part of the Your Space project, take place every Monday from 5:30-7:30pm at Laurel Bank Day Centre on Middleton Park Avenue; and every Wednesday from 6-8pm at St Matthew’s Community Centre in Holbeck.

The future of Hunslet RLFC There’s a meeting on Monday 4 November for Hunslet fans to hear about plans for the future of the club, including whether it should carry on as a Supporters Owned club. The meeting is in the Phoenix Lounge at South Leeds Stadium at 7:30pm.

Brown Bins and recycling If you have a Brown garden waste wheelie bin, remember that collections will stop over the winter months from the end of November. You can get details via the LeedsBins app.

The opening hours at Holmewood Road Household Waste site have changed to 8am4pm over the winter. The site is open every day except Christmas, Boxing, and New Year’s Days.

Festival of Brewers Whilst the more well know breweries often get featured at many other festivals, Festival of Brewers tips this on its head and throws the spotlight on only smaller breweries.

It takes place on Saturday 23 November at the New Craven Hall, just off the top of Dewsbury Road near the motorway (LS11 5NF). Full information at: www.festivalofbrewers.co.uk

Helen and Lily

H

ere’s your roundup of family friendly activities for November.

I’m Helen Robinson and I run local parents’ website and community, South Leeds Mumbler: southleeds.mumbler.co.uk. Visit the website for more ideas and up to date listings of regular playgroups, classes and days out ideas.

With the end of half term, bonfire night and Baby Week Leeds 2019 all taking place this November, families in South Leeds will be spoilt for choice with this month’s list of events and activities – many of them free and low cost.

Outdoor events and nature activities Skelton Grange Environmental Centre (LS10 1RS) is open Monday 4 November and Monday 2 December (10am-1pm) for its monthly ‘Nature Visits’ event for families and childminders to independently explore the nature areas. Pre-booking required. £3 donation per child can be paid on arrival. On Saturday 30 Nov there will be a ‘Christmas Tree Forest’ Stained Glass Workshop (10am1pm & 2pm-5pm). Booking required.

Visit tcv.org.uk/skeltongrange or call Harry on (0113) 243 0815.

In the city centre, the Playful Leeds team of fun ambassadors will be out on Briggate again this October half term (Thursday 31 October - Sunday 3 November, 11am-4pm), bringing the famous Playbox full of FREE creative, crafty, inventive, colourful and fun activities for children and the young at heart.

If your kids “dig” diggers and you want a trip further afield, South Leeds Mumbler currently has a

South Leeds Hiking Group The group’s next excursion is to Kinder Scout in the Peak District on Saturday 23 November.

Transport is provided, if you would like to join the walk contact the group via www.facebook.com/ SouthLeedsHiking/.

20% discount on for Diggerland.

Download the voucher from southleeds.mumbler.co.uk.

FREE Family Friendly Firework Displays and Bonfire Night Events The Holbeck club (LS11 9QX) on Saturday 2 November. Doors 6pm, fireworks at 7pm.

Middleton Park (LS10 3SH) on Tuesday 5 November. Bonfire lit at 7pm, fireworks at 7pm.

The Hunslet Club (LS10 1BP) on Saturday 9 November. Doors 6pm, fireworks at 7.30pm.

Indoor and outdoor extreme sports Hunslet is home to the dynamic skate and climb duo, LS-TEN and City Bloc.

The LS-TEN Skatepark in Hunslet (LS10 1NT) is open daily to all, with ‘Mini Riders’ sessions for under 8s on Mondays & Wednesdays, 4-5pm & Sundays 9-9.45am.

Adjoining City Bloc is home to Leeds's first dedicated indoor bouldering centre, offering 1-hour instructed “Junior Ibex” climbing sessions each weekend (10-11am for 6-10 year olds and 11.15am12.15pm for 11-16 year olds). £7 each. On Saturday 9 November, City Bloc is celebrating its 10th birthday with a ten-hour party from midday to 10pm. The “Bloc Party” includes a climbing competition for all abilities, free giveaways, hot food, alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks plus other fun climbing antics. Tickets £15. Email info@citybloc.co.uk or call (0113) 391 2652.

Over in Middleton, the mountain bike trail centre and BMX track, Leeds Urban Bike Park is free to use and open daily. You can make a day of it with the onsite bike shop, workshop and café serving quality coffee and food. The café is open Mondays 10am-5.30pm, Tuesdays & Wednesdays 9.30am-8pm, Thursdays & Fridays 9.30am5.30pm, Saturdays 9am-5.30pm, and Sundays 9am-5pm. The bike shop is open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10am-6pm, Wednesdays 10am-8pm, Saturdays & Sundays 9am-5pm. Call (0113) 277 2413 for information.

Leeds Central Library Tech Events for Children If your kids are into tech, Leeds Central Library has some great

events on this month, including ‘BJSS All Girls STEAM Hack: Inventions’ where girls can find out more about inventions and bring their own ideas to life using creative tech like Makey Makey and BBC micro:bit (Friday 1 November, 24pm), the fortnightly Code Club (Sat

Join the Code Club at the Library

2 & 16 November, 11am-12pm), and Minecraft Café (Saturday 2 November, 2-4pm). Tickets are limited and sell fast so early booking is advised, via ticketsource.co.uk/leedslibraryeve nts. Code Clubs also run after school at local libraries.

Baby Week Leeds 2019 R eturning for a fourth year (2nd to 9th Nov), Baby Week brings together parents and professionals to celebrate and showcase the wealth of services, support, activities and groups for babies and their families across the city.

The event aims to raise awareness of the importance of high quality early years support and best practice for healthy mental and physical growth and development.

This year will be the biggest yet, with over 100 events taking place all over the city. They include lots of free activities for babies and their families, plus information on everything new parents might need to know to enjoy becoming a family in Leeds. Many events require pre-booking, so please check babyweek.co.uk for details beforehand.

Monday 4 November Come meet the Mumbler team at the Baby Week Leeds 2019 Opening Event (11.30am-4pm) at the city centre Crown Plaza Hotel.

We will have toys, games and crafts on the Mumbler stall so pop in to have a cup of tea with us while your little one plays.

Also in the city centre is a Baby Sensory Play event with Make My Play (11am-4pm) at PlayLab at St Johns Centre, and a BoomChikkaBoom Baby Rave (10.30-11.30am) at Revolution de Cuba.

Dewsbury Road Community Hub (LS11 6PF) is hosting ‘Creative Play with Duplo’ (10-11.30am).

Tuesday 5 November Tiny Tetley under 5s crafts and messy play taster (10.3011.30am) at The Tetley (LS10 1JQ) and Baby Week Storytime (10.30-11.30am) at Hunslet Community Hub (LS10 2QE).

Wednesday 6 November At Two Willows Children’s Centre in Beeston (LS11 8HS) there will be a baby group offering a range of activities for parents and babies to do together, including books and rhymes and foot painting. Plus guest speaker talking about bonding and making connections.

Contact Becki Howcroft on 07595 218064 for details.

Christmas Fairs Acre Court sheltered housing scheme in Middleton will be holding a Craft Fayre on Saturday 16 November, 1-3pm. Crafters can get a table for £5. At the same time Cardinal Court in Beeston will be holding their Christmas Fair.

Both events will raise money for Christmas activities for the residents at each location.

Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife

Thursday 7 November Middleton Play & Learn will have an ‘Introduction to Baby Massage’ session plus guest speaker from the local breastfeeding group to talk about the benefits of breastfeeding and how this promotes positive well-being for mums and babies. There will be sensory & heuristic play to promote healthy brain development plus an opportunity to share books. Contact Kelly Bellwood on 07891 277161 for full details.

Join Opera North (10.3011.30am) for an uplifting sing-a-long with the ‘Bring-AlongA-Baby-Choir’ at Leeds Central Library.

Friday 8 November There’s a full day of activities in the city centre, including Leeds City Museum’s Tiny Tigers Crafts (10-11.45am), a free Mindfulness For Children session with Mind It (10-10.45am) at St John’s Centre, a Maternity Services event (11am2pm) at Leeds Kirkgate Market where you can discuss all things maternity, baby and child friendly with experts and you can enjoy free play, pampering and lots of fun! Plus a Family Fun Day including exciting taster sessions with Playful Anywhere, Leeds Baby Bank & St Johns Centre (10am3pm) at PlayLab in the St John’s Centre.

Over at Crown Point shopping Centre (LS10 1ET), Mothercare is hosting Buddy Groups from 12noon with Mummy Buddy.

More information about Baby Week Leeds and full listings at: southleeds.mumbler.co.uk/whats -on-for-families-during-baby-weekleeds

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South Leeds Life | November 2019

24 Sporting Life

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

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Hunslet RLFC Corinthians make a perfect start to the season Presentation M

by Andrew Cassar

iddleton-based Leeds Corinthians RUFC travelled to Halifax Vandals yesterday (19 October 2019) with a 100 percent, 5 from 5 record, but knowing this is always one of the toughest places to visit in Yorkshire.

Also, there was a last minute defeat last season fresh in the mind. Leeds knew to make it 6 from 6 they would need to be at at their very best.

when Leeds winger James Addis knocked on from the high ball, giving Vandals an attacking scrum deep in Leeds’ 10m.

Corinthians massive defence held out with Neil Orr leading the team by example with some great defensive work.

Corinthians’ first chance came from a Vandals dropped ball in their own half. Continued pressure allowed Neil Orr first sight on goal from a penalty and he converted: 0-3.

watching Sinckler’s play for England. Wilkinson passed to Whickham who took the tackle.

Leeds now piled their own pressure on and put together a good number of phases. This led to another good back move and again found Wilkinson, who this time crashed over for the try. With the conversion by Neil Orr, Leeds went in at half time leading 0-10.

The Vandals needed a quick start to the second half and that’s what they got. A knock on

Corinthians attack the Halifax line Leeds won the toss choosing to play up the hill first half.

The first 10 minutes was all Vandals with their game plan clear to see. Keeping Leeds pinned in their 22 with some clever kicking by Vandals.

Leeds defence stayed strong and forced a number of mistakes from Vandals allowing Leeds to clear. The next ten minutes was very evenly matched with great defence by both teams.

The first real chance came

Again the Vandals came back at Leeds, but again Leeds held strong. A lot of credit goes to the front row of Wilkinson, Cassar and Harrison who were playing against bigger opposition but never took a backward step.

Leeds got their first venture into the Vandals’ half due to a very good turnover by Scrum Half Avison. This led to a great miss pass by Danny Boyes hitting prop Wilkinson out wide, it looks like he has been

from the kick off by lock Max Patten allowed early pressure from the Vandals who eventually made the breakthrough. They missed the conversion: 5-10.

Next on the scoresheet was Neil Orr who took the opportunity from the penalty spot for an offside offense: 513. The game really upped a gear now with both teams going at each other.

Next to rise to the occasion was the Vandals’ 10, taking the

game to Leeds and dancing through three missed tackles to score a good try under the sticks. The conversion brought Halifax within one point of Leeds at 12-13.

Leeds rallied with a great drive by Max Patten and the quick ball by Avison leading to Neil Orr crashing over.

Corinthians were unable to add the conversion leaving the score 12-18.

The Vandals fought back and with great maul work up the hill and managed to score in the corner. Again there was no conversion leaving the game at 17-18 with 20 minutes to go.

Leeds had a chance to extend their lead but missed the penalty. With 12 minutes to go the Vandals took the lead with their own penalty: 20-18.

Thoughts of last year were fresh in the mind, but Leeds have been in this situation a few times this year and they set about taking the game to the Vandals.

The first opportunity fell to Neil Orr from the penalty spot, but again the Vandals got away with it as he missed the kick, but from the resulting 22 Leeds again piled the pressure on. Up stepped Danny Lawton with some good feet to finish nicely in the corner followed by a great conversion from Neil Orr: 20-25 with 3 minutes to go.

The Vandals threw everything at Leeds, but Leeds’ defence held strong with Neil Orr stealing the ball and clearing as the final whistle went. It was a very good second half for the neutral. Leeds take the win and move on, 6 wins from 6.

Final score Halifax Vandals 20-25 Leeds Corinthians Man of the match: Neil Orr

Tom’s aiming to bowl the Aussies over L

by Abbie Randall

ocal lad Thomas (Tom) Chippendale is winding up to cross the oceans and further his cricketing career in the land down under!

Having previously played for local team Hanging Heaton, Tom who hails from Hunslet, has been signed

by Australian team Carnegie Cricket Club in Melbourne. He will play in their upcoming season, hopefully bowling over the opponents with his fast arm and consistent winning streak.

Tom is a quick, efficient, experienced bowler who is sure to continue playing to a high standard during his time abroad. Although nervous about his new venture Tom says this is a once in a lifetime opportunity for him which he feels privileged to be selected for.

Tom will spend six months with Carnegie gaining valuable experience and helping rookie players while working hard at this game and on the grounds. We look forward to following Tom’s success and hearing more about his adventure on his return.

Headed down under: Tom Chippendale

Evening

Pat Gunney presents the trophy to Michael Haley

F

by Pat Benatmane

riday 13 September saw the coming together of team, staff and fans down in the Phoenix Bar at South Leeds Stadium to make the annual awards to Hunslet RLFC team members.

Players brought along their families to see who had won the votes and to watch a review of the season.

Top try scorer with 19 tries through the season was Gareth Potts. He announced his retirement due to injuries and will be a hard act to follow, as his achievement puts him second in the League One table of Top Try Scorers. Gareth also received the Supporters’ Player of the Year award.

Michael Haley, who celebrated his 32nd birthday the day before the awards, is another who has decided to retire, after six years at Hunslet.

He received the award voted for by fans who travel to away matches together – a large sculpture of a hawk – which was presented by chief ball boy, Corey Cairns.

He also became first custodian of a new award, the Geoff Gunney Trophy. This handsome trophy, donated by Geoff’s partner, Pat, commemorates the marvellous record of the Hall of Fame legend who pulled Hunslet back from disappearance in

1973. One-club Gunney was only sent off once in nearly 600 matches and an extract was read from the ref’s letter reporting the incident, which involved fisticuffs after a Wakefield player punched Geoff in the face with one hand, before trying to gouge his eyes with the other hand.

Gunney was a tough, hardrunning forward, so it was fitting that Michael Haley was the first recipient.

Jimmy Watson, the Hunslet full-back, received the Ronnie and Joan Fletcher Award.

Jimmy is a local lad, much admired by the fans. The Top Tackler with over 500 was Mike Emmett, another about to retire. His offer to show his tackling technique was politely declined by the compere.

Also receiving a trophy was Zach Braham, chosen by Gary Thornton, the Hunslet coach, as the Most Improved Player of the season. Several players were mentioned by the coach as contenders for the Coach’s Player of the Year, but the accolade went to Vila Halafihi, who claimed he had never won anything before. Fittingly, he added the cherished Players’ Player of the Year award to his collection.

Presentations were also handed out by the captain, Duane Staugheir, as thanks to the back-room staff, an important part of the team.