Your FREEcommunitynewspaper Issue 89 | September 2022 Covering Beeston, Belle Isle, Cottingley, Holbeck, Hunslet, Middleton, Riverside & Stourton SPORTING LIFE WHAT’S ON LIVESSCHOOL LIFE 19-2123-2416-1810-13 NEWS 2-9 COMMENT 14-15 Get the latest news at www.southleedslife.com - new stories posted dailyInthisissue:Beeston’s Climate Change Pledges page 5 Scouter carries Queen’s Baton page 6 Teachers retire after 30 years page 10 Vote Gideon for Children’s Mayor page 12 CJCA athletics team take silver page 24
COUNCILMorton BACK Hunslet RLFC’s plans to bring social investment to South Leeds thwarted
TURNS
ON £12M
Hunslet Board members Neil Hampshire and Kim Groves at South Leeds Stadium
“The Council were pretty negative towards the proposal from the start and their delays actually led to a significant amount of the initial funding being used in a separate project with another Council. Nonetheless, we were asked by the Council to engage with the local Community sports groups and encouraged to put a new proposal together to cover the main stadium, the 5–a–side pitches, the (now condemned) 1G full size pitch and our current training area. “The proposal was for a longterm peppercorn lease in exchange for between £10m£12m of initial investment including £2.7m of social investment for the local community which would have been deployed by the Hunslet Foundation to support numerous local initiatives and projects, as well as provide services such as homework clubs and tens of thousands of hot meals to those in need. “The social investment, which was to be followed by an overage facility, would also have ensured the immediate and long-term futures of over half a dozen local partner organisations be they sport, culture, community support or care“Thisorientated.proposition was built in collaboration with local stakeholders to better our community, which has been neglected for too long in favour of more lucrative and attractive propositions elsewhere in the city.“We followed up our proposal with two further video calls and a letter answering every single one of the 20 questions they raised. Despite that, the Council concluded that they did not invite interest in the site and therefore will not be taking the matter further. I think that this is a sad decision for South Leeds and would strongly urge the Council to reconsider their position. There is no embarrassment in doing a u –turn on a decision, after all, the government does it all the time!”Hampshire has written to Martin Farrington, Director of City Development, copying in Tom Riordan, Chief Executive and James Lewis, Political leader at the Council, in response to the decision and has shared that letter with South Leeds Life. In the letter, which you can read in full at t-rejectedsouthleedslife.com/investmen , Hampshire asks a Continued on page 2 by Jeremy
As we previously reported online, Neil Hampshire, Director at Hunslet RLFC, has been working over the past year with fellow Director Kim Groves and companies Advantage 42 and Community Einstein to bring significant investment into South Leeds. The process has been more arduous than any of them ever imagined. Hampshire said: “Last July we approached the Council to discuss the potential to bring in £23m of investment into South Leeds Stadium and the local community. I have to say that I fully expected the Council to invite us in for negotiations immediately, but over a period of the next 12 months we were largely kept at arm’s length and restricted to less than a handful of meetings for around half an hour each.
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On Thursday 7 July Councillors on the South & West Plans Panel considered the application to create a new 3G rugby pitch and three tennis courts at Cockburn School and it is far from clear that the application will eventually be approved, at least in its current form. The meeting was considering a ‘position statement’ on the application (not deciding to grant or reject planning permission) and after two hours there were more questions than answers. The outcome was summed up the Area Planning Manager: “Panel is not convinced this is the optimum solution and there’s a lot to be done by the applicants to convince the Panel otherwise.” As we have previously reported, Cockburn School wish to build the pitches on part of the land that was formerly part of South Leeds Golf Club before it closed in 2019. The pitches are in part to make up for lost outdoor space that was taken up by a new block of classrooms that were built to accommodate extra pupils due to the lack of secondary school places in South Leeds. The school is also well below the Department of Education guidance on outdoor play space, having only 65% of the recommended space. There were a lot of concerns about the proposal from Councillors of all parties and further information was sought relating to: Further consultation with LocalWard• Members required. Needs assessment should becarried• out as requested by Sport England.More detail of biodiversitymeasures• and carbon capture from new trees. Although policy compliant more replacement trees should be Membersprovided.didnot consider thatthe• case for not using existing pitches had been fully and properly considered particularly with regard consideration of drainage matters. Concern re public access toexisting• cobbled path outside school hours.Concern re community use of3G• pitch if approved. A robust and enforceablecommunity• use agreement needed to be produced as part of the application.Parking for existing use andproposed• community use of pitch needed to be thoroughly considered.Details of constructionmanagement• plan required as part ofDetailsapplication.ofdisabled accessand• drop off arrangements required for pitch use and Tennis courts.The application is returning to Plans Panel as we go to press (1 September) with a report detailing the applicant’s responses to the points raised and a recommendation from officers that permission be granted, subject to a number of conditions.
South Leeds Life is pleased to publish views from across the political spectrum, provided they comply with our editorial guidelines. We remain a neutral publication with a diverse readership, as such we do not endorse any particular political party. Contact us South Leeds Life CIC 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Leeds, LS11 7BW Email:Phone:Facebookinfo@southleedslife.com&Twitter:@SouthLeedsLife07894583966
Citu’s multi-generational building will wrap around a public courtyard Council turns back on £12m
South Leeds Life September 2022 www.southleedslife.com facebook.com/southleedslifeFacebook:@SouthLeedsLifeTwitter: us
Councillors approve two South Bank developments
Councillors on the City Plans Panel approved two applications from South Leeds when they met on 11 August. An application for 370 flats on land off Water Lane in Holbeck returned to Panel having been deferred in July due to viability issues.The scheme is located next to Midland Mills on a piece of land which has been used as a car park in recent years. The site is constricted and with building costs rising fast at the moment, the developers, McLaren, had asked to be exempted from a number of local planning policies to keep the project viable.Councillors were not keen to waive conditions including affordable housing provision, active travel plan and local greenspace contribution. They asked the developers and planning officers to have further discussions on these issues.Thedevelopers then offered to include 19 units of 3-bedroom affordable flats, plus an additional £50,000 of s106 funding to improve pedestrian safety on Water Lane. The scheme was approved, subject to Theconditions.second scheme is an innovative project described as a multi-generation building comprising a primary school, nursery, 72-bed care home, 80 flats and cafe at Sayner Lane and Clarence Road in Hunslet. The four storey building is the latest phase of development that Citu have brough forward in the area.The building will wrap around a courtyard with the nursery and primary school occupying the ground floor on three sides and the care home on the ground, first and second floors of the fourth side. 80 flats will be built above the nursery, school and care home and a café will be provided in a corner of the courtyard.Aswith other phases of the Climate Innovation District, Citu will build to very high environmental standards with high insulation and low running costs. Panel approved the scheme, subject to conditions.
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.
“We all recognise that these are hard times for public bodies and I’m struggling to see how turning down significant investment into the City can be the right option? Surely it would allow the Council to utilise funds earmarked for the site across the wider City and help to alleviate cost pressures? It looks a “win –win” all round to me. I urge the Council to get back round the table with us to thrash out concerns and agree a way forward. We don’t want to see a situation where South Leeds is once again being let down by the Council and those who we expect to support us.”
About
2 News
Continued from page 1 series of pertinent questions includingHowand where the decision to reject Hunslet’s approach was taken, as they had been told the final say would lie with the Council’s Executive Board? What plans the Council has to improve South Leeds Stadium, how these will be funded and how the £2.7m of community investment will beHereplaced?alsoraises the issue of 1999, the year Hunslet were denied promotion to Super League because South Leeds Stadium was not completed as promised as a 10,000 seater stadium. He points out that no progress has been made on that issue in 23 years and may once again cause Hunslet problems as the RFL reshapes the game’s structures.Hampshire also explained that, through local community contacts, strong rumours are emerging that Leeds City Council are in negotiations with Leeds United who want to move their academy set up to be based at John Charles Centre for“I’mSport.hoping this is somewhat of an ‘urban myth’ based on the fact that the LUFC academy do use the site for training and games currently on occasion. But I will be seeking clarification from the Council, and in particular, if it is true, looking to find out why we weren’t consulted and how the arrangement may impact Hunslet going forward. Alarmingly, even if the centre does get a revamp for an LUFC academy, the council have not and will not replace the direct social investment element, which is a Hampshiretragedy.”also added “Am I doing the right thing in going public with this? Time will tell, but I’m not looking to ‘go to war’ with the council, I don’t think that would do either of us any favours. This is purely about us getting to the right outcome for the people of South Leeds and we can only do that if people are aware of the facts.
Councillors set to decide on new Cockburn sports pitches
Complaints
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Plan showing location of the proposed sports pitches
September 2022 | South Leeds Lifewww.southleedslife.com News 3info@southleedslife.comEmail:www.southleedslife.comWebsite:
Anew season means new hope for Leeds United, who avoided relegation from the Premier League on the last day of last season. For some though, it’s a ritual that goes back years and win, lose or draw they will be cheering on the Whites in the famous old ground whatever. Leeds United have a fanbase all over the world, so when that fan base turns up in LS11 for a home match where to go? Holbeck Working Men’s Club or just ‘The Holbeck’ has been around much longer than Leeds United, dating back to 1871. President Carol and committee members Ian and Dennis greet Leeds fans before and after the match for refreshments.Oneregular Terry told me he had been coming to the Holbeck since before the war. He remembered coming to the Holbeck to celebrate the great John Charles playing for Leeds. Leeds have a big following in Scandinavia and a mix of Swedish, Norwegian and Danish fans now frequent the Holbeck. One supporter Aspjon has been following Leeds since the late 80s and was looking forward to seeing Leeds’ new Danish signing Rasmus Kristensen making his league debut.Around two hours before kick-off the Holbeck gets noisy as the Shropshire Whites turn up in their bus. Chief Shropshire White Gaz told me that fans come from all over the county to watch Leeds. As well as fans from Telford and Shrewsbury some supporters drive up from South Wales to come on the Shropshire White’sWhenbus.asked ‘Why Leeds?’ Gaz said that he’d been following the White’s since the early 70s (the glory period) and after the 1972 FA cup victory over Arsenal became hooked. The All White kit was appealing, but on his first visit to Elland Road in 1979 his clergyman father was unimpressed by the foul language. But now it’s ‘in the blood’ for him and the Shropshire Whites follow Leeds everywhere.TheHolbeck was full to bursting before kick off and I spoke to fans from places such as Walsall, Stoke, Cheshire and Southampton.Ianfrom Southampton travels up for most matches and although born in the West Midlands was brought up in Wakefield and the love of Leeds United was born. Most supporters were sad to see former Coach Marcelo Bielsa go, but were looking forward to the new season. Brendan Aaronson seemed to be the most exciting prospect, but quite a few would still like to sign a back up striker for Patrick Bamford. Ian from Milton Keynes says it changed his life coming to The Holbeck: “The people are welcoming and Carol is the best president ever.” he said. The Holbeck itself is going through changes with the departure of performance group Slung Low, but with an upcoming Freddie Mercury Tribute Night on 16 September and plenty more Leeds home games the club will still have plenty punters through the doors.Ivisited on the first day of the season and Leeds beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1 so the celebrations went on long into the night at The Holbeck before everyone made the long journey home only to do the same again in a fortnight’s time.
The project has gone through so many changes since 2019 there were points where we questioned whether or not it would actually happen. But, we kept the faith, persisted and, on Sunday 17 July, we were able to hold a party on the ground at Tunstall Road to unveil this 7 tonne, 9 ft tall monumental sculpture in Tadcaster Limestone. The afternoon was a wonderful mix of people local to South Leeds, members of the art community and friends of the artist, himself Leeds based.BasementArtsProject has, since the very beginning in April 2011, been a social action project, with its feet planted very firmly in the art world. Taking high quality art out of the gallery setting and placing it in the community. Mostly this has happened at BasementArtsProject, a fulltime family home that doubles as a full time exhibition space. Over the years we have managed, through a constant programme of exhibitions and occasional workshops, events and projects, to engage the community in a kind of art that does not sit outside of daily life, but plants itself firmly at the heart of Jacob’sit. Ladder is our first project that has created a permanent and fully accessible art, locally in a public space that people can enjoy whenever theyBeforewant.Jacob’s Ladder the site was a mess, now it is free of the drug paraphernalia and human waste that once blighted it, instead providing a pleasant green environment, shaded by trees in the heat of the summer and with a magnificent artwork at the center of BasementArtsProjectit. would like to thank artist Keith Ackerman, and technician John Barber for their work on this project over the last three years, and to say to the local community this is the beginning not the end. With the roles reversed we now switch to John Barber as lead artist, assisted by Keith Ackerman as we prepare to turn the two pieces of stone, also on site already, into benches that will echo the rough versus smooth surfaces of Jacob’s Ladder. So do come and join us if you want to have a go. Details can be found at bit.ly/carvingcorner South Leeds, this is your Pocket Sculpture Park. We hope you like it. Use it and enjoy it, it belongs to you now.
A warm welcome awaits Whites fans at The Holbeck
Jacob’s
A pint before the match for Shropshire Whites at The Holbeck Jacob’s Ladder can be found just off Tunstall Road in Beeston
Launching Ladder
South Leeds Life has been publishing a monthly newspaper since 2014, but is facing a huge jump in printing costs. The whole country is suffering from the cost of living crisis and we know many of our readers are facing stark choices about heating and food. But if you are able to spare a few poounds, we need yourOurhelp.finances have been fairly stable of the last few years. We get income from our wonderful subscribers and sponsors (see page 15). We get some advertising revenue and occassionaly can attract small grants.Werun a very tight ship at South Leeds Life. We don’t have an office, all our writers use their own equipment. Our main costs are a part time salary for the Editor and printing the paper. The cost of printing has gone up by 50% so far this year and is likely to rise again. This has had a significant impact on our finances. We’ve checked with other printers and prices have risen across the industry. So we are asking you, our readers, for help. We know you value our print edition, even if you also read the news online on our website. So we are very keen to continue publishing and we will continue to distribute the papers for free so everyone in South Leeds can access local community news. We would be delighted if you would become a regular subscriber at £4 per month, but if you cannot make that commitment could you make a one offPleasedonation?make yourdonation• by bank transfer to South Leeds Life Group; sort code 08-92-99; a/c 65591910.Orsend a cheque to us at224• Cross Flatts Grove, Beeston, LS11 7BW. Or look for the donatebutton• on our website at southleedslife.com to pay via PayPal.If you can afford to,please• take out a monthly subscription. Our regular subscription income helps us plan ahead. You’ll get the paper delivered to your door and free South Leeds Life mug. Simply sign up online at bit.ly/SLLsubscribe Are you part of anorganisation• that could become a sponsor? You will benefit from coverage and advertising. Call 07894 583966 for more details.
As those who have been following my updates over the last three years will know, yes it really has been three years since we began this project, we finally got Keith Ackerman’s sculpture Jacob’s Ladder upright in late-June.
CanforFundingappealSouthLeedsLifeyouhelpusraise£5,000tokeepSouthLeedsLifepublishing?
by Bruce Davies by Ian Pickles
South Leeds Life | September 2022 www.southleedslife.com 4 News facebook.com/southleedslifeFacebook:@SouthLeedsLifeTwitter:
This summer saw a positive force-wide campaign around the reduction of drink/drug driving. Drink and drug driving offences can carry really serious consequences for those involved. Not only do you risk your driving licence and potentially your employment and employability, but driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs can impactdownplaycannottheaaccidentsresultinjurieslifechangingstillarea.thosethepeopleforconsequencesdevastatinghavethesafetyofwithinvehicleandintheSadly,peoplereceivelifeandendingasaofwheredriverisunderinfluence.Itheonfamilies and friends of those injured or killed in incidents such as this, and so I would ask that you consider whether driving under the influence is worth the life of someone you care about, your freedom and your livelihood. Officers from your local neighbourhood policing team will be targeting offences like this throughout the summer. The summer months also make outdoor swimming popular. Whilst appealing in the hot weather, this can be exceptionally dangerous. My officers have been working with the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service to train in water rescueWatertechniques.currentsin reservoirs, and some lakes can be very deceptive and whilst the surface may look calm, there may be strong undercurrents that you cannot see. Temperatures too can be very deceiving, and can really hamper your ability to swim. Algae present in the water can harm animals and cause skin irritation, and debris under the surface can make it very easy to become trapped. Sadly, Leeds has suffered some tragic loss as a result of open/outdoor swimming. Please be mindful of the risks whilst you enjoy the summer weather.Iamaware of an increase in the use of off-road motorcycles and quad bikes. This is a major cause of anti-social behaviour in many of the South Leeds communities. Again, this practice can have devastating consequences for riders, road users, pedestrians and communities. Please be assured that this is an issue taken very seriously by West Yorkshire Police and Leeds District. The District has invested heavily in our Off-Road Bike Team, both in terms of its staffing and equipment. We are always seeking to evolve how we tackle the problem and work in partnership with Leeds City Council and others to reduce the prevalence of this form of anti-social behaviour. Many of the people riding motorcycles without helmets are children and young people. The bikes are often ridden in a dangerous manner. If you are a parent of a child involved in riding these bikes, please encourage them to stop. It is not worth life changing or life ending injuries. I would encourage communities to report the use of these bikes, many of which are stolen, to the police. You can also report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org My teams will continue to work to reduce crime and disorder in our communities and will be happy to take action around any information passed onto us.
Earlier this year we launched the ‘Charlie’s Challenge 10’ fundraiser to mark what would have been Charlie’s 10th birthday and try to rebuild its funds. We asked people to do any challenge – at any point this year – along the theme of the number 10. This is still running throughout the year if anyone wants to get involved. However, the financial pressures now faced are so great that we are now in urgent need of donations if we are to continue supporting the dozens of families currently accessing our free services. Sadly, since opening our doors, we have always been busy. At the moment, we are supporting around 70 families per week through face-to-face counselling, Zoom and telephone.Visit BereavementCentre/campaign/SaveOurwww.justgiving.com to make a donation and help the charity to reach its £10,000 target.
The children’s artwork is now displayed on lampposts The bereavement centre may have to close The Off-Road team line up in Middleton Park
On the beat
with Insp Tom Perry
Children’s brightens
Sadly this is an article we never wanted to write, but without support we may have to close the Bereavement Centre. When we started CharliesAngel-Centre way back in 2013, our motivation was and always has been that no bereaved family should have to go through what Charlie’s mummy did or us a family. However Covid has finally taken its toll. Over the last couple of years we have tried really hard to keep the Bereavement Centre open, when it’s been very hard not having funds coming in. We are not a funded charity and rely on members of the public to support us. We know how important the charity is to people who need our help. We are a lifeline, but without help we will have no choice but to close. We have always managed to stay around two years ahead with our funding however the pandemic has meant that we were not able to host our usual fundraising events.
artwork
Cottingley
Budding young artists from Cottingley are bringing joy to their neighbourhood with colourful artwork that is newly displayed around the community, thanks to a project backed by Beeston & Holbeck ward councillors. Pupils from Cottingley Primary Academy were invited to use their creative talents to put together designs that have been transformed into lamppost banners to brighten up their Fundsenvironment.fortheproject were secured by local councillors from the Inner South Community Committee and the Inner South Housing Advisory Panel, building on the success of a similar project launched in Holbeck in Councillor2020.Andrew Scopes, (Labour, Beeston and Holbeck) said;“Children from Cottingley are proud of their area and want to show what a great place it is to live. So my ward colleagues and I are delighted to have been able to develop and support this project. “It’s great that local children have been able to see their artwork transformed into banners that are bursting with colour and reflect the vibrancy of children and families in the area. I hope they bring a little joy to all who see them.”
Closure fears issuesCharlies-Angel-Centreasurgentappeal
Pictured are the ladies from the Friday morning social group, held at Beeston Village Community Centre who made their pledges during an energy saving visit from Hub Worker, James.Pledges included recycling, reusing shopping bags, doing laundry on a cold wash and using alternative transport to avoid unnecessary car journeys.Thankyou to everybody who has made a pledge so far for our competition to win a planter made from recycled wood worth £40. It’s not too late to enter. Simply choose something you can do to help the environment, take a photo with your pledge and post it to the Our Future Beeston Facebook page or email it to ourfuturebeeston @gmail.com The winner will be announced in the next edition of South Leeds Life. Good luck!
September 2022 | South Leeds Lifewww.southleedslife.com News 5info@southleedslife.comEmail:www.southleedslife.comWebsite:
Throughout the summer, Beeston residents have been making their climate pledges to help create a cleaner, greener, fairer city.
Your Climate Change pledges
South Leeds Life | September 2022 www.southleedslife.com 6 News facebook.com/southleedslifeFacebook:@SouthLeedsLifeTwitter:
Barbara Beck carried the Queen’s Baton through Shipley Karl on his first ascent of Scafell Pike Ellis with Cameron, Matty, Mum and Dad at Wasdale Head car park Karl with his Grandad Karl ready to set off on his 109 mile challenge
Ellis undertook the challenge to raise funds for Candlelighters, the children’s cancer charity, and raised over £3,411, by climbing over 14,000 feet of ascent – the equivalent of the Matterhorn in the Swiss Alps. The challenge started at Wasdale Head in the Lake District on Friday 22 July 2022 at 1pm. With friends, Cameron O’Connor and Matty Walsh, Ellis started his first ascent. Unfortunately, Matty suffered an asthma attack on the mountain and had to turn back, although he re-joined his pals for their third ascent. Night fell during this ascent as Ellis explained:“Itwaslike someone turned the lights off. It became very dark and very hostile very quickly at the top. While having a break before heading back down the temperature dropped massively, thick cloud set in and the rain came out of nowhere, it was treacherous!” With head torches giving little help, the descent was slow, but visibility improved as they dropped below cloud level. Unfortunately, with just a few hundred meters to go to the car park, Cameron twisted his ankle.Inthe circumstances, Ellis decided to pause until first light. Taking the chance to rest and change into dry clothes he was ready to go again for his fourth ascent, which he achieved in an impressive time of 2 hours 36 minutes. There was just enough time and energy left for a fifth and final ascent of Scafell Pike which was completed within the 24 hour deadline. Ellis returned to the car park to be greeted by cheers from Cammeron, Matty and his Mum and Dad support team. Commenting on his achievement Ellis said: “It’s crazy to think it’s all over, but what a pleasure it was to do knowing how that money raised can help those families dealing with such awful circumstances.“Iwillbeavoiding Scafell Pike for a while now I think! “I would like to thank Cameron O’Connor, Matty Walsh, Lorrayne Wilkinson, David Robinson, Danny O’Connor, Jamie Portrey; all of my amazing sponsors and everyone who donated and helped me raise a huge amount! It was a pleasure and I cannot thank you all enough.” The day in numbers: 5 14,32590,000+33milesummitsstepsfeetelevation gain £3,411 raised If you would like to donate to Ellis’s total go to: fundraising/ellis-rbrwww.justgiving.com/ Barbara Beck, who many families will know from her time as leader of 2nd South Leeds (Belle Isle) Scout Group, was honoured to carry the Queen’s Baton for its journey through Shipley. After travelling around the Commonwealth, the Baton was on its final journey around the country leading up to the opening ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games on 28 July.Barbara was nominated to carry the baton because of her forty plus years of service to Scouting. As well as her work in Belle Isle, where she is still a Trustee; she is also also a leader with Leeds Childrens Hospital Scout group and active support teams. She has also held several roles in Scouting in Central Yorkshire and also worked for a time on the national Cub Scout team and written articles for Scouting“IBarbaramagazine.commented:wasn’tjustcarrying the baton for my service to scouting, but for scouters everywhere who give up their time to hold the weekly meetings and camps for the young people.” For more information about Scout groups in South Leeds go to: www.scouts.org.uk/groups
Karl Foxton (31) from Beeston completed a 109+ mile bike ride in memory of his late Grandad, Harry Berry. This was to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society. Harry passed away from Alzheimer’s on 20 August 2021. The journey was from his Grandad’s home in Beeston to Anderby Creek near Skegness. This was where his Grandad and Grandma had a caravan. Karl had many holidays here with them and the place holds lots of happy memories for Karl.He set off from his Grandad’s home in Beeston at 7am on Monday 25 July 2022. Waved off by his Grandma Brenda and neighbours. The journey took 15 hours. Karl had to take a few detours on the way, but was greeted at Anderby Creek by his daughter Ella (7) and his partner Chloe at around 10pm.
The rain was pouring for the last 20 mile and it was dark when he arrived. He was exhausted but feeling proud and happy. Karl said “I’m only an amateur bike rider and have had no real training. It’s a real achievement. The last few miles were very hard and emotional but I did it for myKarlGrandad.”decided to do the bike ride to Anderby Creek in memory of his Grandad Harry because it’s a journey his Grandad would take him on to visit their holiday home. And decided to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society by doing it. So far Karl has raised £700. Donations are still open for Karl’s bike ride until December 2022 via Just Giving at: www.justgiving.com/karlfoxton
Karl’s fundraising ride in memory of his Grandad
Ellis completes his mountain Candlelighters charity challenge Scout Queen’scarriesleaderBaton
Ellis Robinson from Belle Isle has completed his Scafell Pike charity fundraising challenge, climbing England’s tallest mountain five time in 24 hours.
September 2022 | South Leeds Lifewww.southleedslife.com News 7info@southleedslife.comEmail:www.southleedslife.comWebsite: Health for All’s Inspiring Futures project has continued to grow, supporting young people of South Leeds from Chinese, Eastern European and Bangladeshi backgrounds. The Project, funded by Children in Need and the Youth Futures foundation, is aimed to support young people in overcoming challenges through workshops, group sessions, events, 1:1s, trips out and coaching.Theproject develops the passions of the young people as they start defining their own paths. It has provided social integration for children and young adults who are more isolated in the community due to language barriers, bullying, not being enrolled in school and limited life chances.
The team has worked together over last 18 months to facilitate a safe space where the young people have a voice and can see their own influence in designing the sessions and their futures. The project has continued to encourage the development of crucial transferable skills such as confidence, critical thinking skills, teamwork, beautiful friendships which promote healthier, happier and more inspiredBasketballfutures.sessions, cooperative games and board games have all been well received activities which have promoted the development of such skills. Other exciting activities have included a trip to York to explore the railway museum; meeting the programme lead of the Violence Reduction Unit; an inspiring visit from a NASA scientist; meeting an entrepreneur at one of her restaurants in the city centre; self-defence classes for boys and girls; an NHS dietician describing her career path and also highlighting the importance of healthy living; a playhouse workshop called ‘Elephant in the room’ which culminated in a visit to see the thought-provoking ‘I Wanna Be Yours’ by the Leeds Playhouse. There have also been partnerships with local groups Bangla Square and Happy Chinese Families to build connections and identity for young people within their community.Oneyoung person from the group, Omar shared his feelings about being part of Inspiring Futures: “The sessions and trips inspire me to try and do my best for my family and future … it’s nice to meet people and make friends”. The project has been privileged to be part of the success of one exceptional individual who successfully campaigned for a place in the UK youth parliament. We are delighted to announce that the feedback for Inspiring Futures Project has been incredible, with stories shared, culminating in being nominated and shortlisted for a Child Friendly Leeds award in the category of ‘Schools awards for local businesses/ organisations’.Wehopeto promote the dedication, passion and innovative work through an impact report which is led by the Pfizer leadership program. So far the project has supported 230 young people through holiday activities, career fairs, trips out, sports clubs, music workshops and community festivals. Vikrant Bhatia from Health For All says: “Big thank you to our funders Children in Need and Youth Futures Foundation for Funding this excellent initiative. The project has given us the opportunity to reach out to BAME young people from diverse backgrounds. The project will have a lasting impact on the lives of many from South Leeds.” Plans are being developed to sustain the good work in the future. If you or someone you know is interested in joining the Inspiring Futures project please contact Huazhu, Janetta and Rebecca on @healthforall.org.ukinspiringfutures
by Rebecca Cartwright
bringing isolated young people together
Inspiring Futures:
Inspiring Futures in South Leeds
South Leeds Life | September 2022 www.southleedslife.com 8 News facebook.com/southleedslifeFacebook:@SouthLeedsLifeTwitter:
Middleton Elderly Aid has been successful in securing a grant from the Big Lottery Fund to continue their Gardening Club. Manager Samantha Ely said: “We would like to say a massive thank you to the lottery for this funding, with which we intend to get outdoors and do some marvellous things in the garden.“OurGardening Group have been up and running for over two years now. The progression is amazing. If you would like to join this group just come anytime we are open and potter about in our garden and polyPattunnel.”explained: “Having been a member of Middleton Elderly Aid for several years I decided that I would like to have a go helping in the Middleton Elderly Aid Garden along with Eileen, Carol and Ada. “I found I really enjoyed myself, not only is it good exercise, but also healthy being out in the fresh air, and the end product is very rewarding. We also have new member Peter who is willing to help with anything we ask him to do. “John, one of our startedmembers, the weeding along the fence and did a really good job. Walter also was busy the other day clearing the paths of weeds.“Walter who has worked in the centre for many years, who does odd jobs and anything he is asked to do, made the new fencing and Linda, a volunteer, painted the new fence along with the benches, they both did a excellent job. “Also we have started a vegetable patch, in which have grown runner beans and cabbages, which are used in making our members lunches. We are now ready to plant sprouts and carrots. This is our first attempt with vegetables, so it’s a case of trial and error. “The rest of the Garden is lovely and so colourful, we are always getting praised about it. We now have Artificial Grass in the Garden which has made a vastThereimprovement.”arenewtables and chairs for our members to sit have a cuppa and chat. The Centre has a Memorial Garden, with roses in memory of Middleton Elderly Aid members who have passed away.Please call in and have a cuppa and enjoy our lovely Garden for yourself and hopefully we will be able to carry on with the rewarding work in the future.
Working in the poly tunnel
Two flags are flying at Middleton Park Middleton Park is one of seven parks in Leeds to once again receive the prestigious Green Flag award, as it is officially recognised as one of the country’s best parks. And a second flag is now being flown in the park to celebrate Leeds’ recognition as a Tree City of the World. The international accolade recognises commitmentLeeds’tocaring for its trees and woodland.
Tower Works tops out Construction of the historic Tower Works scheme on Globe Road in Holbeck reached a significant milestone with a topping out ceremony on Tuesday 8 August. The 245 unit build to rent (BTR) scheme sits within the historic Tower Works canal-side site. Having now reached its highest point of construction, Tower Works is set to complete in Spring 2023. A lucky evergreen bough was secured at the building’s highest point, a tradition which dates back to Roman times to ward off evil spirits. by Ken Ingram
NEWS IN BRIEF
Eileen added: “I was asked if I would like to join the Middleton Elderly Aid Gardening Club, and I’m glad I did, I really enjoy it. I get pleasure in planting the seeds and watching them grow and re-potting them in the MEA Garden.”Around the back of the Centre there is a poly tunnel, which allows the Gardening Group to sow seeds and plants which later can be transplanted into the Garden. It is a fantastic size, and in use all year round. The group have my deepest respect for the work they do in the Centre Garden. Not a day goes by that I don’t see someone in the Garden working away and don’t forget they are all pensioners.
Slung Low book now out on audio book Alan Lane’s ‘Pandemic Memoir’ about Slung Low and The Holbeck – The Club At The Edge Of Town – is now available as an audio book. The audio book is narrated by Alan Lane himself with Ian McMillan reading his poem Holbeck’s Never Ending Story. There is also original music from RashDash theatre company. The audiobook is available on Audible and Amazon, it should also be available very soon on iTunes.
Middleton Elderly Aid’s Gardening Club Assisi Place celebrates South Asian Heritage Month
MHA Assisi Place celebrated South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM) with a wonderful day packed full of fun and fascinating activities. The communal area was decked up with balloons, decorations and posters on SAHM to help residents understand the importance of theMHAcelebration.AssisiPlace in Hunslet has 45 modern apartments for rent, creating a diverse and vibrant community of residents aged 60 and over. SAHM is celebrated between 18 July and 17 August and is marked to commemorate and celebrate the countries that continue to link the UK to South Asia. As part of the event, representatives of the Sikh Elders Service, a support service for Sikh & Punjabi speaking Elders aged 55+ in Leeds attended and shared their stories on how important their heritage is for them. They also brought in some saris, traditional Indian clothing and demonstrated how to wear them with staff members posing as Residentsvolunteers.and staff members also tried their hands at some Bollywood dancing with Bollywood dancer Chiragi Solanki keeping everyone entertained.TracyCampbell, housing with care manager said: “I have always worked in roles where we have supported all ethnic minority groups and that’s something I want to continue here at MHA Assisi Place.“The purpose of organising this event is to celebrate the importance of SAHM and educate residents and sometimes there can be a lack of understanding towards other cultures.“Every day in the calendar is important and we will continue to make sure we work with diverse community groups like the Sikh Elder Service and help individuals to accept and understand different cultures.” Sarabjit Kaur, service lead for Sikh Elders Service said: “Assisi Place contacted us, and we were more than happy to collaborate with MHA and celebrate SAHM. “It’s always nice to go out and meet providers like MHA and it’s given us the opportunity to come out and experience what it’s like here at MHA Assisi Place. “The residents and staff were really intrigued with what we were saying and showing them, which was great to see. “It was a great experience and one we all really enjoyed, explaining our culture and what it means to us was very special.”Julie Ratcliffe, activity coordinator said: “We have been planning this event for two months and I am very happy with the outcome. “It has helped me to understand the support services that are out there, and I am very happy everyone enjoyed it. It was nice to hear the different stories and experiences and to experience the history and culture. “Especially after the pandemic we haven’t really had a chance to invite the community into Assisi Place and I am hopeful this will be the start of much more.”
The garden at Middleton Elderly Aid’s Social Centre
by Rebecca Townesend Edward Spencer window at Hunslet Moor Primary
Beeston's stained glass maker
September 2022 | South Leeds Lifewww.southleedslife.com News 9info@southleedslife.comEmail:www.southleedslife.comWebsite:
The
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In April 2022 Maria Read wrote to South Leeds Life about Hunslet Moor Primary School where she currently works, as part of her research into the history of the school. The letter included a photo and one of the questions she asked was “The photo is of a piece of stained glass, I believe from the original school on Burton Ave. Do you remember where in the school it was? I know it is the school badge but what is the story behind the glass? Who made it?” It turns out we do know the story behind it and who made it! His name is Ted Spencer and his daughter contacted us after reading Maria’s letter. I met Ted and his daughter Tina in his flat in Beeston at the start of the summer and Ted told me all about this stained glass and many others.Tedretired in 1995 at the age of 65 having worked as a bus driver and for AG Glass making double glazed windows. He was looking around for something to do with his retirement and some local children saw him making a stained glass window, something they had not seen before. He explained the process to create it and they asked him to make their school badge. He loved the idea and his first glass was for his childhood school, Corpus Christi in HaltonHowever,Moor. despite their appearance, Ted didn’t make typical stained glass but developed his own technique and used materials he bought from a shop in Morley. He started with a drawing (and not having professional art training Ted marked up pieces of old cardboard calendars with squares to ensure the accuracy of the image), and then made the shapes for the glass using coloured translucent plastic which would be adhered to a piece of glass with water. The next step was the lead which came on a wheel, and once he took the backing paper off, he would stretch it out by hand until it was soft and use a roller to stick it over the glass and the coloured plastic to create the appearance of a traditional stained glass. The leaded glass was placed between two panes of laminated safety glass creating a tripe glazed unit in a wooden frame. The units had to be safe for a school environment. At the time Ted was living in a two up and two down in the Lindens and he made his stained glass designs in his dining room at home alongside his other main retirement activity, working in his allotment.AfterTed’s first piece he went on to make about twenty for organisations in Leeds including a number of schools; St Anthony’s, Beeston Primary, Cockburn, Temple Newsam, Westerton (where it is still in place), Corpus Christi, St Patrick’s, Greenwood, St Michael’s, and the Blue Peter logo for the children’s ward at St James’ Hospital. He also made some for friends and family using a variety of designs including the Leeds United logo of the time and one using the family crest which is now in NewTedZealand!never charged for his creations and was inspired by the stained glass he always enjoyed seeing in churches. As Maria said in her letter to the“Historypaper: should never be a just a list of dates and events but rather it should be living, breathing memories of real people who lived and experienced life and all its ups and downs” and my meeting with Ted proves just that. Do you work somewhere that has one of Ted’s beautiful and unique creations? Please email info@southleedslife.com – we would love to feature more of his work and continue this exploration. They will be initialled EBS – Edward Benedict Spencer.
Two long serving Deputy Headteachers at Middleton Primary School retired in July after 30 and 35 years at the school. Penni Bullock arrived at Middleton after a number of short-term posts in neighbouring authorities. She came for one term and stayed for thirty years.
Leeds Credit Union provides straightforward and affordable financial services to people in Leeds, Wakefield, Harrogate and Craven.
Sarah Latham has spent her entire career at the school arriving as a NQT (Newly Qualified Teacher) thirty-five years ago. I spoke to them, and Headteacher Sam Williams, about their time at the school. They both said that it was the school community that made it such a rewarding place to work. “It’s a very, very special school, with special people, special children … and the parents are absolutely amazing,” said Penni. Sarah “Whenadded:thegoing gets tough, and it does get tough at times, but you’ve got support of other people. But the minute those children arrive with, their enthusiasm, you just forget about whatever’s going on in the“Everybackground.yearyou get a new cohort of children and new challenges, different personalities.”Theybothtalked about the satisfaction of making a difference to children’s lives. Whether that’s turning round a child’s reading, or behaviour so that they are ready to learn, or seeing a child new to the country blossom after a year or two in Pennischool.said she really appreciated hearing about how pupils had progressed after leaving the school, whether that was getting their GCSE results from the high school, or children coming back into school to visit. “There are quite a few mums that I took on residentials as children” she added. Sam “Workingcommented:somewhere for that length of time, you have a really big impact. Staying in one school, knowing the families and the community, the longer you stay the bigger the impact you have. Sarah and Penni have obviously committed to that.” They also reflected on how the Middleton community has changed over the last three decades:“It’smore multicultural now and that’s been a good thing for us. The black children in our school got a hard time and it was a big challenge for quite a while, but now we’ve moved on so much. I’m so proud of these children,” said Sarah. And what does the future hold in store? After a first ever holiday in school term time in September she’s planning to learn to play the piano as well as conversational Spanish. Sarah is keen to walk and swim – the East Coast, Lake District and Anglesey are favourites. And they both look forward to being able to spend more time with their families.
With many households struggling with the costof-living crisis and energy bills likely to rise again before the end of the year, is there any way to keep the cost of sending your child back to school to a minimum?
4. Looking online Facebook Marketplace, local Facebook groups, eBay and other online outlets can be invaluable resources in the runup to the return to school. Sellers offering bundles can be particularly good value for money and are well worth keeping an eye out for.
L-R Sarah Latham, Headteacher Sam Williams, Penni Bullock
withmattersMoneyLeedsCredit Union
directly.3.Shopping in supermarkets
The good news is that stationery is both relatively inexpensive and long-lasting. Retailers like WHSmiths and Rymans usually have sales on back-to-school essentials during August so remember to regularly check their websites and take advantage of their offers to keep your costs down.
Electronic devices In addition to the cost of school uniforms, computing equipment is also driving up the cost of sending kids back to school.Butif the cost of buying a new laptop is prohibitive, don't worry - refurbished laptops are easily available in shops and online and offer an affordable way to purchase a high specification laptop at a reduced price.
DePuy’s support for St Luke’s leavers
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School uniforms With so many items of clothing required, it's no surprise that school uniforms account for the largest back-toschool expenditure, especially if they need to have the school's logo on them and can only be purchased from a designatedFortunately,supplier.thereare ways to procure new school uniforms without breaking the bank. Such as… 1. OrganisationsRecycling like Uniform Exchange help families struggling with the cost of school uniforms by offering second hand clothing for free and encouraging people to donate items their kids have grown out of so they can be reused.2.School or council support Although funding cuts have made it harder for councils and state-run schools to provide grants for school uniforms, some councils and schools do still offer financial support. Use the Government's postcode checker tool to see if your local council can help, or contact your child's school
Check out Refurbished Laptops for high quality devices that have been tested to guarantee they're as good as new and wiped clean of previous data. Stationery Despite the prevalence of laptops among today's schoolchildren, they still need plenty of stationery.
Back to school: advice for parents
Jodie Lockwood, Branch Coordinator at Leeds Credit Union, takes a look. In the UK, the cost of back-toschool essentials continues to rise year-on-year, with the average spend on clothing alone now standing at approximately £315 per primary school pupil and a staggering £337 per secondary school child. And that's before you add in the cost of additional equipment like stationery and electronic devices.Wecould all do without another significant outlay at the moment. So how can you reduce the cost of sending your child back to school?
Mark Hodgkinson write: All the Year 6 pupils at Beeston Hill St Luke's Primary School would like to say a big thank you to Depuy for providing the refreshments for our 'Leavers' Disco. The children had a fantastic evening, dancing, singing along to some great tunes and feasting on pizza and ice creams. We're so grateful for you support, without which the event would have been significantly less special.
Teachers retire after thirty years service by Jeremy Morton
If your children go to schools that don't dictate where their uniforms have to be bought from, consider buying them from a supermarket - the average prices on the websites of four large UK supermarkets were approximately £58 less for a primary school uniform and £118 for a secondary school uniform.
In recent months, the art departments at Cockburn John Charles Academy and Cockburn School have been working alongside Year 8 and Year 7 to design and decorate sculptures exploring Transatlantic Trade in Enslaved Africa. The World Reimagined is a UKwide art education project featuring globally-recognised artists which aims to transform how we understand the Transatlantic Trade in Enslaved Africa and its impact on us all. This is not ‘Black History’, this is all of our history. The World Reimagined will see a trail of large Globe sculptures across 7 UK cities from 13 August to 31 October 2022, created by artists to bring to life a powerful journey of discovery that explores our shared history and the future we can create together.Ithasbeen an exciting process from start to finish, but we are proud to announce that the globes started their exhibition journey, first at Middleton Community Centre (Cockburn John Charles Academy) and Beeston Community Hub (Cockburn School) in August, followed by Leeds Railway station from 25 September to 9 October. The globes will then return home, to be on displayed in their schools.
Globe created by students at Cockburn Globe created by Year 7 students at Co
Vote for Gideon from Middleton Primary School for Leeds Children’s Mayor
The sports field at Ingram Road Primary School was turned into festival site on Wednesday 20 July with live music, food, stalls and a new political party. Ruth Saxton from Slung Low, who have been working with the school all year, explains: “The Imaginative Intelligence Warriors of Ingram Road Primary wanted to create an event that promoted kindness in Holbeck. Inspired in part by their visits to The Conference of Holbeck Moor and Beeston Festival, their vision was different activities linked to being kind to each other, with food (of course) and entertainment.“Thedayhas been full of joyful moments, whether it’s the children standing on a soapbox with a megaphone giving out kindness advice like: ‘make your mums and dads cups of tea’, or sowing seeds for NHS workers with thank you messages, or building a pay what you decide thrift stall with their unwanted toys for three chosen charities.
“Anything that gives children confidence in themselves will impact on their academic work too.”
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“Coming at the end of the school year, this has also given the pupils of Ingram Road the opportunity to simply have fun with their friends, where the only result required is to be kind to each other. Something that comes easy to this brilliant group of Thechildren.”Imaginative Intelligence Warriors are a group of children from Key Stage 2 who have been working all year on cultural activities with support from SlungTheyLow.have held campfire storytelling and a concert from the acclaimed Manchester Collective at the Holbeck amongst other events. Egg People, a theatre company from Liverpool helped the children develop a manifesto for a new Kindness Party. Children’s suggestions ranged from ‘stroke a cat’ to ‘rich people should buy poor people homes’ “share your ideas’ and ‘making people happy makes you feel happy.’ They then got the chance to stand on the soapbox and make their suggestion for how to be kind through the megaphone. They also made placards and rosettes to carry around the field. Headteacher Sarah Millard explained that the Imaginative Intelligence Warriors project was about helping to make rounded individuals who can play their role in “Whensociety:ourchildren leave us you want them to have good communication skills, to have confidence in themselves, to know where they can help from if they need it, but also to know who the other organisations in the community are. The children’s work with Slung Low has brought all of that together.
Gideon from Middleton Primary School in Beeston is amongst 12 candidates for the position of Leeds Children’s Mayor. Earlier this year children in Year 5 were encouraged to write a manifesto setting out a project that they would implement if elected by the young people of the city. Gideon wants to create a recycling competition called ‘Operation Save Green’ where recycling is used to create something new and help the environment. Here is his manifesto:Mygoal as Leeds Children’s Mayor would be to help reduce waste that harms the environment. I hope to make our city more environmentally friendly by keeping the streets clean, bringing more awareness to young children (like myself) and to make recycling more exciting.Toachieve this goal, I would host a competition around recycling called ‘Operation Save Green’. This competition would encourage children to think creatively; schools across Leeds would participate by making something new out of recycled materials. Each school would be able to put forward one entry, the finalists would take part in a recycling display at Leeds Hall. Why not create a new outfit? Using old clothes and materials around the house, you could design a piece of clothing and take part in a school fashion show. If designing is not for you, that’s alright, you could collect recyclable materials from the streets of Leeds and make an art piece or model. The products would be displayed in a showcase. The winner would receive a trophy and each entrant would get a certificate for taking part. Once the competition is completed, I would recycle all of the products gathered by the children of Leeds.‘Operation Save Green’ would not only benefit my school, but other schools in Leeds as well. This project has many positive outcomes including: cleaning the streets of Leeds, encouraging people to go outside on walks to keep fit, to raise awareness about how to recycle and to promote the importance of stopping fast fashion. My goal is to help our schools to develop their processes for recycling and to make it fun. I would hold meetings with eco warriors from different schools to cut down on the waste we are creating. The environment is one of the most important issues we are facing today and I urge children to start looking after our planet to create a better future for our generation. I hope you consider me for the position of Leeds Children’s Mayor, I guarantee that I will not disappoint you. Voting is now open for children and young people up to 18 years old. Click here to read all 12 manifestos and cast your two votes. Voting closes at 5pm on Monday 26 September 2022, with the new Children’s Mayor announced on 6 October.
Ingram Road’s Kindness Festival
Head of School at Cockburn John Charles Academy, Siobhan Roberts“Theresaid:issome real artistic talent within our student body, nurtured by the equally talented teaching staff, which has led to work from our students being exhibited in London and now taking pride of place in the local community and welcoming visitors to Leeds. We look forward to finding a permanent home for this amazing piece when it returns to us in September.”
Pupils enjoy chasing bubbles at the Kindness Festival
Middleton youngster in running for Leeds Children’s Mayor Schools’ transatlanticartworkslav
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On Tuesday 12 July 2022, pupils from Low Road and Windmill Music Federation were honoured to perform at Leeds Millennium Square as part of the Queen’s Baton Relay. After travelling around the Commonwealth, the Baton was on its final journey around the country leading up to the opening ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games in July. Over 100 pupils, led by Class Dynamix creator Danny Gough, took part in the once-in-a-lifetime performance. Singing three songs including ‘Light up for Leeds’ (an original commission), the pupils performed to crowds of spectators and a number of special guests including Alistair and Jonny Brownlee, and the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor RobertPupilsGettings.werelucky enough to be behind the scenes as the Brownlee brothers, with Baton, went on stage. Slowing the route down slightly, pupils were given high fives from both brothers as they carried the Baton to its resting point. This definitely calmed some pre-show nerves. From the the stage, it was clear to see emotional parents listening to the children sing their hearts out … and what a performance it was! One parent greeted her son with:“Look at you, you superstar singing in front of all those people. I am so proud of you!” The staff accompanying the pupils couldn’t agree more. Miss Messenger, Year 3 teacher at Low Road Primary School said: “I enjoyed every moment of the evening and felt immensely proud watching the children perform on such a big stage alongside other talented musicians!”MrAinsworth, Year 6 teacher at Windmill Primary School also commented:“Agreatopportunity for the kids to perform at such a big event, sharing a stage with some major acts. They all did us proud!”Itishard to express how this event made the children feel; some of the words and phrases overheard on the coach back to school included: magical, superb, spectacular and (of course)Federationnerve-racking!Safeguarding Lead, Sandra Senior, seen waving a 10 year anniversary of Child Friendly Leeds flag said: “An amazing experience for one and all! The singing was outstanding and as alway impeccable behaviour. Brilliant job to all involved” Low Road and Windmill Music Federation look forward to their next public appearance –whatever that may be!
College Principal
Construction Retires k explores the ve trade
n John Charles Academy ockburn School by Caroline Harvison
Derek Whitehead, Principal and CEO of Leeds College of Building, retired in July after 37 years working in Further Education and vocational skills training. Derek left school at 16 and joined the construction industry as Apprentice Carpenter & Joiner at Norman Hollins Ltd and then JSD Hamilton (Construction) Ltd. He gained a fantastic grounding in bespoke joinery products, new build housing, renovations, and shopfitting projects. It was a great platform to learn broader construction skills too. Yet, despite becoming a qualified construction worker, Derek’s experience at grammar school reinforced his desire to teach.
The Music Federation welcomes The Queen’s Baton to Leeds
“I loved working at the College so much that I continued in this role before becoming Principal & CEO. I have fully enjoyed all 18 years that I have spent at Leeds College of Building. I’m delighted to be leaving the College in such good shape. Inspections now show quality at ‘good or better’, our HE meets all UK standards, we achieved ‘good’ in our most recent Ofsted inspection, the ESFA gave us a ‘good’ rating too for our healthy financial position.” Nikki Davis, current Leeds College of Building Vice Principal for Teaching, Learning & Quality, will take up the role of Principal & CEO in August and becomes the first woman to hold the post in the 60-year history of the institution.
Derek’s first teaching job was in 1985 at Keighley College’s Carpentry & Joinery Department, where another lecturer (Peter Hakes) mentored him. It wasn’t long before Derek enrolled at HollyBank to study professional Teacher Training qualifications, followed by Bradford College to attain a teaching degree. Derek was then promoted to Section Leader for Timber Trades before leaving Keighley for a role at Bolton College as a Senior Lecturer. After that, Derek became Head of Construction and led self-assessment quality assurance across Bolton College. By the time Derek left Bolton, he was responsible for the Construction & Engineering faculty. He returned to Keighley College, this time as Head of Construction & Engineering. Then in 2004, Derek interviewed for Deputy Principal – Curriculum & Quality at Leeds College of Building and was selected for the role. Derek said: “Getting the post at LCB was such a fantastic accolade, especially with it being the only General Further Education College nationally that specialised in construction and the built environment education & “Itraining.feltlike I was back to my roots – where industry training moulds individuals into construction specialists. I am a massive advocate for vocational skills training and the vast opportunities this can unlock.
Class Dynamix on stage in Millennium Square High fives with Alistair Brownlee backstage
Derek Whitehead retired as Principal & CEO of Leeds College of Building
Wayne Dixon (SDP) 07852 311717 wayne.dixon@leeds.gov.uk
@HealthforAllLds Thank you @ThinkLikeaPony for making it special for young people - an absolute treat for children at Middleton Family Central #HealthyHolidays
Helen Line Retiring teachers
Your Leeds City Councillors
It’s not that a deal couldn’t be finalised to bring £12 million of investment into South Leeds that is so frustrating, it’s that Leeds City Council seemingly failed to engage with idea at all. South Leeds Stadium is an important sporting asset for the city, but it runs at a loss and is in need of refurbishment. Unlike the Council, Hunslet RLFC had access to the sort of funding that could turn the stadium round. And as a community owned club they were more than happy to sign up any conditions that the Council wanted to ensure that citizens could retain access to its seems to have been that the idea didn’t come from the Council. It’s hard to imagine the Council taking this attitude to an approach from other professional sports clubs in the city. Long service Let’s have another round of applause for Penni Bullock and Sarah Latham who retired as teachers after 30 years service to Middleton Primary School. We are told that to have a successful career you must move jobs every few years, but there’s a lot to be said for staying put. It takes years to understand how a community functions and what your role within it is. Over that time you will build up knowledge that organisations with high staff turnover cannot hold. Of course a change of scene can be reinvigorating, but organisations also need people who stick around for the long term. Public art Who would have thought it? Public at right here in Beeston! Well done BasementArtsProject for your tenacity it making the Jacob’s Ladder project a reality for us all to enjoy for many years. Trees in Middleton Park
@ChampionsCSH Week 3 here we come, half way through, amazing numbers so far��⚫⚪⚽ New members always welcome! Oh and it’s FREE @SkeltonGrange At last week's Green Gym we got creative and painted plant pots! If you'd like to join us, Green Gym runs every Monday - 1pm till 3pm. Contact skeltongrange@tcv.org.uk for more details. @HunsletClub Some old pictures from our archives! (Full album on Facebook to be added to) We have plenty more in storage waiting to be re-visited in order to ensure memories from our club and community are kept alive on our approach to our 83rd year!
G Spencer Middleton Park’s Green Flag Middleton Park is a fantastic park and one of my favourite places to visit. It’s well maintained with a great café and lake not to mention its heritage trails.
I work with many mums seeking Sanctuary who have joined this football team and l am delighted to see the positive effect it has had on their mental health. It has helped build a sense of community and enabled mums who were lonely and isolated make friends have fun and get fit. The providing of kits, childcare and travel is huge. I think Holbeck Moor FC should be very proud of themselves and l suggest they become a Football Club of Sanctuary. That is one that is proud to welcome and include people seeking Sanctuary. You can apply for a Sanctuary Award and l am happy to support you to get this through Leeds City of Sanctuary. Rose McCarthy Jacob’s Ladder
Andrew Scopes (Labour) 07860 400645 andrew.scopes@leeds.gov.uk
Keep up to date, up to the minute, by feed:Life’sSouthfollowingLeedsTwitter 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: @gorse_ruth Year 10 have been making salts in science today at summer #scienceisfun#summerschool2022school!#daretoachieve
Paul Wray (Labour) 07528 512649 paul.wray@leeds.gov.uk
Middleton Park ward Includes Belle Isle and Middleton. The three councillors are: Sharon Burke (Labour) 0113 378 8814 sharon.burke@leeds.gov.uk
Mohammed Iqbal (Labour) 0113 226 8796 mohammed.iqbal@leeds.gov.uk
Hunslet & Riverside ward Includes the city centre, Beeston Hill and Hunslet. The three councillors are: Ed Carlisle (Green) 07738 921277 ed.carlisle@leeds.gov.uk
I’ve played football ever since I was a kid, I was lucky that my school was supportive of the girls game and that there was a local club which encouraged girls to play and move into the women’s game. For many women of my generation that was simply not on offer Over the years I’ve heard friends and team mates recount experiences of a childhood where they had to stop playing at 12, the arbitrary age after which the FA imposed a ban on girls playing with boysif you didn’t have a girls team in your area, you simply couldn’t play. A rule which has now been changed to allow mixed football up to the age of 18, allowing division more on ability rather than gender.
We are very privileged to have Basement Arts in South Leeds. You cannot imagine that it exists in what looks like an ordinary house in a area such as this. Very ambitious plans for the Jacob Ladder sculpture seemed unbelievable when I first heard about them. A sculpture here , not in town ? Interesting reading in the article of all the different kinds of people who have watched this project progress. Many other people would love to have had an opportunity to see any sculpture progressing. The experience has touched people’s lives in a way that no-one can predict. Thank you to all involved , changing lives in a different way. Eve Tidswell 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.
Annie Maloney (Labour) 07554 969236 annie.maloney@leeds.gov.uk
we are doing too bad in England, but lets not rest on our laurels. I think there are two circumstances when ‘Ladies’ should be used to refer to women footballers, firstly if you refer to the men’s team as ‘Gentleman’ or secondly if the majority of your squad come from the landed gentry, neither of which applies to any teams in Holbeck, well, at least I don’t think it does.
The Council are hypocrites and they must have lied on their application for the award. How they have the nerve to even fly a flag in Middleton Park when they are even thinking of killing 38 mature old trees on the South Leeds meadow (old golf club) to put a second artificial pitch down for Cockburn School. Double whammy for destroying the environment. Linda Absolute hypocrites. ‘Green spaces open for everyone’ yet the council will be voting on their own planning application to steal a good proportion of South Beeston residents only easily accessible green space. In the process taking up an insect rich meadow and chopping down 40 healthy trees and replacing it with a plastic rugby pitch. Environmental vandalism at best, poisoning with rubber crumb and microplastics the very children that will play on it and anyone who lives down wind and down stream of it. When people become ill in a few decades time I hope the decision makers are brought to court. The evidence is already out there and many countries are banning them.
Paul Truswell (Labour) 0113 378 8811 paul.truswell@leeds.gov.uk
Your letters and comments
Thefacilities.problem
Beeston & Holbeck ward Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park to the Ring Road, Cottingley and Holbeck. The three councillors are: Gohar Almass (Labour) 07445 878 333 gohar.almass@leeds.gov.uk
Claire Graham, Coach, Holbeck Moor FC
The move by the last few WSL teams to change their club name from Ladies to Women came around the 2018/19 season with Everton being the last team to do so. That trend to replace outdated language is important to maintain if we are to keep gender equality on the agenda.
@SouthLeedsLife
South Leeds Life | September 2022 www.southleedslife.com 14 Comment facebook.com/southleedslifeFacebook:@SouthLeedsLifeTwitter: In our view
Lynne Brewer Holbeck Moor FC Ladies, ladies, its always bugged me, no, more than that, its always annoyed me that women footballers are so often referred to asTheladies.delicate, fairer sex, it evokes images of the Victorian game played in long dresses to preserve a player’s decency. It’s like people are scared of using the word ‘woman’ sometimes, another alternative that I fear is creeping into the lexicon is to refer to the ‘female’ game: which for me seems more like a scientific label rather than human description. How often would one refer to male or gentlemen players?
The level of respect and seriousness that countries give their women’s team varies, that’s evident in the women’s Euro finals currently taking place in England. We are still in a situation where amateurs are playing professionals, the Northern Ireland teams comprises of teachers, nurses and retail managers playing against fulltime citizens.equalrefectioniswomencountryIroundstheEuropeaninternational,underdogs,youcompetitionanfootballers.professionalI’mallforinterestingwherecansupportthebutthisisfootballnotpreliminaryoftheFAcup.thinkthewayatreatsitsfootballteamoftenagoodofhowitviewsitIdon’tthink
I had the pleasure of working with both these lovely ladies. Enjoy your retirement and don’t think you’ll get a lie in, that work ethic stays with you! Wishing you all the best for the future, you both deserve it.
Raw deal for South Leeds
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Constituency office: Unity Business Centre, 26 Roundhay Road, Leeds LS7 1AB; Tel: 0113 244 1097
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
Hilary Benn is our Member of Parliament.
MP’s notebook with Hilary Benn MP
A
Targeting help to people who need it is not straightforward, and the more complex you make the system, the more difficult it is to implement and the greater the risk that some people who really do need assistance will miss out. An alternative approach is simply to freeze energy prices which is what the Leader of the Opposition has proposed. This would prevent the energy price cap rising through this winter, and it would be paid for by extra tax on oil and gas giants who are making eye-watering profits. It would be universal and would buy some breathing space. It would also help bring inflation down and so make future interest rate rises less likely, so easing the burden on households and businesses. We also need to deal with the injustice that sees people on prepayment meters paying over the odds for their energy. It’s not fair and it must end. Either way, what’s clear is that the new Prime Minister is going to have to act very quickly indeed because people are worried sick and are already making difficult choices in their ownThelives.second task is to speed up the move away from fossil fuels to reduce our reliance on expensive gas. We already know we need to do this because of the impact of climate change - just look at the record-breaking temperatures we've seen in the last month or so – but now there is another reason which is to make bills moreAndaffordable.thatmeans investing in more renewable energy - wind, solar and tidal power - so as to protect ourselves against future shocks and build Britain's energy independence. This should also include building new nuclear capacity, with big plants like Sizewell C and developing small modular reactors.It'sthe same story on home insulation. Houses in Britain are the least energy efficient in Europe. We need to invest much more in upgrading our homes. This would help reduce bills whatever source of heating weAnduse. the third task is to increase the national minimum wage.Ihave never been so worried about the coming twelve months for my constituents as I am now. This is a real national emergency. And the responsibility on politicians is to come up with a plan to help people get through it. On a brighter note, Leeds has made the shortlist to host the Eurovision Song Contest next year, after Ukraine was forced to withdraw because of Russia’s invasion. Our city has put in a really strong bid, 2023 is already going to be Leeds City of Culture year and, of course, we have the great Leeds Arena which has hosted events like the BBC Sports Personality of the Year. Fingers crossed.Andfinally, it is good to see that work has at last started on improving the state of Hunslet Spire - that much-loved landmark. The Church of England has begun to remove graffiti, cut back weeds and other growth around the war memorial and assess the state of the structure itself. Congratulations to those who have pushed for this, including the Hunslet Carr Residents Association and local councillors.Forover 150 years, the Church spire of St Mary’s – the tallest in the city – has looked out over South Leeds. We are all determined to ensure that it goes on doing so for the next 150 years and beyond.
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September 2022 | South Leeds Lifewww.southleedslife.com Comment 15info@southleedslife.comEmail:www.southleedslife.comWebsite: You probably have to go back to the 1970s to find a time when the pressures on family finances were so acute. Then, it was the trebling of oil prices; now it is the huge increase in the cost of gas and electricity. The cost of living is rising at the fastest rate for forty years, real pay is falling faster than at any time in the past two decades and more and more people are struggling to Therecope. are pensioners who have no idea how they will heat their homes this winter and parents who are skipping meals so their children can eat. High inflation hurts hardest those on fixed incomes and high energy bills affect not only families, but also businesses, schools, hospitals, churches, voluntary organisations and shops. They need help too. To make matters worse, we've only begun to see the impact of this crisis because further big increases in energy bills are coming unless the Government does something about them. And if all this wasn’t bad enough, at the same time we have growing in-work poverty. For too many people, working does not bring in enough to pay the bills and look after a family. There are 5 million people who go out to work but who are also living in poverty, and that’s why we have seen an everincreasing number of people having to turn to foodbanks for help. Adjusting for inflation, average pay was actually lower this May than in February 2008 – more than 14 years ago. So what needs to be done? First of all, and most urgently, we have to protect people from further unaffordable increases in energy bills. The energy price cap was originally introduced to try and protect consumers, but it's now become a source of anxiety when we hear that it is going to go up again and again if global energy prices remain where they are.
South Leeds Life is able to keep bringing you the news because we are supported by a fantastic group of sponsoring organisations and ‘pound-aweek’ subscribers. We are keen to stay as independent as possible. We do receive grants from time to time and we take advertising, but we don’t want in a position where any one organisation can pull the plug on our work, so the more sponsors and subscribers we have the better.Weknow times are tough and not everyone can afford to pay for their news, so the website and the newspaper will both remain free, always. Costs are rising - our print costs have gone up 50% this year - so achieving a bedrock of sponsorship and supporters’ subscriptions gives us a firm and predictable financial footing and helps us plan for theSponsoringfuture. organisations receive free advertising and editorial support. Get in touch to find out more. Subscribers get our newspaper delivered to your door each month and a free mug as a thank you. Simply sign up online at bit.ly/SLLsubscribe or ring 07894 583966 massive ‘thank you’ to all our existing sponsors and subscribers listed here – why not join them today?
Contact: hilary.benn.mp@parliament.uk, www.hilarybennmp.com
Wasteland, beyond the window from Northern Monk Refectory, Marshall StreetThe Northern Monk Refectory in Holbeck
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It may, as part of the city’s expansion plans, be the site of more office buildings to secure more investment for Leeds, thereby strengthening financial security and creating more jobs for the city. Or it might become a park, a green space for residents living by the river and in Holbeck, which may even also attract cyclists commuting into Leeds because it’s a more pleasant accessOrdinarilyroute.we think of such spaces as ‘pending’ - uncared for fenced-off spaces which could easily be left for years without drawing too much attention. Sure, I know, I could google to find out if the space has yet been appropriated for use.But, on that particularly October afternoon, when you were lucky enough to experience brilliant sun, and sky of such blueness… that day, that space was nature’s domain.Iwas the only customer sitting by the windows who’d caught sight of the kestrel flying past at speed so fast it was too late to alert anyone. And, it could be that if you did mention the sighting to, say, a local or a member of staff, it might carry the risk of the matter-of-fact reply, “Yes, but you see ‘em here all the time”. I didn’t want that. OnOut. the hunt, with no-one whispering in its immaculately tuned ear that this was what is referred to as wasteland. Which it isn’t. I was a Mod when it emerged as a subculture back in the Sixties. Mohair suits, long leather trench coat, riding round on me Lambretta. Until me Lambretta got nicked. And if you’re a Rocker reading this please don’t get territorial - I did switch later to a look based more on John Lennon as seen on the front cover of his Rock And Roll album.The Mod Paul Weller switched too, leading to desertion by fans because he’d moved on to form Style Council. The ‘betrayal’ was a pop video of him dressed like an Etonian navigating a punt. He, who’d previously performed The Eton Rifles when with The Jam, an acerbic attack on our segregating class system. Found out about this reading an interview he gave not too long ago. He said he couldn’t continue writing lyrics which had no impact whatsoever on changing the status quo. Then all he had to do was mention Boris.Healso expressed an idea that hadn’t until then occurred to me. ‘Mods’ wasn’t just a 60’s cult. Mods meant something more, something Weller sustains to this day. It’s a commitment, to constantly look to modernise, to modify, not just for the sake of it but to always seek to make real improvements in life. To constantly progress.Yetwe have pundits claiming that we’re living in ‘a post-post modernist’ era. I don’t see any value in a description claiming we are living in an ‘after’ of something already ‘aftered’.
Here
Pathways for with Shannon Humphrey
The Northern Monk Refectory achieves this, with its cuttingedge progressiveness, its excellent craft ales, its awards for treating employees as human beings who matter, and its highly professional staff extremely knowledgable about their top quality products. Right here in South Leeds. There’s a comedian - didn’t catch his name (probably saw him on Live At The Apollo) but he got a good laugh from the audience when he joked that the inner city community he lived in (somewhere in London) estate agents there promoted it as ‘a vibrant, lively area’. So I’ve pinched the joke, raising laughs if asked where I live by saying, “Beeston - estate agents describe it as ‘a vibrant, lively area’, you know.” (Just a joke all right? Love where I live. More on what it’s really like living here in future issues. So when camping in Lincolnshire last year with me biking it to the next village to top up supplies it came as a bit of a surprise when locals, on seeing me approach called out, “Good afternoon! How are you today?!” (There are actually ladies you’ve never met before, on the pavement, greeting you as you cycle by!) Or, when visiting the local Coop, the group of youths standing outside open the door for my wife greeting her with a polite, “Good morning.” Of course rural areas are different from cities, and you’d be plain daft trying this approach in such a busy place asButBeeston.maybe it wouldn’t hurt if we could all be that little bit more polite to one other. Oh… and I’m doing a charity run in London next month for Amnesty International. You can find out more about it herefundraising/peter-haughton1www.justgiving.com/ and There with Peter Haughton
If we were to name a new age (no swearing please) what would it be? Until then, I think we’re still living in a modern era which we know requires the closest attention if we are to make things any better.
Afew weeks ago, I was lucky enough to be invited to a fancy awards show. My first thought was excitement, followed by “what on earth do I wear?” It was during the really hot spell of weather; the idea of a floor length dress wasn’t appealing. I’d be reduced to a puddle on my seat … Once I’d chosen which swimsuit to wear, (joking I went for a lose-fit dress), my attention turned to the other guests. Who would be there, what would we talk about? Part of my work is leading conversations about mental health and wellbeing, and because I know what topics I’m going to be talking about it gives clarity and focus to conversation.Yettheidea of going to a large event, meeting and sitting with 6 people who knew each other well, but not me, felt a teeny bit daunting. Fortunately, I’d be seated beside the friend who invited me, so that would help ease me into conversation, or so I thought. Turns out, we were sat on different tables, so I was in at the deep end, shame I didn’t wear that swimming costume afterOnlyall.one thing for it, take my own advice and use “The three W’s”When in doubt of what to say to someone, I’ve never met before, after the pleasantries of the weather and other chit chat are out of the way, I use three simpleWho?questions.What?Why? I start by introducing myself, then ask who are they? What do they do for work/pleasure? Why are they there? I find most people are happy speaking about themselves if they have a willing and interested audience. From there, conversation flows naturally, I’ve just got to remember it is a conversation and not an interrogation. Keep topics light and easy going. Using my 3 questions method I enjoyed interesting conversations and came away with new connections and had a great Beingnight.worried about meeting new people, going to events socially or for work, is natural. Here are a few tips worth considering:Wearclothing with layers,sometimes• when we're nervous we overheat. If you get too hot, whip off your jacket to regulate your temperature, it will instantly calm your nerves. Breathe steadily inthrough• your nose and out through your mouth if you feel anxiety or shyness rising. You can do it discreetly; nobody needs to Runningknow.your wrists undercold• water soothes worry and anxiety it acts as a circuit breaker for overthinking. Limit alcohol. Dutchcourage• can go too far, and you might find yourself saying things you later regret or forget. Too much booze increases feelings of anxiety days after its been Focusconsumed.your attention onone• person at one time, you
South Leeds Life | September 2022 www.southleedslife.com 16 South Leeds Lives facebook.com/southleedslifeFacebook:@SouthLeedsLifeTwitter:
Social anxiety
September 2022 | South Leeds Lifewww.southleedslife.com South Leeds Lives 17info@southleedslife.comEmail:www.southleedslife.comWebsite: don't have to be the centre of attention if that's not your thing. If you prefer, listen to group conversations rather than be involved in them. If conversation drys up,ask• something about the person you're talking to, most people are happy talking about themselves if you appear interested and ask leading questions. Remember who are they? What do they do/ enjoy? Why are they Pre-planthere?your escape.Make• sure you can get home safely.Leave when you're ready.• You don't have to saygoodbye• to everyone. Just let the host know if you can, so people aren't wondering where you are.Allow yourself to have agood• time in a way that works for you
The Toll Bar at Meadow RoadPhoto: Shutterstock positivity
Prior to the passing of several local Turnpike Acts between 1740 and 1760 for the improvement of the highways, the roads around Leeds were in a deplorable condition, being nothing more in most cases than a narrow slip of rough flagstones leading across a common with deep ruts on either side. Transport of raw wool and manufactured goods was carried out on the backs of single horses at the disadvantage of nearly two hundred to one compared with carriage by water. In the Winter season the manufacturers working life was interrupted by him making visits on horseback to distant markets in pursuit of trade, this meant travelling in darkness over rough roads and broken causeways presenting a field of action that was no less perilous than hedges and fivebarred gates. This brings us to an event in Leeds history which is marked by riot, disaster, and death. The real advent of coaching history here may be said to begin from this date.The local authorities of several of the places surrounding Leeds at last became alive to the fact that the terrible roads were an impediment to both mercantile and social progress. Just as the ratepayers objected to the cost of keeping the roads in good repair, so too did the local users of the roads object to paying the tolls, the toll was a small tithe of what they would save on journey times and wear and tear on their horseflesh.However, riot and carnage against the toll was taken up by gangs of armed men burning down the tollhouses and smashing the tollgates. A mob from Yeadon and Otley set out on a mission of destruction and demolished about a dozen Turnpikes. Even Officers of the Law assisted in the violence in some instances. At Selby the Public Bellman urged the townsfolk to take up axe and torch and destroy the offending gates, a bidding that they accomplished well. In June 1753 a body of rioters armed with a wide variety of weapons marched from Leeds with the intension of destroying the newly erected Turnpike at Harewood Bridge and pull down his home but a message had been sent to Ganthorpe Hall to warn Edwin Lascelles of this. He assembled about 80 of his tenants and servants living on the Harewood Estate and with this small force he set off to confront some 300 rioters who were well armed with sword and clubs. Lascelles and his men took their place at the gate ready to receive the rioters. Several assaults were made by the marauders, all being repulsed and some thirty prisoners were taken, ten of these were sent to York Castle and the rest dispersed, many of these were wounded. However, the problem did not end with the Harewood Bridge fiasco. The mob was aroused, they destroyed the Halton Dial toll bar, where the present day A63 Selby Road and the A64 York Road part company and the Beeston toll bar, this led to the problem reaching its culmination about week later. Soldiers had been sent from York and were posted at different points in the disturbed districts and this led to three men being imprisoned for not paying the toll. A carter who refused to pay the toll at the Beeston Turnpike was seized by the soldiers, but he was then rescued by the populace before he could be conveyed before the Magistrates and Trustees of the Turnpike who met at the Old Kings Arms which was situated at the corner of Duncan Street andBoostedBriggate.by their success the mob swore to rescue the other three prisoners before nightfall. It was about 7pm that a great crowd of rioters intent on releasing the prisoners assembled in Briggate in front of the Old Kings Arms and began throwing stones at the soldiers standing guard and breaking windows and shutters at the Inn, alarm quickly spread and shopkeepers and merchants hurriedly closed their business premises and efforts were made to disperse the mob but to no avail. The Mayor was sent for and the Riot Act was read but this seemed to anger the crowd even more so the soldiers were ordered to fire a round, powder only, with the intension of frightening the crowd but instead it only created more anger. As a last resort the soldiers were ordered to load with ball shot and this led to between eight and ten rioters being shot dead and upwards of some forty being wounded, several dying of their wounds. This episode in our history was also known as the ‘Leeds Fight’.
My case of nerves was mild and differs a great deal from social anxiety which affects 1 in 10 Brits, with women struggling twice as much as men. Severe social anxiety is more than shyness and slight worry, it can be debilitating preventing people from being promoted at work, making and maintaining friendships, symptoms can include panic/anxiety attacks, sweating, worrying and overthinking. It can affect anyone of any age. For more information conditions/social-anxietywww.nhs.uk/mental-health/ Shannon Humphrey is a First Aid for Mental Health Instructor she works with clients privately and organisations who care about their colleague’s wellbeing. pathwaysforpositivity.comwww.
The Leeds Turnpike Riots Local history with Ken Burton
The Corporation owned much land in the Yorkshire Dales, not only the Washburn Valley but also Colsterdale near Masham.Thatis why the Leeds Pals were encamped for training in Colsterdale before embarking to France to fight in the First World War as their camp was on Leeds’ land. The Corporation owned a large house in Colsterdale called “The Bungalow” where the Waterworks Committee stayed each year to see what had been achieved, how its decisions had been acted on and what needed to be done in the future. We saw how water was extracted from the River Burn with the “raised plughole” method. We visited the Washburn Valley where the Corporation’s great reservoirs of Fewston, Swinsty and Thruscross are situated. Leeds had come very near to issuing standpipes in 1959 because of a succession of dry winters and Thruscross was still being built. It had been pointed out to us that the fourth Washburn reservoir, Lindley Wood, had been built by the Corporation, not for drinking water, but to compensate the mills further supply of water. By 1959 the mills had long since gone but it was still illegal for Leeds to use Lindley Wood’s water for drinking. I protested how stupid that was when there was a potential source of water standing idle. The response was, “Don’t worry Love. We went down one dark night and stuck a pipe into it!” When we visited Thruscross we were taken down into the passage which runs along the inside of the dam wall. In the middle of this passage is a small chamber about half a cubic metre in size, in the middle of which was a plumb line which measured the movement of the dam wall. The Committee was told that by the end of winter when the reservoir was full, the dam was designed to move 14 inches (35.5cm) because of the weight of water behind it. I asked, “What if it moves more than 14 inches?” expecting to be told that sluices would be opened. The response was, “Run like Hell!” Being a member of Leeds Corporation Waterworks Committee I found not only was fun but also I derived much satisfaction from the fact that we, as lay people, on a voluntary basis were delivering a service to the people of Leeds for which generations of
Following the hottest and driest summer on record with frequent pictures on our TVs of empty reservoirs revealing previous villages which had been submerged, there have been calls to renationalise our water supply. But water was never a nationalised industry or service. After the widespread cholera outbreaks in the early nineteenth century, publicspirited men got together and formed corporations to bring clean water to our cities and towns and to take away the sewage and waste. It was the foundation of Local Government when corporations subsequently set up and ran other services such as Police, Fire Service, Transport, and later, when the 1870 Education Act was passed they were in place to build and staff referredafterprovisionbutAmbulancerequiringofDistrictwallsServicesprovidedCorporationsschools.eventuallyalltheHealthoutsideofhospitalsuchasemployingNurses,thesupplyingmedicalequipmenttothoseit,runningtheServiceandlastly,certainlynotleast,theofpublichousingtheFirstWorldWar,toas“Corporation houses”.Forvery many years, I was the only Leeds City Councillor left who had served as a councillor on the former Leeds Corporation. It was my privilege to be a first woman to serve on the Corporation’s Waterworks Committee and I found it fascinating. (Out of 120 aldermen and councillors there were only 18 women serving on the Corporation.)
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Water, water everywhere?
David Brown lived in Middleton with me and my son for the last 10 years of his life. A truck driver from leaving the army in the late 1970s and that’s all he knew and loved. He knew almost all the roads in the UK and if ever anyone wanted to get to a place David would know the best way. We travelled to France, Spain and Italy camping without sat navs, and even though David had only passed through these countries while on a Goldwing tour he always knew where we were going and his sense of direction always got us to our destination.Wemetlots of new friends while out and about because he was so friendly and could talk to anyone whatever their language may be David could get by as he knew a few different languages to get by on. Lots of friends we made on holiday have become firm friends for life. David, a “Green Howard” veteran, always thought of other people, even when he was fighting his own cancer diagnosis he wanted to help others. He was selfless.
The first thing I learnt was that dry summers were not the problem but dry winters. Most of our water for most of the year is taken from rivers. Of course, rivers could not be drained of water and the Corporation had to guarantee a flow of so many gallons. This was done by what I call “a raised plug-hole” – a pipe stuck up in the middle of the flow where water poured down over the pipe’s rim. If the flow fell below the rim of the pipe then the Corporation took water from its reserved water – its reservoirs. In dry winters, when rivers are low, reserved water is used up when it should be stored for summer use. Leeds Corporation was very successful in collecting and storing water, so much so, that it sold its surplus water to other councils and industries. It was Leeds ratepayers who had paid had paid for the building of its great reservoirs situated mainly up the Washburn Valley.
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David Brown: a tribute to my husband by Denise Brown by Elizabeth Nash
We held coffee mornings every two years for a few different charities in our home and raised over £5,000. The last three and half years David fought a brave fight against cancer. During this time we carried on doing our fundraising coffee mornings. This year in may we decided to have our coffee morning as a farewell party to David as this would be his last one, as now the cancer was spreading and he was only given a few months to Friendslive. from his army days, friends from past workplaces, family and neighbours helped us raise over £2,000 for St Gemma’s Hospice one of our favourite charities where David stayed for a couple of times and they then looked after him at I’dhome.urge anyone who wants to do some charity work to do it for St Gemma’s, they are marvellous and worth their weight in gold. Please look themDavidup.sadly lost his fight on 19 July 2022 and I just wanted to send this tribute to a man who was selfless, friendly and loved by everyone he met. RIP David, my husband, my soulmate.
The reservoir was built by the Corporation to prevent flooding downstream during winter but also to ensure a flow in drier summer months.
Elizabeth Nash with members and officers of the Waterworks Committee at the opening of the Farnley Balancing Reservoir, situated between Farnley and Wortley, in September 1973.
With its theme of inventions, innovations and discoveries, it’s no surprise that South Leeds has lots to offer as part of this year’s Heritage Open Days Festival. Leeds Civic Trust has worked with organisations across the city to put on 140 events for the festival which runs from 9-18 September.We’vepicked out some local highlights, but you can find the full programme at bit.ly/3BctlAl Most events require prebooking, further details and links can be found at GamesFromWaddingtonswww.heritageopendays.org.ukattheArchive:TelevisiontoBoard
Waddingtons was one of the most famous companies based in Leeds. Beginning as a printer making posters, they gained success after World War One with their popular playing cards before moving on to board games. Among the successful title made in Leeds were Monopoly and Cluedo. Utilising the company archives, Professor Robert Shail, (Leeds School of Arts at Leeds Beckett University) will examine board games produced by Waddingtons to exploit the popularity of 11am-12pmhand.games1LB)(CarlisleDiscoveryalongandCoronationBlockbusters,asprogrammestelevisionsuchCaptainScarlet,StreetZ-Cars.CometotheCentreRoad,LS10andseetheatcloseSaturday17September
September 2022 | South Leeds Lifewww.southleedslife.com What’s On 19info@southleedslife.comEmail:www.southleedslife.comWebsite:
Middleton Railway Astounding innovations!? The Middleton Railway is the place to visit - it's full of them! The first load-hauling steam locomotives in the whole world ran right here. That was in in 1812. We have some of the original (rack) rail. And in 1932, nearby Hunslet Engine Company produced Britain's prototype diesel locomotive, the "John Alcock". This demonstrated the advantages of diesel traction to the railway companies of the day and led to the widespread adoption of this astounding invention. The "John Alcock" is in our display hall.Saturday 10, Sunday 11, Saturday 17, Sunday 18 September. 10am-4pm Murray, Marshall and Hardingthree Holbeck giants of invention and innovation
2022
Agenda for Inner South Community Committee Open Days celebrates inventions, innovations and discoveries Merryl Wilford
There is a lot to discover about Holbeck so take a leisurely tour with local historians Ian and Dennis. The walk will start at The Holbeck, reputedly the oldest social club in Britain - with a blue plaque to prove it. You will hear about the men who shaped the history and development of Holbeck and visit the Murray Monument, St Matthew's Church, Temple Mill and TowerThursdayWorks. 15 September 1-4pm. Slung Low’s Alan Lane in conversation Slung Low are a theater company based in Holbeck, making work for an by the community. In 2020, when the world turned upside down, Slung Low closed the stage curtains, and responded by mobilising as a food bank and community hub. Those momentous and often challenging times have now been encapsulated by Slung Low's Alan Lane in a new book 'The Club on the Edge of Town'. In this 'in conversation' event, Trust Director Martin Hamilton will find out more about the theatre, The Holbeck, and Slung Low's plans for the future.Wednesday 14 September 67pm online. Old Chapel Music Tours This is an informal look around the oldest music studios in Leeds. Find out about its history, local bands such as the Kasier Chiefs who still rehearse there and the future plans for the organisation and its old Wesleyan building. Sunday 11 September 121pm and 2-3pm. Aire and Calder Navigation Heritage Walk A walk along the river and Navigation from the City Centre to the Thwaite Mills area discovering the rich history and heritage of the area, returning by public transport. The walk will be led by Roderic Parker, Leeds Civic Trust guide, and will include the history of the Navigation and the river and their use for transport through the ages, the flood defences, Leeds Dock, local industries and the former railway line. Meet at the Corn Exchange, Monday 12 September at 2pm; Thursday 15 September at 10:15am
Join Ian and Dennis for a Holbeck history walk. Photo:
Heritage
The agenda for the next meeting of the Inner South Community Committee, made up of the nine Councillors for our three wards: Beeston & Holbeck, Hunslet & Riverside and Middleton Park, has been published. The meeting is taking place, at St George's Centre, First Floor - Lynne Barthorpe Room, Middleton, LS10 4TQ on Wednesday 7 September 2022 starting at 2pm. The meeting starts with an Open Forum, this is an opportunity for members of the public to ask questions or raise issues directly with their Councillors.Thecommittee is also responsible some Council functions in the area such as street cleaning and youth services; and it manages a well-being budget that funds large and small projects. Projects under consideration at this meeting include: Grit bins (Hunslet CarrResidents•BenchesAssociation)forPepper Road Park Beggars Hill landmarklectern•Middleton RugbyEngagement• Project (Hunslet RugbyCommemorativeFoundation) Bench(Hunslet• Tenants & Residents Association)Rise & Shine YouthProvision• (St Luke's CARES) You can read the full report pack on the Leeds City Council website at bit.ly/3B0PnFS. The following items are included in the agenda:Appeals Against Refusalof1Inspection of Documents Exempt Information –Possible2 Exclusion of the Press and PublicLateItems3 Declaration of Interests4 Apologies for Absence5 Minutes6 Open Forum7 Inner South CommunityCommittee8 Update Report Age Friendly Strategy &Action9 HighwaysPlan - AnnualImprovement10 Consultation Inner South CommunityCommittee11 Finance Report Date and time of nextmeeting12
Every Monday Mums & Tots, Tea & Toast 9-10:30am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Community Play Group 9-11:30am Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston ESOL Beginners class 9:30am-12pm NeighbourhoodAshaProject, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Crafts Group 9:30-10:45am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Over 65s Group @ Hunslet RLFC 9:45-11:45am Phoennix Bar, South Leeds Stadium Holbeck Together coffee morning 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre Walking Group 10am BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Crochet & Knitting Group 10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub & Library, Town Street Mindfulmess (online) 10:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Book: 07305 167629 Chair Based Exercise 10:30am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road MHA Soup & a Sandwich and Digital Health Hub 11:30am-1pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Dinner Jackets (baked potato) 12-1pm St Matthew’s Community Centre Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road MHA Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Dance class 12:30-1:30pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton Gentle Exercise 12:30pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeingDropInTechnologySupport 1-3pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Hill One You Stop Smoking Support 1pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road 50+ Women’s Group 1-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Baking Together (online) 1:30-2:30pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Book: 07305 167629 Beeston Hillers’ Book Club 1:30-2:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Beeston Digital Inclusion Classes 1:30-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Reiki 1:45pm &3:30pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Book: 07305 167629 Dance On 2-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Multi Sports for kids 5pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Gateway 2 Sport 5-7pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Yoga with Amelia 6-7pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Illuminate Dance 6 & 7pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Kickboxing 6:30-8:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Youth Community Cafe 6:30-8pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Be Creative 7-8:30pm over Zoom. Book: Mediatationfb.com/YourSpaceLeedsforBeginners 7-8pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeingEveryTuesdayTotsGroup
Full contact details can be found in our online What’s On guide at www.southleedslife.com/events
South Leeds Life | September 2022 www.southleedslife.com 20 What’s On facebook.com/southleedslifeFacebook:@SouthLeedsLifeTwitter:
Your guide to events and activities across South Leeds in September
9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Book: 07794 577586 Community Play Group 9-11:30am Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston MHA Breakfast Buddies 9-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Advice & Advocacy 9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Active Tots 9:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle ESOL Entry 1 class 9:30am-12pm NeighbourhoodAshaProject, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Computer class 9:30am-12pm NeighbourhoodAshaProject, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Holbeck Together shopping trip 9:30am-12:30pmBook: 0113 245 5553 Coffee and Connect 10-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Holbeck Together Charity Shop 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck REACH support for 16-24s 10am BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Grandparents Kinship Support Group 10am-12pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Bosom Buddies breastfeeding support 10am-12pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Book: (0113) 270 6903 Woodwork 10am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle MHA Exercise Class 10-11am Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Hunslet TARA Litterpicking 10am meet Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road Gardening Group 10:30am-12:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Affordable Breakfast 10:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Belle Isle and Middleton Craft & Chat 10:30am-12:30pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Zumba / Pilates 11am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Job Search Club 11am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Quiz Time (online) 11am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Book: 07305 167629 MEA Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Holbeck Together Lunch Club 12-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck MHA Lunch and Social 12-2:30pm Arthington Court, Balm Road, Hunslet Lunch Club and Social 12-3pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Bingo 12pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeingESOLclass 12:30-3pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Digital Support 1pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Line Dancing 1-3pm St Anthony’s Church Hall, Old Lane, Beeston Line Dancing 1:30-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Walking Group 1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Women’s Peer Support Group 1:30pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Games Afternoon / Singing Group 2-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Line Dancing 2-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Yoga 2-3pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Free Kids Sports 3:30-4:30pm Grove Field, off Church Street, Hunslet Digital Skills Workshop 4-5pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Book: 07435 914350 Illuminate Dance 4:30pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Rainbows and Brownies 4:30-7:15pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Cockburn Community Choir 5-6pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Free Kids Sports 5-6pm West Grange Courts, between the corner of West Grange Road-Winrose Crescent and Jenkinson Place, Belle Isle DAZL Dance 5:30-6:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Dance Fitness (14+) 6-7pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road Book: 07519 018675 Outdoor Yoga 6pm Top of Cross Flatts Park Book: 07576 113269 Inside Out exercise class 6-7pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton 51st Leeds (Hunslet) Guides 6:15-7:15pm Rainbows; 6:157:30pm Brownies; 7:15-8:30pm Guides St Mary’s CofE Primary Academy, Church Street, Hunslet Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs) 6:30-8:30pm Holbeck Community Centre, Old Elland Road. Book: richard.foye@leedsunited.comNK9DogTraining 6:30pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace Book: 07856 229909 South Leeds Lakers Running Club 6:55pm Beeston Village Community Centre. Book: bit.ly/LakersRunningYoga 7pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Hunslet Nelson Women’s Rounders 7-8pm Middleton Leisure Centre Every Wednesday One You Weight Management 8:30am-12:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Everyday Life coffee morning 9-11am Beeston Village Community Centre, Beeston Park Place, off Town Street Advice & Advocacy 9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Open doors 9:30-10:30am St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Old Lane, Beeston ESOL Enty 1 class 9:30am-12pm NeighbourhoodAshaProject, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Mums & Tots 9:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Bacon Butty morning / News Cafe / Pop Up Shop / Textile & Painting / Bereavement Group 9:30-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Holbeck Together coffee morning 10am-12pm Ingram Court Community Room, Holbeck Holbeck Together Charity Shop 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Woodwork 10am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Remember Together Group Young Dementia Leeds Hub, Cottingley Book: 07983 215865 email Beestonmcst@ageukleeds.org.ukInBloomGardeningGroup 10am-12pm Millennium Garden, Cross Flatts Park Confidence Building course 10:30am-12pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton Singing 11am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Holbeck Together Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Ingram Court Community Room, Holbeck Community Cafe 12:30-2pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeingPeerSupportGroup 1-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Parents & Tots 1:30-2:30pm Ingram Court Community Room, Holbeck Parents & Tots Social 1:30-2:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Walk and Talk 2-3pm meet at Middleton Park main gates on Town Street Tai Chi 2pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Slimming World 2-9pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Book:Street.07841 488658 Family Cooking 4pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Women’s Wellbeing Group 4:30-6pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs) 5-7pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Belle Isle. Book: richard.foye@leedsunited.comBat&ChatTableTennis 5-7pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Yoga 5-6pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Climate Hub and Energy Saving drop in 5:30-7pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library 1st SLAM Beavers (6-8 yrs) 6-7:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston Illuminate Dance 6 & 8pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Holbeck Chat & Chill 6-7:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Touch & Pass Rugby for over 40s 6:30-7:30pm Hunslet Warriors Holbeck Moor FC: Inclusive adult football training 6:30pm Holbeck Moor Line Dancing 6:45-9pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Yoga 7-8pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Book: 07576 113269 SO! Choir 7:30-9:30pm The Tetley art gallery, Hunslet Road Every Thursday Tots Group 9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Book: 07794 577586 Music & Movement 9am-1pm Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Advice & Advocacy 9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Computer class / ESOL 2/3 class 9:30am-12pm NeighbourhoodAshaProject, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Affordable Breakfast 9:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Holbeck Together shopping trip 9:30am-12:30pmBook: 0113 245 5553 Ping Pong 9:30-10:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Library Story Bus 10-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Walk in Cross Flatts Park Meet 10am Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Woodwork / Knit & Natter / Beauty Treatments 10am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Holbeck Together Community Cafe / Community Supermarket 10:30am-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Craft Group / Digital Inclusion 10:30am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Library Story Bus 10-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Walk in Cross Flatts Park Meet 10am Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Woodwork / Knit & Natter / Beauty Treatments 10am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle
Full details of every event including map and contact details are available www.southleedslife.com/eventsat
What’s On
Call/text: 07894 583966
6-7pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Yoga 6:30pm St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Cardinal Road, Beeston Book: 07512 393228 Every Friday Charity Shop 8:30-11:30am United Free Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Happy Global Families 9-10:30am Beeston Village Community Centre, Beeston Park Place, off Town Street Stay & Play 9-11am St Anthony’s Church Hall, Old Lane, Beeston Stay & Play 9am-6pm Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Food Bank 9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Affordable Breakfast 9:30am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle ESOL 2/3 class 9:30am-12pm NeighbourhoodAshaProject, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Toast & Games, Knit & Natter 9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Hunslet RLFC Breakfast Club 10am-12pm Phoenix Suite, South Leeds Stadium Holbeck Together coffee morning 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre Holbeck Together Dance On 10-11am Holbeck Moor Breakfast Club 10-11:30am BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Gardening Group 10am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Julie’s Ancestry Group 10am-12pm and 1-2:45pm 26 Belle Isle Circus MHA Stretch & Tone 10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Hunslet TARA Gardening 10am meet Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road Green Team Volunteers 10am-3pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, Stourton Digital Hub IT Support 10-12pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Arts & Crafts 11am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road MHA Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Fish & Chip Lunch Club 12-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: Ballroomjamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeing&SequenceDancing 1-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Little Legs Rugby 1-3pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Line Dancing 1:30pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Bingo Afternoon 1:30-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Friday Social Club 1:30-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Chair-based Exercise 1:45-2:45pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Knit and Natter 2-3pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Poetry (online) 3pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Book: 07305 167629 Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs) 4-5:30pm Holbeck Moor. Book: Tablerichard.foye@leedsunited.comTennis 4:45-5:25pm (7-11yrs) 5:306:15pm (12-15yrs) St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck DAZL Youth Club 5-7pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road Illuminate Dance 5pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle South Leeds Lakers Juniors (Athletics) 6-7pm South Leeds Stadium Book: fb.com/juniorlakersleeds 1st SLAM Cubs (8-10½ yrs) 6:15-7:45pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston 5th Middleton Guides & Rangers 7:30-9pm South Leeds URC Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle 1st SLAM Scouts (10½-14 yrs) 8-9:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston Every Saturday Cross Flatts parkrun 9am Top of Cross Flatts Park Middleton Woods parkrun 9am Leeds Urban Bike Park Debbie Heart Theatre School 9am-1pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Holbeck Moor FC Juniors (4-6yrs) 9am Ingram Road Primary School, Holbeck Saturday Breakfast 9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Park Roll rollerskating 10am-12pm Sports Courts, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston Book: Familyls-ten.orgLegoClub 10-11am The Holbeck club, Jenkinson Lawn Middleton Railway 10am-4pm Moor Road, Hunslet ParkPlay 10:30am Brickfield Park, Lady Pit Lane, Beeston Yoga 12-1pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Book: 07576 113269 Bingo 12-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Youth Club 7-9pm LS-TEN Skatepark, Kitson Road, Hunslet
Holbeck Together Community Cafe / Community Supermarket 10:30am-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Craft Group / Digital Inclusion 10:30am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Inclusive dance 11am-12pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Walking Football 11am-12pm The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Hunslet TARA Estate Walkabout 11am meet Best One shop, Rocheford Walk CV Writing 11am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Line Dancing 11:30am-12:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road MHA Lunch Club & Social 12-2:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: Teajamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeingDance
4:30-6pm BITMO’s GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Middleton Scout Group 5:30-7:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Book: Zumbascoutsmiddleton@gmail.com/Pilates
1pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Draw with Celia 1-3pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Be Friends Group 1-2:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Online help class 1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Conversation Club for asylum seekers and refugees 1:30-3:30pm The Holbeck club, Jenkinson Lawn Table Tennis 1-2:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Walking Group 1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Digital Inclusion / Social Group 1:30-3pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Camera Club 1:30pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Employment and Training drop in 4pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Illuminate Dance 4pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Elevate Women’s Wellbeing Group 4-5:30pm over Zoom. Book: Women’sfb.com/YourSpaceLeedsChat&ChillEvening
Lawn Oriente Plus / You Have Half A Second To Impress Me 7:30pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn Book: slunglow.org Sunday 18 September Guided Walk 1:30-3pm meet Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Wednesday 21 September Leeds Irish Health Group 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Film Club: 12:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Book: (0113) 272 1050 Saturday 24 September Homemade & Handmade Market 9:30am-1:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston Holbeck Jumble Sale 10am-2pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Hunslet & Riverside Councillors’ Surgeries 10am Hunslet Hub & Library 11:30am Dewsbury Road Hub & Library; 1-1:30pm Facebook Live: Myfb.com/PaulWrayUKVoiceWasHeard But It Was Ignored 7:30pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn Book: slunglow.org Sunday 25 September Holbeck Together Sunday Lunch 12-2pm St Book:CommunityMatthew’sCentre 0113 245 5553 MHA Sunday Lunch 12-2pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Book: 0113 271 6201 The Friendly Band 2:30-4:30pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Wednesday 28 September MHA Kurling 10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston MEA Pie & Peas evening 5-7pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Drink & Draw 6:30-8pm The Tetley, Hunslet Rd Book: HunsletThursdaythetetley.org/whats-on29SeptemberRemembered
10-11:30am Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Friday 30 September Beeston & Holbeck Councillors’ Surgeries 4pm Beeston Community Hub & Library, Town Street, Beeston 5pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck 6pm Cottingley Community Centre Saturday 1 October Holbeck & Beeston Cemetery Volunteers 10am-1pm Meet centre of Holbeck Cemetery, Beeston Road Coffee morning 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Coffee morning 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road, Hunslet Saturday Family Film Club 11am-1pm St George’s Middleton Community Hub & Library Hunslet TARA Information Desk 11am Church Street Get Involved In Growing 11am-1pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston Sunday 2 October Family Fun Day 11am-4pm Rowland Road WMC, Beeston Hill
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September 2022 | South Leeds Lifewww.southleedslife.com What’s On 21info@southleedslife.comEmail:www.southleedslife.comWebsite:
Every Sunday Junior parkrun (4-14 yrs) 9am Top of Cross Flatts Park Recovery Runners 10am Lock House, Leeds Dock Indoor Children’s Exercise 10am-12pm Hillside, Beeston Rd Healthy Minds Cycling Skills 10-11am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Middleton Railway 10am-4pm Moor Road, Hunslet Hunslet TARA Litterpick 12pm meet Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road Big Bike Fix drop in workshop 12-4pm Harlech Avenue, Beeston Toning & Stretching with Julie 6:30-7:30pm DAZL HQ, Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road. Book: 07783 786776
Email: info@southleedslife.com
Post: 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Leeds, LS11 7BW
Friday 2 September The Not So Grimm Twins 1pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn Book: slunglow.org Saturday 3 September Holbeck & Beeston Cemetery Volunteers 10am-1pm Meet centre of Holbeck Cemetery, Beeston Road Coffee morning 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Coffee morning 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road, Hunslet Hunslet TARA Information Desk 11am Church Street Sunday 4 September Family Fun Day 11am-4pm Rowland Road WMC, Beeston Hill Maggie’s Little Big Band 2:30-4:30pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Monday 5 September Middleton Community Group 6-7pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Wednesday 7 September Meet your PCSOs 10am-12pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub and Library MHA Walking Group Book: (0113) 271 6201 Leeds Irish Health Group 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Inner South Community Committee 2-4pm St George’s Community Hub & Library, Middleton Hunslet Tenants & Residents 6:30-8pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road Miscarriage Support Group 7-8:30pm Charlies-Angel-Centre, 6B Ashbrooke Park, LS11 5SF Thursday 8 September Hunslet Carr Residents Assoc 6:30-8pm Woodhouse Hill Community Centre Community Support Group 7-8:30pm Charlies-Angel-Centre, 6B Ashbrooke Park, LS11 5SF Beeston Community Forum 7:30-9pm Beeston Village Community Centre, Beeston Park Place, off Town Street Saturday 10 September Open Day & Jubilee Celebration 10am-4:30pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, Stourton Sunday 11 September The Great Middleton Park Show 1-4pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Tuesday 13 September Hearing Aid Clinic 10am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Book: (0113) 272 1050 Wednesday 14 September MHA Kurling 10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Entertainment with Cliff Bryan 1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road MHA Singing Sensations 1:30-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston MEA Pie & Peas evening 5-7pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road White Rose Speakers 7pm Jury’s Inn hotel, Brewery Wharf Thursday 15 September Leeds Baby Bank 10am-12pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Meet your PCSOs 10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub and Library, Town Street Saturday 17 September Coffee morning 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Coffee Morning 10am Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace, Balm Road Board Games Evening 7-11pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson
Hunslet TARA hold their monthly meeting on Wednesday 7 September at the Church of the Nazarene on Lupton Street. You are welcome to join for refreshments from 6pm and the meeting will startr at 6:30pm. This month’s speaker is Pete Tatham from Hyde Park Source. Councillors, Police and Housing will also present updates. The meeting will also include the Annual General Meeting (AGM) where a new Comittee will be elected.
The Produce Show is the heart of the event. In the marquee you will find entries in over 40 classes of fruit, veg, flowers, baking, art and craft. All entries must be brought to the Show marquee on the day of the event between 8:30am andBeyond11am.the produce tent you will find a market street of stalls, refreshments and entertainment spread out around the lake, visitor centre andAttractionsbandstand.this year include live music from South Steel and Yorkshire Imperial Bands; Bhangra and Line Dancing, display by Hunslet Warriors u6 and u10 rugby league teams. All compered by DJ Danny. Animal attractions include birds of prey, ferret racing and donkeyThererides.willalso be inflatable play, trampolining and pop up
The monthly handmade and homemade food and craft market takes place in and around the Watsonian Pavilion on Saturday 24 September, 9:30am-1:30pm. The market features food, home baking, plants and craft items all created by local people.
Our intention at STE is to promote the inclusion and acceptance of all children regardless of needs, ability or background; it is of paramount importance for us to celebrate difference.Ourenvironment will provide a safe space for everyone to explore and learn together, for children to make connections and build friendships. We plan to create a space derived of different ‘play zones’ each encompassing a different form of sensory play. We are in the very early stages of what we think is a very exciting project. We have begun transforming the generous piece of land kindly donated to us by the wonderful members of the Rowland Road WMC.Steve Firth and his partner Jo who currently run the club have been extremely helpful in aiding our journey so far, publicising what we are doing, giving us access to the grounds when needed, providing us with tea and coffee and introducing us to some of the clubs fantastic members. Walking into the club for the first time was particularly nostalgic for us and you couldn’t ask for a friendly or more welcoming group of people. We will be hosting a fundraising event on the first Sunday of every month in the club car park; the intention here is to raise awareness for what we are doing and raise funds for the project. Our event on Sunday 4 September, 11am-4pm will feature:Interactive
It’s not a fun day without bubbles!
South Leeds Life | September 2022 www.southleedslife.com 22 What’s On facebook.com/southleedslifeFacebook:@SouthLeedsLifeTwitter:
Family fun day to help fund sensory play area in Beeston
Planting activity table andapple•Rugbyjuicinggames with MorleyKnights•Chris from the club willprovide• music and paid refreshments will be available We are also welcoming people to come and set up their own table to sell their goods for just £5 per table. Contact us on 07495 923667 or via our Facebook page.
Handmade and Homemade Market
freearrangetoapickup 0113 270 4005
Skelton Grange Environment Centre’s Fundraising Open Day is on Saturday 10 September, 10am-4:30pm. The green oasis along the River Aire is a former industrial site that has been transformed into a haven for wildlife and people. There will be various activities immersed across our beautiful, reclaimed woodland, ponds, and meadows on the site, including: Bush Craft skills for adults and kids, Keith the Beekeeper, Story Telling Yoga, a Fire Circle, and lots of other fun filled nature-based activities! The cafe will be open for tea, coffee, and homemade cakes. Centre. Suggested donation is just a pound for adults and kids run free. Skelton Grange Road, LS10 1RS. Call us South Leeds AlternativeTrading Enterprises Ltd Registed Company no 6394383 | Registered Charity 1149293
Celebrating Our Park is the theme of this year’s Great Middleton Park Show, which takes place on Sunday 11 September 2021. Organised by the Friends of Middleton Park, the show started life in 2009 and whilst it has grown considerably, it remains true to its original aims:To encourage all localresidents• to enjoy and take pride in their community, their gardens and their park, By encouraging all people-including• children – to garden, grow their own food and visit the park and its woodlands, Whilst raisingenvironmental• awareness and encouraging local or homegrown consumption.
The Great Middleton Park Show 2022
Hunslet Tenants & Residents Association
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Newly incorporated Community Interest Company, Senses Through Elements (STE) is holding its third fundraising event on Sunday 4 September. We are in the early stages of creating a free outdoor based sensory play provision for children with and without Autism and learning disabilities within the South Leeds area. We see a huge gap in play provision within our community and we want to change that.
The Holbeckhosts an evening of Leeds based Board Games from the 1940s till today on Saturday 10 September, 7:3011pm.Cards Or Die will be there to teach and recommend games from a massive selection - including lots of Waddingtons classics from Cluedo, Blast Off, Lost Valley of the Dinosaurs and Spy Ring. You can play the games or just have a look at and handle them. We'll also have some modern games designed right here in Leeds like Sinario and Snapshot. As well as other games to play too.
The Yorkshire Imperial Band at last year’s show by Jade Belton
story time• Police meet and greet•
Board Games Night
The show runs from 1-4pm and you are encouraged to bring your own reusable beaker or water bottle for drinks –you’ll get get a discount at the cafe.Show goers are encouraged to walk, cycle or come by bus. If you do drive, parking in the park is for disabled drivers only. You can park at Leeds Urban Bike Park or John Charles Centre For Sport overflow car park, a short walk from the site. For full details including how to enter the produce show go
IN BRIEF
Skelton Grange Open Day
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Foundation’s festival
Middleton boasts two Jiu Jitsu Junior World Champions Active gymunveilsLeedsnewatJCCS Champion: Crosby
Theo Kenward, who has just finished Year 7 at Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy, was competing in the Under 53kg male teens Gi and No Gi Category.Theo,Autumn and Ocean are part of a group of nine young people from the Middleton area that train with Tom Crosby at the AVT Combat Base Gym in Morley.Reflecting on his win, Theo said:“At first I was shocked that it wasn’t going to be that easy to become World Champion and I was a bit surprised when I won, but then I realised this is only the start and I’ve got a lot more challenges up ahead. Jiu Jitsu is an extremely hard and complicated sport that has a lot of levels to it, but I’m only just getting started. “I’m not going to let this go to my head and me and my team at AVT are working very hard nearly every day to become better. This is almost becoming our life now. We have an amazing set of coaches at our gym, but my main coach Tom Crosby has helped me learn and understand the sport the most.”Theo’s Dad Wayne told South Leeds Life: “Me and Theo’s mum are so proud of Theo. “He trains 6-8 sessions per week, and he never needs any encouragement to go training, as he is so committed to it. Going to the gym keeps Theo active which is healthy for his mind and body. Theo used to train in Thai boxing until the start of lockdown when the gyms were shut and that’s when he got into BJJ because Tom Crosby is his childmider too. So in such little time with a lot of hard work and dedication he has become Junior World Champion and we are also proud.“Iwould like to add that we are very grateful for all the coaches at AVT especially Tom for everything he does for Theo in the gym and in his childcare along side his mum Lisa and her partner Paul. Without them Theo would not be a champion in and out of the gym.” Anew state of the art gym has been opened at John Charles Centre for Sport (JCCS), as part of Leeds City Council’s ambition to ‘get more people, more physically active, more often’. Significant investment has been made into new equipment and a wider refurbishment at the centre, with the gym sporting brand new upgraded Technogym equipment, a new sled track and functional fitness area. Along with new equipment, the refurbishments have created a brand-new experience for leisure centre users with money invested in new flooring and decoration, creating a much brighter and open space. As well as the new gym, John Charles has a range of great facilities including a 50-meter swimming pool, indoor squash courts, group fitness classes, running track and a tennis centre to name just a few.
Middleton has two World Champions in 7 year old Autumn Crosby and 12 year old Theo Kenward who both won Gold at the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) Junior World Championships in Wolverhampton over the weekend of 9-10 July 2022. Autumn won gold after a points win and then a submission win the final. Autumn also gained a Silver medal in the No Gi category. Autumn’s brother Ocean won a bronze medal in the Gi BJJ and a silver in the No Gi BJJ. Their father, Tom ‘The Viking’ Crosby, a mixed martial arts (MMA) professional commented:“Asaproud Dad and also their coach, they absolutely amaze me. All their hard work and dedication in training has paid off for them.”
Hunslet Foundation’s Summer Junior Festival on Sunday 31 July, which involved teams at Under 10s, Under 9s, Under 8s and Under 7s from around the north of England, and which was hosted by Hunslet Warriors, simply couldn’t have gone better.
To arrange a tour of the new gym or to find out more about memberships that start from as little as £20 a month, please visit active.leeds.gov.uk Councillor Paul Truswell (Labour, Middleton Park) said: “We welcome this further investment to improve sport and fitness facilities for Belle Isle, Middleton and South Leeds. It complements the recent provision of a brand-new gym at Middleton Leisure Centre.“While the John Charles Centre also plays a widely respected regional and national role, we believe its first priority is to be a community sports“We’dcentre.liketo encourage more people to come and explore the broad range of activities on offer. We will also continue to press the case for better public transport links, though this will remain a problem until we get more local control over bus operators.” success
Twenty one junior rugby league clubs took part in the festival at Hunslet Warriors’ ground Students and staff celebrate the transformation World Champion: Theo Kenward World
“The fact that every single team stayed back to watch other sides from their respective clubs play summed up the festival spirit, as did the universal respect shown for opponents, which was illustrated by a lovely message to Siddal Under 9s from Oulton. It was a tremendous day and we will definitely be staging a repeat next year!”
September 2022 | South Leeds Lifewww.southleedslife.com
That’s the considered view of the Foundation’s General Manager Mikey Nuttall, who readily admits that he was too busy on the day itself to properly savour an occasion which also owed much to the Luke Gale ‘Kicking for Grassroots’ initiative, who were proactive partners from start to finish.Teams from twenty one clubs including Hunslet Club Parkside and Hunslet Warriors took part in the event and Nuttall enthused: “As soon as I got home I began receiving tremendous and wholly positive feedback from everyone who had been involved. There were thousands at an event which was a real family occasion, with so many people involved in junior Rugby League, including from Hull and Lancashire, coming together and simply enjoying a great day out in a fantastic festival atmosphere.“Itwasthe culmination of many months of hard work, and it was worth it. It was a great day for the Foundation, and for the Luke Gale Academy, but most importantly for the players, their parents, their coaches and their clubs, all of whom were superb, with all the players being given medals. It was a chance to give something to the local community, and a boost for the entire Rugby League family. It was also a way of giving back to Hunslet Warriors, who really put themselves out as very supportive hosts.”
Autumn
Invitation to come Bowling
Cross Flatts Park Bowling Club invite you to come and enjoy some gentle activity in good company. The club run social bowling sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays from 14pm on the greens near the Watsonian Pavilion at the top of the park. Your first session is free and it’s only £2 per session after that. Rebecca Townesend from Beeston went along and said: “I had never played before but with some very kind and patient help from some of the more experienced members I was soon out on the green, using the terms and even scoring some points. If you fancy some low impact exercise that will keep your brain concentrating too I would definitely recommend a couple of hours at the bowling club.” Members of the public are welcome to watch games and refreshments are served from the clubhouse, just pop in.
Sprinting to Silver Cockburn John Charles Academy (CJCA) Year 10 Boys competed in the Leeds School’s Athletics Final in July, finishing Runner’s-up in the school’s best-ever performance at the championship. After finishing among the top 8 of 32 to qualify for the final, the boys then produced an outstanding performance to win four of twelve events, including the shot-put, triple-jump, 200m and 4×100m relay. After qualifying over the likes of Rodillian and Leeds Grammar School in the heats the team took home the Silver position, outscoring Prince Henry’s Grammar, Wetherby, Carr Manor, Morley, Allerton Grange, and Guiseley.
by Ian Pickles
Crusaders scored two late tries to pip Hunslet in an end to end contest. The Parksiders led 1220 at half time and 24-26 on 67 minutes, but North Wales scored with five minutes to go and again on the hooter to win. Hunslet’s push for play-off momentum took a huge knock the following Friday night (29 July) as a determined and well drilled Midlands Hurricanes outfit tackled the home side off the park and delivered the surprise result of the season as they beat Hunslet 0-24. Hunslet had a tough day toiling in the heat at league leaders Keighley Cougars on 14 August as the only team unbeaten in League 1 showed why they are almost certain of automatic promotion. The Parksiders were only one try down when the game turned on 33 minutes when Matty Beharrell was sin-binned for holding down leaving Hunslet to play out the half with only 12 Keighleymen.took full advantage scoring three converted tries to give Keighley a 30-6 half time lead.The score was 54-6 with 20 minutes to play. Criticism of Hunslet this season has been that they are inconsistent. This is possibly to be expected of a young developing team and this game highlighted the problem. The middle 20 minutes of the first half had been good and now they started to show a bit of fight again. Macauley Hallet and Jordan Paga scored, but the final score was 60-18. Hunslet went into the next game against Swinton Lions knowing they weren’t favourites to win. But after the heavy defeat at Keighley a good performance was needed to rebuildDespiteconfidence.thescore, for large parts of the game Hunslet played well, but that inconsistency crept in again as Swinton scored twenty unanswered points in a ten minute spell before the break. From 26-6 at half time, the Lions ran out winners 38-12. Hunslet’s home season finished on Friday 26 August under the lights at the South Leeds Stadium with their Playoff hopes going down to the final fixture away at Oldham Roughyeds.Itwasafrustrating night for the home side, playing an inform Doncaster they led at the break, but the Dons came out firing in the second half to score 20 unanswered points. Oldham trail Hunslet by two points but have a better points difference, meaning the final league game will determine who gets 6th place and the final spot for the Play-offs. You can read full match reports of all Hunslet’s matches at southleedslife.com
Hunslet’s season goes down to the wire
Jason Mossop takes on the Doncaster defence.
Photo: Paul Butterfield
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The result has been that whilst the team has shone at times on the field, they have not been able to overcome setbacks in games and lost focus too often. As a result Hunslet sit mid table having only beaten a team above them once. July and August followed the same patten.Atrip to new boys Cornwall and home ties against West Wales Raiders and London Skolars saw three wins. One of the games of the season ended in disappointment for Hunslet on 23 July at Stadiwm Eirias in Colwyn Bay, as North Wales
An injury hit Hunslet RLFC find themselves fighting for a play off place in the last game of the regular season at Oldham on Sunday 4 September.
Coach Alan Kilshaw has struggled all season with injuries to key players including Captain Dwayne Straugheir, Fullback Jimmy Watson and wing Wayne Rettie. He has acted strewdly in the loan market to plug gaps, but has been a forced lack of consistency in squad selection.
