Holme Valley Review August 2011

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Checkout call to shopping guru

By Sandie Marshall COULD Mary Queen of Shops hold the key to a brighter future for Holmfirth town centre? Mary Portas, the successful retail guru and BBC TV presenter has been personally invited to cast her expert eye over the town by local MP Jason McCartney.

She’s been charged by the Prime Minister to undertake an independent review on the future of town centre shopping. Jason McCartney has written asking her to visit Holmfirth as part of this and find new ways to help local businesses bring back the bustle.

His action comes as yet another charity shop is preparing to open in the town centre.

Oxfam has taken a lease on the empty former Leo’s Deli shop on Huddersfield Road to run a second hand book shop. This will bring the number of charity shops in Holmfirth to seven.

Speaking to the Review, MP

Jason said: “There’s a place for charity shops but another one is not going to attract people to come into the town to spend their money. We need vibrant, independent shops selling interesting goods.

“Holmfirth has too many empty retail units at the moment and that’s why I’ve invited May Portas to come and take a look. We’re an ideal case study for her review - a traditional town centre which is struggling against internet competition, a lack of parking and high business rates.

“Did this town fight off the big supermarket – Tesco – only to succumb to the creep of charity shops? I think there’s more and Mary Portas could help us find it.”

One of the town’s longeststanding shopkeepers, Andrew Bray of Andrew’s Greengrocers, is unimpressed by the arrival of another charity. “It’s a really sad time for the town” he said.

“I believe other people want-

ed the shop including someone wanting to sell children’s clothes but, for the landlord, a business like Oxfam is a better option. A national charity shop is a good, long term bet and is unlikely to close down without paying its rent.”

He doubts a government review will hold any magic answers to Holmfirth’s issues: “It’s successive governments that are partly to blame for wrecking the high street by encouraging out of town shopping centres everywhere. If you upset the balance too much things will suffer. It’s ridiculous that we pay more business rates in town than they do out of town which makes life even harder. It would be nice to have a level playing field.”

What do you think? Is there an easy solution to high street woes? Or do you welcome a new charity shop into Holmfirth? Let us know at news@holmevalleyreview.co.uk

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Century success: James Wharton

A TALENTED Holme Valley cricketer has scored his first century at the age of just 10.

James Wharton took just 115 balls to make 103 not out in a 30-overs match for Huddersfield Taverners Under 11s. It’s an extremely unusual feat for such a young batsman and easily the season’s highest score by anyone of his age in the district.

James, a pupil at Holmfirth Nabb School, plays his cricket for Holmfirth Juniors and for Huddersfield Taverners which is a team made up of the most talented youngsters in the area. He captains the U10s side and regularly plays for the U11s. He has his sights set on playing for Yorkshire one day.

He said of his achievement: “I enjoyed it. When we started I thought there was a chance of a good score because the ball wasn’t turning much.”

Proud dad Paul is also a keen cricketer who used to play for Scholes. He was watching from the pavilion as James piled on the runs and neared the magic 100. He said: “It was coming up on the electronic scoreboard so everyone knew he was getting close. When he hit the final run, the whole crowd stood up and cheered which was great.”

02 - Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 3

Minister looks at local bus problems

By Sandie Marshall TRANSPORT Minister Norman Baker MP paid a visit to Holmfirth to take a first hand look at the problems of local bus users.

He was there in response to invitations from Councillor Donald Firth and local MP Jason McCartney, both of whom have regular complaints from constituents about deepening cuts to public transport services in the Holme Valley.

While in town the Lib Dem MP met with Holmbridge residents Jennifer and Robert Baker who have campaigned for some time for improvements in the levels of service offered by prime bus operator First Buses. The retired couple first spoke to the Review in January about how they struggle to get out and about with the current service – a shadow, they say, of the frequency and routes that used to be offered.

At the time, First Buses blamed “the current economic situation” for bus cuts and said it had to

look “long and hard at which routes we can continue to run on an economic basis.” Since then, Metro which places contracts for local bus services have announced the introduction of Quality Bus Contracts which will lay out minimum levels of rural services.

The Review asked the Minister what Government can do to influence services offered by a private company like First. He said: “Firstly it’s important to get a proper feel for how competition in bus service works and that’s what I’m here for today.

“In some areas of the country, bus competition is working better than in others and we have the Competition Commission looking at this. There are somethings we could do.

We could in theory change the architecture to make sure local buses deliver the service levels people expect.”

Hopes of significant improvements in local bus services seemed unlikely as West Yorkshire Integrated Transport Authority met to consider

Loren with the book she has produced in her dad's honour.

Loren says thanks with charity fund-raising book

Transport Minister Norman Baker (centre) meets bus users and councillors during his visit to Holmfirth. massive budget cuts across the county. These included a reduction of £500,000 per year by

2013/14 in South Kirklees with cuts in less profitable rural bus routes looking likely.

HOLMFIRTH High School pupil, Loren Birkett has used her love of cooking to say a special thank you to Macmillan Cancer Support.

She was so grateful to the charity for supporting her family during her father’s long illness that when he passed away she felt she must do something in return.

Both Loren and her father loved to cook and this shared interest gave her the idea to produce a cookery book,

with favourite recipes from the staff at Holmfirth High School.

After a lot of hard work and fun testing the recipes, the book has been produced.

It is a bright, cheerful, colourful book with a wide range of recipes, especially ones using chocolate – Loren’s favourite.

Loren is now selling the book with a target of raising £3,500 for the cancer support charity.

4 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Paramedic Sarah takes tea with the Queen

By Sandie Marshall

Alan Halsall and Lucy-Jo Hudson with resident Vera Walsh

Corrie’s Tyrone joins soap celebration ACTOR Alan Halsall, better known as Coronation Street’s hapless mechanic Tyrone Dobbs, added a touch of TV magic to a specially themed morning at a Meltham care home.

In honour of the soap’s infamous cafe, ‘Roy’s Rolls’, Alan and his real-life wife and British actress, Lucy-Jo Hudson – best known for her role as wild-child Katy Harris in Coronation Street and as vet Rosie Trevanion in Wild At Heart – ate brunch with the residents at Greenacres.

The actors mingled with residents and their families, signing memorabilia and autographs, while also getting to know those who work at the Ideal Care Homes’ facility.

With the help of home manager Trisha Starr, residents also took part in a raffle to win a signed copy of ‘50 Years of Coronation Street’.

Lucy-Jo was presented with a bouquet of flowers by Roy and Margaret Humphries, who are big fans of the soap.

A HONLEY paramedic who spent two hours in freezing snow comforting a trapped car crash victim has been rewarded by a once-in-alifetime visit to a royal garden party.

Sarah Boothroyd, 35, says her day at Buckingham Palace was “amazing. I feel like it’s a dream I’ve been having.” While there, she and mum Rosemary mingled with the Queen, Prince Phillip, Charles and Camilla, Edward and Sophie and Princess Anne. She even had the opportunity to speak with Camilla and described her as “really lovely, a genuinely nice person”.

Sarah’s invitation to the Queen’s annual garden party was in recognition of her 10 years’ exemplary service with Yorkshire Ambulance, capped by her calm and professional performance in one particular incident last December. She recalls: “It was snowing so hard.

This lady’s car had skidded on Greenfield Road and had turned upside down. I had to crawl in through the window and lie on the roof in order to talk to her and keep her calm while my colleagues worked on getting her free.

“Every time the snow plough cleared the road the fresh snow just covered it again. It took two

Sarah (left) and mum Rosemary during their unforgettable day at Buckingham Palace. hours to cut away the roof and the seats so she could be lifted free. I wasn’t frightened because I knew my colleagues were all around us doing everything possible to get us both out safely.

“It was important to keep her calm because we didn’t know what injuries she had and so if she’d been panicking it could have made the situation much worse.

Amazingly, the crash victim was unhurt other than cuts and bruises. “It was amazing. To come away from such a serious crash with such light injuries was almost a

miracle,” she added.

Sarah never imagined her service as a paramedic would bring an invitation to an event like the garden party. In fact, she was convinced the original invitation was a joke from her colleagues.

“When I got a voice message from the Chief Executive with the invitation I was absolutely sure it was a wind-up. It took another call from his office before I realised it was real.

“I never in a million years thought something like this would happen to me.”

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 5

‘Use it or lose it’ultimatum as centre wins reprieve

By Sandie Marshall IN A SHOCK victory for people power, Kirklees Council has agreed to save adult education in Holmfirth. But it is a compromise – the current five-day programme will be slashed to limited courses running only two days and evenings each week.

‘Use it or lose it’ is the clear message from the college.

Holmfirth Adult Education Centre has been given a second chance but its long-term future will be judged on whether enough people sign up to the courses on offer.

The surprise U-turn was announced at a second packed public meeting in Holmfirth.

Newly appointed college Principal Peter McCann said they had listened to the outpouring of passion and anger expressed since the decision to close the centre was made public two

months ago. This has included a petition signed by 2,700 locals.

The college response is a pilot programme of art, craft and keep-fit courses at the centre on Tuesdays and Wednesdays with some evening classes on Mondays at Holmfirth Civic Hall and Tuesdays at Holmfirth High School. There are no plans to continue with more academic subjects such as languages or IT. Ultimately they want to see the management of the centre and its courses transferred to a group of locals, with the building leased to them through ‘peppercorn rents’.

The formation of this group will be led by Margaret Dale of the Keep Holmfirth Special group.

“We have the chance to do something exciting if we put the energy of this meeting into making this work properly” she said.

Any hope, however, that the change of mind would be met with celebration was quickly

The public meeting crowd hold up Save our Centre posters to make their views clear dashed. During a lengthy question and answer session, dozens of people got to their feet to express their anger at the past mismanagement of the centre and disappointment at the limited two-day programme.

There was cynicism about the true extent of the College’s commitment to Holmfirth and the time scale for the centre to prove its worth. “How long have we got before you pull the plug altogether?” asked one ex-student. “We need at least two years before you can judge whether it’s working.”

Another said: “This feels like a sweetener while you continue your plans to close it down.”

“I’m horrified by the lack of imagination. There’s more to adult education than arts, crafts and yoga.” added another.

Kirklees and Parish Councillors including Ken Simms, Tom Dixon, Greg

Christofi and Greg Cropper added their anger to that of the students, although Coun Simms did offer the help of the Valley Committee with some possible funding to help promote the new courses.

It was a baptism of fire for new principal Peter McCann who at times looked dazed and beleaguered in the face of such strong feeling.

But local MP Jason McCartney, who shared the meeting platform with the college officials, urged the meeting to give some credit to the olive branch on offer: “So often we bang our heads against a brick wall and feel we won’t be listened to. I take my hat off to Peter McCann and his team for this re-think. You – the people of the Holme Valley – should take credit for that because you have made them change their minds.

“We have a fantastic opportunity to show them that we have a

New Principal Peter McCann was under fire from the angry crowd real need in Holmfirth. Let’s fill these courses and make this centre buzz.”

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6 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Speed limit to be cut at blackspot Charity-boosting artWEEK

By Dominic Musgrave

broadens its appeal

By Mike Wallbank A RECORD 36 venues joined this year's artWEEK Fringe – from Holmfirth library, tourist information and adult education centre to studios and galleries, shops and pubs, cafes, churches, not only in and around the town, but throughout the valley.

One of the biggest displays was Light Without Heat, the Trash II Treasure art collective’s annual show in Holmfirth Methodist Church.

During the week, 1,823 visitors enjoyed over 600 works by 50 artists – and raised £666.48 for the Macmillan charity.

The art was hung on builder’s wire ‘Heras’ fencing, creating a light and airy labyrinth to

explore, giving the show a unique feel.

Kirkburton artist Julian Pratt organised the event, now in its seventh year: He said: “Every year we seem to find new talent, bringing a fresh perspective on creativity.

This year we widened our appeal by having demonstrations by artists such as wood turner John Birdsall and watercolours by Andrew Jenkin.

“Cheshire-born Andrew now lives in North Wales but spent his childhood in Honley and in recent years taught watercolour classes at North Light Gallery Art School, Armitage Bridge. Among his paintings on display in the Methodist Church were many eye-catching local scenes including

Nora Batty's steps in Holmfirth and the White Horse, Jackson Bridge – world-famous thanks to Last of the Summer Wine;

Tunnel End at Marsden, Nont Sarah's, Scammonden and, just over the Pennines, Roaches Lock, Mossley.

artWEEK facts and figures Number of visits to Civic Hall: about 12,000 Total sales in the exhibition, the market on the main hall stage and the artWEEK Fringe: £100,000-plus Amount raised for Macmillan Cancer Support: likely to be over £30,000 This year's top seller: featured artist Neville Fleetwood with regulars Mick Kirkby-Geddes, Jo O'Reilly and Sue Jenkins close behind.

The cookery book Simply Scrumptious, produced by Holmfirth High School pupil Loren Birkett in memory of her father, who died of cancer earlier this year almost sold out, raising a splendid £2,000 for Macmillan.

Thanks go to Loren and staff at the school.

This year's prize winners were: The Pennine Wealth Management Prize for painting – Kath O'Sullivan The John Shaw Memorial Prize for 3D work – Martin Norman The Florence Parker Memorial Prize for best newcomer – Suzanna Dale

SPEED limits on one of the area’s most dangerous roads are to be cut.

The maximum speed permitted on a 60mph stretch of Huddersfield Road between Netherton and a crossing with Meltham Greenway is to be reduced to 50mph.

The speed limit on the remainder of Huddersfield Road to Meltham Mills will be cut from 60mph to 40mph.

Double white lines will be painted on the centre of the road at certain spots outlawing overtaking.

The stretch of Huddersfield Road has been the site of numerous crashes – some fatal – over the past few years.

Holme Valley North councillor Terry Lyons said: “We believe we have acted in the best interests of safety, for both vehicle drivers and pedestrians alike, on what has become a notorious stretch of road between Netherton and Meltham.

“We can’t stop bad driving but we think if we have tighter

restrictions that will make people more safety conscious.

“This was requested by a resident and I believe it’s a very good move.”

A spokesman for Kirklees Council said: “A road safety scheme has been designed for Huddersfield Road between Meltham and Netherton due to a number of road traffic collisions involving inappropriate speeds and overtaking as a contributory factor.

“This scheme will introduce speed limit amendments, as well as improved signage, road markings and a double white line system to restrict overtaking.

“This Speed Limit Order has been made in conjunction with this scheme and introduces an extension to the existing 40mph speed limit on Huddersfield Road to cover the Meltham Greenway.

“It also reduces to 50 mph the existing derestricted speed limit on Huddersfield Road, between Meltham and Netherton. It is believed that these speed limit changes will improve road safety for all road users.”

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 7

Call to young footballers

Tower looks for record number of climbers VICTORIA Tower on Castle Hill will once again be open every day during the summer holidays.

Already almost 5,000 people have climbed to the top since the beginning of April and the tower team is hoping to smash the 2010 record number of visitors.

Julian Brown, Castle Hill Ranger, said: “From last year’s success we have decided to open Victoria Tower everyday this summer to cater for the demand. We are still welcoming local people that tell us they haven’t been back in 10, 20, 40 even 60 years and it’s for this reason we want people to come and visit and to remember what a special place Castle Hill is.”

The Victoria Tower was completed in 1899 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Queen Victoria's reign and it reaches the height of almost 997 feet above sea level.

The tower is open every day until September 4 and admission is priced at £1.50 for adults, 50p for children and £3 for a family ticket (two adults and up to four children). Kirklees Passport holders go free.

HEPWORTH United Rangers Under 12s football team is looking for new players to join training in readiness for the coming season.

The team, made up of boys who will be starting school year 7 in September, will start training at Thongsbridge Tennis Club on Friday evenings from early September and plays matches on Saturday or Sunday mornings. All new players will be welcomed. For more details, call team manager Simon Wilson-Hughes on 07715 638938.

Interest in new attraction spreads on the grapevine

By Christina Eccles A LOCAL couple have created Yorkshire’s next big tourist attraction right in the heart of the Holme Valley.

When Ian and Rebecca Sheveling first launched Holmfirth Vineyard, they had no intention of even opening it up to the public.

But increasing interest from locals led to them introducing vineyard tours, which proved so popular the pair have now opened a new visitor centre – including a winery and restaurant serving locally sourced produce – with spectacular views across the area.

Ian explained: “Originally it was going to be more of a hobby and

we were going to make wine to sell it.

“But people kept asking what we were doing and we decided to do our first tour in 2009. We ended up doing three tours a day for four days and it was heaving.”

Another successful weekend of tours later that year confirmed there was a gap in the market for this type of attraction and they decided to think more seriously about turning it into a business.

This set the ball rolling for the visitor centre, which opened in May this year, and so far business is booming – with tours every weekend since fully booked.

Rebecca added: “The response has been fantastic and we are get-

ting people coming from all over.

The local council is also right behind us as they believe it’s a great tourist attraction.

“People are coming to see us and then going into Holmfirth. And we are trying to push that wealth around so everyone benefits.”

Following the success of the restaurant, Ian and Rebecca have decided to expand the business even further and are currently building seven five star eco friendly lodges, which are due to open next year. The lodges, which will also include treatment rooms, jacuzzi and saunas, will allow the couple to extend their offering into full wine tasting weekends and capitalise on the short breaks market.

8 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Skatepark fundraising gathers pace

By Dominic Musgrave A THIRD of the £150,000 required for a new state-of-the-art skate and BMX park in Meltham has so far been raised, it has been claimed.

Friends of Meltham Greenway hope to have the remaining money in place by the end of the year, with plans to build the concrete park at Broadlands recreation ground, off Mean Lane, by next spring.

The park, which it is hoped will be one of the best in the country, will feature ramps, bowls, ledges and rails to accommodate skateboarders, BMX riders and rollerbladers, who have been using unofficial sites to practice.

Holme Valley councillor Terry Lyons said: “We are working in a community partnership with Melton town council and Friends of Meltham Greenway, along with Kirklees council, to raise the necessary funds for the facility, which we believe will be in the top eight in the country.

“When we asked the town's youngsters what they would like to see in the town, a skatepark was at the top of the list, and we think it will be a real community asset.

“We have £50,000 so far and think there is plenty of potential there for the remainder.

We have approached a lot of the local businesses, including Morrisons, whose car park a lot of the youngsters seem to be using to skate in at the moment.”

The Friends are also researching other possible financial avenues, hoping sponsors and match funding will help them reach their target.

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First for young rugby players A TEAM of young rugby league stars from Honley High School has become the first from Huddersfield to win the National Schools Championships.

The Year 10 and 11 boys had already claimed the Kirklees and Yorkshire Schools titles before going into the national final against Lancashire champs St Edmund Arrowsmith from Wigan.

In a hard-fought match, Honley claimed the lead early and refused to give it up, finishing as 24-10 winners.

There were match-winning performances from Honley joint captains George King and Sam Rochford who led their team admirably. The other team members were: Jack Thompson, Haydon Sutcliffe, Corey Noel, Elliot Morris, Oliver Kirk, Cameron Haigh, Toby King, Mikey Holmes, Danny Hirst, Matty Schofield, Jordan Halstead, Danny Copley, Zac Lynch, Chris Turnbull and Sam Midwood.

Special mention goes to Andy King for his support and coaching work with the lads.

Housing to go ahead despite ‘too much strain’claims A PLANNED housing development on fields off Oak Avenue in Meltham would place too much strain on the town's infrastructure, it has been claimed.

Councillors originally decided to refuse Jones Homes, of Cleckheaton, permission to build the 34 detached, semidetached and terraced houses on the grounds that it would lead to overdevelopment, compromise road safety and lead to the loss of green field land.

But that was reversed after Kirklees Council decided not to appeal the Planning Inspectorate's decision at appeal and allow building to go ahead.

And Kirklees planning officers advised councillors not to fight the appeal as the council was likely to lose – and be hit with significant costs in the region of £100,000.

Independent Coun Terry Lyons said: “We have had more than 100 residents attending a couple of meetings in the town arranged at short notice recently because there is a lot of community feeling that planning and building has been imposed on the area by the planners.

“They want to express their voice and concerns to Kirklees Council, as well as offering an alternative to building plans and

developments in the region.

“We are not opposed per se, but this development does raise questions about the traffic infrastructure of Meltham because that has not changed yet the population has.

“This will undoubtedly put pressure on the town's other facilities, including schools.

“I'm led to believe that two of the three are already full and the other is close to it, so what's going to happen there?”

Terry said he was initially unhappy with the council's Uturn, and the message it sends out to other developers.

He added: “It was like going into battle without a rifle and I was the only one on the subcommittee who voted against giving up.

“A six-figure fee was mentioned to fight it by the legal team,and the council got cold feet because we were advised that we would, in all probability, lose at appeal because the reasons put forward wouldn't stand up.

“I am most concerned about what sort of message this gives out to potential developers in future because other applications on fields in the area could follow.”

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 9

17th century ‘scandal’revealed during probe INVESTIGATIONS into the history of the Bankend right of way by Kirklees Council planning officers threw up a fascinating piece of 17th century scandal.

They found reports of an incident involving the Rev Edmund Robinson who lived in the manor house at the site from 1670 and was minister at Holmfirth. Reports from the time remember Rev Robinson as “a person of singular mould; there was an air of mystery in his general behaviour, he was vulgarly supposed to be deeply inbuded with the ‘black art’”.

Indeed, the parish register states that in 1688 he was “suspended of all ministerial offices” – in other words sacked from office.

The reports then divulge that Rev Robinson was using the cellars at Bankend Hall for the highly illegal practice of ‘clipping and coining’ where small amounts of gold were shaved off coins. “He carried on his work with great diligence, secrecy and success for some years without suspicion by which, as tradition states, he got a great deal of money, people know not how,” it said.

Suspicion did grow however, and his secret was discovered. Rev Robinson was arrested and tried at York Castle along with his 18-year-old son who has assisted with the practice. They were both found guilty and Rev Robinson was executed sometime before 1700. His son was reprieved because of his age and was sent to London where – somewhat ironically – he was set to work at the Royal Mint where he remained and acquired an ample fortune.

Right of way dispute to go to public enquiry

By Sandie Marshall A DISPUTE over an ancient right of way which links Brockholes and Thurstonland will go to Public Enquiry after Kirklees Council failed to reach agreement between walkers and homeowners. The enquiry will open at Holmfirth Civic Hall on November 28.

The footpath is at a site known locally as Tenterbank or Bankend.

It was blocked around 15 years ago when new houses were built there.

The footpath runs through the gardens of the houses. Owners of some of the houses have agreed to keep the footpath clear and have laid paving stones through their gardens for walkers. At one point, however, the path is completely blocked by fencing and hedging.

Local walkers and historians, including Kevin McClements and John Hinchliffe are determined to see the right of way restored.

Two years ago they asked Kirklees Council to look into the matter. After much deliberation, the council has proposed a diversion for the footpath which would take walkers down a steep bank, through a tight gap by a tree and over a stile before re-joining the original way.

It is the precedent, however, of allowing a right of way to be blocked which is angering them the most and making them determined to fight on.

“It sets a very dangerous prece-

Pictured at the point of the blocked footpath are, from left, John Hinchliffe, local councillors Les Bailey, Edgar Holroyd Doveton and Terry Lyons, and walker Kevin McClements.

This means government planning dent,” said Kevin McClements. “It inspectors from Bristol will visit the says to developers that footpaths site at some point over the coming can be ignored and just altered to months, hear evidence from both suit them. This makes building land sides of the dispute and then give a more valuable and means people formal ruling on whether the path can block footpaths if they don’t must be re-opened, may remain want walkers through their garblocked or whether the diversion dens.” should be created.

John Hinchliffe agreed: “The In addition to restoring the path, developer should have respected John and Kevin want to see more the path when the houses were signposting from nearby roads. built – it is marked on all plans.

“You would never know there is a What’s more, the person who owns footpath here at all,” said John. the house knows this is a right of “There should be clear signs way but has blocked it off hoping showing where it starts and the no one would notice or be bothroute it takes but there isn’t ered. It’s not good enough and it because it looks as if it is all private needs to be sorted out.” land. No one would ever know With no agreement reached, the they have a public right to walk problem has been referred to public through here at all.” enquiry.

Greenway expansion plans are unveiled PLANS to expand the Meltham Greenway further have been unveiled.

The first kilometre section of the disused Meltham railway line, which runs from the back of Morrisons to Huddersfield Road, opened several years ago at a cost of £250,000 due to work having to be done to two bridges.

But Holme Valley North councillor Edgar Holroyd-Doveton said he did not believe the proposed new bridleway, which would be approximately three miles, would not cost nearly as much.

He added: “The first section is extensively used and enjoyed by a lot of local people, which is what has prompted us to looking into the possibility of extending it further.

“Our early discussions with various groups have proved favourable, and we don't believe the work will cost nearly as much as what the initial section did.”

10 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Top award for celebrated chef CELEBRATED chef Tim Bilton has added a restaurant ‘Oscar’ to his list of awards.

Tim, who runs Hepworth’s Butcher’s Arms, beat chefs from all over the country to be named as the best chef in a pub restaurant at the Craft Guild of Chefs Awards 2011, the industry’s most prestigious prizes. He received his award at a glittering awards ceremony at the Westminster Plaza Hotel in London.

The good news comes on the back of three successful years as head chef at the popular village pub which has seen Tim and The Butchers Arms scoop many awards including Best Gastropub at the Great British Pub Awards and Yorkshire Life

magazine’s Dining Pub of the Year. For two years in a row, Timothy’s passion for great British food and local ingredients has seen him represent the North East on the BBC TV series Great British Menu.

“I’m absolutely delighted to have won such a high-profile award,” said Tim, who trained under the legendary Raymond Blanc. “We might be a small dining pub in a rural village, but my team and I work hard to bring the best of Yorkshire produce to diners and maintain the kind of standards you would expect from the country’s best restaurants. My passion is good pub grub and I feel I have one of the best jobs in the world!”

Summer gala set to mark Yorkshire Day CELEBRATE all the things that make our county special at a Yorkshire Day summer gala extravaganza in Honley on Saturday August 6.

The event, at the Village Hall, Roundway, is being organised by the Roundway Jagger and Stony Lane Tenants & Residents Association (RJS TRA).

It will open at 10.30am with the Town Crier reciting the Yorkshire Declaration followed by traditional and family activities including ferret racing, flat cap flinging, tug of

war and arm wrestling.

Guests of honour will be Crusher and friends, the most famous ferrets from the North Pennine Ferret Welfare and Boarding.

There will also be a barbecue, refreshments, free bouncy castle and other gala stalls and games.

The committee feel strongly that the day should be affordable for the whole family and have worked hard to keep all the day’s attractions very low priced or even free.

Graeme and Paul on their mountain adventure

Paul and a very big learning curve

By Sandie Marshall ALL training courses should be challenging but Paul Buckingham took this to new heights when he went from complete novice climber to conquering Mont Blanc in just one week.

The 39-year-old Holme businessman and his friend expert climber Graeme Taylor set out to climb Western Europe’s highest peak to raise money for Cancer Research UK and Help for Heroes.

Their mountainous effort has so far been rewarded with over £4,000 raised.

Paul, director of recruitment company Recruit Build, wanted to take on the challenge in memory of his mum June who died from cancer 15 years ago while ex-Army expedition leader Graeme was keen to support Help for Heroes.

Their target was ambitious – the

notorious ‘3 monts route’ of Mont Blanc with a final summit at over 4,800m. Every year climbers of all nationalities fall to their deaths from the mountain.

Their week in the Alps began with Paul learning the ropes on two practice climbs on lesser mountains before their main challenge began at 5am on Thursday morning. By 9.30am they set foot on the Aiguille duMidi ridge with its famous one foot-wide footpath.

Paul recalls: “I was roped to Graeme, crampons on, ice axe in hand, with no handrail (as you get in the ski season) and no other protection. I took my first terrifying steps on to the ridge, one foot wide, 2500m drop to my left and 750m drop to my right.

“It was by far the scariest moments of my life.”

Six and a half hours of gruelling

climbing later, the pair stood on top of Mont Blanc. The lack of oxygen had taken its toll and they had been whipped by 30mph winds and pebble-dashed by peasized pieces of ice.

“It was amazing to stand on the top. My eyes welled up thinking about my family back at home and then the single focus was to get down safely,” said Paul.

“After another seven and a half hours we finally reached the pickup point near the valley bottom.

“It was 11.30pm, pitch black, 14 hours later, and we were exhausted, elated and proud. We had managed to traverse the entire Mont Blanc range in one day, not bad for a first mountain experience!”

Paul is still hoping to reach the £5,000 target and donations can still be made through the website www.recruitbuild.co.uk/montblanc

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Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 11

League inspection team seeks venue for 2013 World Cup AN INSPECTION team from the Rugby Football League has visited sites across Kirklees as part of the process to select a venue for Rugby League World Cup in 2013.

Kirklees Council has co-ordinated a bid for the Cup which offers match venues, team training sites and team accommodation bases across the district alongside a complementary development programme of rugby league Monkeying around are, from left, Holly Willsden, Katy Dyson, Niall Hubbard (King Louie), Brooke Kirsch-Pinfiold and Elanor Straw.

Audience goes wild for Nabby Jungle performance

Taking the lead in Nabby Jungle are, from left, Jake Milburn (Baloo the Bear), Joe Marshall (Bagheera the Panther) and Ben Millington (Mowgli).

YOUNGSTERS at Holmfirth Nabb School revisited Rudyard Kipling’s classic adventure story The Jungle Book and renamed it Nabby Jungle for their end of year performance.

Elephants, monkeys, snakes and vultures all had a part to play in the story of Mowgli, the man club raised by wolves who wants to stay in the jungle and his fight with evil Sher Khan the Tiger.

Year 6 pupils performed the main story as part of their farewell to junior school although children from every year joined in with their own special songs. Packed audiences of parents and grandparents clapped and sang along with favourite songs from the Disney film including Bare Necessities, I Wanna Be Like You and We’re Your Friends.

Acting headteacher Chris Cocker said: “We’re immensely proud of all our young actors. They’ve been working on this performance since Easter and their hard work and talent shone through in a very polished performance.”

opportunities.

The consortium led by the council sees Batley Bulldogs, Dewsbury Rams, Huddersfield Giants, Kirklees Stadium Development Ltd, Kirklees Active Leisure, Kirklees Sport and Recreation Partnership, West Yorkshire Sport and the Kirklees Rugby League Service Area working together to provide a variety of options for hosting matches and team training facilities.

Delegates from the Rugby Football League made site visits many of the proposed locations allowing the officials to see first-hand the facilities that make up the bid and also to discuss proposals surrounding the promotion of the event and how the consortium plans to further develop the sport locally.

The outcome of the application process will be announced in the Autumn.

Ring us with your news on 07747 447023

12 - Holme Valley Review, August 2011

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Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 13

Is it a world record breaker?

THE ORGANISERS of Honley’s mammoth Hour of Power aerobics session are waiting to hear if they’ve earned a Guinness World Record.

A total of 978 people gathered on Neiley Fields for the record attempt led by Graham Wheatcroft, an art teacher at Honley High School and currently Yorkshire’s only Hour of Power instructor. The previous record for Aerobic Weight Lifting was only 250 people – so this session smashed it by a con-

siderable distance.

Helping Graham on the workout platform were fellow High School teacher Paul Sharrock and Huddersfield Giants stars Jamie Simpson and John Malloy.

Also there was Rajko Radovic, the pioneer of the Hour of Power workout and joint winner of the BBC’s Last Man Standing national endurance programme.

Supporting the record attempt were Moorhouses Haulage Company who supplied the main stage and One Water, a charity-

based company which supplies water for African villages. They provided bottles of water which the participants used as hand weights. Most of those taking part were pupils and teachers from Honley High School together with friends and family. All were excited at the prospect of achieving a world record.

Graham said: “The event was a great success and the pupils all behaved superbly showing excellent motivation and high levels of enjoyment. It was also

filmed by BBC Look North and Calendar News ITV. I am just in the process of finalising the paperwork with Guinness before getting final confirmation in 4-6 weeks time that we’ve got a new record.”

Graham teaches The Hour of Power at Fitness First in Lockwood on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings.

He can be contacted on 0783 7701 396 or mustangboss @hotmail.co.uk for more information.

Fun on Friday opportunity for kids and parents during school holidays THROUGHOUT the school summer holidays The Fair Traders Co-operative is offering 'Fairtrade Fun on Fridays’ craft workshops for children at its Holmfirth shop.

The workshops will run with morning and afternoon sessions each Friday of the holidays.

Every week there will be a different theme to the workshops, so young crafters can attend just one, or pop along to them all.

And while the children get creative, mums and dads can enjoy a Fairtrade coffee and some time to relax with other parents.

“We love to see children enjoying themselves and being inspired to be creative,” said Sophie Bebb of The Fair Traders Co-operative.

“We run children’s craft workshops every school holiday and while the children have fun and go away with fantastic creations

they are proud of, their parents get an hour or two of stress-free time, which we recognise can be very welcome during the holidays.”

The craft workshops are open to all children. Booking is not necessary – just drop in any Friday.

The Wooldale Olympic torch is held aloft

by Owen Dawson and Neve Connolly.

Schools join Get Set Network ahead of 2012 WITH London 2012 only a year away, children all over the Holme Valley have been learning about the Olympic and Paralympic values.

After becoming the first local primary school to join the Olympic Get Set Network, Wooldale Junior School held an Olympic-themed sports day and, in the true spirit of friendship, extended an invitation to their near neighbours at Lydgate Special School to join them.

After a parade of countries represented by different classes, young runners Owen Dawson and Neve Connolly, both 10, carried the Olympic torch from Wooldale to Lydgate where it was received by pupil Luke Murphy. The two schools then joined together for traditional sports day races.

The Get Set Network is the official schools learning programme for the London Olympic Games. School that join have access to special ideas and opportunities to make the most of the run up to the Games and receive an automatic allocation of tickets to events.

14 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Call to kids to roll up for circus challenge YOUNG readers are being encouraged to run away with the circus at Holmfirth, Honley and Meltham libraries for this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

Circus Stars is the theme of the challenge and, as well as getting stuck into books, kids will be entertained by special sessions for clowning around, learning circus skills and enjoying crazy circus capers.

At the heart of the Reading Challenge, 4-12 year olds are encouraged to read six or more books of their choice during the summer holidays with collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate or medal for every child who completes the challenge.

At Meltham Library, Kirklees has recruited Summer Reading Challenge Champions aged 16-25 years who help enrol the younger ones onto the challenge, hand out incentives, help them chose their next book and, most importantly, talk to them about what they’ve been reading.

All children can get involved by simply visiting their local library to enrol on the challenge and check out the dates and times for the special circus-themed sessions being held there.

’Today Yorkshire has lost one of its best ...’

THE HOLME Valley is mourning the passing of one of its best-loved businessmen and supporters.

Edgar Dickinson MBE, a founding partner of J & E Dickinson, Longley Farm died at his home after suffering a stroke. He was 87.

In 1948, Longley Farm was left to the brothers Joseph and Edgar Dickinson by their great-uncle Jonas Hinchliffe.

At the outset, Edgar carried on running the family’s agricultural contracting business, specialising in threshing and was one of the last people in the district to operate a steam tractionengine. Brother Joseph set up the farm and developed the dairy herd.

After rationing ended in 1954 , Edgar moved out of contracting and joined his brother in setting up the cream business. All the cream was in glass bottles with Edgar delivering as far afield as Oldham market.

From then, the firm never looked back and developed into today’s internationally-respected Longley Farm dairy operation.

Both brothers officially retired from Longley Farm in 1997, although neither actually really gave up working. From the partnership, Edgar retained the Bowers Mill complex at Barkisland, operating a plastics company, letting out units company and running the Venue function rooms.

Longley Farm is now run by Joseph’s son, Jimmy Dickinson, who said: “Longley Farm is truly a family operation and my Uncle Edgar put his mark on the place. He has been a part of the fabric of this business for so long that it is a shock to know that he is no longer there. I am not alone in feeling

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IT’S BEEN another busy month.

The phone hacking scandal has dominated the news agenda. As a former BBC and ITV broadcast journalist I take no pleasure in seeing my former profession being dragged into the gutter.

We were all disgusted by the reports of Milly Dowler's phone being hacked but we must resist the temptation for kneejerk reactions.

We must allow the police to weed out the criminals, and for the courts to punish them, so that the vast majority of hardworking and skilled journalists can continue to hold those in power to account via the best traditions of investigative journalism. We must maintain Britain's free press and free speech. However I’m glad we have all moved on to deal with the real pressing issues locally and nationally.

Locally there’s been another public meeting about the future of Holmfirth Adult Education Centre.

The new Principal of Kirklees College has signaled his intentions to listen and to work with the community by keeping courses running on a Tuesday and Wednesday. I welcome this initiative but there’s still lots more to do to make Holmfirth’s Adult Education Centre a viable and vibrant community asset.

As you may know my constituency office is in Holmfirth and the future of our high streets is a hot topic of conversation.

Mary Portas, who presents the BBC show “Mary Queen of Shops”

Edgar Dickinson very sad.”

Away from the farm, Edgar Dickinson was a committed philanthropist and received an MBE in recognition of his work with local causes.

He was President of Hade Edge Band and provided funds to build the purpose-built bandroom : “The Edgar Dickinson Building”. He was also Honorary Life President of New Mill Male Voice Choice and a great supporter of the local Masonic Lodge.

Andrew Bray of Andrew’s Greengrocers in Holmfirth knew Mr Dickinson for many years. He said of him: “No one did more for the Holme Valley. He was such a caring gentleman and I don’t know anyone who doesn’t speak so highly of him.

“There are lots of great things about Yorkshire, but today Yorkshire has lost one of its best.”

with Jason McCartney MP

Jason McCartney is leading a government review into our High Streets and I’ve invited her to Holmfirth. I think every other MP has done the same with one of their local towns though.

It’s challenging time for high street traders with internet shopping, high rates and parking all big factors. Businesses like photographic developers and video rental have fallen victim to technology and more and more of us

are ordering goods and services online. A good start here in Holmfirth would be to get the traffic light sequence sorted and our local Councillors are working with highways to get that looked at.

As always it’s a busy time with shows, galas and exhibitions which are always fun. I’m proud that I found the time to join 40 other charity cyclists for the Huw Thatcher Trust. Huw was a sports mad teenager from the Holme Valley who died suddenly earlier this year and his family have set up a charitable trust in his memory to raise funds for the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust. I cycled with Huw’s Dad Nick and sister Carys for part of the day’s ride round local cricket clubs.

Whatever sad news and horrors there are in the world we have some wonderful and brave people in our community and we should never forget it.

Finally on an upbeat note congratulations to local engineering companies HR Blowers and CNC Turn Mill who have scooped some big contracts that will not only see them secure their immediate future but also see them taking on new staff and young apprenticeships.

If you need my help please get in touch: my Holmfirth office is at Upperbridge House, 24 Huddersfield Rd, Holmfirth, HD9 2JS – opposite Ashley Jackson’s gallery. Tel: 01484 688364 or 688378. Email: jason.mccartney.mp@parliament.uk

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 15

Residents lose fight to stop drinks licence

By Sandie Marshall WORRIED Holmbridge residents have failed to stop a new drinks and entertainment licence being granted to the Shepherd’s Rest pub on Woodhead Road.

In granting the licence to current owners Thwaites brewery, Kirklees Council’s Licensing Panel has given the green light to Leeds-based Mood Developments’ plans to buy, refurbish and relaunch the pub as a family food and music venue. They hope to extend the current building into the small side car park and put a balcony on the front.

The panel did listen to some of the comments from locals and Holme Valley South Councillors and placed a condition that all entertainment at the pub must finish by 11pm each night. The original application from Mood Developments requested permission for live and recorded music until midnight Sundays to Thursdays, 1am on Fridays and Saturdays and 2am over Christmas.

Coun Nigel Patrick who attended the panel meeting with fellow councillor Donald Firth told the Review: “I know some local residents are really concerned about loud music playing until very late and general anti-social behaviour around the pub but at least we have got the hours reduced to more reasonable ones. We will watch what happens when it opens.”

The Shepherd’s Rest has been closed down since late 2010. Prior to this, complaints about it were regularly made to Kirklees Council and the police.

Among those who wrote to the council to object to the new license was mum Hailey Carter who lives on nearby Fairfield Road with her young family. She wrote: “At the time the pub was open … we had numerous problems with anti-social behavior, loud music, parking and traffic. Since the pub closed we have had no such problems and

A new drinks and music licence has been granted to the Shepherd's Rest pub. would like it to stay this way.”

Near neighbour Martin Miller also wrote objecting to the new licence. As well as concerns about traffic and loud music, he gave examples of previous trouble associated with the pub. “When the Shepherds Rest was last in operation I not only heard many late night drunken arguments but also found discarded bottles and litter left in my bin or my garden area. It was also the case that on several occasions my car was urinated on and vandalized after the pub was closed.”

Prospective owners Mood Developments tried to provide reassurance in their own letter to the council. “Our aim is to refurbish the premises extensively and to restore the Shepherd’s Rest as a community pub with a community mission.

“Our policies are to limit noise and nuisance and eliminate anti-social behaviour.”

Talented trio earn music school places THREE talented young musicians have been awarded places at the internationally-renowned Chethams School of Music in Manchester.

The 16-year-olds Will Robertson, Joe Barstow and Thomas Brown have just completed their mainstream education at Holmfirth High School, combined with scholarship places at Kirklees Music School. They will start at Chethams in September.

Thom Meredith, Principal at KMS said: “Kirklees has an excellent reputation for music and we are very proud of the achievements of our young players as well as the quality of the teaching we provide. Will, Joe and

Tom have all been part of KMS activities for many years and, although we are sad to lose them from our ensembles, we are delighted that they are choosing to further their musical studies at Chethams. We will follow their careers with interest and wish them all the best for the future.”

Will Robertson from Scholes will be continuing his studies on the cello and as a percussionist. Joe, who lives in Honley, will be studying percussion and piano and Thomas from Hade Edge will be focusing on the trumpet and composition studies. As well as receiving instrumental tuition through KMS the trio all play in the Kirklees Youth

Symphony Orchestra. Will plays in the Kirklees Schools String Orchestra and Thomas and Joe with the Kirklees Youth Brass Band.

Jim Morgan, Director of Music at Holmfirth High commented: “We are really proud as a school to know that these pupils have been given such a great opportunity to develop their musical careers.”

Chetham’s, based in the centre of Manchester, has become known as the most outstanding and progressive specialist music school.

It provides intensive musical tuition for its 300 students alongside academic study. Students are selected solely on their musical potential.

16 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Sports-mad youngsters gather for games THE name of the game was victory for 1,000 sports-mad kids who gathered in Leeds for this year’s West Yorkshire Youth Games – and there were trophies for local youngsters from Scholes and Wooldale.

A total of 127 teams from 90 schools across the county took part in the largest-ever games organised by West Yorkshire Sport, the county sports partnership.

Ten sports were represented from traditional cricket and tennis to the more unusual new-age kurling, cheerleading and boccia – a sport closed related to bowls and petanque.

The Holme Valley excelled in tennnis with a teams from Scholes School winning the Year 5 competition and Wooldale Juniors coming second in the Year4s.

Scholes School teacher Lindsey Delooze was over the moon with her team’s performance and result. She said: “I couldn’t be more proud. We knew we had a good chance but we’re a small school. For us to win something like this is really wonderful.”

Author comes to town BEST-selling thriller author Gerald Seymour is coming to Holmfirth Civic Hall on Tuesday August 16 at 7.30pm. He will be doing an author talk and promoting his new book ‘A Deniable Death’.

Gerald was an ITN reporter for 15 years, covering events in Vietnam, Borneo, Aden, the Munich Olympics, Israel and Northern Ireland. He has been a full time writer since 1978. His first novel was the acclaimed thriller ‘Harry’s Game’ set in Belfast and since then six of his thrillers have been filmed for television in the UK and US. ‘A Deniable Death’ is his 28th novel. Tickets are priced at £2 and are available from Kirk-lees Booking Offices, tel: 01484 223200 or online at www.kirklees.gov.uk/townhalls

Church branching out with garden festival

By Dominic Musgrave PREPARATIONS have begun for the inaugural St George’s Church garden festival in Brockholes next year.

The event, which will take place on Sunday July 1 will be centred around the village hall and the churchyard, which will have an Olympic garden created using tyres donated by local company Charlies Tyre Shop.

Parish member Stuart Coldwell, who is one of the team organising the event, said: “The event is being organised ahead of out big celebrations the following year when it is the 150th anniversary of the building of the church.

“We want to involve the whole community in the garden festival, whether they have a small or large garden. We have also approached the local C of E controlled infant and junior school and they seem very keen to take part.”

The churchyard has been transformed back into shape over the past few months thanks to the efforts of between six and eight members of the community pay-

back scheme, who visit every two weeks to maintain the grounds.

Stuart added: “When we approached the community payback scheme they were delighted to get involved with us and said it was exactly the sort of project they look to take on. They did the hard

work at the end of last year by chopping back all of the overgrown brambles, weeds and saplings that had been allowed to grow, and also removing the debris.

“Nobody realised how big a job it was going to be, but it has really moved forward thanks to their efforts. We are

all delighted with the results and now have an area where we can host events.

New fruit trees have also been planted in the grounds, while Holme Valley Parish Council donated 200 daffodil bulbs at the end of last year to give an extra splash of colour.

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 17

Four countries,816 miles, one tank of fuel:the new Jaguar XF 22 Diesel

The U13 boys and girls set off on their race.

Exciting finishes as young athletes stride out in road races

By Sandie Marshall SOME of Holmfirth Harrier’s most promising young athletes took part in this year’s Gynn Lane Handicap Road Races.

Each of the five races produced close and exciting finishes although, due to the handicapping system used, it was not always the first past the post who walked away with the champions’ trophies.

In the under 11 girls’ race, Libby Shepherd ran the fastest time on the day closely followed by Sunnivah Waterman in second. It was Olivia Battye, however, who finished in seventh place who won the event on handicap. All the

girls ran really well including Kate Dickinson who ran as a guest due to being only seven years old and was 14th across the line out of 25.

The under 11 boys were off next with Jimmy Burke who had triumphed in the Neiley Junior X-Country Races as hot favourite.

Although he finished first, he was beaten into second in the overall handicap standings

by James Hughes who put in a fine sprint finish.

The best race of the night came about when the organisers decided to run the Under 13 boys and girls at the same time which produced a fasci-

nating contest and brought out the best in many of the runners. A furious sprint finish saw Bradley Bedford narrowly hold off Olivia Sykes and Erica Byram with Lewis Bartholomew just two seconds behind.

Her effort to take on the boys paid off for Erica as she took the handicap trophy with Olivia taking third and Daisy Mae Smith second. In the boys’ handicap, Sam Shaw moved to first place with Lewis in second and Bradley and Aaron Gill sharing third.

Due to injuries and illness, the Over 13 girls field was greatly reduced. In the end it

was Lucy Farquhar who took the trophy followed by Sophie Spencer and Francesca Redfearn.

Finally, the Over 13 boys race was another terrific contest with Eddie Hinchliffe coming out on top followed by Aaron Arthur and race winner Lewis Byram.

All five races were a great success and allowed some of the young athletes to have their first experience of competition.

This was the first of the summer championships with the next race due to take place on Sunday September 11 at Neiley Fields.

THE new XF, equipped with a 2.2-litre fourcylinder engine, promises to be the most efficient Jaguar yet produced. And to prove it, an example has just completed an epic journey from the factory in which it was created at Castle Bromwich in Birmingham, to Munich – a distance of 816-miles – on a single tank of diesel.

Driven by David Madgwick, an independent tester, accompanied by navigator Alexander Madgwick, the scrupulously standard XF passed through four countries taking in a mix of winding country roads, motorways and dense urban traffic. The XF, with just over 3,000-miles on the clock at the point of departure, consumed just 64-litres of fuel to average a remarkable 57 mpg.

On-hand to meet the car on its arrival in Munich was Andy Whyman, Chief Programme Engineer for the XF, who commented: “The entire development team is very proud of what the new XF 2.2 has achieved – this not only proves the efficiency of the new model but underlines that performance and economy can be combined.”

Despite its keen focus on economy the XF 2.2 produces 190 PS and 332 lbs ft of torque, to allow the XF to accelerate from rest to 62mph in just 8.5-seconds before reaching a top speed of 140mph. The XF 2.2 emits just 149 g/km of CO2. Further improving efficiency, the new 2.2-litre engine is linked to a new eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox and an innovative Stop-Start system – marking the first time such a device has been fitted to a Jaguar.

Set to be launched in September, the new XF 2.2 forms part of the new 2012 model range. Benefitting from a fresh new look, upgraded interiors and equipment as well as improvements in efficiency and refinement, the latest generation XF looks set to build on the achievements of the model it replaces.

For more information or to arrange a test drive contact Perrys Jaguar, Huddersfield on 01484 481200, call into the showroom on Northgate or visit the website www.perrys.co.uk/huddersfield-jaguar.

18 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Weddings and Wimbledon: what to wear

By Becky Sturdy I’M NOT sure if it’s the time of the year or the fact that I could really do with a new pair of curtains but each morning the sunshine seems to come peering through my window earlier and earlier.

Don’t get me wrong there are very few things in life that I will allow to stir me from my beauty sleep but the sunshine is definitely one of them. And as the sun pours over the valley and over my

Jane Austin collection I can’t help but spring out of my bed feeling more Elizabeth Bennett than Becky Sturdy and as I grab for my bonnet and skip out the door I can't help but think that this summer is a summer to celebrate the English Rose.

So whether you’re heading for a picnic, Ascot or just recreating Wimbledon in your back garden do it with the country couture that we know so well.

For events like Ascot think floral and eye catching, maxi dress-

es in feminine colours are easy to wear and comfortable for day long events. (long black dress) Pipa – Nik, Holmfirth (flowery dress) The Loft, Holmfirth If you’re going to brave a hat this season think classic. Big is fine so are fascinators but leave the road kill head wear to Camilla (remember the 2008 disaster?).

My advice is to head to divine!

Failing that why not take a plain hat and add a scarf.

(3 scarves one spotty) Pipa – Nik, Holmfirth (Divine shop window) Divine, Holmfirth (row of scarfs) The Loft, Holmfirth (opposite Rhythm and Booze)

For casual day time I would suggest thinking british preppy. Hunter wellies, perfect for summer adventures and festival chic, tennis skirts (on and off the court) and a polo shirt are the three essentials I will be ensuring are

in my wardrobe ready to go.

Holme Valley Sports, Holmfirth If you do decide to brave it and team a tennis skirt with any sort of sporting activity please be careful not to break a nail.

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 19

20 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

From trekking the Great Wall of China,to a parachute jump and an office dress down day,local people are working hard to raise money for road safety awareness charity Brake.Christina Eccles spoke to volunteer manager and community fundraiser Lisa Kendall about why every penny counts.

Working hard to raise cash and awareness

One of Brake’s most familiar faces is the charity’s mascot Zak the zebra. Zak regularly makes an appearance at fundraising events and, according to Lisa, is always a big hit with people of all ages.

SIX people are killed on British roads every single day. A shocking statistic and one which Brake is working hard to change.

The charity exists to raise awareness of road safety and provide support to families who have lost loved ones through accidents on the road.

When the police visit bereaved families, they give them a booklet, produced by Brake, containing everything from practical information such as how to deal with inquests, to support about the grieving process.

Brake also runs a dedicated helpline, speaking not just to families and friends which have lost loved ones, but also workers from the emergency services who have witnessed road accidents as part of their job.

The work is vital but to enable it to go ahead, the charity depends on public generosity.

Lisa explained: “We receive

very little government funding so we rely very heavily on fundraising and support.

“I'm the first port of call for people who want support and I've heard some horrific stories.

It's so important the work we do.”

Lisa has been working for the charity for seven years and having known someone who has lost two loved ones in separate crashes, has seen first hand how it can affect lives.

This makes her passionate about her work, which also includes teaching people of all ages about how to be safe on the road.

She added: “We also educate about the need to be safe, starting with toddlers. One of the activities we do is a charity buggy push with mums as a lot of communities have issues about road safety around their schools.”

One of the biggest events in the calendar is Road Safety Week, which takes place annu-

ally in November. Every year the focus is on a specific topic, with this year young drivers aged 17 to 25 coming under the spotlight.

“Road Safety Week is an opportunity to get the message out there.

“This year the focus is on young drivers aged 17 to 25 so around the country, Brake will host events where people who have been affected by road accidents involving young drivers will come and speak. We will also be working with schools, colleges and universities.”

Lisa said that the charity’s fundraising events vary in size and activity but all are important to raise the profile of the charity and those all important funds.

“Our fundraising events are vital. Everything costs – from the helpline to the leaflets we produce. That's why we rely on people being generous and supporting us. It can be as big or

as small as you want. From dress down days to climbing Mount Snowdon and cycling from London to Paris. One lady is even trekking the Great Wall of China.

“There are so many ways people can support us and every penny goes into our work to prevent road deaths.

“A lot of people who do these events are bereaved themselves so want to raise awareness and do it in memory of their loved ones.

“They think that if one less family can go through the same heartache then it's worthwhile.

“Brake is a charity that applies to everybody. Everyone is some way is involved in the roads either as a driver or a cyclist or pedestrian.

“Six people are killed on the roads every day. “ One analogy we use is that this is the equivalent of an aeroplane dropping out of the sky once a month. It's appalling.”

Taking the plunge LOCAL businessman Mike Hall did his bit for Brake by taking part in a parachute jump to raise vital funds.

Mike, who is managing director of Wrights in Thongsbridge, Holmfirth, took to the skies with colleague Jodie Chambers and her mum, Angela Lomax.

The trio jumped out of an airplane, raising more than £1,000 in sponsorship, and becoming hooked on the experience – with Mike and Jodie both already planning a second jump.

Mike added: “We jumped from 14,000 feet, and the experience of freefall is incredible, one of the most amazing experiences we have ever had.

“We've got to do it again! We had our jumps filmed, and we still get a buzz when we watch it back again. So anyone who's thinking about doing a skydive should just do it. It was one of our colleagues that mentioned Brake, and when we saw what fantastic work they did then we were only too happy to support them.”

Jodie Chambers

Mike Hall

Holme Valley scenery is celebrated Company produces in new book by memories group 2,500 beds a week MEMBERS of Holme Valley Sharing Memories, a group of elderly people who work on creative and heritagebased projects, have produced a book celebrating the beautiful scenery of the Holme Valley.

Called Pennine Landscapes, the book has been a joint project with the younger generation and is now available to buy, with all proceeds going towards supporting the group’s work.

The book includes photography, visual art and creative writing and has taken several months to put together. Sharing Memories worked with a small group of pupils from Holmfirth High School and Year 5 pupils from Brockholes Cof E Junior and Infant School as part of the project.

Visual artist Jenny Elllis, who works with the group, is delighted with the results: “Our group mem-

bers are all in their 70s, 80s and 90s and everyone has contributed an enormous amount of enthusiasm and commitment to this book” she said. “We’ve been out in the Holme Valley visiting places and landmarks which have particular meaning to the participants and it has been fascinating listening to all their stories.”

Sharing Memories also worked with professional artist David Quirke, photographer Paula Solloway and the Holmfirth High School pupils taking photographs and producing paintings.

Writer Mary Cooper was brought in to work with everyone on the project and incorporate the children from Brockholes School. Pupils from Holmfirth High School’s Kronos programme also worked alongside younger pupils from Brockholes doing creative writing and tissue art. The resulting publi-

cation is a rich celebration of what it means to live and grow up in the Holme Valley.

In addition to the book, the group has produced a series of greeting cards and postcards, based on their drawings and paintings, which are also for sale.

This project would not have been possible without the generous funding of the South Pennine Leader Programme and Kirklees Council.

Copies of the book are available price £9.99 from Sally Brown, telephone 01484 683756 or email sallybrown@btconnect.com Please make cheques payable to Holme Valley Sharing Memories Group and post to Sally Brown, 117 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth, HD9 3JA. For more information about the work of Sharing Memories go to ww.sharingmemories.org.uk

DELUXE Beds Ltd, a member company of the National Bed Federation, was founded approximately 20 years ago in an old textile mill in Lockwood and is now located in the old Mitre Sports factory in Birkby.

The company has grown over the years and now produces approximately 2,500 beds per week supplying retailers throughout the UK. Deluxe Beds still retain a retail outlet at Lockwood which has plenty of free parking.

The firm uses fillings sourced locally, one of its major suppliers is John Cottons at Mirfield who are the largest of the three suppliers of fillings all located in the WF postcode area.

It is therefore highly likely that whoevers bed you purchase

some fillings component will be from one of three local factories.

Deluxe Beds produce a wide range of beds from ones based on open coil springs to pocket springs with as many as 3500 individual springs and all these are supplied by Agro Europe’s largest and very highly respected manufacturer.

All beds offer extremely good value for money.

Check out the competition then compare value; you will not pay over the odds for a big brand name.

If you need a bed this afternoon or tomorrow then it is more likely than not that DeLuxe Beds can manufacture it straight away for you.

Deluxe Beds Ltd, Broadfield Mills, Lockwood, Huddersfield HD1 3QD 01484 422147

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 21

22 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Some of the club's younger members get to grips with fielding.

Rob Oakley gives batting coaching to Upperthong's Under 11s.

Cricket club is a true all-rounder

By Sandie Marshall THE HOLME Valley boasts some wonderful places to play and watch cricket but only a couple can rival the beautiful location of Stack Field, home to Upperthong Cricket Club.

The club has played an important role in village life since 1999 when the ‘old’ cricket club which had ground-shared with Cartworth Moor since 1977, merged with Barker Sports of Salendine Nook and moved into Stack Field, owned by local farmer John Quarmby.

While not one of the oldest clubs in the Valley, Upperthong can lay claim to being one of the most progressive. It currently has senior A and B teams playing in the Saturday Huddersfield Central Cricket League, plus another two teams in local Sunday and Friday evening leagues, a strong coaching staff and a newly re-built clubhouse, tea room and bar. Current club chairman is Robert Heywood.

Upperthong also takes great pride in its thriving junior section, currently the largest in the Huddersfield League with teams at Under 9 and 11 years, two team each at Under 13s and 15s

and an Under 17s team, all under the watchful eye of Rob Oakley, the club’s director of junior coaching.

The club has eight England Cricket Board (ECB) qualified coaches and regularly hosts school holiday coaching sessions by the Pro Coach Academy which delivers coaching on behalf of Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

Rob told the Review: “We really believe in grassroots training for the youngsters and take them from a very young age to introduce the skills of bowling, fielding and batting. We encourage to a love of the game which will hopefully last all their lives.

“We know that kids really want to get on and play in matches but we try to get them to learn the disciplines that will enable them to become good, all round cricketers – as well as having a good time while they’re here.”

The club’s junior section is supported by sponsorship from the Small Auto Company of Holmbridge and the Bengal Spice Indian restaurant of Holmfirth.

Club secretary Caroline Balmforth is keen to generate a

healthy social life for players, supporters and parents. This year the club has been working hard to support the Huw Thatcher Trust. 15-year-old Huw, who died earlier this year from an undetected brain aneurism, was a much-loved member of Upperthong’s junior section.

In Huw’s honour the club hosted a family cricket challenge during this year’s Upperthong Gala and invited parent and kid’s teams from all the other Holme Valley clubs to take part in friendly matches and contests for batting, bowling, throwing and catching skills. The afternoon was a great success and the club was pleased to share the money raised with the Huw Thatcher Trust.

The club was also the starting point for July’s Huddersfield Cricket Bike Challenge, another brilliant idea to raise money for Huw’s trust. Cyclists spent the day touring the cricket clubs of the Holme Valley – stopping off for a few overs and drinks on the way. Local MP Jason McCartney jumped on his bike to ride alongside Huw’s dad and sister for part of the route.

Other events this year have

focused on raising funds for the new clubhouse which was extended and refurbished over the winter and is now almost unrecognisable from the original Stacks Lane changing rooms.

Local legend tells how the original changing rooms were once picked up and moved 200 yards around the boundary edge so ground owner John Quarmby could watch the match from his house window.

The clubhouse redevelopment has been completed under the watchful eye of groundsman and barman Dave ‘Sooty’ Sutton who together with his wife Sue are great supporters of the club as well as ex-landlords of the nearby Royal Oak pub.

Secretary Caroline Balmforth says: “It would be impossible to imagine Upperthong Cricket Club without Sooty and Sue. They are great characters who work very hard to keep the place in shape and everyone else going.

“Thanks mostly to their work we now have a club house as good – if not better – than anyone else’s in the valley for cricket teas and social functions. It’s says a lot about how the club is moving forward.”

Sue and Dave 'Sooty' Sutton behind the newly built clubhouse bar.

HoTT NEWS

by Martin Smith

HoTT stands for Holmfirth Transition Town initiative. We are a growing number of local people concerned about the very real threat of climate change and peak oil, and the risks our actions today may pose for future generations. We aim to find together ways in to reduce our carbon footprints as well as saving money, especially on fuel bills – increasingly important in these difficult times.

More solar panels appear amid attractive feed-in offer DID YOU know that five of the top ten local authority areas for generating electricity from the sun are located here in Yorkshire?

Kirklees just comes into the list – in ninth place after the likes of Sheffield and Barnsley. The Holme Valley, however, is certainly doing its bit – with a marked increase in panels on our roofs in recent months.

This development is probably not due to our not so sunny climate – but rather to active take-up of the ‘Feed in Tariff’ scheme launched in April last year. Under the scheme a householder installing an array of Photovoltaic panels saves money on electricity bills and gets a ‘feed in tariff’ payment on electricity generated and also on that which is ‘exported’ to the national grid.

Altogether, according to the Energy Saving Trust, an array of 14 panels costing about £12,000 should bring in about £1,200 per

year. Whatever the size of your array, the pay back period is about 10 years. The tariff levels are index linked and are paid for 25 years. This is an attractive deal.

Holmfirth Transition Town initiative (HoTT) with its focus on generation and use of renewal energy, is keen to see more solar power. One of our members tells of the benefits this can bring: “In the 13 weeks from March 3rd to June 3rd our seven-panel photovoltaic array in Holmfirth generated around 290 Kilowatt Hours (Kwh) of electricity. We were told that our panels can generate a maximum of 1.3Kwh in any onehour period, which is about half the hourly use of electricity by the average household. While the indicator has not been seen to hit that yet, it is often generates around the 1.175 Kwh mark. Even in cloudy conditions it usually generates at least 0.5kwh.

“In money terms that means we

are expecting a cheque for about £140 from our electricity supplier in the Feed In Tariff and energy export payments for this quarter.

Better still, following a review, our monthly payments for electricity have been revised down by 40%.

And we suspect that it will actually drop further – the reason? As well as the solar power, we installed energy saving bulbs everywhere. The kitchen lights now consume 70 watts rather than 350watts for example.

“We are also much more conscious of how and when we use electricity. If you run energy-hungry appliances such as washing machines during sunshine hours you consume your own electricity rather than importing from the grid – and that’s far cheaper.”

If you want to know more about solar power, contact the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012 for free impartial advice.

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 23

Jamie’s drive pays off as he takes golf world by storm

By Dominic Musgrave A NETHERTON golfer is taking the golfing world by storm after winning a top competition.

Jamie Bower, 18, was named English Schools’ National champion after hitting a new course record score of 64 in the second round at Belton Park near Grantham in Lincolnshire.

He was four strokes behind the leaders after hitting a one over par score of 72 in the first round.

Winning the event also means that Jamie, who has been a member of Meltham Golf Club since the age of six, qualifies for the England Schools’ team for the international match against Scotland in September at Kilmarnock

Barassie Golf Club.

He said: “I didn’t have such a good year last year, particularly n the first half, but put in a lot of hard work last winter and it is really beginning to pay off.

“Winning the championship was a fantastic feeling, and I played some of my best golf on the back nine.

“Like any youngster the dream is one day to be a professional golfer, and I am really working hard to be as good as I possibly can.”

Jamie, who has also finished fifth in the Sir Henry Cooper Junior Masters and is the reigning Halifax, Huddersfield Union Junior Stroke-play Championship title holder, having won the Lightcliffe Tankard last year, trains for approximately six

Volunteers sought for support group A NEW group to support the work of worldwide charity Oxfam is looking for volunteers to get involved.

The Holme Valley Oxfam Support Group wants to raise awareness of the charity through events and fundraising. It says it intends to meet bi-monthly and hold four seasonal events each year.

Anyone interested in learning more should email holmevalleyoxfam@hotmail.co.uk or telephone any evening on 07811 552354.

Villagers to have say on controversial plan VILLAGERS have been invited to a meeting in Honley about a controversial house-building plan.

More than 100 people attended two similar events in Meltham about the Local Development Framework – the Kirklees Council blueprint for 28,000 new homes by 2028.

The Honley meeting is planned for September 8, with a venue and time to be confirmed.

hours every day, and comes from a golf mad family.

He added: “I’ve played golf for as long as I can remember, and my dad and both grandfathers are all keen players too.

“I've recently finished studying at Greenhead College and am not going to university so that I concentrate on my golf for a year.

“My parents have said they will support me financially so I am going to put everything into it. My grandparents have also been a massive help over the years taking me to competitions when my parents have been unable to because of work.”

Jamie has already represented England this year in a tournament against Denmark.

Pictured, from left, with the beer walk cheque are: Irene Armitage, Jan Benham and Stanley Benn of Sharing Memories, their taxi driver Martin Haigh, Ian Roberts and Sheila Sutton of the Nook with baby Lane, and Sally Brown project manager for Sharing Memories.

Beer Walk boost for Sharing Memories project THE FIRST ever Charity Beer Walk organised

by The Nook Brewhouse in Holmfirth, raised £460 for longstanding local group Holme Valley Sharing Memories.

The event involved a tour around nine local Holme Valley hostelries with some of the walkers cutting a dash in fancy dress.

Sharing Memories uses the arts, memories and life experiences as a spring board for projects with older people, schools and the wider community. The late Angela Roberts, former Nook owner and landlady was a keen member and her family continues to be involved with the group through a range of fundraising initiatives. Angela’s daughter, Sheila Sutton, still runs the pub along with her brother Ian Roberts.

Artist Jan Benham, who helped set up Sharing Memories in 1994, is delighted with the amount of money raised: “Angela would have been so pleased that we have been able to raise this amount through the pub,” she said. “Events like the beer walk are a real boost to our funds and it’s a great way of getting local people involved.”

Becky Sturdy, office manager of The Nook Brewhouse, organised the event which was supported by live bands Leo Brazil and his Twitch supported by Blue Label.

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24 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Free dry stone walling in bid to protect newts

By Sandie Marshall Catch of the day: Honley’s young anglers with their instructors.

Fly fishing introduction makes a splash with pupils HONLEY High School Year 10 pupils were introduced to the sport of fly fishing by the Countryside Alliance Foundation’s Fishing for Schools Programme.

Run in association with the Calder and Colne Rivers Trust, the programme introduces fly fishing onto the National Curriculum and gives teenagers the opportunity to learn a practical skill.

The youngsters were supplied with fishing

equipment and were taught how to assemble it, cast and catch fish at Bowshaw Whams at Hade Edge.

Subjects such as safety, insect life, knot-tying, fish biology and respect for local wildlife were also addressed.

One of the pupils, Laura Elliot said: “The instructors showed me in a step by step way how to set up the rods, casting and then killing the fish. I was extremely happy and excited when I caught my

first fish. It was a really fun day out.”

Charles Jardine, a wellknown angler, author and broadcaster was an instructor for the day.

He commented: “Fly fishing acts as a gateway to the natural world, and the benefits of getting kids out of the classroom and into the great outdoors are numerous.

“These youngsters at Honley High have had an experience they will never forget.”

DENBY Dale Parish Countryside Project is offering free training in dry stone walling as part of its project to protect great crested newts.

The newts use dry stone walls to hibernate during the winter and also as places to hide and as safe routes between ponds. The Denby project aims to connect two colonies of the creatures within the parish. Building new walls along key routes is part of this plan.

The training on Saturday August 20 will be provided under the expert guidance of Master Craftsman Nigel Goody from the Otley and Yorkshire Dales Branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association. Many people have gained nationallyrecognised qualifications through his tuition and some have gone on to find jobs in dry stone walling.

With the help from fund-

ing from SITA and the Kirklees Council Environment Unit, a Great Crested Newt Link Project is being developed to connect two colonies of Great Crested Newt within Denby Parish. The work taking place is under the expert guidance from the Otley and Yorkshire Dales Branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association.

Andy Wickham, the Countryside Officer for the Denby Dale Countryside Project said: “We have worked closely with likeminded individuals and conservation organisations to help protect newts for a number of years now and with the enthusiasm of local volunteers and hands-on support from the Otley and Yorkshire Dales Branch, some outstanding dry stone walling has been achieved.

“The rebuilding of dry stone walls along the Kirklees Light Railway, which is also a popular

tourist attraction, has been one of those success stories.

We hope people will come and enjoy learning this ancient craft with us and to know they are not only helping to provide habitats for newts but for other wildlife that live in them too.”

Nigel Goody said: “It’s important that you go at your own pace with walling, learn the fundamentals and the stages of each wall you build and at the end of the day you will see what you have created. There’s certainly nothing more satisfying to see what you can do in a day, especially as you know it will be there for many a generation if built correctly.”

No previous experience is required and all tuition and tools will be provided.

Places are limited but can be booked by contacting Andy Wickham on 01484 222960 or 07773 386550 or via email andywickham@ kirklees.gov.uk

New owners weave their magic THE WEAVERS began its life in the mid-18th century as a cloth finishing mill and a vital part of the Colne Valley textile industry. Linked with the Taylors, an influential family in the weaving business, the house became a prominent feature of the mill in the 18th century.

The Weavers opened its doors as a restaurant in the early 1970s with rooms added in 1999. The new owners, Andrew and Kate Ratcliffe have completely renovated the whole building, giving The Weavers a fresh lease of life with the aim of creating a fine dining experience at affordable prices.

Extensive restoration work has gone into this important historical building with the intention of preserving as many original features as possible. This includes the mill chimney, which dates as far back as 1744.

The inviting guest rooms combine modern luxury with traditional comfort and are only a short walk from the impressive function room. We can cater for all occasions and events and aim to create a personal touch for

every event taking into account your needs and exceeding your expectations. Hidden away in and amongst the upper beams of the mill is the beautifully restored and intimate Acre Suite, a modern bridal bedroom that takes its name from the original building, Acre House.

The gardens have been renewed to their former glory and include an outdoor eating area, a terrace for drinking and a unique orangery where you can while away the day with friends and family. Children will particularly enjoy the large front garden, where they can play freely while the adults can enjoy the scenery or join in the fun.

The Restaurant is headed by Alex Knott, head chef, who along with his team has a passion to deliver the very best cuisine, using only the finest and freshest ingredients sourced locally with our meat produce supplied by the local award winning farm shop.

Our bar area is light and spacious and if you would like to join us for a drink, why not sample something from our cocktail menu that delivers all the known favourites from the traditional Mojito to the Cosmopolitan, or if you’re looking for something extra special why not try our champagne cocktails.

We have a fabulous range of wines and champagnes on offer as well as a good selection of draught beers, a real ale option and even a specialty beer. Pimms and lemonade is available on tap which is the perfect complement for those hot summer afternoons.

The Weavers is an exciting and innovative development for the Golcar area that invites the whole family to enjoy.

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 25

Marsden Jazz Festival to celebrate in style THREE brand new works will be premièred at this year's Marsden Jazz Festival which is celebrating its 20th birthday in 2011.

As part of a commitment to featuring new work by British artistes, the festival will showcase commissions from Richard Ormrod, Ben Crosland and Pat Allison working with Honley High School.

Richard Ormrod and his band will present a new work influenced by both film composer John Barry and Captain Beefheart's Magic Band.

This performance will be the centrepiece of the festival's New Stream series, which features the some of best of the UK's emerging jazz talent.

Ben Crosland's new

work “Open Place” forms the main commission from the festival's headline series and is inspired by Yorkshire Sculpture Park's collection of modern and contemporary sculpture.

The band will feature a sextet of bass, piano, two trumpets and two trombones.

A collaboration between composer Pat Allison and Honley High School students, using a notation system that allows letters to have musical notes. The performance will be a highlight of the festival's Join In series at the British Waterways Standedge Tunnel Visitor Centre.

These new commissions were possible through financial support from the PRS for Music Foundation

and Arts Council England.

The festival takes place on October 7-9 and follows on from its 2010 success when it was named Jazz Festival of the Year in the first Jazz Yorkshire Awards.

At a ceremony in December the award was presented to the festival’s Chair, Barney Stevenson

by Cluny MacPearson, regional director of the Arts Council in Yorkshire, who said of the event: “An interesting, eclectic and inclusive festival set in spectacular Pennine scenery. Every autumn, the festival successfully brings together jazz fans and locals for three wonderful days as the whole of Marsden embraces the jazz festival spirit.”

Speaking after the awards ceremony, John Quail, who runs the Festival’s ‘New Stream’ programme said: “Marsden Jazz Festival is a festival for everyone; we have quality days out for all the family, and we have great music – some of which you will already have heard and some you haven’t heard of but you will soon.”

The festival is a registered charity run by volunteers and organisers always aim to bring as much music as possible to festival audiences free-of-charge – around three quarters of gigs have no admission charge. There are over 70 events scheduled over 48 hours and box office opens on August 6.

26 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Heritage, beauty and shopping with a difference THE Colne Valley has long been a favourite with walkers and cyclists with its spectacular Pennine scenery.

The fabulously unspoilt Marsden Moor, an important conservation habitat, is home to a rare variety of wildlife, and the National Trust offers several selfguided walks and a heritage trail so visitors can make the most of this unique location which hosts a section of the Pennine Way. The towns and villages of the Colne Valley are home to many quality, independent shops and businesses.

But the Colne Valley has so much more to offer.

Steeped in history, the area played a significant part in the development of the Industrial Revolution.

Weaving had been a key industry for generations so when water-powered textile mills were built on streams and small rivers in the area, it was well-placed to become a major producer of textiles.

Visual remains of this industry and the industrial revolution are still in evidence in the area.

Today, the towns and villages including Marsden, Slaithwaite, Linthwaite, Milnsbridge and Golcar have evolved into thriving, local communities with an impressive range of small, high-quality businesses.

For example, Marsden,

with a population of just over 4,000, boasts, on Peel Street alone, an up-market ice cream parlour/art gallery, two gift shops, a quality greengrocer/deli, fancy dress shop, local estate agent, two restaurants, toy shop, coffee shop, wine bar and micro brewery – all independently owned and offering something that little bit different.

Slaithwaite also offers an interesting mix of restaurants, cafes and shops, catering for the tourists attracted by television coverage of the area.

Parts of both Slaithwaite and Marsden were used to create Skelthwaite, the village in Last of the Summer Wine.

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 27

28 – Holme Valley Review, August 2011

What’s On Guide CLASSIFIED SERVICES

Saturday July 30 – Holiday Monday August 29, Standedge Tunnel Visitor Centre, Marsden, 11am-4pm daily, Artsfest 2011: annual celebration of local art, exhibition of over 30 local artists' work available to buy. Free admission. Contact 01484 844298.

Fridays in August, National Trust Marsden Moor office, near Marsden Station, 11am-2pm, summer holiday activities, £1 admission per session: August 5, wild weaving; 12, make your own kite; 19, wildlife trail; 26, 'geoday'. Also: weekly plant sale in the yard. Contact 01484 847016

FUNERAL DIRECTORS

COMPUTING

REMOVALS

Saturday August 6, Emley Show, 9am-5pm, at the showground, Factory Farm, Emley Moor (HD8 9TE), traditional country show with livestock classes from horses, cattle, sheep and goats to poultry, pigeons and cagebirds, rabbits and hamsters, plus many other attractions including llama racing, children's pet and fun dog shows; Thurlstone Owl Sanctuary display, vintage vehicles, children's rides, Punch and Judy, fire service and martial arts, Yorkshire dry stone walling championship, trade stands, craft marquee and much more. Money-saving advance tickets can be bought online at www.emleyshow.co.uk Saturday August 6, Bacon Butty Walk: meet walk leader David, 10am, at car park, junction of Wessenden Head Road and A635, near Meltham, (HD9 5JN), for a boggy 10-mile yomp up Black Hill and back, stock up with a bacon butty at the start or reward yourself at the end of the walk.

Comfortable strong boots, waterproofs and warm clothing are strongly advised. More information: contact National Trust Marsden Moor Office 01484 847016.

Saturday August 6, Berry Brow Carnival, 1pm, family fun day on the Recreation Field, Ladyhouse Lane (HD4 7QD), with something for everyone - traditional children's games, tug-o-war, welly wanging, egg throwing and a variety of stalls.

Saturday August 6, Honley Village Hall, 10.30am-4pm, Yorkshire Day Summer Gala: Town Crier will recite the Yorkshire Declaration followed by many different activities – ferret racing, flat cap flinging, tug of war, arm wrestling, barbecue, refreshments and a FREE bouncy castle along with the usual traditional fete activities. To find out more, contact the secretary 01484 359160.

HAIRDRESSERS

Sunday August 7, Hepworth Church, 1pm-5pm, Summer Garden Party in the church grounds, with stalls, food, refreshments and games for children, fun for everyone. Admission free.

Sunday August 7, Meet at Marsden Station, 1.30pm, Dry Stone Wall Trail: join Ian for an easy 3.5 mile walk offering views of the Colne Valley along with 36 examples of dry stone walling techniques. Comfortable strong boots, waterproofs and warm clothing are strongly advised. The walk includes one steep climb. Contact National Trust Marsden Moor Office 01484 847016

PLUMBING

Sunday August 7, New Orleans Jazz Club, 8pm-10.30pm, at the Old Bridge Hotel, Holmfirth, relaxed monthly session with a six-piece, old style jazz band playing blues, boogie, vintage pop, spirituals and gospel songs. More information from Richard Lord 01484 683476 or 07932 160 508, e-mail richardblord@gmail.com.

Wednesday August 10, St Bartholomew's Church Hall, Meltham, 7pm, In the Pink charity evening in aid of Breast Cancer Care, including entertainment by

Tony Cleaver 'Cabaret to Karaoke' and members of Pennine Borders Flower Club. Tickets £5 from Gwynneth 01484 850354.

Wednesday August 10 and 24, Huddersfield Authors' Circle, 7.30pm-9.30pm, at The County pub, Princess Street, behind Huddersfield Town Hall, regular reading meeting, new writers welcome to join, whether you're poet, storyteller, playwright or lyricist.

To find out more, e-mail Rebecca Wilson: pegglass98@hotmail.com Thursday August 11 – Sunday August 14, Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival in St George's Square, over 70 exhibitors from farm shops to gastro pubs, award-winning restaurants to micro-breweries, over 30 free demonstrations and master classes from chefs and food connoisseurs; free children's workshops and entertainment. Festival at Dusk - live entertainment and late night opening on Friday and Saturday, plus fringe events - Real Ale and Taste Trail. Website: www.foodanddrinkfestival.co.uk Thursday August 11, Clowning Around – clown crafts for children aged five to 12, at Meltham Library, 10.30am-11.30am and Honley Library, 2.30-3.30pm, fun activity, part of the Summer Reading Challenge. Free admission, but booking essential 01484 222606 (Meltham), 222340 (Honley).

Thursdays August 11 and 25, Tolson Memorial Museum, Ravensknowle Park, Huddersfield, 2pm-4pm, Kirklees Museums & Galleries Big Summer Roadshow – fun activities for the family on the theme of celebration!

Admission 50p per child (5-16 years). Kirklees Passport holders free. Contact 01484 223830.

Thursday August 11 – Saturday August 13, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, Thurs 11, 8pm, Comedy Cellar with John Warburton and Dominic ElliotSpencer; Thurs 11, Fri 12 and Sat 13, 7.30pm, main stage, LBT Youth Theatre presents Noughts and Crosses, adaptation of the powerful, poignant and provocative story by Malorie Blackman, reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet; Fri 12 and Sat 13, 11am and 2pm, Elmer The Elephant – based on the books by best-selling children’s author David McKee, a fun-filled show which bursts to life with jungle characters, catchy songs, and beautiful hand-crafted puppets. Both performances take place in the Syngenta Cellar. Sat 13, 10am4pm, LBT summer fayre, free admission. For ticket details, contact the box office 01484 430528, online at www.thelbt.org Friday August 12, Fairtrade Fun: Musical Mayhem, 11am-12noon, at the Toll House, Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth, create marvellous musical instruments out of junk Admission £2. More information on this and other themed events, contact Sophie Bebb 01484 690515.

Saturday August 13 – Friday August 19, Holmfirth Picturedrome, Sat 13 & Sun 14, Shakespeare play: A Midsummer Night's Dream; Fri 19, Cast – legendary Merseyside Indie Kings celebrating 15 years since the release of their classic millionselling debut album All Change.

NB: concert rescheduled from May 19, tickets for the original date are still valid. Support band Serf - who have built an enviable following with their blues-driven guitar rock will be playing before and after Cast. Tickets: call in any weekday evening, 7.30-10pm, or book online at www.picturedrome.net Saturday August 13, Heritage Trail, setting off from Marsden Station, 10am, eight-mile hard walk including steep climbs, enjoy

Review

views of the Wessenden Valley and across the moors. Learn about the history of the area and the part played by the people of Marsden in the Industrial Revolution. Comfortable strong boots, waterproofs and warm clothing are strongly advised.

Contact National Trust 01484 847016

Saturday August 13, Vintage fair in Byram Arcade, Huddersfield's oldest Victorian arcade, 10am4pm, 25 stalls featuring fashion and homewares from the 1920s to the 1980s, everything from floral vintage frocks to handsome art deco clocks, plus live music and other attractions. Free admission.

Saturday August 13 – Sunday August 14, Huddersfield Flower, Vegetable and Handicraft Show, at Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, including family entertainments and fairground attractions, brass bands. Admission 50p, free for accompanied under-16s. Open Sat 1pm-4.30pm and Sun 11am4.30pm.

Saturday August 13, Penistone Paramount, 2.30pm, music from Kevin Grunill, playing the fourmanual 1937 Compton cinema pipe organ, also featuring The Take 2 Big Band. Monthly concerts are arranged by the Pensitone Cinema organ Trust.

Events line 01226 762004 (24 hours), box office 01226 767532.

Sunday August 14, Holmfirth Rotary Club car boot sale, at the Fair Field, Hade Edge (HD9 2JG).

Sellers to be there from 8am, open at 9am. For more information, contact secretary Antony Haigh 01484 688688.

Sunday August 14, Meet at Crown Bottom car park, Holmfirth, 9.30am, Kirklees Countryside Volunteers' conservation day, Morton Wood, adults only. To find out more, contact Susan 07979 292 781 Sunday August 14, Marsden Kite Festival, 11am-3pm, at Carriage House, A62, Standedge (HD7 6NL), bring your kites to fly on the moors Warm clothing is advised.

Contact National Trust 01484 847016.

Tuesday August 16, Evening guided bike ride with Huddersfield & District CTC, meet for 7pm start, at Gynn lane junction with New Mill Road, Honley, ride out to Digley, above Holmfirth. Contact Alan 01484 604283 Tuesday August 16, Holmfirth Civic Hall, 7.30pm, thriller writer and one-time ITN reporter Gerald Seymour will be talking about his latest novel A Deniable Death.

Admission £2. For more information, contact Pam Chew 01484 226364 or 07528 988 800.

Tuesday August 16 - Friday August 19, Fencing Summer Camp at Holmfirth Community Sports Centre, Heys Road, Thongsbridge, opportunity to learn basic fencing skills, Tues and Weds, age 8 to 10, Thurs and Fri age 11-17.

Sessions to be booked in advance, £20 per day. To find out more, contact Martin Andrew: andrewm789@aol.com Wednesday August 17, Holmfirth Library, 2.30pm-3.30pm, Crazy circus capers: five to 12-year-olds – step right up for circus crafts, a fun activity as part of the Summer Reading Challenge. Free admission but booking is essential.

Phone 01484 222430 Thursday August 18, Oakwell Country Park, Birstall, 6.30pm8pm, Snow White: Chapterhouse Theatre Company presents a unique performance of the magical tale in a beautiful outdoor setting Children are welcome to dress up in their favourite fairytale costume and can join in with

Holme Valley

games and a parade during the interval. Please bring your own seats but NO tables. The garden will be open for viewing and for picnicking from 5pm. Admission £11, £10 senior citizens, £7 children & students, £32 family.

Contact Eric Brown 01924 326240.

Saturday August 20, Netherton Methodist Church, Chapel Street (HD4 7ES), 70th annual Flower and Vegetable Show: entries to be received 10am to 1.30pm, showroom open for viewingfrom 3.45pm, presentation of trophies at 5pm, followed by sale of produce. Admission 50p, free for children. Contact Steve Drury 01484 665857.

Saturday August 20, Bark in the Park – a dog fun day at Ravensknowle Park, Huddersfield, from 12noon, aimed at promoting responsible dog ownership. Entry to the field is free. Attractions include a fun dog show, agility course, flyball competition, terrier racing, obedience demonstration and parade of the UK Top 10 breeds. Several popular breed rescue groups will have stands and be available for help and advice. More information from John Jackson 01924 848743.

Saturday August 20, Standedge Tunnel Visitor Centre, Marsden, 7.30pm until late, Bat Night: join West Yorkshire Bat Group for an illustrated talk followed by a guided walk – you might be lucky enough to spot a common pipistrelle bat. Admission £5 adults, £3.50 children. Contact James Dean 01484 844298.

Sunday August 21, Holmfirth Farmers Market, 8am-2pm, in the Market Hall, monthly array of quality local produce, meats, fresh fruit and veg, breads, cheeses, cakes, jams, honey and much more. Information line 01484 223730.

Tuesday August 23, Gardeners' seed swap, at the Fair Traders Cooperative, Toll House, Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth, 2pm-4pm, drop in to swap your unwanted seeds and seedlings for the ones you need, and exchange tips over a cup of tea or coffee. Contact 01484 690515 Friday August 26 Holiday Monday August 29, St Bartholomew's Church Hall, Meltham, Art exhibition and sale, refreshments available. Art work by children from local primary schools on the theme of Bible Stories will also be on display in the church.

Admission £5, including glass of wine and nibbles. Open Fri 6pm9pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am5pm, Mon 10am-4pm.

Sunday August 28, Fossils and Rocks: one-mile medium walk, 1.30pm from Carriage House, A62, Standedge, Marsden (HD7 6NL). Join the West Yorkshire Geology Trust to discover the rocks and fossils around Pule Hill and the spectacular Pennine landscape. Comfortable strong boots, waterproofs and warm clothing recommended. Contact National Trust 01484 847016.

Holiday Monday August 29, Holmfirth Parish Church, visitors and locals are invited to pop in during the day for coffee, tea and cakes served by Mothers' Union members.

Holiday Monday August 29 – Saturday September 3, Live music at Holmfirth Picturedrome, Mon 29, The Wedding Present + support, At The Edge of The Peaks Festival; Sat 3, Elton John Solo Tribute Show, in conjunction with Underbank Summer Conference Rugby League Club.

Tickets: call in any weekday evening, 7.30-10pm, or book online at www.picturedrome.net

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 29

• Free Sales Valuation • Property Auction Sales • RICS Homebuyers’ reports • Valuations and Surveys Meadowbeck, Barnside Lane, Hepworth

19/21 Concorde Street, Honley

16 Magdale, Honley

Offers Region £499,950

Offers Region £410,000

Offers Region £379,950

This spacious detached cottage occupies a pleasant position in the sought after rural hamlet of Barnside. It is situated within good sized grounds amounting to approximately 1 acre. The accommodation comprises entrance hall, cloaks / wc, lounge, dining room, dining kitchen, utility, landing, 4 bedrooms, bathroom and ensuite shower room. It has the benefit of a central heating system, UPVC sealed unit double glazed windows and a number of original features such as exposed beams and stonework. The good sized grounds feature 2 small paddocks, gardens, driveway and a detached garage / workshop. This is a rare opportunity to purchase a property of this type and location viewing recommended.

This interesting and unique property offers a great opportunity for speculators and developers. It features two back to back houses which are currently interconnecting, with a large adjoining workshop / garage and gardens. The property occupies a pleasant tucked away location but is located within easy access of the many amenities on offer in the centre of Honley. Planning permission has been obtained for the construction of two semi detacheddwellings on the site of the garages with another application currently being considered for a further dwelling in the garden. Viewing is essential to fully appreciate the huge potential on offer.

This unique 3 storey grade II listed house in a mill conversion offers spacious and characterful accommodation in a sought after location. The property is situated within a conservation area, enjoying pleasant views over the picturesque Magdalevalley and is within close proximity to the amenities of Honley village. It comprises: entrance porch, downstairs bathroom /wc, dining room, kitchen, landing, 4 bedrooms, shower room and a stunning 28 x 24 (approx) lounge on the top floor taking full advantage of the views. The property features a wealth of original features including exposed beams and mullioned windows but offers some further potential for updating of fixtures and fittings. There is a parking area to the side of the house with a delightful south facing garden to the rear overlooking the millpond. There are also useful outbuildings which offer further potential for conversion.

20 Victoria Mills, Holmfirth

71 Hall Ing Lane, Honley

Offers Region £289,950

Offers Region £279,950

This attractive semi detached townhouse is the last remaining property on this well established new development by Eastwood Homes. The property is nearing completion and now offers the potential for a purchaser to choose their own quality fixtures and fittings. It comprises: entrance hall, downstairs wc/shower, dining kitchen, garden room, landing, large lounge with terrace off, 4 bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite shower room. The property will have a NHBC certificate and is to be finished to a high standard throughout having upvc double glazing, gas central heating, intruder alarm and quality fixtures and fittings throughout. To the front of the house there is a lawned garden and block paved driveway which leads to the integral garage. At the rear there is an enclosed garden with lawn and timber decked sitting area. The photographs show a similar property on the development.

This individual brick built detached house occupies a good sized plot in a sought after location and enjoys delightful open views to the rear. It comprises entrance hall, breakfast kitchen, dining room, lounge, living room, bathroom and a bedroom on the ground floor with 2 further double bedrooms and wcon the upper floor. The property has been well maintained and has the benefit of a gas central heating system and uPVCdouble glazed windows but offers further potential.

There is a garden to the front of the property with a driveway leading to the attached double garage. To the rear there is a good sized enclosed garden which borders onto fields.

10 Helme, Meltham, Holmfirth Offers Region £249,950

96 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth Offers Region £150,000

Situated within the popular and quaint village of Helme this delightful grade II listed 4 storey weavers cottage offers a wealth of original features, enjoying superb views over the nearby countryside. The property is situated in a much sought after rural location, within close proximity of the well regarded HelmeSchool.

Accommodation comprises; dining kitchen, utility/store, 3 bedrooms, bathroom and spacious lounge on the second floor taking full advantage of the views. The property benefits from gas central heating, an excellent range of fixtures and fittings alongside original exposed beams and stonework throughout. There is a flagged seating area to front of the house. Opposite the property there is an enclosed lawned garden area with outbuilding and garden shed. Internal viewing is essential to appreciate the accommodation on offer.

A large stone semi detachedhouse offering spacious accommodation on 4 floors and situated close to the centre of Holmfirth. The house requires some modernisation and re-fitting but offers great potential. It comprises entrance hall, lounge, dining kitchen, wash cellar, arched keeping cellars, 4 bedrooms and bathroom.

There is a parking space and small garden to the rear to be held on a licence agreement.

Offered for sale with immediate vacant possession No chain involved.

11 Berry Road, Meltham

1 Copley House Barn, Deer Hill End Lane, Meltham

Offers Region £299,950 We are pleased to announce the release of the first of 4 high quality barn conversions by Anthony DearnleyHomes Ltd. The property occupies a stunning rural location with far reaching views to the front. The property will offer spacious well planned accommodation comprising: entrance hall, downstairs wc, lounge, dining kitchen, galleried landing, 4 good sized bedrooms, house bathroom and 2 en-suites. The property will be finished to a high standard throughout and will feature a stone flagged floor with underfloorheating to the ground floor, exposed roof timbers, double glazed sliding sash windows and high quality fixtures and fittings throughout.

There will be a gardens and parking to the front of the house.

FOR SALE BY AUCTION 32 Norristhorpe Lane, Liversedge

37 Greenfield Road, Holmfirth

OPEN TO VIEW SATURDAY'S PRIOR TO AUCTION 1.00PM-3.00PM

OPEN TO VIEW SATURDAY'S PRIOR TO AUCTION 12 noon to 12.45PM.

This is a rare opportunity to purchase 4 bedroom detached property in a residential location with approximately 5 acres of agricultural land. The house is of 1960s brick construction and would benefit from a scheme of modernisation and updating of fixtures and fittings. It comprises entrance hall, lounge, dining area, kitchen, landing, 4 bedrooms and bathroom.

There is an attached garage to the side of the house with a driveway and gardens to the front and rear. Beyond the house there are approximately 5 acres of land with some dilapidated buildings. The property enjoys pleasant views to the rear but is located within easy access of Leeds, Huddersfield and Wakefield.

This historic property, intriguingly known as "Lottery Hall" offers spacious accommodation which will only be fully appreciated by an internal inspection. The property requires a scheme of modernisation with the potential to redesign the existing layout. From its roadside frontage it appears relatively small but once inside it offers somewhere in the region of 1500 sq ftof spacious accommodation. It is arranged over 3 storeysand comprises: kitchen, lounge, dining room, cellar, landings, 4 large double bedrooms and a bathroom. To the rear of the property there is an enclosed south facing lawnedgarden. The property enjoys stunning views to the rear from the upper floors and offers huge potential to create a characterful home.

Please note : the rear garden can only be accessed through the property.

727 Leeds Road, Huddersfield

Drop Down, Horn Lane, New Mill

13 Wildspur Grove, New Mill A semi detachedhouse with playing fields to the rear.

The house requires some modernisation. It comprises side entrance hall, lounge, dining kitchen, 2 bedrooms and bathroom. There is a driveway, detached garage and gardens to the front and rear.

Council Tax Band A.

Offers Region £142,950

Offers Region £138,000

This attractive semi detachedhouse occupies a popular cul-de-sac and enjoys a pleasant outlook to both the front and rear. It offers ideal accommodation for a young family and comprises: entrance hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen, landing, 3 bedrooms and a bathroom. It has recently undergone a scheme of modernisation with a new fitted kitchen but does require some further finishing off works. There is a tarmac driveway leading to an attached single garage and gardens to the front and rear.

This attractive apartment is located on the third floor of a converted mill set in a delightful wooded valley. It offers well-presented accommodation with a private side entrance hall, lounge, breakfast kitchen, 2 double bedrooms and bathroom.

It has uPVC double glazed windows, gas central heating and attractive fixtures and fittings throughout. Parking is allocated in a garage on the ground floor of the building with additional parking available outside. The mill is surrounded by picturesque grounds which feature mature woodland, gardens and a stream running through. Internal viewing is highly recommended.

9/11 Old Road, Hinchliffe Mill

12 Woodlands, Thongsbridge

Land at the Junction of Hopton Lane/Hopton Hall Lane, Upper Hopton, Mirfield

OPEN TO VIEW SATURDAYS PRIOR TO THE AUCTION 1.00PM -2.00PM This much admired detached double fronted cottage occupies a delightful rural location with views to the front, side and rear. It was formerly 2 cottages which are combined but requires and extensive scheme of modernisation. The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, lounge, sitting room, kitchen, utility, wc, cellar, landing, 3 bedrooms and bathroom. Attached to the rear is small mistalwhich offers potential for conversion to enlarge the accommodation. There are a range of further outbuildings and just under3 acres of gardens and sloping grazing land. A further 3 small plots of land located nearby are also offered for sale separately from the main property.

School Wells, Manchester Road, Penistone.

VIEWING: By arrangment with WmSykes&Son

Offers Region £129,950

Offers Region £110,000

Occupying a pleasant position with picturesque village views to the rear is this attractive stone terraced cottage. Formerly 2 cottages, the property offers spacious accommodation on 3 floors including lounge and dining kitchen on the ground floor, 2 bedrooms and bathroom on the first floor and study/bedroom 3 and store on the lower floor. The cottage has many charming features together with a gas central heating system and double glazed windows. There is an enclosed paved garden and seating area to the front. Offered for sale with no upper chain An early completion date is available if required.

This attractively presented stone terraced property occupies a pleasant position with open outlook to the rear. It has been extensively modernised and features modern fixtures and fittings throughout. The accommodation comprises entrance hall, lounge, dining kitchen, landing, 3 bedrooms and bathroom. The property has the benefit of UPVC double glazed windows, gas central heating and is tastefully presented throughout. There is a paved garden area to the front and a larger enclosed lawned garden to the rear.

38 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth Huddersfield HD9 3JH

An interesting opportunity arises to purchase agricultural land amounting to 8.2 acres (3.36 Hectares) or thereabouts. The land has road frontages to Hopton Lane and Hopton Hall Lane.

Occupying a large site of approximately a third of an acre and offering possible development opportunities (subject to the appropriate planning approvals being obtained), is this spacious detached bungalow with gardens. The property has delightful rural views over the surrounding countryside. The bungalow offers spacious and flexibly arranged accommodation on one level including entrance porch/utility, breakfast kitchen, lounge, large games/recreation room, 3 bedrooms, study and bathroom. There are large gardens with extensive lawn areas, driveway, detached double garage and outbuildings.

The bungalow has an LPG gas central heating system and Upvcdouble glazing. A unique property offering many opportunities for the astute purchaser.

Auction to be held on Tuesday 23rd August at the Huntsman Inn, Greenfield Road, Holmfirth at 7.30 PM

www.wmsykes.co.uk Tel/Fax 01484 683543

30 - Holme Valley Review, August 2011

Proudly selling homes for decades in and around the valley. With four offices in the Kirklees district and three others in Wakefield, Barnsley and Penistone.

Lettings & Management available at all offices

Fairfield House, Hollowgate, Holmfirth 01484 689689

Local, regional, exceptional SHAW LANE, HOLMFIRTH

O/A £799,950

SPRING LANE, HOLMFIRTH

O/A £649,950

A SUPERB STONE BUILT PERIOD HOME HAVING UNDERGONE AN EXTENSIVE PROGRAM OF RESTORATION IN A SOUTH FACING POSITION WITH VIEWS ACROSS THE VALLEY AND AN INTERIOR WHICH HAS APPEARED WITHIN INTERIOR DESIGN PUBLICATIONS. Ash Villa has character in abundance enhanced by quality fixtures and fittings and a light, bright open plan interior with the "wow" factor. Enjoying views across the Holme valley, it comprises:- superb hallway, bay windowed lounge, open plan dining kitchen with SieMatic kitchen, German appliances and porcelain flooring, utility, sitting/dining room, lower ground floor study, cinema room, w.c and wine cellar, three double first floor bedrooms, one with en-suite, one with dressing room, house bathroom, and a top floor fourth double bedroom with large en-suite bathroom.There is double garaging and landscaped gardens with lawn, rear courtyard area with pool and decked patio.This is a home of real quality with an attention to detail rarely found. Essential viewing.

A SUPERB DETACHED FAMILY HOME WITH A HIGH SPECIFICATION INTERIOR INCLUDING STUNNING LIVING KITCHEN AND ENJOYING SOUTH FACING VIEWS ACROSS THE VALLEY. Comprises:- hallway, cloakroom, living kitchen with balcony, utility, large lounge, dining room, home office/playroom/bedroom 5 (21' x 16'1" approx) with balcony, lower ground floor master bedroom with en-suite and dressing room, three further double bedrooms, one with en-suite, and quality bathroom. There is a large double garage, additional parking and good sized rear garden enjoying a southerly orientation.

The property was built by the present owners for their own occupation and offers quality rarely found with ease of access to good local amenities and a wonderful outlook. **PART EXCHANGE CONSIDERED**

FORD COURT, HOLMFIRTH

WOODHEAD ROAD, HOLMBRIDGE

O/A £499,950

O/A £499,950

FROM ITS ELEVATED POSITION,THE GRANARY ENJOYS SPECTACULAR FAR REACHING VIEWS OVER THE HOLME VALLEY TOWARDS EMLEY MOOR AND OFFERS SPACIOUS FAMILY ACCOMMODATION PRESENTED TO THE HIGHEST OF STANDARDS THROUGHOUT. This is a home of real quality which stands in a courtyard of only five superb family homes with stunning views.The accommodation comprises:- spacious entrance hallway with useful cloakroom and galleried landing above, large lounge (19'2" x 17'6" approx), dining/living room and adjoining kitchen with oak units, granite working surfaces and integrated appliances, utility, store, two further good sized reception rooms, four double bedrooms, two with en-suites, and luxurious house bathroom.There is double garaging and driveway, and large rear lawned garden with patio ideal for children and pets.The home enjoys some wonderful views over rolling countryside, all located in a highly commutable location.Viewing is essential.

A SUPERBLY APPOINTED DOUBLE FRONTED DETACHED PERIOD HOME ENJOYING A SOUTHERLY ASPECT, REAR LANDSCAPED GARDEN WHICH ENJOYS A GOOD DEGREE OF PRIVACY. The property enjoys a superb setting with southerly views across the Holme valley and a good sized rear garden which has been landscaped to create a series of sociable patio areas with a lawned garden and wood barked play area. comprises:- lobby, superb lounge with multi-fuel stove, dining room, dining kitchen with working range and integrated appliances, sitting/dining room, downstairs w.c, four first floor bedrooms, en-suite shower to bedroom 1, en-suite w.c. to bedroom 4, and first floor garden room.There are automatic sliding gates leading onto the double width driveway and detached garage. **NO UPPER CHAIN**

DOBB TOP, HOLMBRIDGE

LONG ING COTTAGE, HOLMFIRTH

O/A £364,950

OCCUPYING A REMARKABLE LOCATION WITH SUPER VIEWS, A FOUR BEDROOMED HOME THAT EXUDES STYLE AND QUALITY FROM EVERY CORNER. With a wonderful tall open plan dining kitchen that opens out to the superb sitting room, this home is served by low maintenance yet good sized garden areas enjoying privacy and the views, and has driveway providing parking area for four.With high specification fittings including superb kitchen, wet room, en-suite and house bathroom, the home is a must for those who seek something different yet practical in a prime location at the head of the valley. Briefly it comprises:- entrance hall, w.c/wet room, bedroom 4, superb dining kitchen, lounge with extremely high ceiling height and fabulous windows, bedroom 1 with dressing area and en-suite, two further bedrooms, bathroom, and large basement store.

SIKE CLOSE, TOTTIES

O/A £285,000

O/A £349,950

A PERIOD GRADE II LISTED BARN CONVERSION WITH FLEXIBLE FOUR BEDROOMED ACCOMMODATION OVER THREE FLOORS, ENJOYING VIEWS BACK TO HOLMFIRTH IN A MOST APPEALING COURTYARD SETTING. A most attractive home which offers a big degree of flexibility with accommodation over three levels, which enjoys a stunning view back towards Holmfirth.This property features parking and integral garaging, alarm system, double glazing and gas fired central heating system.

The ground floor comprises of entrance hallway with w.c, breakfast kitchen, utility and large lounge/diner. On the first floor is the master bedroom with its own en-suite bathroom, additional bedroom and a shower room. On the top floor are two further good sized double bedrooms. It enjoys a courtyard setting among other period homes.The rear garden is enclosed being a real sun trap.The property is ideal for access to Holmfirth and the Holme valley and represents an ideal commuting location.

Our monthly competition

Where’s this?

A FOUR BEDROOMED MODERN END TOWN HOUSE IN A STYLISH CUL-DE-SAC DEVELOPMENT WITH SUPERB VIEWS TO THE FRONT. Viewing is highly recommended of this stylish and contemporary home, with accommodation over three floors. On the ground floor it has a bedroom/playroom, utility, w.c and integral garaging. On the first floor is the spacious lounge and well appointed dining kitchen with integrated appliances. On the top floor are three bedrooms, the master having its own en-suite shower room, and the property's house bathroom.There is a driveway and integral garaging.To the rear the garden has decking with pergola and a lawn.

The property enjoys wonderful long distance views from the front elevation and also features double glazing, alarm and a gas fired central heating system.Viewing is essential.

www.simonblyth.co.uk

This months prize will be a bottle of champagne Email your answers to Lisa.Blackburn@simonblyth.co.uk or drop them into the Holmfirth Office The draw will take place 10th August 2011

Open 7 days a week

Holme Valley Review, August 2011 – 31

THE CRESCENT, NEW MILL

O/A £199,950

OLDFIELD, HONLEY

O/A £195,000

A WELL PRESENTED BAY WINDOWED THREE BEDROOMED SEMI, STANDING AT THE HEAD OF THE CUL-DE-SAC WITH LARGE REAR GARDEN AND VIEWS TOWARDS SUDE HILL. This is an ideal family home in a cul-de-sac setting. It has ease of access to local amenities, particularly schooling and enjoys a pleasant outlook particularly from the first floor level. It has extensive parking and garaging with a car port/open garage.The rear garden itself is of a good size and enjoys a good degree of privacy not being immediately overlooked.The accommodation itself comprises:- entrance hallway, bay windowed lounge, separate dining room and kitchen with oven and hob. On the first floor are three bedrooms, and good sized house bathroom with a separate shower cubicle.The property has double glazing; a gas fired central heating system **NO UPPER CHAIN INVOLVED**

A SUPERB EXAMPLE OF A PERIOD THREE STOREY WEAVERS COTTAGE WHICH ENJOYS A HAMLET STYLE SETTING WITHIN OLDFIELD WITH STUNNING LONG DISTANCE VIEWS ACROSS ADJOINING FARMLAND BACK TOWARDS CASTLE HILL. This is a beautiful period and characterful home with mullioned windows, exposed beams and stonework.The accommodation is arranged over three levels and offers a certain degree of flexibility. It comprises:- entrance vestibule, living/dining room with Rayburn, adjoining kitchen, first floor light and airy lounge, bathroom, and to the top floor are three bedrooms. It enjoys breathtaking unobstructed views and warrants an early inspection.

NEW ROW, HOLMFIRTH

TOWNEND ROAD, WOOLDALE

O/A £152,950

WORTHY OF INTERNAL INSPECTION IS THIS RECENTLY RENOVATED TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMED MID TERRACE COTTAGE. Offering views from the rear towards Holmfirth and being conveniently situated only a short walk from Holmfirth centre, the property provides well presented accommodation which has been recently upgraded including modern kitchen and bathroom. It briefly comprises:entrance hall, dining kitchen (16'7" x 14' approx), living room, two double bedrooms and modern bathroom.There is a block paved low maintenance garden area to the front and a useful store.Viewing essential.

O/A £125,000

A GRADE 2 LISTED PROPERTY OFFERING A REAL REDEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY WHICH WOULD REQUIRE A CASH PURCHASER WITH THE INTERIOR HAVING BEEN STRIPPED OUT, IN A POPULAR VILLAGE LOCATION WITH GARDEN IN FRONT. With kitchen and bathroom removed, the interior is a blank canvas with no fixtures or fittings. It will provide accommodation on three levels.Any work will be subject to relevant permissions.The layout at present includes: lounge with mullioned windows and rear dining kitchen. On the first floor will be two bedrooms and a bathroom.

The opportunity exists to add an additional room in the attic level which already has a radiator and window to the gable end, but currently only has a loft access hatch.The property has a central heating system, garden at the front and is offered with no upper chain involvement.We stress without kitchen or bathroom, the property will not be mortgageable.

Call 01484 689689 to book a FREE VALUATION DEAN BROOK ROAD, NETHERTHONG

Rent: £650 pcm

GATE COTTAGE, SOUTHGATE FOLD, HONLEY Rent: £650 pcm

A MODERN THREE STOREY,TWO BEDROOM TOWN HOUSE SITUATED IN A POPULAR SEMI RURAL VILLAGE WITH GARAGE AND ATTRACTIVE PATIO GARDEN. This modern home is ideally situated in a popular village close to Holmfirth with local primary, junior and high schools close by.The property enjoys a delightful location with stunning views and the accommodation briefly comprises: Lower ground floor entrance hall; garage with useful storeroom/study; ground floor entrance lobby; good size lounge; dining kitchen with twin doors giving access to a private patio garden; first floor two double bedrooms, one with fitted wardrobes; and bathroom with white suite. Outside a driveway provides off road parking and in turn gives access to the integral single garage. To the side of the property steps rise to a private enclosed block paved patio garden.

A FABULOUS TWO BEDROOM COTTAGE OCCUPYING A PLEASANT TUCKED AWAY LOCATION ON A STUNNING DEVELOPMENT IN HONLEY VILLAGE. Located in Honley village with a host of local amenities, shops and railway station this cottage is constructed from fabulous reclaimed stone and has a superb first floor living space taking full advantage of the full eaves height with angled ceiling and exposed beams and trusses. The accommodation briefly comprises: Entrance hall with understairs storage cupboard; two double bedrooms, the second bedroom having a built-in cupboard with hanging rails; quality bathroom with white suite including a double ended bath and separate shower cubicle; light and spacious first floor living and dining space with Juliet balcony and kitchen area fitted with contemporary black gloss base and wall units. Outside there is a lawned garden area to the front of the property and allocated parking.

WEAVERS COURT, MELTHAM

BRIGHTS BUILDINGS, HONLEY

Rent: £570 pcm

AN ATTRACTIVE THREE BEDROOM MEWS COTTAGE WITH A VERY PLEASANT GARDEN AND DRIVEWAY PARKING. This well presented home is conveniently located near to the local school and within walking distance to the villlage centre. The accommodation briefly comprises: Entrance hall with ceramic tiled floor; downstairs w/c; cloaks cupboard; archway through into the kitchen with a continuation of the ceramic tiled floor; open-plan living/dining room which is set out on two levels with two Velux windows to the dining/second lounge area allowing lots of natural light, there is a large understairs storage cupboard and patio doors giving access out into the garden; two double bedrooms, one with built-in wardrobes; single bedroom; and bathroom with a white suite.

Outside there is a very pleasant garden set out on several levels including decking and patio areas.

Rent: £425 pcm

A FURNISHED TWO BEDROOMED, FRONT FACING BACK TO BACK TERRACED HOUSE WITH BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED INTERIOR. This appealing home has been modernised to provide immaculately presented accommodation which briefly comprises: Front entrance door into a living kitchen which has laminate flooring, white gloss kitchen units and integrated appliances including gas hob, electric double oven, fridge, freezer and washing machine, there is a feature display fireplace set in the chimney breast; access to a small cellar; spacious first floor double bedroom furnished with double bed, wardrobe and drawers; bathroom with white suite; and attic bedroom with futon. Outside there is a small patio garden to the front of the property.

www.simonblyth.co.uk

Open 7 days a week

32 - Holme Valley Review, August 2011