Holme Valley Review December 2010

December 2010

Grieving dad to run in memory of Livvy

By Nicola Hyde A HOLMFIRTH dad is in training to run a charity half marathon in memory of his daughter who tragically died last year.

Mark Feasey, who runs Serene Living at the Riverside Shopping Centre, will be joined by his old school friends Glenn Martin, Neil Challis, Stuart Burgess and Craig Mollet for the Hastings Half Marathon in March.

The men will be raising money for road safety charity Brake in memory of Mark’s daughter Livvy who died in a road accident in April 2009, just before her third birthday.

Mark said: “We were in a park in Brighouse, we’d been out with the family for the day. We left the park and I was just getting around to loading the car. I put the back of the car down, put the dog in the back.

“My wife Hayley was sat on the wall with my son Sonny who was just a couple of months old then. Livvy thought it would be fun to run away from the wall – I ran after her but we were both hit by a car.

“It was obviously very traumatic. We lost our daughter. We were contacted

Livvy Feasey through Brake when we went through that. We’ve done other fundraising things for them as well before this because we think it’s an important charity.”

Mark is now in training, running 12 miles a week, to prepare him for the run. The family has also held other charity events and on December 9 will be hosting a fundraising auction in the shop.

Mark added: “All my friends from home came up when the accident happened and they were all with us in the hospital when I was in there.

“They said let’s do something for Brake, and that’s why we’ve named our team Team Livvy.

“Speeding is a big issue but also it’s just about drivers having more awareness when they are going through parks and crossings. I always think there could have have been other things at the park that could have stopped it happening - but the driver wasn’t speeding.

“When people drive they aren’t always focussing on that. They don’t focus on other things that can happen – and a lot of people still do not realise that accidents can still happen even when you are going the right speed.”

Mark and Team Livvy are now on a fund-raising mission before the half-marathon and will be getting support from local people and businesses.

The Holme Valley Review will be supporting the Feasey’s chosen charity Brake for the next 12 months. To show your support, please log on to www.justgiving.com/Mark-Feasey

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3, 2, 1 ... Merry Christmas! This was the moment Christmas 2010 officially started in the Holme Valley. Summer Wine policemen Cooper and Walsh pressed the button to turn on the Christmas lights in Holmfirth during a party-style evening organised by Holme Valley Business Association. Large crowds braved the freezing weather to enjoy the traditional parade led by Father Christmas in his sleigh and music, dancing and funfair rides in the bus station car park. Full story, Page 10

2 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

Hats off to mum Julie and her thriving business IT’S the ideal solution for many modern mums – a fulfilling way of earning a living while staying at home with the children.

But as so many parents struggle to get the balance right, one Holmfirth mum seems to have it cracked with her growing internet fashion accessory business.

Under her own brand label ‘Moaning Minnie’, Julie Taylor is designing and crafting stylish hats, bags and scarves which are being sent to all four corners of the world. It’s a cottage industry which gives her an outlet for her considerable creativity but allows her to always be around for her family –

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partner Eamon and four sons Harry 14, Patrick 11, Joe 10 and Edwin, 3.

Julie started designing and making vintage-inspired cloche hats and caps 18 months ago when she spotted a gap in the market. She said: “I wanted a new hat but all the ones in the shops were too small because they only sell one size. I ended up making one myself and received such positive comments when I wore it that I decided to design and make more. It turns out that lots of people want hats that are either smaller or larger than those sold on the high street.”

The idea of running her own business was nothing new or daunting to Julie, who has a strong entrepreneurial streak. She started at the age of 15 using leftover scraps of fabric to make cushions to sell at local craft fairs. Over the next years she sold dried flowers, made her own clothes and even ran an antiques and furniture business. She is well-known in Holmfirth as she and Eamon ran the Toy Shoppe in the town centre for four years.

“Running a shop taught us so much about retail and business in general,” she says. “When we closed the Toy Shoppe we put together a three-yearplan which included me establishing a successful cottage industry – three years later and we’re on track. I knew from the outset that I would use the internet for marketing and selling because it immediately opens up a world-wide marketplace.”

Julie made her first sale of a Moaning Minnie hat in August 2009 and hasn’t looked back since. Her trademark designs use local wool fabrics, tweeds and leathers paired with beautiful Liberty prints for linings and trims. Around 65% of her wares are sold in the USA with the rest going as far-afield as Brazil, Australia, Barbados and Canada, as well as all over

Europe and right here in the Holme Valley.

Her early success inspired her to extend her range of hats to include rains hats, sun hats, berets, pilot hats and deerstalkers.

Scarves and neck warmers came next, and most recently her shoulder bags are proving popular, especially in the run-up to Christmas as people look for individual and unique gifts.

“I think my customers appreciate the individuality of Moaning Minnie,” she says. “As well as the items I have for sale on the internet, I am happy to make custom orders of hats or bags to particular sizes or with people’s own fabrics. I email and chat with my customers regardless of where they live and get some wonderful comments back from them. It’s lovely to know someone on the other side of the world has received a hat, scarf or bag and that they love it.”

The future is looking bright for Julie and Moaning Minnie. As well as celebrating her 275th sale, this autumn has brought her first wholesale order of hats to a new retrostyle shop in Australia.

She is also busy with new design ideas and is planning to further extend her products in 2011 to include homewares.

“There’s no doubt it’s hard work establishing any kind of business, especially when you’re raising a family but I would definitely tell people to give it a go – make sure you base it around something you are good at and feel passionate about. That way you can offer a high quality product that you have taken pleasure in making.”

Moaning Minnie hats, scarves and bags can be found on the internet at www.etsy.com/shop/m oaningminnie.

Julie is offering 10 per cent discount to Review readers.

Just enter REVIEW in the discount box on the Etsy order form.

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 3

£2.5m hospice to serve area’s sick children

By Nicola Hyde WORK has started on a £2.5m hospice for sick children which will serve hundreds of families in the Holme Valley and save them a 140mile round trip.

Families have to travel to Martin House in Wetherby for hospice care but now work has begun on a new hospice in Breckenhall, Huddersfield, funded by The Forget-Me-Not Trust.

The project – which is funded entirely from money raised locally by the charity – will offer respite and day care and is expected to be finished within the next 12 months.

Margaret Wadsworth, the head of care, said: “This is going to make a huge difference to care in the Valleys – at the moment it’s really difficult for families there. Some families have to travel 60 - 70 miles to Martin House, which is really difficult if you’ve got a poorly child.

It will provide real help to families – even something simple, like allowing mum to have a bath in peace knowing her child is cared for by professionals will make all the difference.”

The Forget-Me-Not Trust started offering home care help for sick children in September and already has 13 families that have come forward. It plans to expand and con-

tinue this service until the hospice opens.

Margaret added: “I went to a family in the valleys this morning and mum has to get up at six to get her daughter, who has a genetic disorder, fed.

“She’s got a boy who’s nearly four that she has to take to nursery but because she’s in the valleys it takes her a long time to even get him there.

“There are some real problems when you live in the sticks and families in the valleys do suffer quite a lot.

“The good thing about our service at the moment is that we can go to them, we make the journey so they don’t have to get up at 6am and worry about how they are going to get there.”

The children’s hospice is to be funded entirely from fund-raising and one of the Forget-Me-Not Trust’s most successful shops is the one in Holmfirth.

Shop worker hosted a first birthday party on Saturday (November 27) to celebrate the news.

She said: “We’ve been open a year in Holmfirth and have had some fantastic local support.

“It’s been hugely successful and we’ve really been taken in by the community. It’s really exciting to see the difference it will make.”

Review round-up Brass is back for festive concert SEASON favourites the University of Huddersfield Brass Band are back on December 6 performing a festive concert at Huddersfield Town Hall.

For many of the audience the University’s brass band concert marks the start of Christmas and this year promises a new programme, with Christmas carols to sing along to, all under the direction of popular conductor Philip McCann.

The concert begins at 1pm with lunch available in the Old Court Room from 12 noon.

Tickets are priced at £4 (£3 concessions) from Kirklees Booking Offices tel: 01484 223200 / 01924 324501 / 01484 222444 or online at www.kirklees.gov.uk/townhalls or from the Town Hall box office on the day of the concert.

Panto time

Butcher's triple gold IT WAS a hat-trick of gold for Hade Edge butchers J Brindon Addy from this year's national Q Guild Smithfield Awards for meat products.

The shop took top awards for its beef with caramelised onion and black pepper burger and Hade Edge back bacon, while its potted meat went one better by receiving full marks – one of the few products in the whole competition to do so.

The Smithfield Awards figure among the most highly coveted

in the meat industry, with hundreds of products from Q member butchers throughout the UK assessed by an independent panel of experts.

Brindon, who for several years has served as north-east regional chairman of the Q Guild, was elected national vice-chairman at this year’s annual meeting.

The guild – the Q stands for quality – represents some of the finest independent meat retailers in Britain.

HEPWORTH Players have chosen Goldilocks and the Three Bears for their annual pre-Christmas pantomine. The show will run for four nights from December 8-11 in the Village Hall.

It will be the first time the company has performed this particular panto.

Tickets are priced £5 for adults and £2.50 for children and are available from Ruth Brook tel: 01484 686557.

Minister dies NOVEMBER saw the sad death of Rev Bernard Sheppard who, for 26 years was the first minister of Trinity Church, Honley.

He was also a founder member and first chairman of Honley Village Community Trust. Rev Sheppard died in Kirkwood Hospice on November 11.

If you’ve got a story for the Review call us on 01484 420800 or 07747 447023

Locals fill Santa’s suitcase full of toys for sick children HOLMFIRTH locals have donated over 100 toys to brighten up Christmas for children in Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

The Santa’s Suitcase appeal, which is organised annually by the Holmfirth branch of Cooperative Travel, has been running for five years and this year is more successful than ever.

Maria Goddard, shop manager, said: “There’s a lot of sick children in hospital over Christmas – it really means a lot to us when we go in and see their faces when we give them the presents.

“It just spreads a bit of cheer.

The suitcase has only been in the shop a little over a week and it’s already full, we keep moving stuff into the back to make room for more donations.”

The shop has run the Santa Suitcase appeal for the last five years and will be accepting donations until December 11.

Any toys must be kept unwrapped, so that the staff can select which present best suits which child.

Maria added: “We do get a lot of local support, which is great.

When we first did it, we got a lot of second-hand toys which

are welcome.

“But now we’re also getting some lovely handmade ones, like knitted teddy bears and some people have even brought in new toys which is just amazing. I think because we do it every year our customers in Holmfirth have got used to it and they seem really prepared to help – it’s nice that as a business that we can give something back to the community at Christmas.”

Staff from the travel agents will go to the paediatric assessment and observation unit to hand out the toys the week before Christmas.

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4 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

Holmfirth Farmers’Market re-accredited HOLMFIRTH Farmers’ Market has been successfully accredited by FARMA, the National Farmers and Retail Markets Association, which is the awarding body for certified farmers markets in the UK. A farmers’ market is a market in which farmers, growers or producers from a defined local area are present in person to sell their own produce direct to the public.

All products sold should have been grown, reared, caught, brewed, pickled, baked, smoked or processed by the stallholder.

FARMA, the National Farmers' Retail and Markets Association, independently assesses and certifies farmers markets round the country to make sure they’re the ‘real deal’ so shoppers can be confident they are buying the freshest, most local produce possible and therefore supporting their local community and economy as well as helping the environment by reducing food-miles.

Where a market fulfils the criteria, the National Farmers’ Retail and Markets Association will recognise the market as a Farmers Market.

Coun Peter McBride, Kirklees Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “Shoppers can buy everything at Holmfirth Farmers Market such as fresh meats, fruit and vegetables, bread, cakes, icecream, jam, honey, pies and even locally brewed beers – all this and supporting our local economy.”

Holmfirth Farmers Market was one of the first Farmers Markets in the North of England and was established 14 years ago.

It takes place in Holmfirth Market Hall on the third Sunday of each month from 8am until 2pm.

The final market of 2010 is taking place on Sunday December 19.

Brass Factor competition hits the right note ...

By Sandie Marshall IT WAS an ambitious plan for a university project but Alex Bray’s reality-TV inspired Brass Factor competition was a sparkling success.

Holmfirth’s Picturedrome was packed with 320 music lovers, six local brass bands and four highly-respected judges for the X Factor-style music competition.

After the bands had played and the judges had their say, it was Hade Edge which took the trophy with Skelmanthorpe B band coming in second.

Lisa Moorhouse from Hade Edge took the award for best soloist while 10-year-old Chloe Ward from Scissett Youth band was named best young player of the evening. The prizes were handed out by ex-Huddersfield Giants rugby player and brass band music fan Robbie Paul.

Alex organised the competition as part of his Huddersfield University degree course.

His aim was to find a new format for brass band competitions that would appeal to a new, younger players and supporters.

Although he put a huge amount of work into the event, he was completely bowled over by its success.

“From the moment I set out to

Rugby legend Robbie Paul, right, do Brass Factor I didn't know how it was going to go or what it would be like, but when I saw the end result on the night and the way the crowd reacted I was speechless.

“It didn't sink in until two days later and I couldn't stop smiling.

“The bands were amazing, all the judges played their parts perfectly and created a really enjoyable evening. The response I have had since is unbelievable – I

with organiser Alex Bray have had cards, emails and letters thanking me for an amazing experience, with everyone wanting me to do it again next year,” he told the Review.

So, will Brass Factor become an annual event? Alex is not so sure.

“I have a lot to consider yet and a lot will come down to where I go after my degree which finishes next spring, but as long as I have enough time there is a strong possibility that it could go

Coffee and Karma, a unique continental style coffee house and gallery opened its doors for business on November 18th 2010 on Huddersfield Road in Holmfirth. This shop created by Malcolm and Loretta Rhodes, is a reflection of their extensive experience of travel through Europe and the US. Coffee and Karma embodies, and has been inspired by, the love and passion the owners have for excellent food, wine, beautiful art, superior coffee and a desire for balance and harmony in a warm, cosy environment.

The coffee is “fair trade”, and suppliers happily pay even higher rates to the growers. In addition, they are also committed to building schools and providing clean water in local communities. All of which are dear to the proprietors’ hearts.

Our excellent teas and coffees are complimented by authentic French patisserie such as vanilla and chocolate sponge mousse or frangipane fruit tartlets. Sandwiches, eat-in or take away, are made on a variety of breads including the popular French Baguette, supplied by our French baker and finished on the premises each day. Why not try something different? Delicious home made humus with roasted Mediterranean vegetables or a real artisan cheese with sun dried tomato on fresh,

ahead again because at the end of the day it’s supporting a strong passion of mine. If there was to be a Brass factor 2011 I would make it even better than this years, I have many ideas so who knows what the future holds.”

Alex would be particularly keen to hear from anyone interested in helping him organise Brass Factor in the future.

If you could help, contact him via email at alexander.bray@gmail.com

crunchy bread.

Better yet, why not enjoy one of our home roasted meats with your favourite condiments and toppings? Home made soups and stews at lunchtime are a real treat together with home made savouries such as baguette pizza, or warm ham and cheese croissants. And that is just for starters.

The plans for the new year are many so here are some of the highlights: an array of workshops and holistic experiences geared towards finding inner peace and balance, Sunday Brunch from 11 – 2 with omelettes, crepes and live music, not forgetting the Bellini’s! Angel card readings, guided meditations and alternative healing therapies and of course an evening of clairvoyance with our artist and spiritual consultant Nicola Green.

The gourmet cheeses in shop are complimented by a small selection of wines chosen from Malcolm and Loretta’s travels through France and Italy and to show these to their best, wine and cheese tastings will be held. Anyone for a gourmet food club?

So there we have it, something new and different in Holmfirth. To quote one customer “it’s absolutely lovely in here, just what the people of Holmfirth need. Somewhere to go”.

You’ll be made very welcome.

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 5

Christmas tree first for Holmbridge

Tower offers festive climb for visitors

By Sandie Marshall WORK off the excesses of Christmas by climbing the 165 steps to the top of Victoria Tower.

For the first year the tower will be open for visitors from Monday December 27 to Friday 31 allowing Christmas visitors to access the viewing area some 1000ft above sea level to enjoy the spectacular wintry views across the Holme Valley, Huddersfield and the surrounding countryside.

It has been a record breaking year for visitors to the Castle Hill tower, first opened in 1899 to celebrate 60 years of Queen Victoria's reign. During the seven months to October 31, a total of 12,370 people tackled the climb.

The tower opened for Easter weekend and then every weekend from the May Day Bank Holiday.

Also for the first time this year it opened every afternoon throughout August, receiving over 5,000 visitors that month.

“We’ve had visitors not just from Kirklees and other parts of the country but also from all over Europe, the USA and Canada, Australia, Equador, Chile and

Argentina, Norway and Sweden, China and Japan as well as Congo, Zimbabwe, India and Iran. It's great to see this local icon being appreciated so much,” said Castle Hill Ranger Julian Brown.

“I’m glad we are able to open at Christmas – a trip up the tower will be the ideal way to work off the Christmas dinner and blow off the cobwebs as well as a fantastic place to bring your friends and family who are visiting over the holiday period.

It will be worth the reward at the top – fantastic scenery and a tranquil place in which to reflect for the year ahead.

“Judging by this year’s success, we should continue to look at opportunities to open Victoria Tower as part and parcel of developing the visitor experience on Castle Hill.”

The tower will be open on Monday 27, Tuesday 28, Wednesday 29, Thursday 30 and Friday 31 December, from 11am to 3pm. Admission prices are; adult £1.50, children 50p, family ticket £3.00 (two adults and up to four children), Kirklees Passport holders free.

HOLMBRIDGE will look particularly festive this year as it is gets its own Christmas tree for the first time.

The tree, which will be positioned next the Bridge Tavern on Woodhead Road, is being sponsored by Holme Valley Parish Council with additional support from the village community who have made donations through door-to-door collec-

tions. Everyone is invited to attend the switching on of the tree lights at 7pm on December 3.

There will be carol singing with music from Holme Silver Band, and mincepies and other Christmas food provided by local volunteeers.

The tree itself will be sparkling with decorations made by children at Holmbridge School, nursery and toddler group.

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Art market draws the crowds ...

HOLMFIRTH became an art lover’s paradise for two weekends in November when the Art Market once again opened its doors.

Customers packed the two floors of the indoor market to view the high quality goods and chat to the some of the artists and designers.

Awards were given for the leading artists at both weekends as judged by Clare Lilley, head curator of the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. The prizes for Best Presented Stall went to Rosie's Armoire and to Rachael Boddington of The Glittermoth Factory, while jeweller Jennie Gill and sculptor Brendan Hesmondhalgh won the two Craft and Design’s Outstanding Artist awards.

The Art Market, which is held in summer and winter each year, has gained a strong following and now attracts more than 80 stall holders and a returning customer base.

This year for the first time, the market was invited to open in Huddersfield as part of the Festival of Light on December 4 and 5.

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How dreams keep Lucie on her toes ...

By Sandie Marshall A HOLMFIRTH-based dance teacher who admits that she lives, breathes and dreams dance is celebrating five years of running her own academy. Pupils of the Justify Move Dance Academy are rehearsing for an anniversary show to be staged at Holmfirth Civic Hall on December 16.

Lucie Lee formed Justify Move Dance Academy (JMDA) to provide dance classes for boys and girls aged from five in various styles such as street jazz, contemporary, physical theatre and modern dance.

She runs an adults’ Dance to Fitness class on Thursdays at the Civic Hall where people can enjoy a full body workout and then learn a dance routine in street or jazz style.

Lucie, who choreographed and performed her first routine at the age of eight, also works as a freelance dance teacher and facilitator with Kirklees College, Education Group and Kirklees Council. This year she opened two new contemporary dance classes. The first helps young people with their GCSE dance qualification and improves their dance technique.

The second, the JDMA Youth Group, staged its first performance at the Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield in November.

“I pride myself in my teaching technique, giving students the positive drive they need to achieve their goals. It’s rewarding to see the children’s improvement in their confidence and self-esteem as well as their flexibility, she says.

Although already very busy with

JMDA and her work as a volunteer for both Holmfirth Festival of Folk in May and Holmfirth Arts Festival in June, Lucie has big plans to further promote and develop dance culture within Kirklees. One of her aims is to see a ‘creative hub’ within the Holme Valley giving different artists who live and work in the area a chance to network and promote themselves together. She is also preparing to research a PhD in Dance and Digital Technology, looking at ways of unifying the body and media together, and would be interested in hearing from anyone interested in exploring this idea with her.

She is also looking for her own apprentice to help her continue the success of JDMA in the future and will provide the right person with dance training and community dance teaching qualifications credited by the Open Network College.

She says: “I have met a lot of people recently who told me they moved to Holmfirth because they think it is a creative and diverse town, I can agree with that. My head is in the clouds constantly. I think it’s important to dream as dreams keep you going and get you up every morning to achieve your goals. I see dance and stimulus everywhere so if you see someone dancing on the streets, that’s probably me.”

Anyone interested in learning more about JMDA’s dance classes is welcome to attend the anniversary show on December 16, or contact Lucie direct via email at justifymove18@hotmail.com

Preparing for the JMDA anniversary show are Lucie (back right) and her teaching assistant Heather Tosh with pupils (front, from left) Ally Matthews, Keeya Micklethwaite, Obie Micklethwaite, (middle, from left) Charlie Horrocks, Lewis Matthews, James Wood and Tess Markwort.

Cards show area at its best ...

LONG before the TV cameras rolled into town, Holmfirth was famous for its picture postcard industry. Now card making has returned with a series of Christmas greetings produced by local landscape photographer Andy Leader.

The images for the Christmas cards feature some of the bestloved views of the Holme Valley including Digley Reservoir, Holmfirth's rooftops and Holme Village.

All have a wintery feel, with most shot last January when the snow was at its deepest.

Commenting on the photographs, Andy said: “There aren’t many local Christmas cards and I thought it would be good to have some local views that people could send to friends and relatives.

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“Last winter’s snow was amazing and an ideal opportunity to capture the Holme Valley at its most beautiful.”

Andy is a regular walker around the Holme and Colne Valleys and his photographs have already appeared in a local book of poetry and prose by members of Holmfirth Writers’ Group, entitled ‘Reflections of Holme’.

His work can be seen for sale every Saturday at the craft market in Holmfirth and also at the Holmfirth Farmers’ Market which takes place

The days of having an eyetest only to see if you need a change of spectacles, or to see if you need spectacles for the first time are behind us.

Nowadays just like having a regular check-up at the dentist, we should all be having regular eye examinations, not only to make sure that our eyesight is ok, but also to ensure our eyes are healthy, and for that matter that our body is healthy.

The eyes are often called the window to our soul but they may also be a window to our health. Conditions such as diabetes, blood pressure and raised cholesterol can sometimes be detected by subtle changes at the back of the eye before they have any effect elsewhere.

Technology can help, and with this in mind Henderson Opticians have just made a major investment in the latest retinal camera to examine and monitor the health of the eye even more closely. A photo is taken and viewed on screen

every third Sunday of the month.

The new Christmas cards are on sale at the Tourist Information Centre in Holmfirth, Charlesworths newsagents, The Gift Horse and other local outlets.

For further information visit www.madeinholmfirth.co.uk or call 01484 683756.

instantly. This is kept on file for future comparison, ensuring any small changes can be detected more readily and problems detected at an earlier stage.

To coincide with their retinal camera purchase they are also giving you the chance to win a Nikon Coolpix digital camera.

Every patient who purchases Nikon spectacles lenses will be entered into a free draw with a camera to be given away every 3 months.

With over 50 years experience between them dispensing optician Christine Henderson and optometrist Stephen Allott are committed to the highest standards of professional eyecare. These standards are equally important when it comes to lens choices, and although Nikon is best known for its excellence and innovation in the photographic market, they have combined their lens expertise with a genuine commitment to eyecare in developing a range of spectacle lenses.

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 7

Grant sees garden project blossom

By Sandie Marshall THE DREAM of creating three new community gardens in the Holme Valley will become a reality in 2011 thanks to a grant award of almost £10,000.

Holme Valley Gardening Network is celebrating the award from Kirklees Environment Unit. The money will allow the group to fulfil its plans to build a woodland garden, an inclusive garden and a wildflower and tree nursery for the enjoyment, education and therapy of the Valley community.

The three gardens will be built behind Wooldale Co-op where the Gardening Network has already created 22 allotments for use by local growers of all ages and abilities. The land was given to the Network by the Wooldale Cooperative Society last year, providing the fledgling group with the ideal space to put its ambi-

tious plans into action.

Group founders Elaine Thélier and Helen Scott are thrilled that the new grant money will allow work on the community gardens to begin. “Our main aim was always to create the gardens”, said Helen. “We both worked on projects in Wakefield and Liverpool and saw the benefits in bringing people together to build something special and then continuing to work as a community, sharing knowledge and experience throughout the seasons.

Our work so far in Wooldale has been popular with people from all kinds of backgrounds. We already have volunteers who will help up to make these gardens come to life.”

The woodland garden will be a site for growing edible produce from fruit trees and berry bushes, as well as a range of herbs. The wildflower and tree nursery will be developed to help garden-

ers learn how to collect, save and store seeds and start them off as new plants.

It is the inclusive garden however, which is especially close to the heart of exteacher Elaine who, as an instructor with the Green Gym scheme, is dedicated to the benefits gardening can bring to the mind and body.

“This garden will be completely accessible to anyone with mobility issues and will be designed with waste-high beds to allow wheelchair users to enjoy their planting and growing.

“It is known that gardening can be incredibly therapeutic to people recovering from physical and mental illnesses. The Green Gym is a project by the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers and through my work with that I have seen how much enjoyment and physical benefit to body, mind and soul can be gained from gardening together in a community.”

Help for business owners to get control of their business

Ben Simpson surrounded by members of the Lightfoot School of Dance

Father Christmas drops in for dance show THERE was a surprise special guest among the 500-strong audience for the Lightfoot School of Dancing 9th Annual Demonstration evening when Father Christmas popped in to enjoy the show. He watched the students aged between two and 22 years show off their skills which earlier this year

had gained every one of them a pass and dancing certificate from the International Dance Teachers Association.

The school principle, Kathie Lightfoot, at the end of the show commented: “I am absolutely so proud of all my students, they worked so hard leading up to the show to

make sure their families had a memorable evening.”

Miss Lightfoot told her younger pupils that Santa had made a flying visit as he checked his route for Christmas Eve. He told them how much he had enjoyed the show before quickstepping it back to the North Pole.

In order to be successful in business, it is necessary to believe in success. The most profitable business owners are not the ones who are busy but the ones who work smartly. They are the ones who have a clear vision of what they want to do with their business. They constantly review performance and they focus on working on their business, not in it. There are many good business owners but far less successful ones.

What is apparent is that the most successful ones plan ahead and then monitor performance on a regular basis so that they can take corrective action wherever necessary. However, preparing a detailed business plan can take a significant amount of time so at Balance Accountants we use something called the One Page Plan not only in our own business but also in clients businesses.

The One Page Plan is based upon an American management tool called the Balanced Scorecard and basically looks at all the key factors behind a business’ success and maps them out in a way that enables the owner to constantly record and monitor the key success drivers in the business and take timely action where required. It is a simple but very effective business tool which very quickly becomes an indispensable management process once implemented.

For more information about One Page Plans or for a free initial meeting to discuss how these could work for you and your business then please call Ashley Barrowclough at Balance Accountants, Holmfirth.

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T: 01484 685413 F: 01484 682206 www.balanceonline.co.uk Some of the dancers with Father Christmas

Balance Accountants are a proactive firm of Chartered Accountants who provide a range of value added services aimed at helping their clients to grow their businesses, make them more successful and more enjoyable to run. For more information or to arrange a free initial consultation then please contact Ashley Barrowclough on 01484 685413 or ashley@balanceonline.co.uk

8 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

Parliamentary Corner I WAS recently asked by some school pupils to describe a typical day as an MP. Well that’s impossible to answer as every day is completely different.

Last month I attended my first meeting as a member of the NATO assembly in Warsaw since my appointment by the Foreign Secretary. As a former RAF Officer I have an interest in military matters and some of our local engineering companies have defence contracts. After a day back in the constituency office in Holmfirth I was off to Pakistan and Kashmir where I helped to distribute blankets and clothing donated by Huddersfield people to a village

with Jason McCartney MP

badly hit by the summer floods.

It was good to meet families and businesses with connections to our area. It’s local issues though that are always my top priority so I was straight off the plane and back to Westminster for a meeting with Yorkshire Water about the spillway project at Brownhill reservoir.

I’m settling into a routine of being in Westminster Monday to Thursday then back home Friday through Sunday. Sally, my Holmfirth based secretary, manages to squeeze a lot into my Friday and Saturday schedules. Last Friday I visited Holmfirth High School, Fisher Plastics in Meltham (they used

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to make the little hotels and houses for Monopoly boards when they were based on Gynn Lane in Honley) and I had a wonderful evening with the cadets of 1466 Air Cadet Squadron in Thongsbridge.

Saturday began with a busy advice surgery in Holmfirth Civic Hall where I spent 3 hours with constituents.

After a quick lunch at a mosque in Lockwood as part of Kirklees Inter faith week it was back to Holmfirth for the Christmas lights switch on.

I’m looking forward to the festive season and in particular switching on the Christmas

lights in my home village of Honley. I’d like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

As always please get in touch if I can help with any issue.

Office: 24 Huddersfield Rd, Holmfirth, HD9 2JS. Opposite Ashley Jackson’s gallery.

Phone: 01484 688364 Email: jason.mccartney.mp@parliament.uk Best wishes, Jason Jason McCartney Member of Parliament for Colne Valley Jason McCartney MP

Readers’ letters Do you want to have your say on a local or national issue? We'd like to hear your thoughts on anything that's important to you.Write to:Letters to the editor,Holme Valley Review,3 Attorney Court,Holmfirth,HD9 1EZ, or email news@holmevalleyreview.co.uk

So who will buy these 1,700 new homes?

Di Coldwell, Honley: TO QUOTE Victor Meldrew “I couldn’t believe it” when I read your article (New Housing Proposal for Greenbelt) in the first edition of what promises to be an excellent local paper.

This gave us the news that we are going to be subjected yet again to a consultation process re: building houses in the green belt.

We’ve been there, got the t-shirt (was it only two years ago?) and made it very clear that we don’t want any more houses in the Holme Valley, especially when they are a threat to what must be some

‘Don’t bother with pointless consultation exercise’

Name withheld, Honley: KIRKLEES Council, like all councils in the of the most beautiful countryside in country, is drastically cutting jobs and services to save money. the British Isles.

I can tell them how to save money – don’t I could be wrong, but haven’t bother with the pointless consultation exerI heard a rumour that the cise on building homes in the green belt. I can British economy is in a bit of a tell them now what the result will be – everymess at the moment and that, one will say we don’t want it just as we did as a result, many of the services provided by Kirklees are under last time they asked. Will it make any differthreat? ence? No! So tell me what is the point?

Hardly a moment then to It also seems no one is ever prepared to start another round of what must be quite a costly process come out and say exactly where these houses – I’m thinking officers’ time, will be built. After all, there are different types printing, postage, hire of venues of green belt, some more valuable than others. etc.

It would help if the council would actually tell us what land they want to take away but On top of this, the housing market is in the doldrums so they seem frightened to do so. who will buy these 1,700 new I find it hard to believe there are not other homes? solutions to the area’s housing problem.

‘There’s no point in winning then disappointing our treasured clientele’ Keith Sharland Sharland's Butchers, Paddock & Holmfirth IT is without doubt common knowledge in the meat trade that some meat traders amongst us who decide, in their infinite wisdom, to enter the world of meat product competition actually create a special product just for the competitive arena.

In fact, I can go as far as stating, some meat traders who are blessed with that little extra determination unbelievably go to the

lengths of discovering the identity of the judges and research their individual tastes, making a product to match that person's particular preference.

We here at Sharland's find this deceitful bordering on cheating and at the very least unprofessional!

Surely one should enter a product which, in the very least, resembles product on sale in your establishment.

Here at Sharland's we simply enter products which as far as is humanly possible are exactly what we sell to our treasured clientele.

In fact we could, should we so decide, take products from our refrigerated counter display and present them to the judges.

We cannot see the point in winning a competition, enjoying all the acclaim and publicity to then simply disappoint the paying public by offering what is in all respects an inferior product as the product on sale in there shops IS NOT the product that claimed said acclaim.

The sausage we entered into the Britain's Star Sausage Competition was

and is exactly what we sell to our valued friends and customers.

Despite the unevenness of the playing field we are proud so say we qualified for the final.

It is some seventeen years since we last took competition of this kind seriously, now we are back in game, beware the Sharland's return.

We are proud of our heritage and our products, we sell local produce wherever possible, I consider this to be refreshing.

Museums stage old-style Christmas KIRKLEES museums want everyone to enjoy 'The Spirit of Christmas Past'. To help get people into the festive spirit, they have produced a leaflet of that name as a handy reference to their Christmas events and activities, many of which are free.

In the run up to and during the Christmas period, the council-managed museums and historic sites will be offering a taste of a traditional Christmas with trimmings, decorations, music and food along with seasonal craft activities and trails for families.

Highlights include Candlelight

Evenings and a Christmas Concert at Oakwell Hall in Birstall, a Victorian Christmas Weekend at Bagshaw Museum in Batley, and a 'Jane Austen's Christmas' presentation at Red House in Gomersal.

Tolson Museum in Huddersfield returns to its origins as a Victorian family home to prepare for a traditional Victorian Christmas while Dewsbury Museum invites visitors to discover how families enjoyed Christmas during wartime.

Bagshaw, Dewsbury, Oakwell Hall, Red House and Tolson Museums are also offering unusual Christmas gifts

at their shops with a range of greeting cards, gifts, toys, jewellery, ceramics and food, and a wide choice of local interest books and information.

Details of the dates, times and charges (where applicable) for events are in the leaflet along with contact information and opening times.

‘The Spirit of Christmas’ past leaflet can be downloaded from the Kirklees Council website or requested electronically by emailing communityhistory.service@kirklees.gov.uk

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 9

Boost for Wear it Pink effort

Holmfirth’s brew is the Bee’s Knees

By Sandie Marshall SOME may say taking beer to Sunderland is akin to taking coals to Newcastle.

When Holmfirth’s Nook Brewhouse sent some of its Bee's Knees bitter to the Sunderland Beer Festival the locals liked it very much – so much they voted it their favouite brew of the whole festival.

Members of the Sunderland and South Tyneside CAMRA group jumped in a minibus and journeyed to West Yorkshire to see the brewhouse for themselves and sample some of the other

beers made there. They also presented Nook owners Ian Robberts and Sheila Sutton with a certificate officially naming Bee's Knees as the Sunderland Oktoberfest Beer of the Festival.

Group leader Michael Wynne told the Review: “The award is voted for by visitors to the festival. This one was a clear winner and had sold out by the Friday night – we could have done with more.”

Ian and Sheila built The Nook Brewhouse on land behind The Nook pub and the first pint was produced there in July 2009. Its first

award came almost immediately when Nook Blonde won the Beer of the Festival at the 2009 Lichfield, Sutton and Tamworth CAMRA beer festival.

Bee’s Knees is a 3.9% strength bitter brewed with Yorkshire honey and crystal malts.

It’s one of nine different beers currently brewed at the Brewhouse, producing roughly 40 barrels each week. Some of this is sold on tap at The Nook and its sister bar Carniceria but most goes out across the country to pubs, bars and festivals.

THANKS to the efforts of Holme Valley Business Association, Cancer Research UK’s Wear it Pink campaign is £2,500 better off.

The association held a series of events to support the national campaign including a pink ball, collections in shops around the valley and a coffee morning at Holmfirth Methodist Church. Association members also visited local schools to talk about the campaign and raise awareness of the work of Cancer Research. Andrew Bray of Andrew's greengrocers, Holmfirth, expressed thanks on behalf of the business association to everyone who took part and helped in the fundraising.

Ian Robberts, left, receives the award from Michael Wynne

Dry stone-walling taster days planned FOUR more of the highly-popular dry stone walling taster days have been announced for 2011.

The Sunday courses, run by the West Yorkshire branch of the Dry Stone Walling Association, will be held on January 9, February 6, March 6 and April 10. In addition, weekend courses will be run on April 16-17 and May 14-15.

Run in partnership with Kirklees Council, the courses are an opportunity to find out more about the skill involved in this traditional country craft under the supervision of dry stoning experts.

The taster days are free but a refundable deposit of £10 is required due to a minority of people booking places and then not turning up.

The weekend courses cost £75.

For further information or to book places please contact Paul on 01484 845219 or email paul.webley@btinternet.com

Organist plans lunchtime concert POPULAR Kirklees organist Dr Gordon Stewart will be performing the lunchtime organ concert on Monday December 13 at 1pm at Huddersfield Town Hall.

His programme will include: W Walton, Suite from Henry V; J S Bach: Prelude and Fugue in C, and Prelude on Wachet auf!; P Aston, Homage to Gabriel Faure and A Carter, Toccata on Veni Emmanuel.

Tickets are priced at £4 (£3 concessions) and can be booked in advance at Kirklees Booking Offices by calling 01484 223200 or by simply paying on the door. Lunches will be available in the Old Court Room from 12 noon.

Unusual sports offer for youngsters THERE'S an opportunity for youngsters to try out some of the more unusual sports at a new session at Holmfirth High School every Friday evening.

The multi-sport sessions are being run by Project Sport who are promising to introduce children to activities such as American dodge ball, street hockey, handball, softball, ultimate frizbee and samba soccer as well as more traditional sports including basketball, cricket and netball.

The sessions run from 6-7pm, are open to children aged 5-11 and the first week is free.

For more information or to make a booking contact Antony at Project Sport on tel: 07719 698644.

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10 – Holme Valley Review, November 2010

Crowds brave chills to see switch-on FAMILIES packed into Holmfirth town centre despite the arctic weather to see the Christmas lights switch on and enjoy the entertainment and party atmosphere.

Free parking for shoppers KIRKLEES Council has announced that car parking in Holmfirth with be free of charge on certain times and dates in the run up to Christmas in an effort to boost shopping in the town.

Parking in both on and off street council car parks will be free on

Sundays December 12, December 19 and December 26.

It will also be free to park after 12 noon on Fridays December 10, December 17 and December 24 and Saturdays December 11 and December 18. Normal charges apply at all other times.

The evening festivities were the highlight of a day of events laid on by the Holme Valley Business Association.

Earlier, judging took place for the best dressed Christmas window among the town centre shops.

Guests of honour Last of the Summer Wine policement PCs Walsh and Cooper – real life actors Ken Kitson and Louis Emerick – walked all around the town before deciding the

prize should go to Hobsons Florist for its beautiful Christmas display.

As darkness fell, the Christmas parade set off from Crown Bottom car park, led by Father Christmas in his sleigh provided by Holmfirth and Meltham Lions, and members of the business association and Holme Valley Parish Council.

Cast members from Turn Again Theatre’s upcoming panto, The King’s New Clothes, added a bright splash of colour to the parade and music was provided by Hade Edge band.

Hot food and drink supplied by local retailers helped keep the crowds thawed. Sharland's butchers on

Victoria Bridge provided free mulled wine and donated £1 from each of the hot dogs and burgers it sold, raising £183 for the business association to help with the cost of the lights.

Joining the Summerwine policemen on the main event stage were compere Ian Gooch from the Business Associaton and Alan Bell who produced and directed every episode of the 31 series of the sitcom.

He spoke fondly of his long association with the Holme Valley and even hinted that the door may not be completely closed on future episodes, even a possibe spin-off series for the two loveable policemen.

Choir hits high note in anniversary year ...

EXCITING times are ahead for Honley Male Voice Choir as it celebrates it 75th anniversary in 2011.

The choir, formed in November, 1936, is planning an event on September 24 starring world-famous soprano Lesley Garrett.

Lesley will perform two 20-minute solo spots, one in each half, and also sing several numbers backed by the choir. Stan Solomans, the choir's public relations manager said: “We are all thrilled that we have been able to book such a famous, international star. As far as we know it will be her

first ever appearance at the town hall.”

Ticket prices have yet to be decided and the choir’s general committee is currently deciding whether to stage the concert as a charity event or as a means of raising funds for the choir.

In February the choir is entering the Mrs Sunderland Musical Competition in Huddersfield where in past years it has had several successes and at the end of April it will be competing in an international festival in Cornwall. As a slightly more unusual celebration of the anniversary, one of the newer

choir members and keen rose-grower Ronnie Rawlins is developing a unique plant, The Honley Male Voice Choir Rose which will go on sale to choir members and supporters towards the end of next year.

In fund-raising too, the choir is thinking big. Between now and March, members are running a prize raffle with a target of raising £10,000.

The first prize is a luxury cruise for two worth £3,000 donated anonymously by a choir supporter.

The main event in this year’s busy Christmas programme is the annual

Huddersfield Town Hall concert on Saturday December ll, which as well as the choir, will feature the world famous Cory Band for the sixth successive year. The band is officially ranked as the number one brass band in the world, a title it has held for four years, and is directed by Dr. Robert Childs who has conducted and performed with most of the top brass band in the North of England.

The concert starts at 7.15pm and tickets priced between £7 and £15 are on sale from Kirklees information centres in Holmfirth and Huddersfield.

Lesley Garrett

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 11

12 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

Free fun for kids YOUNGSTERS can channel their pre-Christmas excitement into fun activity at free multi-sports sessions being held at Leeds Road Sports Complex, Huddersfield, on Monday 20 and Tuesday 21 December, 1pm to 4pm both days.

The sessions, being held under the umbrella of Kirklees Youth Games, is for boys and girls aged 8 to 13 years. The activities will have a Christmas twist and a competitive element.

Although there is no charge to take part, places must be booked in advance by contacting Kirklees Sports Development Officer Paul Cummins, tel: 01484 234094/07976 194239, email: paul.cummins@kirklees.gov.uk.

No equipment is required by youngsters taking part.

It’s panto time ...oh, yes it is ...

By Sandie Marshall

Holmfirth’s Turn Again Theatre is presenting The King’s New Clothes

Valentine’s treat for Shakin’Stevens fans

Shakin' Stevens

LOVERS of 1980s’ music can have a rockin’ and rollin’ Valentine’s evening when Shakin' Stevens takes to the stage of the Holmfirth Picturedrome.

Shaky, who holds the distinction of being the biggest-selling UK artist of the 80s and the country’s 16th highest-selling artist in chart history, will be in town on February 14 as part of his 30th Anniversary tour. He will be accompanied by his 10 strong band, performing many of his best-loved hits such as ‘This Ole House’, ‘The Green Door’ and ‘Oh Julie’, along with other rock and country blues songs and new material from his album due out later in 2011.

As well as the 19-date UK Tour, Shaky will be touring and performing

at festivals throughout Europe, including Switzerland and Germany, as well as Denmark and Sweden, where his album ‘The Collection’ recently topped the charts.

Shakin’ Stevens has a massive and loyal fanbase around the world.

Famous fans include Peter Kay who invited him to appear in the video for the No 1 hit ‘Amarillo’, Matt Lucus & David Walliams, John Simm, Rob Brydon, Hannah Waterman, Natasha Kapinsky, Super Furry Animals, The Young Knives and Elbow amongst many others. He appeared at the 2008 Glastonbury Festival to huge critical acclaim and the biggest crowd ever seen as the Saturday main stage opener.

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FORGET the post-Christmas blues and winter frosts. January means one thing only – it’s panto time.

Rehearsals are well underway for Holmfirth’s Turn Again Theatre production of The King’s New Clothes, an adaptation of the classic Hans Christian Anderson fairy story The Emperor’s New Clothes.

First-time director Lisa Kendall is promising a traditional feast of music, jokes, dancing and family fun.

She said: “I wanted to do a fairy story and the King’s New Clothes is perfect because it’s a story that everyone knows but at the same time it’s a bit different because it hasn’t been done to death as a pantomime.”

Semi-professional singer Lisa has performed for many years with regional theatre groups in plays, musicals and pantomimes. She took the lead role of Elizabeth Bennett in Turn Again’s sell-out performance of Pride and Prejudice in October.

The King’s New Clothes is set in the village of Pantoville and each

cast member, including the 15 children in the chorus, will be playing a character from a well-known story or nursery rhyme. The show will have big musical numbers with some of the choreography created

by Lisa’s two teenage daughters.

Many of the panto’s leading performers will be familiar to regular Turn Again audiences. Taking the role of baddie Baron Voldemort will be Graham Hodgson, who has played the villain in many productions. Meanwhile Mark Brockway will be taking on the role of the Dame for the first time.

Also new for this performance, the group will be using the show to raise money for five local, national and overseas good causes nominated by cast and crew members.

All proceeds from a raffle each night will be donated to the charities.

Tickets for The King’s New Clothes are on sale at Holmfirth Tourist Information Office priced £6 for adults and £4 for kids and the elderly. Groups of 10 or more can get two free tickets. The show takes place from January 26-29 at Holmfirth Civic Hall.

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 13

All welcome at carol service

Review round-up Project to create habitat for creature THE Great Crested Newt project in Clayton West will be the focus for Enviroyouth’s work during December. The project is creating a suitable habitat for the protected creature by making a series of linked ponds alongside the Kirklees Light Railway line.

Enviroyouth, which is for people aged 14 to 25, will be there on Saturday December 11.

Anyone can join the group which supports the Kirklees Countryside Unit’s work. There is no cost to take part and no previous knowledge or experience is necessary. All tools and training will be provided although stout footwear, outdoor clothing, waterproofs and a packed lunch will be needed.

For information and details of meeting/ pickup points contact Countryside Officer Andy Wickham on 01484 222960/07773 386550.

Iconic images wanted THERE is just time for keen amateur photographers to submit their work to a competition celebrating ‘Iconic Huddersfield’.

Eight images will be chosen and exhibited in Queensgate Market, Huddersfield for the majority of next year. Photographers are invited to submit up to four images, all of which should represent elements of Huddersfield in some way.

All photographs must be at least five megapixels in size to allow enlargement to fit the one metre by three metre displays panels in the market. Entries should be emailed to markets@kirklees.gov.uk by Friday December 10.

Choir appeal HONLEY Saxophone Choir is looking for more players to join their fortnightly rehearsals. The group of eight musicians, led by teacher Jennifer Hewitt, has been playing together for just over one year at Honley Silver Band Room. Jennifer said: “We are always looking for new members, especially if you play soprano, tenor or baritone.” Jennifer can be reached at jen@jenniferhewitt.co.uk or on 07990 981726.

Why vicars got in their knickers ...

EVERYONE knows that Children in Need can bring out the silliness in all of us but Vicars in their Knickers?

Surely that’s as silly as it gets!

It didn’t stop the Holme Valley fab-four rising to the challenge laid down by Mr Children in Need himself Terry Wogan on BBC TV Songs of Praise when he asked vicars all over the country to get down from the pulpit and do some fund raising for the annual appeal.

So, Revs Sean Robershaw, Di Ellerton, Nick Heaton and Captain Mike Smithers pulled on their silly pants

and visited 12 junior and infant schools in the Valley, collecting money as they went. Much to the youngsters’ delight, they read out a verse written by poet and performer Paul Cookson, well-known locally through the Greenbelt Arts Festival.

The poem goes: “Vicars in their knickers ~ that’s not what we want.

Vicars in their knickers ~ parading round the font.

Vicars in their knickers ~ is really rather rude, but the Vicars in their knickers ~ is better than the vicars in the naughty, naked nude!”

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The children then presented their visitors with more decorated silly knickers they had made for the vicars to wear to the next school.

Sean said: “We did this because we were challenged to do it, to raise some cash towards a very good cause in our nation, Children in Need and to show that we don’t take ourselves too seriously.

“It’s a bit of fun and good summer wine humour and we hope that all the children enjoyed it as much as we did.”

In total, the vicars raised £1,342 – not pants at all!

THE guest speaker at the November meeting of the Holmfirth Probus Club was Ian Baxter who gave a slide show and talk entitled “Berlin and East Germany”.

He told of his first trip to Germany pre-unification in 1988 with his son, and showed slides of many famous landmarks including the Reischtaag, the Brandenburg gate and the infamous wall itself. They also crossed into East Berlin at “Checkpoint Charlie”, where the most noticeable difference was the lack of both advertising and graffiti. He then showed later visits to Berlin after unification. Little had changed in West Berlin except that there is simply a line where the wall had been, but advertising and graffiti were both prevalent in East Berlin as well as other more welcome changes. The club’s Carol Service is on December 15 at 10.30am in Holmfirth Methodist Church and all are welcome.

Tel: 07835 334 514

Daisy Lane, Holmfirth, HD9 1HSA Email: jlaith@btinternet.com

14 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

Funding boost leaves volunteer group looking for projects

By Sandie Marshall A VOLUNTEER group is looking for conservation projects and tasks in the Denby Dale area.

The Steel Valley Project is a countryside management project based in Stocksbridge on the outskirts of Sheffield where it has been carrying out work with the help of regular volunteers since 1988. However, current funding by the East Peak Innovation Partnership (EPIP) has opened up an opportunity for the project to get involved in the rural development of the region recently recognised as the East Peak.

This area incorporates the towns of Denby Dale, Kirkburton, Penistone and Stocksbridge and their surrounding villages. Funding is made available through the Rural Development Programme for England, which is jointly funded by DEFRA and the European Union, and is managed by Yorkshire Forward in the Yorkshire and Humber region.

In its first year of EPIP funding, the Steel Valley Project has already carried out a variety of improvement works for a range of landowners within Penistone and Denby Dale as well as the rest of

the East Peak area. With an environmental theme, they have also delivered schools workshops, hosted public events and supported local community groups.

“Our aim is to help rural development of the East Peak area by improving access to the countryside for the general public, improve wildlife habitats, raise awareness of countryside topics and to provide training opportunities and improve skills in the countryside industry,” explained Penistone and Denby Dale team supervisor Kate Hughes.

The Penistone and Denby Dale team has recently been supporting a Kirklees Council-managed project near Scisset to create a series of ponds to link two colonies of Great Crested Newts in the hopes that they will spread, breed and become more established in the area.

Kate is keen to continue the valuable natural habitat and access improvements work into the next year and would like to hear from community groups, schools or landowners in the area that would like their support.

She is also keen to hear from anyone interested in volunteering with the team. She can be contacted on 0114 283 0880.

Market hall hits the right note HOLMFIRTH Market Hall is throwing its doors open to local music talent.

The Markets team has allocated a small performance space in the entrance from Huddersfield Road and is inviting musicians and music groups to busk there in the run up to Christmas. Anyone interested in playing in the space should contact Geoff Sheard on 01484 223730.

Christmas Shopping at the market is well underway as the hall is open every week until Christmas with a range of specialist shopping events.

The Designer Market returns on Sunday December 5 and Sunday

December 12 with a range of gift ideas from local businesses. The weekly Craft and Food Market has expanded to fill both floors of the Market Hall every Saturday, and is a real haven for unique gift ideas.

The Vintage Market is also on the move and can now be found on Thursdays in the upper floor of the Market Hall, joining the ever popular Thursday market. Finally, the monthly Farmers Market takes place on Sunday December 19, ideal for stocking up on some luxury local items just before Christmas. The market will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Team work puts churchyard in great shape for the winter THE churchyard of Brockholes Parish Church is looking in great shape for the winter thanks to almost four months of hard work, and an item on the BBC’s Countryfile programme.

Local man John Hinchliffe was watching the programme one Sunday evening when an item about clearing and replanting churchyards caught his attention. He immediately thought of the over-grown brambles and weeds outside his own Parish Church and was inspired to do something about it. He approached the church for permission to roll his sleeves up, and then set to work.

Others worked with him on the project, including parish members Stuart and Dorothy Coldwell and a team of young offenders provided by the local Probation Service.

Stuart said: “It was good to see the young men getting involved and clearly some of them enjoyed it and got quite a lot from it. The Probation Service has said they will treat the churchyard as an on-going project and return to do some maintenance from time to time.”

As well as removing all the brambles and debris, John wanted to plant new fruit trees in the yard and offered to donate the first sapling himself. In total 11 fruit trees have now been provided, most of which have been sponsored by the Brockholes community.

The church is considering providing plaques for the trees bought in memory of loved ones.

Even John’s two daughters, one of whom lives in Australia, sent money to buy a tree.

John is pleased that his project has been so well received by the Brockholes community. He said: “It’s

Planting trees in Brockholes churchyard are, from left, Basil Smith, vice chairman of Holme Valley Parish Council, John Hinchliffe, church warden Rosalind Watt and Dorothy and Stuart Coldwell. nice how people have got behind this as a good idea. The work needed doing but it needed someone to make a start. Sometimes that’s what you have to do – just make a start and see what can happen.”

As a finishing touch to the project, Holme Valley Parish Council donated 200 daffodil bulbs to give an even greater splash of colour when the new trees are in full blossom next spring.

Dancers serve up a storm with tasty quick-step A PAIR of ex-professional dancers have waltzed onto the restaurant scene with a new family-style diner in Holmfirth.

Paul and Fiona Noonan have opened Fifi’s Diner on Manchester Road to cater for parents and youngsters looking for good quality grills and burger-type food in a friendly environment.

The couple met in Australia where Paul had travelled to choreograph and star in an Irish dance show called Galeforce.

Fiona was his leading lady, and after the two were married on stage every night in the show, they decided to make it official in real life seven years ago.

The couple returned to England where they fell in love with Holmfirth, eventually buying the building which was then a creparie and later a Thai restaurant. They have now turned it into Fifi’s, which they run alongside a fruit and vegetable supply company and a coffee importing business.

It’s all a far-cry from their dancing days. Paul started Irish dancing as a child and through competitions became the fifth-ranked dancer in

the world. He was eventually invited to join the company of Michael Flatley’s blockbuster stage show Lord of the Dance, with whom he toured the world and performed at venues such as New York’s Radio City and events such as the Oscar ceremony.

Northern Irelandborn Fiona had emigrated to Australia with her family because of the troubles when she was six years old. She took up ballet dancing but always maintained her love of Irish dancing, which eventually led her to star in the Paul’s new show Galeforce. When she wasn’t performing, Fiona worked in catering in an Irish-themed pub where she learned the skills to help her with her own restaurant back in the UK. The pair are hoping Fifi’s menu of locally produced steak, chicken and sandwiches will appeal to their new customers. Everything is cooked as healthily as possible and children can chose a smaller portion of any dish on the menu. Fifi’s is open from early evening from Tuesday to Sunday, with additional lunch on Saturdays.

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 15

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16 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

Residents urged to get arty @home

Review round-up Shoppers asked to ‘follow the angels’ KEEP your eyes open for peeping angels while you’re window shopping this Christmas. They will be there to point the way to the nativity scene at St John's Church, Upperthong.

The church is asking local retailers to include angels in their Christmas displays with a message encouraging people to ‘follow the angels’ to the churchyard. There, as well as the traditional cribside scene, visitors will find a whole host of angels, shepherds and kings designed and made by local groups including schools and pubs.

Group gets crafty A SERIES of crafty workshops has been organised by the Holmfirth group in charge of keeping trade in the village fair.

The Fair Traders Cooperative – which set up to promote partnership and ethical practices for local businesses – has organised the craft workshops in the run up to Christmas.

On December 4 there was a rag rug wreath workshop and on December 18 there will be a felt-making workshop to create pockets and purses, this is priced at £5.

More information from the Holmfirth shop.

Families being brilliant Trying something different together was the key to this year’s Kirklees Family Learning Festival with activities staged by Holmfirth Library.

Children, mums, dads and grandparents packed the Civic Hall for ‘Be Brilliant’, a day of fun and crafts giving families the chance to work together on jewellery, painting and miniature gardens. Pictured making bracelets are (left) seven-year-old Evie Hague and three-year-old Charlotte Hawksworth, while Henry Monro, two, gets stuck into stone painting with granddad Brian Fisher.

Carols round the tree A SERIES of events is being planned in the run-up to the 150th Anniversary Scholes Methodist Church next March. The first of these is Carols around the Christmas Tree on Friday December 10.

The tree will be sited on Whitewells Road and the evening starts at 7pm when the tree lights will be switched on. Skelmanthorpe B Band will then accompany the carol singing and Scholes Infant and Junior School choir will perform. Refreshments will be served afterwards. This is an event for the whole village to enjoy, and everyone is warmly invited to come along and share in it.

Sisters devoted to making clients look their best

TECHNIQUES Beauty Salon in Holmfirth is under the ownership of sisters Gemma and Kym Firth.

The two experienced beauty therapists took over the Hollowgate salon at the beginning of April and have carried out a complete refurbishment of the premises, which have been established in Holmfirth since 1996.

Before taking over, Kym worked at Techniques and Gemma previously worked at a salon in Shepley.

The salon has three luxurious treatment rooms decorated in the salon’s red and black décor, and also an upstairs spray tan room. A number of new beauty treatments have also been introduced by Gemma and Kym which include Hollywood Lashes, semi-permanent eyelash extensions which aim to still give a natural look but with a ‘volume up’ effect without the need to use mascara.

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The treatment lasts several weeks and has already been used by three of the Hollyoak soap stars.

In the upstairs tanning room, Techniques is offering Fantasy Tan, which is regarded as one of the best air-brush tanning systems. Techniques offers a full range of face, body and nail treatments including Darphin facials, Creative Nails and Bio Sculpture gel nails and also the Silhouette Dermalift nonsurgical facelift which is proven to lift and contour the face, improve circulation and re-firm facial muscles.

Any ladies wanting top class affordable nail treatments should make a note that a full set of Creative Nails is now available for just £35.

We also offer; MINX – extending fashion to your fingers and toes. MINX is unlike regular nail polish it is made from a flexible film and is applied and removed using heat and pressure, fantastic nail art that will last.

SHELLAC – say hello to the future. This visionary new product applies like polish, just a bottle and a brush, its thin and flexible and provides strong natural nail protection with a resilient mirror shine.

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Opening times at Techniques are Monday and Tuesday 9am to 5pm, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9am to 7.30pm and Saturday 9am to 4pm. Parking is available close by on-street and in nearby car parks. Gift vouchers are always available, and Techniques can accommodate group bookings, pamper days and wedding parties.

Techniques, 6/8 Hollowgate, Holmfirth HD9 2DG, Tel: 01484 689 777

HOLMFIRTH Arts Festival has come up with an unusual idea to get more people involved next year by hosting exhibits in their own homes. It is looking for residents who are prepared to throw open their doors for the new @home project so others can share in their creatvity.

Festival director Jonathan Best explained: “You don’t have to be a professional artist or a performer, you just have to have an interesting idea and a sense of adventure. We can help you bring it to life.

“It should be something that you make yourself, or with your family, friends, or neighbours – something that is important to you or says something about your life. Perhaps you make pottery or write poems?

Have you a great storyteller in the family? Would you like to make a reading event or something musical? If you have a craft skill such as pottery or weaving maybe you’d like to share it by running a few practical workshops?”

“Surprise us. We like the unusual and the quirky. It doesn’t have to be something conventionally ‘arty’ – though of course it could be. We’ll be able to host between 8 and 12 events so we may have to make a

selection from the proposals we receive. We’ll work closely with you to make the event happen, from idea through to the afternoon itself.” @home will take place on Sunday June 19 2011 between 12noon and 5pm.

Every participating household will be fully supported by the festival’s production staff with the festival dealing with all audience stewarding, insurance and publicity.

Keith Griffin, Chair of the Festival Committee, said:“We have great hopes for putting on our most adventurous and intriguing programme in 2011. At the heart of it will still be the desire to celebrate the Holme Valley as a place of artistic expression and ingenuity and @home is an exciting new way of doing that.”

If you’re interested in taking part, please contact Diana Stockford for further information on 01484 689196 or via email athome@holmfirthartsfestival.co.uk The deadline for expressions of interest is the end of January 2011 but the festival is encouraging anyone who is interested to get in touch as soon as possible.

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 17

Bus passengers take journey back in time with cut-price fares HOLME Valley Parish Council and bus operator Metro turned back the clock for passengers and treated them to cut price fares to celebrate the 30th anniversary of local minibus services.

For one day on Saturday November 13, all adult journeys on the valley buses H1 to H7 were priced at just 30p with children's trips priced at 10p – the same as when the service first started. This was to say ‘thank you’ to residents who have supported the service in increasing numbers since it was introduced as a trial in 1980. The council and Metro currently fund the minibuses together and worked with current service provider Stotts Coaches to offer the special fares.

Parish Council chairman Rhona Bratt took the opportunity to host a civic event to celebrate the anniversary, attended by past chairmen and

civic dignitaries from the surrounding region including Kirklees Mayor Andrew Palfreeman. They took a special minibus trip to see the service in action.

Since the initial three-month, three-route trial of the network in 1980, funded wholly by Holme Valley Parish Council, the services have grown into regular hourly buses, running six days a week. Centred on Holmfirth they cover Brockholes, Deanhouse, Holmbridge, Totties and Upperthong. Some sections of the routes are ‘hail and ride’, meaning the buses will stop where it's safe to do so, not just at recognised bus stops.

In 1988, when the original operators ran into financial difficulty, Metro stepped in and began to part-fund the services as part of its commitment to rural bus services. Contracts to run the services are now administered by Metro, work-

ing with the Parish Council.

Stotts Coaches has been operating the services since 1995.

“Local minibus services are currently an essential part of the fabric of life in many of our rural communities, and Metro provides financial support for and manages almost 70 of these rural services across West Yorkshire,” said Metro Chairman Coun Chris Greaves. “Metro is proud of its partnership with Holme Valley Parish Council, and hopes to be able to continue supporting these vital local services for another 30 years.”

The local Holme Valley network is complemented with fast, frequent ‘Holmfirth Connection’ services linking Holmfirth to trans-Pennine rail services at Huddersfield.

Metro also recently completed a major upgrade of bus shelters in and around Holmfirth, to match the shelters available elsewhere in West Yorkshire.

MP Jason McCartney tries his hand at clock winding during his visit to the tower

Clock to recover from ravages of time LOCAL MP Jason McCartney climbed the tower of Holmfirth Parish Church to see the inner workings of the historic clock which is soon to be given its first facelift in almost 40 years.

Jason visited the tower with clock winder Andrew Armitage and resident Tim Walshaw.

“Despite the steep windy staircases, two ladders and the final narrow doorway, it was well worth the effort to get to the top of the tower,” said Jason. “It was a fantastic view

from there but just to see the inner workings of the clock was fascinating. Andrew got me winding it up and the chalk date markings of various servicing are an amazing bit of local history.”

Tim Walshaw added: “The clock faces are very important assets to Holmfirth and its income from tourism, let alone the aesthetic aspect to Holmfirth. Like the shop front grants, I feel that the clock face renovation is as equally impor-

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tant. I think I remember the last time it was done and I guess that it was 38 years ago, so they are due a facelift. I haven’t been up there for 38 years. Andrew’s Dad took us up when he was the clock winder and I have to say that nothing has changed up there.”

As reported in the November edition of the Review, renovation to the church stonework has now started after almost £200,000 was raised through grants and local fundraising.

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Little Helme runs the Giant’s Gauntlet SIZE really doesn’t matter – a fact proved by little Helme School in Meltham when it beat off bigger competition to win a special event staged

by Huddersfield Giants rugby league club.

Teams of pupils and PE teachers from five junior schools; Helme, Meltham, Scholes, Holmfirth and

Rowley Green had to race against each other through the ‘Giant’s Gauntlet’ relay assault course, being helped and hindered along the way

by Giant’s head coach Nathan Brown and his players. Helme came out on top and were rewarded with five desktop computers and the use of a hospitality box for a

match in the 2011 Engage Super League season.

The event was being held as part of the launch of the Giant’s partnership for the next two seasons with online office and stationary supplies company Caboodle.

After the competition, Julie Dempster of Helme School said: “As a small school, our

children enter many competitions and tournaments and thoroughly enjoy taking part.

“This time, the children and staff returned to school buzzing!

“The computers are absolutely fantastic, state-ofthe-art machines which the children appreciate already.”

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18 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

Wild, windy, fun Christmas services in the Upper and ethical ...

Holme Valley Anglican Team at fashion show WHAT A treat to be at the Fairtrade Fashion Show at The Huntsman Inn on a wild windy November night.

The lively show and ethical market place was a fun and relaxed start to the Christmas shopping season.

For me, this was a chance to watch models try on the outfits I might wear for a party or special family get together, without having the usual struggles in a cubicle with children asking if it is time to go yet from the other side of the curtain.

Thanks to the Huntsman for their facilities and warm welcome that maked shopping stress free – and to the Holme Valley Fairtrade Support Group for the complimentary goodie bag and glass of wine.

Never has Christmas shopping felt so relaxed, fun and satisfying

as I knew that the clothes and goods for sale at the ethical market held around the room had powerful stories of hope and offered real value for money.

The models, male and female, did a fantastic job at presenting the clothes and accessories which were of an exceptionally high standard, on trend and, very importantly, fairly traded.

A personal favourite of mine were the Black Yak funky hats. I’ll be spotting and sporting the unique designs around Holmfirth all winter I’m sure.

Definitely a cure for the winter blues!

Congratulations to The Fairtrade Co-operative’s Helen Robinson for showing such a fantastic and high quality range of clothes, bags and jewellery.

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School celebrates Fairtrade success PUPILS, teachers and friends have been celebrating after Holme School officially achieved Fairtrade status.

To win the award the school has been learning about using and selling fairtrade products and organising events. The

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School Council helped organise a Coffee afternoon where the children served fairtrade refreshments and ran a fairtrade gifts, crafts and food stall.

Earlier in the year pupils helped out at a fairtrade stall in Holmfirth during the Festival of Folk, and to mark Fairtrade Fortnight an event took place in school to raise money to buy shares in the local Fairtraders’ Cooperative shop.

The school was the first corporate share holder in the cooperative, and has continued to work in partnership with the shop since joining. Groups of pupils visit the shop regularly to learn more about business and commerce, as well as fairtrade and sustainability.

Headteacher Anne Swain, has been promoting fairtrade in local schools for many years, and sees this as a valuable way for the children of Holme School to learn about the wider world. "We believe a small school like Holme, making small changes, can make a big difference to other people’s lives, and help create a fairer world. We have achieved this award through the hard work, commitment and support of all our pupils, parents, Friends’ Group, governors and others in our local community,” she said.

Local MP Jason McCartney called into the school to present a certificate of Fairtrade status during assembly.

THE Holme Valley Churches would like to extend a very warm welcome to everyone living in or visiting the Valley over the Christmas period.

Please do visit your churches, either to take time to pray and reflect upon the past year, to give thanks for something or someone, to join in with worship or one of the many events taking place in the churches.

You are welcome at any or all.

If you do not usually come to church and feel that you would not be welcome or that you don’t know what to do, don’t worry someone will be more than happy

to help you.

Just tell the steward who you are and ask for guidance.

Our aim is to help you feel comfortable.

Most services last about an hour, many of our churches have activities for children taking place at the same time as the service, or alternatives are available, again ask if you are uncertain.

At most services there is singing, prayers, readings and a talk; collections are taken and the monies are shared with the church and charities, in

communion bread and wine is shared or a personal blessing offered.

Some services are more suitable for youngsters than others but our aim is to make everyone feel welcome at every service.

At this time in the year Christians are preparing for and then celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

The Festival of Christmas is to be celebrated and enjoyed.

The Christian Community wishes you a very happy and blessed Christmas.

Holy Trinity Church, Hepworth

11.45pm Midnight Communion.

Welcoming the Lord Jesus as we remember his birth as Christmas Eve passes into Christmas morning.

Christmas tree display on 18 and 19 December. Join in with singing carols with the Friends of Church music at 4pm on 18 December.

Christ Church, New Mill

Sunday 19 December 2pm Village Carol Service

Sunday 19 December 9.15am The Christmas Story – for all the family 4pm Carol Service – with Hepworth Band CHRISTMAS EVE 7pm Carols at the Butchers Arms 11.30pm Midnight Mass CHRISTMAS DAY 9.15am Christmas Morning Eucharist

St David’s Church, Holmbridge Sunday 12 December 4pm Christingle service a very popular family service to which all are welcome Sunday 19 December 6pm Christmas Carol Service, traditional carols with time to stop and ponder the true meaning of Christmas CHRISTMAS EVE 4pm Crib Service. A really fun service, come and sing some songs and carols and hear the Christmas story. Children come dressed as an angel, a king or a shepherd if you like!

11.45pm Midnight Communion.

Welcoming the Lord Jesus as we remember his birth as Christmas Eve passes into Christmas morning.

CHRISTMAS DAY 10am Family Communion service.

A short all age service. Children bring your presents to show!

Sunday 26 December 9.15am Parish Eucharist Holy Trinity Church, Holmfirth Sunday 12 December 6.30pm Choppards Mission Carol Service Sunday 19 December 10.30am The Christmas Story— for the young and young at heart.

6.30pm Carol Service CHRISTMAS EVE 3.30pm Carols Round the Tree 11.30pm Midnight Mass CHRISTMAS DAY 10.30am Christmas Morning Eucharist

www.newmillpc.org.uk Community carols interpreted in flowers on the 17 - 19 December.

Enjoy a relaxed walk amidst flowers which interpret the Christmas message and reflect upon Christmas themes.

Saturday 18 December 5.30pm New Mill Village Carol Sing – come and gather around the tree for community singing and celebrations.

Sunday 19 December 11am Nativity Service – child friendly, who will greet Jesus at the inn? Please bring your camera.

4.30pm A Traditional Choral Carol Service, led by a robed choir. You are invited to bring a small candle in a holder to the service.

CHRISTMAS EVE 3pm Christingle Making Workshop all welcome 4pm Christingle Service celebrating The Children’s Society. Come early for a seat.

11.30pm Midnight Mass – A Sung Communion Service to welcome Jesus as the Light of the World CHRISTMAS DAY 10am Family Communion with Carols – celebrating Jesus’ Birthday “Cake on Christmas Day!” Sunday 26 December 11am St Stephen Family Communion for St. Stephen the first Christian Martyr ~ “holding the Gospel up.”

St Andrew’s Church, Thongsbridge “A small friendly community” Why not visit the Community Christmas tree display on 18 and 19 December from 2-4pm? Enjoy a cup of mulled wine and a mince pie and savour the flavours of Christmas.

Sunday 26 December No service at Holmfirth Parish Church

Sunday 19 December 4pm Community Carol Service – come and Join in the singing of traditional Carols

All Saints’ Church, Netherthong

CHRISTMAS EVE 4pm Family Christingle Service in support of the Children’s Society

Sunday 12 December 11am Family Carol Service. For that unmistakable sense of Christmas, a short service with something for everyone CHRISTMAS EVE 2pm Crib Service. A re- telling of the birth of Jesus with the help of children, Great fun for all

CHRISTMAS DAY 10am Carols and Communion, bring a present to the service.

“Christmas Unwrapped.”

St Thomas’ Church, Thurstonland Come and visit the village

CHRISTMAS EVE 4pm Christingle in support of the Children’s Society 11.30pm Midnight Mass – A traditional service CHRISTMAS DAY 10am Family Communion & Carols – child friendly service, bring a present with you.

St John’s Church, Upperthong Watch out for the Upperthong Angels during Advent and Christmas and why not join in!

Friday 17 December 7.30pm Traditional Choral Service of Nine Lessons and Carols

Sunday 19 December 11am Holy Communion CHRISTMAS EVE 4pm Christingle and Nativity ~ a child friendly service in support of the Children’s Society. Come early for a seat.

11.30pm Midnight Mass a traditional Communion Service CHRISTMAS DAY 11am Family Communion with carols. Bring one of your Christmas presents for ‘show and tell.’

BOXING DAY 11am Celebrating St. John’s community and including a ‘faith lunch’ please bring something to eat up and stay for lunch.

Holmfirth Methodist Church Sunday 19 December 10.30am Junior Church Christmas Service 6.30pm Carol Service Tuesday 21 December 6.30-8pm Carol Singing in the Pioneer Wednesday 22 December 10am-3pm Circuit Christmas Activities for children aged 5 to 11. (Phone 608913 for details) Thursday 23 December 11am Coffee Morning Carol Service CHRISTMAS EVE 11.30pm Christmas Eve Communion Service CHRISTMAS DAY 10.30am Christmas Day Family Service Sunday 26 December No service at Holmfirth Methodist Church

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 19

What’s On Guide Until Christmas Eve, Kirklees Light Railway, Clayton West, Santa steam specials, Fri-Sun 10-12 December and 17-19 December, daily from 21-24 December.

Advance booking recommended: 01484 865727.

Thursday 9 December – Saturday 11 December, Hepworth Players pantomime, Goldilocks and The Three Bears, evenings 7.30pm + 2pm Saturday, in the village hall.

For tickets, contact Alan Brook 01484 686557.

Thursday 9 December – Friday 24 December, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, Heidi – A Goat’s Tale, treat the family to an evening of wonderful silliness with the acclaimed Northern Broadsides.

Performances at various times.

Ticket information: 01484 430528, website: www.thelbt.org Saturday 11 December, Penistone Paramount, 2.30pm, A Compton Christmas Cracker with Kevin Grunill and Andrew Nix at the mighty Compton cinema organ. 24-hour events line 01226 762004, box office 01226 767532.

Saturday 11 December, Huddersfield Town Hall, 7.15pm, Honley Male Voice Choir Christmas concert with special guests the world’s no.1 brass band, The Cory Band.

Tickets £7 - £15 available from information centres/ booking offices.

Phone 01484 222444 / 223200.

Sunday 12 December, Holmfirth Market, 10am-5pm, Christmas shoppers’ special, fabulous gift ideas from local businesses. More information 01484 223730.

Sunday 12 December, Robert Ashton Memorial Park, Meltham,

4pm, Carols In The Park with Meltham Methodist Church.

Sunday 12 December – Tuesday 28 December, Holmfirth Picturedrome, Sun 12, Asia – ‘super group’, formed in the early ‘80s; Tues 14, Take That Two – tribute band; Thurs 16, Half Man Half Biscuit; Fri 17, The South (ex Beautiful South); Sat 18, Mercury; Mon 27, Livewire AC-DC; Tues 28, Bad Manners Xmas Ska Party. For tickets call in at the box office bar any evening, 7.30-10pm or book online at www.picturedrome.net Wednesday 15 December, Meltham and Meltham Mills Brass Band Christmas concert, 7.30pm, at St Bartholomew’s) Church, Meltham.

Wednesday 15 December – Thursday 16 December, Penistone Paramount, 7.30pm, Kes, the muchloved novel by Barry Hines, adapted for the stage by Lawrence Till. 24hour events line 01226 762004, box office 01226 767532.

Thursday 16 December and 23 December, Queensgate Market, Huddersfield, 5pm-8pm, Christmas cookery demonstration. tips and tasters. More information 01484 223730.

Thursday 16 December, St Mary’s Parish Church, Honley, 7.30pm, A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, followed by refreshments: tea/coffee and mince pies.

Thursday 16 December, St Paul’s Church, Armitage Bridge, 7.30pm, Honley Ladies Choir, concert of lessons and carols. Tickets £6 including festive refreshments, or buy a £10 ticket which also includes the choir’s concert in Honley on 6 January.

Review Holme Valley

Friday 17 December, Hepworth Village Hall, 7.30pm, film night – Frozen River. Admission £3, doors and bar open 7pm.

Saturday 18 December, Huddersfield Town Hall, 7.15pm, Celebrate Christmas with Huddersfield Methodist Choir, Skelmanthorpe Brass Band and Halifax Young Singers – join in and sing! For tickets, phone Mrs L Rhodes 01484 542257.

Saturday 18 December – Sunday 19 December, Christ Church, New Mill, Sat 18, evening, Carol concert and social, Sun 19, 4.30pm choral carol service.

Sunday 19 December, Holmfirth Farmers’ Market, 8am-2pm, in the Market Hall, the very best local produce, meats, fresh fruits and veg, breads, cheeses, cakes, jams, honey and much more. Information line: 01484 223730 Sunday 19 December, Huddersfield Town Hall, 7.30pm, Black Dyke Band Christmas concert. Tickets £12, concessions available, phone 01484 223200.

Sunday 19 December, Upperthong Christmas concert, 6pm, band will walk from the Royal Oak to the village hall, for the performance, everyone welcome.

Monday 20 December – Tuesday 21 December, Huddersfield Open Market, 10am-3pm, a chance for children to see real reindeer.

1.45pm: Christmas fancy dress competition for children aged 12 and under. Prizes include ice-rink tickets, shopping vouchers and goody bags. 2pm: Santa will be distributing gifts, also an opportunity for children to have their picture taken with Santa and the reindeer.

More information: 01484 223730.

rch for a two-hour guided ramble.

Monday 20 December, Huddersfield Town Hall, 1pm, Music for Christmas with renowned organist Dr Gordon Stewart, Wakefield Cathedral girls’ choir and Derbyshire flute choir, Flute Salad, plus a chance to join in with your favourite Christmas carols. To book online, go to www.kirklees.gov.uk/townhalls or phone the ticket hotline 01484 223200

Monday 27 December – Friday 31 December, Victoria Tower, Castle Hill, Almondbury, 11am-3pm, Blow away the cobwebs with a visit to the famous landmark, which has its first-ever Yuletide opening. Come prepared with a flask, something to eat and plenty of warm and waterproof clothing. Admission £1.50 adults, 50p children, family £3, Kirklees passport, free. Contact Julian Brown, 07968 426 312.

Monday 20 December, Christmas Jazz Music Train, 7.18pm Huddersfield to Sheffield train, station stops include Honley and Brockholes. Real ale bar on board, music from The Train Gang. Normal train fares apply. Please note: the music trains are now such a popular feature that seats cannot be guaranteed.

Tuesday 21 December, Castle Hill, Almondbury, 10.30am, The Sun Stands Still – five to six mile walk to celebrate the Winter Solstice.

You will need good footwear, warm clothing and waterproofs. All children must be accompanied, no dogs allowed, except assistance dogs. Phone 07968 426 312.

Tuesday 21 December, Hade Edge Band playing carols around the village, followed by warm refreshments in the bandroom.

Tuesday 21 December – Wednesday 22 December, Huddersfield Town Hall, 7.15pm, Huddersfield Choral Society – Messiah, 175th season concert, conducted by Jane Glover with Northern Sinfonia. More information 01484 536968 Sunday 26 December, Honley Boxing Day Walk, organised by Honley Civic Society and Trinity Church. Meet 2pm outside the chu-

Thursday 6 January, Holmfirth Christmas Lights, Twelfth Night grand finale, traditionally has included a Three Kings’ procession through the town and service in the parish church. Details to be announced nearer the time.

Thursday 6 January, St Mary’s Parish Church, Honley, 7.30pm, Honley Ladies Choir round off the festive season with seasonal songs, carols and readings, both comic and poignant. Tickets £6.

Saturday 8 January – Saturday 15 January, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, Dick Whittington, pantomime with fantastic staging, spectacular effects, and a mystical underwater scene, staged by Huddersfield Light Opera Company, 7.15pm nightly except Tues 11 and Weds 12, plus 2.15pm matinee, both Saturdays. Ticket information: 01484 430528, website: www.thelbt.org Friday 11 February – Saturday 19 February, Honley Players pantomime, Jack and The Beanstalk, at Southgate Theatre, performances at 7.15pm, Fri 11 - Sat 12, then Tues 15- Sat 1, also 2.30pm matinee, both Saturdays. Tickets £6 adults, £4 children. Contact secretary Andrea Gosslin 01484 662487

Good old fashioned manners are the recipe for success MELTHAM restaurateurs are crediting attention to detail and good old fashioned manners for their first year of success which is seeing them sail through the recession with hardly an empty table.

Partners Kyle Hopkin and Rachel Ward opened Quirky Corner on December 8 last year and almost immediately struck a chord with local diners who love the little bistro’s intimate atmosphere and the couple’s flexible attitude to serving food. They both trained at Huddersfield College before Kyle went on to hone his chef’s skills at Michelin-stared restaurants. He now creates all his dishes to customers’ orders and will happily adapt anything on the menu to suit any taste – or even cook something totally different if requested.

He recalls the first day of business at Quirky Corner: “We opened in the evening but no one came in until 9o’clock when a passing businessman saw the lights on. It might have been a slow start but we’ve not stopped growing since. In fact, most evenings in December are now full and we’ve been booked up for Christmas lunch since April.”

Kyle insists on using local produce to ensure the freshness of his food. He and Rachel have an allotment in Chopards where they keep two pigs, farm green vegetables and have hens which lay the restaurant’s eggs. The rest of their raw ingredients come from local butchers and greengrocers.

With their first year under their belt, Kyle and Rachel are looking forward to an exciting and busy 2011, especially since they are expecting a baby in May. This will mean Rachel, who usually runs the front of house with a small team, will take a back seat for a while but otherwise – they say – it will be business as usual at the Quirky Corner.

Quirky Corner, 3 Huddersfield Road, Meltham, Holmfirth, HD9 4NJ, Tel 01484 859 523.

20 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

New grant scheme for community buildings THERE'S good news for groups in the voluntary sector who lease councilowned community buildings or who own their own buildings. Kirklees Council has launched a new grant scheme which can provide up to £20,000 funding for groups to make their buildings more energy efficient.

Practical new measures covered by the grants include draught proofing, improved insulation, lighting improvements, solar hot water or electricity

generation – all aimed at helping towards saving energy, reducing carbon emissions and reducing energy bills.

The grant scheme also provides the opportunity to install systems that will generate renewable energy. As well as getting money, successful applicants will receive advice from council officers on how to promote energy efficiency to users of community buildings and their local community.

Groups are now being invited to complete an ‘expressions of interest form’, which must be returned by 4 January 2011.For further information about the energy grant or to request a form, contact The Funding Team, Kirklees Communities and Leisure, tel: 01484 414824, email: funding@kirklees.gov.uk There's an opportunity find out more about the new grants at a free energy training session at Dewsbury

Town Hall on Monday December 13 from 1pm to 3.30pm.

This is being held by Bradford Environment Action Trust (BEAT) in partnership with Voluntary Action Kirklees and Kirklees Council as part of the drive to help community centres reduce energy use.

The workshop will include help to understand meter readings and bills, how to carry out an energy audit and identify areas where energy savings

can be made as well as information on available funding for energy saving projects.

There is no charge to attend and places can be booked by contacting Voluntary Action Kirklees, tel: 01484 518457, email: info@voluntaryactionkirklees.co.uk Participants may be eligible for further support, including a free energy audit by a professional energy assessor.

Rotcher...

More than just a coffee ...

Dean, Helen and Staff Would like to wish their customers A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year We hope to see you in the New Year Thank you for your continued support Open n ass normal d Christmass Day y & Boxing g Day Closed Rotcherr House,, Rotherr Road,, Holmfirth,, HD9 9 2DL

Tel:: 01484 4 685512 2 email: rotchercoffeebar@aol.com

The

Shades of China

Rug Shop

Beautiful Gifts for Every Occasion Karen and her staff would like to wish all her customers old and new A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year.

Christmas Gift Vouchers Available.

Tel: 07835 334 514

Daisy Lane, Holmfirth, HD9 1HSA Email: jlaith@btinternet.com

The Clothes Peg, 12 Market Walk, Holmfirth HD9 7AD Tel: 01484687334 Email: theclothespeg@btinternet.com

Beth and her staff wish their customers A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year.

Thank you for your support and encouragement in our first year of business.

Royal Oak

Upperthong Ed, Dorothy & Lorraine would like to wish all their customers A Very Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year

OPEN 11AM-2PM CHRISTMAS DAY 19 Towngate, Upperthong, Holmfirth

01484 769932

Open: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-4pm

Paul and his staff would like to thank all our customers for their continued support. We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Our amazing offers will continue throughout 2011 - Keep reading our newsletter

Hollowgate, Holmfirth HD9 2DG To all our valued customers we wish A Merry Christmas and A Very Propsperous New Year from John and Sally

Open Sat Tues ma 0 :3 10 m p 0 :0 5

Beautiful Silk Shawls & Scarves in stock for Christmas Closed Christmas Day Re-open 11th January

01484 686823

PAINT YOUR OWN CERAMICS CRAFT CAFE Moz and Steve would like to wish all of their customers A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year. We would like to thank you for your support during 2010 and look forward to seeing you all in 2011.

Closed 25th December re-open 12th January.

Tel: 01484 850205

9 Norridge Bottom, Holmfirth. HD9 7BB Tel. 07984 996479

Riverside Café

SCUFFLERS

Greenfield Road, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire HD9 3XF.

Enjoy!

Traditional Home Cooked Fayre 9-11 Hollowgate, Holmfirth

Enjoy!

Breakfasts, Meal Deal Mon-Fri am.

From December NEW opening hours Tues-Fri 9.00am-3.00pm Sat 9.00am5.00pm Sun 10.00am-4.00pm

Many thanks to all our customers for making it such an enjoyable first year at Riverside Cafe. We would like to wish you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

07702621878

Coffee Shop We would like to thank all our customers old and new and wish them a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Always a warm welcome at SCUFFLERS

106-108 School Street, Holmfirth

01484 688885

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 21

Café @ Penny Lane 01484 688151

(Formerly Chris’s Cosmetics)

Amy would like to thank her customers, old and new for their continued support, and wish them a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Opening Hours in December 7 Days 10am-5pm Sundays 10am-3pm 19 Hollowgate, Holmfirth, HD9 2DG. amyscosmetics@btconnect.com

Telephone & Fax - 01484 687551

Cobblers

Repairs and Key-cutting Service We would like to thank all our customers for their continued support and wish them a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Cobblers, Rotcher, Holmfirth

Tel: 07968822539 Lesley Naylor Florist 48 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth

Tel: 01484 682822

Lesley and John would like to wish all their customers a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

ORDERS FOR CHRISTMAS NOW BEING TAKEN

Unusual and exotic flowers our speciality

The Old Bridge Barbers

Diane, Tim and staff would like to wish customers old and new a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Mearhouse Farm, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7HA

Telephone: 01484 683083 www.barnabysdaynursery.co.uk

We would like to wish all our parents a Very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous and highly reproductive New Year

Briggs & Oliver Antiques Open Thursday, Friday & Saturday

Would like to thank all their customers and wish them A Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year Week Commencing Monday 20th we are open every day until Saturday 25th December 16 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth

01484 686092

seafood that simply tastes better ...

SPECIAL OFFER

All Colours & Foils inc Cut & Blow £30 GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE 14/16 Market Walk, Holmfirth HD9 7DA

Tel: 07746 097694

Only £2.70 6 TownGate, Holmfirth Tel:

01484 689000

Body & Sole Massage, Reflexology & Reiki Centre Philippa would like to wish all her customers a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year. CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS We will be closed Christmas Day, AVAILABLE Boxing Day & New Year’s Day Otherwise Normal Opening Hours will apply

58b Huddersfield Rd, Holmfirth, HD9 3AZ (Below Kate’s Dress Shop & within ‘The Hair Dresser’)

For appointments ring 07598 834380

Dvyne Annie would like to wish all her customers A Very Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year

Berrybank Lane, New Mill Road, Holmfirth

66 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth HD9 3AZ

01484 683151

Nick’s Kitchen CHRISTMAS MENU’S NOW AVAILABLE 5 Victoria Yard, Holmfirth, HD9 2DN

01484 687534

01484 768339

9-11 Hollowgate, Holmfirth Find Us: Opposite the back entrance to the market underneath the Riverside Cafe Opening Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10.30 – 4.00

• Princess & Fairy Outfits – Wings - Wands – Tiaras – Feather Boa’s • Handbags & Purses • Money Boxes – Photo Frames – Jewellery Boxes • Makeup – Cosmetic Bags – Makeup Accessories - Perfume • Jewellery; Rings – Necklaces – Bracelets • Hair Accessories: Alice Bands – Headbands – Clips – Bobbles • Stationery: Pencil Cases – Pens & Pencils – Diaries • Ballet / Dance Bags and Accessories • Umbrellas....and much more; loads of stocking fillers, prices from 99p

Children’s Birthday Party Bags also available on request!

Stockist of Disney – Bratz – ThinkPink – Katz Ballet and many more……

Retreat Hair and Beauty Specialists

Coffees, speciality teas, soups, sandwiches and snacks.

Come and try our morning special Tea/Coffee & Scone/Bun

Tel: 01484 688151 Open as Usual Closed 25th, 26th December & 1st January

Christmas Gift Vouchers now available

BEATTIES Deli & Coffee Shop

We would like to wish our customers old and new a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

14c Daisy Lane, Holmfirth HD9 1HA

Richard and Gary would like to wish all their customers A Very Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year

Nick and his staff would like to thank all their customers and wish them A Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year

From Mon 6/12/10 to Sat 18/12/10

Neil & Staff would like to thank all their customers for their continued support, and would like to wish them a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Nicola and Wendy wish all their customers A Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year 6 Market, Holmfirth, HD9 7DA

01484 681343

Jilly, Jenny and Gary at The Retreat would like to wish all their clients a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and thank you for all your support throughout the year.

Retreat Hair and Beauty

2 Station Road, Holmfirth, HD9 1AB

01484 683515

22 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

• Free Sales Valuation • Property Auction Sales • RICS Homebuyers’ reports • Valuations and Surveys Rough Nook Farm, 112 Millmoor Road, Meltham

4 Pell Lane, Wooldale, Holmfirth

2 Little Lane, Wooldale, Holmfirth

Fare View, Woodhead Road, Holmbridge

Offers Region £725,000

Offers Region £399,950

Offers Region £380,000

Offers Region £379,950

This characterful farmhouse occupies a delightful rural location set down its own driveway and enclosed within approximately 7 acres of land. It has a substantial stone barn attached to the rear of the property and a separate detached single storey cottage. The farmhouse comprises: entrance hall, lounge, sitting room, dining kitchen, utility room, 2 cellars, workshop, landing / study area, 5 bedrooms, bathroom. In the cottage there is an entrance porch, lounge, dining kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. In front of the main house there is a generous tarmac fourcourt parking area and delightful mature gardens which the cottage also looks onto. The barn (36' x 22' approx) attached to the rear of the house currently houses stabling, barn and a mistal but offers great potential to convert and enlarge the living accommodation (subject to PP). The pasture land is situated to either side of the house with a picturesque stream running down the side and towards the rear of the property.

A spacious and attractively designed stone built detached house occupying a delightful select culde-sac position in this popular village location. The property has good sized and attractively landscaped gardens. The house comprises entrance hall, cloakroom/w.c., lounge, dining room, sun lounge, breakfast kitchen, utility, 4 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite shower rooms and family bathroom. There is an integral garage. The property is enhanced by a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazing, burglar alarm system and attractive fittings including a recently re-fitted kitchen. The property is in the catchement area for popular junior and secondary schools. Viewing recommended.

A beautifully presented stone detached house occupying a delightful village location and enjoying open views to the rear and pleasant outlook to the front over the village park. The house features a splendid full length patio/sun deck to the rear from which to enjoy the views. The house itself offers attractively laid out accommodation including entrance hall, cloakroom/w.c., dining kitchen, lounge with French style patio doors giving access to the sun deck, dining room, 4 bedrooms, ensuite shower room and family bathroom. There is a wide driveway giving access to an attached double garage together with large gardens to both front and rear. The house has a gas central heating system, Upvc double glazing, burglar alarm system and attractive fittings. A delightful house in a much sought after village location - Viewing recommended.

This substantial recently constructed detached property must be viewed internally to be fully appreciated. The property is built in natural stone and has an NHBC guarantee. Its spacious accommodation comprises: entrance porch, hall, cloakroom, wc, study, utility, downstairs bedroom with en-suite on the ground floor; landing, lounge, dining room, dining kitchen (with balcony) on the first floor; landing, 3 bedrooms (en-suite to master) and family bathroom. It has the benefit of upvc double glazing throughout. There is a tarmac driveway to the front leading to the integral double garage, with gardens to each side of the property. The house enjoys pleasant far reaching views and is situated approximately 1 mile from the centre of Holmfirth and its many amenities. Holmfirth is well placed for access to Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield. PART EXCHANGE CONSIDERED

Bank View, New Mill Road, Holmfirth

71 Hall Ing Lane, Honley

1 The Old School House, Church Lane, South Crosland

Highwinds, 41 Oldfield Road, Honley

Offers Region £325,000

Offers Region £299,950

Offers Region £275,000

Offers Region £239,950

Occupying a large plot (215 x 40 approx) with extensive garden to the rear is this imposing stone double fronted detached house. The house enjoys a splendid open outlook to the front and is situated in a much sought after residential area close to the Holmfirth High School. The house comprises entrance hall, lounge, dining room, study/bar room, kitchen, cloakroom/w.c., rear hall, cellars, 3 bedrooms, en-suite dressing room and bathroom. There is a driveway, detached double garage, garden to the front and large garden to the rear. The house has a gas central heating system and Upvc double glazing but does require modernisation and re-fitting. It offers excellent further potential to create a larger property. Viewing recommended.

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 wc on the upper floor. The property has been well maintained and has the benefit of a gas central heating system and uPVC double 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.

This characterful grade II listed property is one of just three created from the conversion of a former school. It occupies a sought after residential location and enjoys delightful views to the front. It offers spacious accommodation which can only be fully appreciated by an internal viewing. This comprises: entrance hall, utility, downstairs wc and shower room, lounge, dining room, dining kitchen, landing, 3 double bedrooms and a bathroom. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system and sealed unit double glazed units set into the original Gothic arched windows. There is a small garden area to the front of the property with a further enclosed area to the rear providing parking, a raised decked sitting area, stone built garage and a timber garden shed. Part exchange considered. Vendors to pay stamp duty.

An attractive 3 bedroom semi detached property situated in a much sought after location in the popular village of Honley. The property occupies an elevated position, offering splendid views of the surrounding countryside, making an ideal family home for any perspective purchaser. Accommodation comprises entrance porch, utility room, dining kitchen, spacious lounge, 3 bedrooms and family bathroom. The property benefits from gas central heating and upvc windows throughout. To the front of the property is an attractive lawned garden, with driveway leading up to a single garage.

There is a further enclosed large rear garden which backs onto nearby fields and enjoys pleasant views of the countryside beyond.

22 Fearnley Court, Wooldale

108 Greenhill Bank Road, Totties, Holmfirth

26 Moor Lane, Netherthong

39 Woodchurch View, Thongsbridge

Offers Region £230,000

Offers Region £225,000

Offers Region £220,000

Offers Region £210,000

Occupying a sought after semi rural location between the villages of Wooldale and Totties is this spacious family home. It offers attractively laid out accommodation comprising of entrance hall, breakfast kitchen, dining room, lounge, landing, 4 bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system and sealed unit double glazed windows. There is a garden area and driveway to the front of the house leading to the integral garage. To the rear there is a larger enclosed garden which is attractively landscaped and backs onto fields. Internal viewing is essential to fully appreciate the size of accommodation on offer.

Featuring a large beautifully presented rear garden and enjoying delightful open views to the front is this attractively presented semi detached dormer bungalow. The bungalow offers well laid out accommodation on 2 floors including entrance hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen, pantry, bedroom 3 and bathroom on the ground floor and 2 further bedrooms on the first floor. There is an attached garage and large gardens with extensive lawn and patio areas. The bungalow has a gas central heating system, Upvc double glazing and burglar alarm system. Viewing recommended to appreciate the delightful accommodation, the large gardens and the splendid views.

This attractive detached property occupies a pleasant location within the popular village of Netherthong, ideally located for the well regarded village school and other local amenities, alongside easy access to splendid nearby countryside. It offers well maintained and comfortable living accommodation and is ideal for a young family. It comprises: entrance hall, downstairs wc, open plan dining area and lounge, landing, 4 bedrooms and a bathroom. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system and uPVC double glazed windows, alongside modern fixtures and fittings, with a recently refurbished bathroom suite. There is a lawned garden and block paved driveway to the front leading to a detached single garage. To the rear there is a further pleasant enclosed garden area with lawn and decked seating area. Internal viewing is recommended.

Occupying a delightful cul-de-sac position in this popular residential area is this attractively presented detached house. The house offers spacious 3 bedroom accommodation and features a large family sized lounge, attractive dining kitchen and conservatory giving access to the enclosed rear garden. On the first floor there are 3 bedrooms, en-suite shower room and family bathroom. The house is enhanced by a gas central heating system, double glazing and alarm system. There is an integral garage, open plan garden to the front and rear lawn and patio. The house enjoys a wooded aspect to the front with far reaching views down the cul-de-sac. There are popular junior and secondary schools nearby. Internal viewing is recommended to appreciate the well laid out and spacious rooms.

20 Liphill Bank Road, Holmfirth

Wood Cottage, 25 Sude Hill, New Mill

37 Greenfield Road, Holmfirth

57 Woodhead Road, Honley

Offers Region £179,950

Offers Region £197,000

Offers Region £195,000

This characterful cottage offers extremely spacious accommodation which can only be fully appreciated by an internal inspection. It occupies a sought after location and enjoys pleasant far reaching views to the front. The accommodation comprises of entrance hall, lounge, dining room, breakfast kitchen, bathroom, landing, two good sized first floor bedrooms, shower room and a spacious attic bedroom. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazed windows with exposed mullions, exposed beams and quality fixtures and fittings throughout.

To the front of the house there is a gravelled parking area and an elevated garden enjoying the views. To the rear there is a pleasant enclosed garden. No chain.

Tucked away in a delightful position and enjoying splendid views to the side and rear is this extremely attractive stone detached cottage. The cottage has great charm and character and benefits from a gas central heating system and Upvc double glazing. It comprises large sun lounge, kitchen, lounge and garden room (with spectacular views) on the ground floor, and 2 bedrooms and shower room/w.c. on the first floor. There is a driveway, car port, garden and seating areas and garden store. Internal viewing is strongly recommended to appreciate the delightful accommodation and views.

29 Hightown Lane, Holmfirth

13 Bank View, Brockholes

Offers Over £150,000 This spacious terraced house must be viewed to fully appreciate the size of both the accommodation and the splendid rear garden. The property occupies a pleasant location close to the centre of Holmfirth and enjoys pleasant roof top views over the centre. The accommodation comprises entrance hall, lounge, splendid dining kitchen, utility, cellar, two bedrooms and a bathroom. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system, upvc sealed unit double glazed windows and attractive fixtures and fittings. To the rear of the property there is a good sized landscaped terraced garden with a timber summer house enjoying splendid far reaching views over Holmfirth and beyond. No upper chain.

38 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth Huddersfield HD9 3JH

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 ft of spacious accommodation. It is arranged over 3 storeys and 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 lawned garden. 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.

64 Miry Lane, Thongsbridge

Offers Region £129,950

Offers Region £119,950

An internal viewing is essential to appreciate this attractively presented end terraced house. It occupies a pleasant position in a popular cul de sac and has the benefit of a good sized enclosed garden to the rear.

The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, lounge, dining kitchen, landing, 2 bedrooms and bathroom. It has the benefit of gas central heating, uPVC double glazing and attractive modern fixtures and fittings throughout. To the front of the property there is a small garden area with a path and outbuildings to the side leading to the good sized enclosed rear garden.

This attractively presented inner terraced house occupies a pleasant position in this popular residential location. It comprises: entrance hall, lounge, breakfast kitchen, cellar, landing, 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. It has the benefit of modern kitchen and bathroom fittings along with a gas central heating system and uPVC double glazed windows throughout. To the front the house there is a paved garden area and to the rear is a smaller sitting area.

Internal viewing is essential to appreciate the size of accommodation.

Offers Region £159,950 A beautifully presented and surprisingly spacious terraced house, with accommodation on 3 floors and a large enclosed rear garden. Formerly two cottages, the property has great charm and character complete with a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazing and a delightful kitchen with access to the rear garden. The property comprises: entrance hall, sitting room, lounge, dining kitchen, playroom/study, two storage cellar rooms, utility, downstairs cloakroom/w.c., three bedrooms and family bathroom. Internal viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the size and quality of accommodation on offer and the large level rear garden. No vendor Chain.

43 St Georges Road, Scholes Offers Over £116,000 This characterful inner terraced cottage occupies a pleasant tucked away location close to the village centre of Scholes. It features well presented accommodation which must be viewed to be fully appreciated.

The accommodation comprises: entrance lobby, lounge, kitchen, landing, 2 bedrooms and shower room. It features exposed beams alongside gas central heating, double glazed windows and modern fixtures and fittings. To the front of the house there is a paved sitting area and an informal parking space.

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

Holme Valley Review, December 2010 – 23

Here to help whether buying, selling or letting.

Have a great Christmas and a moving New Year!

FAIRFIELD HOUSE, HOLLOWGATE, HOLMFIRTH, HD9 2DG Tel: 01484 689689 Fax: 01484 680000 Also at:

BARNSLEY

PENISTONE

WAKEFIELD

HUDDERSFIELD

KIRKBURTON

Tel: 01226 731730 Tel: 01226 762400 Tel: 01924 361631 Tel: 01484 651878 Tel: 01484 603399 Fax: 01226 731729 Fax: 01226 762500 Fax: 01924 361630 Fax: 01484 545581 Fax: 01484 603393

www.simonblyth.co.uk

24 – Holme Valley Review, December 2010

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