Holme Valley Review October 2012

October 2012

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Wetherspoons to open in Riverside Shopping Centre

By Sandie Marshall

J D WETHERSPOONS, the national pub restaurant chain, is preparing to move into Holmfirth.

The company is about to sign a 30year lease to take over the entire top floor of the Riverside Shopping Centre, says the centre owner Mr Afzal Khan.

They will then spend in the region of £1million transforming it into one of their signature all-day eating and drinking venues, subject to the necessary planning and licensing controls from Kirklees Council.

If all goes according to plan, says Mr Khan, Wetherspoons will open in early summer next year, creating between 45 and 55 new jobs for the town.

In addition, he has a second

household name company poised to take over the centre’s ground floor.

Negotiations for this deal are in the final stages but he says he is unable to give the company name at this time.

Speaking to the Review, Mr Khan told how his dream of turning the Riverside into the retail heart of Holmfirth was dashed by the recession. The centre opened four years ago on the site of the old Lodges supermarket. At the time, he had big national shop chains ready to sign leases but the sudden economic downturn left them unwilling to open new stores in smaller towns like Holmfirth.

Since then, the centre has never been fully occupied and has failed to pull shoppers through its doors.

That could all change with his bold new plans.

Mr Khan says he took a long time to decide if Wetherspoons was the right business for Holmfirth. He researched the company’s proposals and visited their existing branches in Brighouse and Wakefield before deciding to go ahead.

He said: “I think this will be good for the town. Wetherspoons is a good, responsible company and they are committed to being here longterm. The money they are planning to spend means the venue will be extremely smart. I am pleased about the new jobs for the town as well.

“These plans will give the Riverside a new lease of life and bring big, new names into Holmfirth.”

Turn to the centre pages for the newsletter of the Holme Valley Parish Council

Crowds flocked to Holmfirth for the seventh annual Food and Drink Festival. The town was packed with stalls selling goodies of all kinds, tempting shoppers to browse, taste and buy.

Most cafes, restaurants and local food producers opened their doors for special events, while street entertainment was provided by a Punch and Judy show and the Frumptarn Guggen German carnival band. For more, turn to page 19.

2 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Fairtrade status renewed

THE HOLME Valley has had its status renewed as a Fairtrade Town.

The Fairtrade Foundation which awards the accolade, confirmed the area has done enough good work in promoting Fairtrade to keep its official status, first won in 2006.

In order to be reaccredited, an area must show sufficient commitment to the ideals of better prices and working conditions, local sustainability and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world. Holme Valley

campaigners regularly hold meetings with guest speakers from all over the world, promote Fairtrade produce in local stores and organise large annual events such as the Totally Tropical Tea Party.

Peter Beetlestone from the Holmfirth Fairtrade group said: “We are moving to become more of a campaigning group, particularly encouraging retailers ‘to walk the talk’ and keep to their promises regarding Fairtrade as a way of making a difference to the lives of pro-

ducers.”

Coun Julie StewartTurner, chair of the Kirklees Fairtrade Forum, added: “It’s wonderful news for the Holme Valley group that the Foundation has again recognised their efforts.

“The campaign is tremendously important and here in Kirklees we have a great commitment to supporting it. The team are a tremendous source of expertise and innovative ideas. We will continue our work to spread the message for many years to come.”

Louisa plans to get ahead in Nepal HOLMFIRTH knitwear designer Louisa Harding is packing her needles and yarn and heading to Nepal.

She’s hoping to turn heads next month when she takes on nine hours of rough trekking terrain every day to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

She will be wearing a different, specially created hat on each day of her week long trek, with the added challenge of knitting up the last one along the way.

She’s given herself the gruelling challenge to raise awareness and funds for Macmillan after the charity provided much needed support during her husband Steve’s lymphoma last year.

She said: “While Steve was undergoing extensive chemo treatments, the Macmillan staff and nurses became a lifeline helping me and our family through a very difficult time.”

To give something back to the charity, Louisa has designed a collection of six Himalayan Hiking Hats – ideal for extreme mountains or the wintery Holme Valley.

On each day of her trek she will be photographed wearing one of the hats, saving the seventh design for the final day – hoping that she finds the time and ener-

Louisa's husband Steve models one of her hiking hats. uk/macmillan . gy to knit it during the trip.

Donations can also be She wants to raise £5,000 given at http://www.justgivand is asking other local ing.com/Louisa-Hardingknitters to join her by sponJessup. soring her and downloading As Louisa’s family have and knitting one of her hikdonated the cost of her trip, ing hats. every penny of the money Patterns are available to raised will go directly to download @ Macmillan Cancer Support. http://www.louisaharding.co.

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 3

Debate over funds for town’s Christmas lights rumbles on

By Sandie Marshall CHRISTMAS comes around every year...and so does the debate about the valley’s Christmas lights.

This year is no exception and with less than two months to go before the switch on, more help and money is needed urgently if Holmfirth and Honley are to sparkle with festive cheer.

Ian Gooch from the valley’s Full Life Church is heading up the small group charged with putting on the lights display. He knows exactly what is needed to light up both town centres.

“To keep the existing lights going we need between £10,000 and £12,000 each year. A big chunk of that is the cost of putting them up and taking them down again.

Most people don’t realise that the vast majority of the money has to come from donations.

“We get a small amount from Kirklees and from Holme Valley Parish Council but it’s nowhere near enough to meet the cost.

“Kirklees says the Christmas lights should be paid for by the community

and so the rest has to come in handouts from local businesses and individuals. With times tough for everybody, it’s hard work to reach the target.

“We really need people to come forward to help. We need more ideas for fund raising and we need stewards for the switch-on evenings – the more people we have, the easier it gets.”

Ian is realistic about the displays that can be achieved for the money available. “I know that every year people say the Christmas lights aren’t good enough – they want a bigger, brighter display.

“I’d love to give it to them but to put on a really spectacular display in Holmfirth and Honley would cost around £40,000 and, as things stand at the moment, there’s no way to raise that amount.”

Despite the on-going issues, Ian is staying optimistic and is planning a few changes to the displays this year. In Holmfirth, the curtain of blue lights over Victoria Street, which was badly damaged by last year’s

winds, will be replaced by small Christmas trees along the street. He’s also trying to get some moving lights on lampposts instead of the usual static displays.

He is hoping that individual shops will continue to play their parts.

“Every year most of the shops do a brilliant job with their window displays. We need them to make as much effort as possible because it really helps to lift the towns.

As usual, there will be prizes for the best window displays.”

The lights switch-on events are being planned for November 24 in Holmfirth and November 30 in Honley.

Both events will feature Santa’s grotto, parade and family entertainment followed by the big switch-on at 5.30pm and 6.30pm.

What do you think?

Should more money be found to pay for a bigger Christmas lights display? If so, who should pay? Or is it money better spent elsewhere? Tell us what you think by emailing news@holmevalleyreview.co. uk

Holmfirth businesses who made a special effort to make the town look bright and beautiful over the summer were honoured at the annual Tidy Trader and Holmfirth in Bloom presentation. This year’s winners received a trophy specially commissioned by local sculptor Mick KirkbyGeddes and presented by Coun Nigel Patrick. First in the In Bloom competition was the Old Bridge Hotel, while Hollowgate confectioner The Chocolate Box took the Tidy Trader trophy.

The shop of artist Ashley Jackson came second in both competitions.

Mick and Coun Patrick are pictured presenting the Tidy Trader trophy to Caroline Kane of The Chocolate Box.

4 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Holme Valley to get one-stop website

By Sandie Marshall

Local Guides show their adventurous side.

Guides put their adventure skills to test for top award GIRL GUIDES from all over the Holme Valley put their adventure skills to the test to complete their Baden-Powell Challenge Award, the highest award in Guiding.

The 31 girls had to conquer outdoor activities including raft-building and sailing during a weekend at Midgley campsite in Wakefield.

It was the last of 10 challenges to be completed in order to earn their BadenPowell awards.

After the adventure activities, the Holme Valley girls were joined by others from

across the region for an outdoor cooking challenge.

Local Guide leader Lynne Gascoigne helped organise the event. She said: “I’m very proud of the girls for achieving this award and it’s been a pleasure to see them having such an exciting and rewarding weekend. They’ve all shown a lot of enthusiasm and dedication, and it’s something they can look back on with pride for years to come.”

To gain the Baden-Powell award, Guides must complete ten challenges in different categories, including

healthy lifestyles, global awareness and celebrating diversity as well as the adventure challenge residential camp.

The Holme Valley has a thriving Girl Guide community with units in Holmfirth, Wooldale and Netherthong for 10-14 year olds and a very active Ranger unit in Holmfirth for 14 years and above.

For younger girls there are Rainbow (5-7 years) and Brownie (7-10 years) units in a number of the villages across the valley.

THE HOLME Valley is about to get a one-stop-shop internet site where locals and visitors can get all the information they need at the click of a mouse.

The new site is an expanded and updated version of the popular www.holmfirthevents.co.uk which was started single-handedly 12 months ago by Hade Edge mum Kerry Sykes.

She wanted to provide a quick and easy on-line listing of events taking place, together with contact details for popular organisations, clubs and societies.

To her surprise, the site proved to be an instant hit.

“I’m not a technical person and I hadn’t done anything

like this before. The site was fairly basic but it became popular very quickly. Over the last 12 months it had over 14,000 hits, which is a lot more than I expected.” she said.

The internet site caught the eye of Holmfirth web designer Christian Mellor of gda ltd who approached Kerry with the idea of redesigning the site and relaunching it to include details of places to eat and drink and things to do in the area. Like Kerry, Christian offered to work on the web site for free.

“His help has meant the new site looks a little bit more polished and professional and with beautiful photographs by Andy Leader, it looks really terrific. It’s

been done in a blog-style so we can post news and niceto-know comments about what’s going on. There’s still loads of local events listed – around 40-50 events each month – and now loads more information as well.

“I hope people will bookmark the page and visit it frequently.”

Over the last year, Kerry has also set up a Facebook page called Holmfirth What’s On, and a Twitter account, both of which are linked to the internet site. Her work – all done voluntarily – has earned her a community champion award from Holme Valley Parish Council. She expects the new version of www.holmfirthevents.co.uk will be up and running from early October.

Date set for Village Hall’s AGM THE ANNUAL general meeting of the Upperthong Village Hall committee will take place on Thursday October 25 from 8pm, followed by a committee meeting.

Local people are being urged to go along and offer their help, either as a committee member or as a casual volunteer to help out at busy times.

The village hall committee

was proud that, during a summer of cancelled events, the Upperthong Gala went ahead as planned.

Helen Wilson said: “Despite horrendous rain we felt very lucky to be amidst the few events that continued while galas, fetes and carnivals were cancelling around us.

“Financially it was not our best but we survived.

“We are still on the lookout for committee members but also people who will volunteer to help without the commitment of joining a committee.

“However due to personal circumstances there will be positions available on the committee and we urge people to come along. Drinks and nibbles will be provided!”

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 5

Pub featured in prestigious guide

By Sandie Marshall

Dave Walker, one of the writers of the book.

New book celebrates choir’s 21st anniversary NEW MILL Male Voice Choir is celebrating its first 21 years of song. As part of the celebrations, members have joined together to write a book about the choir, its history and most memorable performances.

Let All Men Sing has been written and produced by Ian Day, Doug Shuttleworth, Alan Hicks, Charlie Turner, Steve Flynn and Dave Walker.

It has been published in hardback by Shalliley Books and features many archive photographs of the choir during rehearsals and performances.

Although the book describes the choir’s 21 years, the writers deliberately avoided making it a formal date-to-date account.

Dave Walker explains: “We thought long and hard about how we wanted to portray the choir. In the end we chose a series of moments that illustrate choir develop-

ment. Whilst the approach may seem to lurch from rehearsal to concert to tour, it nevertheless reflects the real life of a choir; a background of relative peace interspersed from time to time with short sharp bursts of action.

“Along this jerky journey we hope the reader will appreciate how, since November 1991, the choir has improved, not only in technique and performance, but also in imaginative administration.”

The book will be launched at a special event at Waterstones book shop on New Street, Huddersfield on October 9 from 6pm to 7pm.

Everyone is invited go along and share a glass of wine with choir members.

Copies of the book will be available to buy, priced £9.99.

Copies are also available by calling 01484 683196 or by emailing shalliley@btinternet.com

Cafe needs helpers CAFE 100, Holmfirth’s highly regarded youth club, needs new helpers to make sure it can stay open during the coming winter.

The cafe provides a safe place for 11-18 year olds to relax on Monday and Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons.

There’s internet and gaming, a pool table and a cafe

bar area.

Although it is run by young people for young people, it still needs adults to supervise the sessions.

Anyone over 18 with experience in youth work with just a few hours to spare is asked to email cafe100@hotmail. co.uk, call 01484 680075 or pop into the cafe during its opening hours.

THE FARMERS Arms is the toast of Upperthong after it became the only pub in the area to be featured in this year’s prestigious Yorkshire Life Good Pub Guide.

The recommendation, which complements the Farmers’ atmosphere, food and beers, has brought in new customers from a wide area to mix with the healthy number of regular locals.

For owners Danielle Montgomery and Sam Page it is proof that 18 months of hard work are paying off as the Farmers continues to buck the trend of struggling town and village pubs.

A local couple, they returned to the Holme Valley to own the wellestablished Liphill Bank Road pub after working

all over the country including managing a pub restaurant on the Scilly Island of Tresco.

Since taking over, chef Sam has totally revamped the menu introducing a tempting mix of quality pub food with plenty of al la carte touches.

It is true homemade cooking with everything from the bread and bar snacks to the burgers and corned beef and even ice creams made in-house.

There’s a full list of wines and soft drinks plus seven handpulled beers and rotating local guest beers.

A lunch menu of hot dishes and sandwiches is served from Tuesdays to Sundays, and evening meals are available often as part of popular themed nights including Wednesday quiz nights,

Thursday steak nights and fish Fridays.

“The food is definitely our greatest achievement,” says Danielle.

“When we arrived, the pub was serving 50-60 meals each week and we’ve raised that to around 200. We have lots of people who return regularly to eat here and we get good reviews on websites such as Trip Advisor which help spread the word.”

Although the Farmer’s fame may be spreading, the couple firmly see the pub at the heart of the community.

They offer free WIFI and have recently started a parcel collection service where busy locals can have packages delivered to the pub so they can collect them at a more convenient time.

Looking to next year,

The Farmers Arms, featured in Yorkshire Life’s Good Pub Guide. for outside catering of Danielle and Sam would events and parties. like to offer even more Says Danielle: “For us local services, with plans it’s about getting a balto stock homemade ance of providing a valubread and local milk and eggs, plus takeaway sand- able service for the locals and pleasing the diners wiches. who come from further They already offer the afield. We think we are pub’s upstairs room as a getting that balance meeting venue for local groups and take bookings right.”

6 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Petia North grew up in Bulgaria’s capital,Sofia,but now runs her own interiors and curtains business from her family farm in Deanhouse, Holmfirth. Helen Williams spoke to her about making a house a home.

The ‘curtain lady’ who oozes style “THEY call me The Curtain Lady.” So says Petia North, mum of two, wife of cider farmer Rob North and creative force behind ‘at Holme Interiors and Curtains.’ Her mundane nickname seems oddly inappropriate – she oozes personal style and charm, and it’s quite plain from her home that she has an astonishing eye for design.

Her gorgeous farmhouse blends traditional and contemporary without a hint of a clash and also has the atmosphere of a comfortable, warm and relaxed family home. Indeed, during my visit, seven-year-old Ellie bursts in and

Petia North

demands to know the price of a bag of crisps.

“I am quite a traditionalist,” says Petia. “I like cottagey, farmhouse styles and natural fibres but I grew up in a city house in Sofia among graphic designers.”

The international designer Jane Churchill – known for working closely with clients to create comfort as well as style - is one of Petia’s favourites.

She started making her own clothes aged 14 and then went on to make wedding dresses as a hobby before going on to study psychology. She later taught A-level psychology at Wakefield College – a useful skill when trying to pin down what customers want.

“I think everyone has their own style,” Petia says. “What I do is go into their house, look around, and see what that style is.

It’s important to offer them something they feel comfortable with. Some come with their own ideas but others want me to choose everything from paint to wallpaper to furniture.”

Petia uses cottagey, farmhouse styles in her designs.

Some clients may have seen a style they like on holiday and want to ‘transplant’ it to their own home, but Petia says some styles do not travel well: “I tell them you will probably have had enough of it in a couple of years, and we want people to enjoy beautiful, quality interiors for longer than that.”

Her business can offer commercial and residential design services, from sourcing the smallest cushion or eye-catching curtain pole to the grand design of a whole house. Petia has an in-depth knowledge of

the market based on continuous research into fabrics, furnishings and design.

“I take great enjoyment from it, and keep informed by going to exhibitions. I also used to run a business importing textiles from India and Thailand.”

With all that style and experience, what does she think when the locals call her ‘The Curtain Lady?’

She smiles. “Well, I suppose people can be put off by the term ‘interior designer.’ They think it means expensive when it’s very affordable.”

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 7

Circular walks feature in guide

Painting the town grey ... the young Honley graffiti project team plus helpers.

Open gallery for young artists YOUNGSTERS in Honley have taken the problem of graffiti into their own hands and created an open gallery for artists to show off their skills legally and proudly.

They took on the project through a police initiative called i12 where young people look at police priorities for their area and try to tackle one in new and innovative ways.

They believed that providing a place for people to do artwork legally would help cut down on vandalism and ‘tagging’.

On hand to help turn their idea into reality was Kirklees youth worker Claire Baldwin who meets with young people twice weekly at the skatepark in Jagger Lane.

She said: “An ideal loca-

tion for the open gallery was the wall running along the back of Honley Cricket Club.

We contacted the local Police and Councillors, who approached the Club’s committee to ask for their permission to run the project.

The Cricket Club have been really supportive, as have the police and local Councillors.”

With permissions received, Claire organised a working party of her youngsters to paint the wall ready for the creativity to start.

On hand to help and advise were three of the area’s leading graffiti artists, Richard Taylor, Danny Frost and Gareth Lewis.

Also getting involved were members of the Valley Neighbourhood Policing Team who chose the project

to offer their Jubilee Hours, a community volunteering scheme to commemorate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year.

As Claire says, her team see the open gallery as start of something big: “It is envisaged that this will be a sustainable and long running project as the art work will be transient, changing on a regular basis.

“It will also open up lots of opportunities for other groups in the area to be involved in art projects and fundraising events. The project will be photographed and regularly documented, hopefully being published in magazines.

“Now the background of the wall is done, the real artwork can begin.”

A GUIDE outlining six circular walks around Brockholes has been published by Brockholes Village Trust.

‘Discovering Beautiful Brockholes’ includes maps, photographs of the area both past and present and information about the history of places along each route. The walks take in the outstanding scenery around the village and reach as far as Thurstonland, Oldfield, Netherthong and Honley.

The 54-page booklet is a revision of two guides published over 10 years ago by local resident Ken Kaye.

Village Trust chairman, David Wyles, who updated

the originals, said: “The original booklets sold out many years ago and it was decided to combine them into one handy publication.

Brockholes is a popular starting point for local walks because of the superb Pennine landscape and historic settlements.

We hope both residents and visitors will buy the book and discover our beautiful area.”

The guide costs £3.95 and is available from Holmfirth Tourist Information Centre, Brockholes Post Office, Holme Valley Camping and Caravanning shop or by contacting info@brockholesvillagetrust.org.

The Beautiful Brockholes booklet is now available.

08 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

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Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 9

Consultation on bus services BUS USERS are being invited to comment on changes to Holme Valley bus services put forward by Metro, the West Yorkshire Transport Authority.

As part of a massive review of services across the whole county, the transport giant has set out proposed changes to the valley’s routes.

It has held a number of drop-in public information events during September and is giving people until October 22 to comment on the changes.

This follows an earlier consultation exercise in March and April when passengers were asked to give

John Hammond cuts the ribbon on the new bench watched by local dignitaries.

John unveils new bench THERE’S a new place to sit and watch the world go by in Holmfirth town centre.

To celebrate its 75th anniversary, The Rotary Club of Holmfirth commissioned local artist and metalwork sculptor Mick Kirkby-Geddes to design and make the new bench for Victoria Street.

But this is a seat with a few secrets. Its green metalwork frame is packed with references to Holmfirth and the projects completed by The Rotary Club. Keen eyes will spot a helicopter to represent the funds donated to

Yorkshire Air Ambulance, flowers for the thousands of daffodil bulbs planted in local towns and villages, and even fireworks to represent the annual bonfire night celebrations.

Mick Kirkby-Geddes has cleverly incorporated even more references to sport, music, education, help for the disabled and medical and shelter aid for overseas disasters.

The rear of the seat is capped with the hills of Holmfirth and the rising sun – the crest of The Rotary

Club. A crowd of Rotary members and on-lookers gathered to see local TV presenter John Hammond cut the ribbon and declare the seat open.

Rotary member Keith Dyson says everyone connected with the club is delighted at the way the bench turned out.

He added: “It really is amazing, how many things are incorporated into the design. I think it will give people a lot of pleasure to sit and work out what all the symbols mean.”

more general feedback issues including buses, routes, timetables and reliability. Metro says this feedback has been used to shape the specific changes it is now proposing.

One of the most significant changes would leave Netherthong passengers without a direct bus into Huddersfield as the 312 service would terminate in Honley instead of continuing into Holmfirth via Netherthong.

Instead, passengers from the village would need to catch a H5 minibus and change in Holmfirth.

Metro admits a main driver of the review is money,

although it says maximising the effect of its service is equally as important: “We are aiming to make better use of the bus services in the Holme Valley area to ensure the local services are financially sustainable into the future.

“Metro is developing options for changes to bus services and is working closely with Holme Valley Parish Council, who co-fund the local minubus services, and your local Kirklees councillors.”

Details of the proposed changes can be found at www.mymetro.com/consultation together with details of how to make comments.

10 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Tom Wroe:“A hero, a well loved hero” THE HOLME Valley has lost another young serviceman to the war in Afghanistan.

Private Tom Wroe from Meltham died on September 15 alongside Sergeant Gareth Thursby, 29, when they were tricked into approaching an apparently injured local policeman. The man, a disguised Afghan rebel, then opened fire from close quarters.

Tom was just 18 and had only been in Afghanistan since July. He leaves behind parents Mick and Claire, sister Demi, 14 and childhood sweetheart Jess Nunns.

He is the second local soldier to lose his life this year.

New Mill soldier Jake Hartley, 20, also from the Yorkshire Regiment, died in March.

Bravely speaking just a couple of days after hearing

of their son’s death, Tom’s parents described him as “a hero; a well loved hero”.

They spoke of their “born soldier” who knew and accepted all the risks of army life.

Following a family tradition of army service, Tom had joined up as soon as he was able after leaving Honley High School.

He was “gutted” when his unit left for Afghanistan in April and he had to stay behind because he was too young. His wait was over on July 1 – just four days after his 18th birthday – when he left the UK to become the youngest member of his platoon.

Dad Mick, 48, who spent 22 years in the Duke of Wellington Regiment including active service all over the world, said: “We are a mili-

Tom is repatriated into the UK.

tary family and Tom was surrounded by Army. He loved the Army so much.

“We knew all the risks and talked through all the scenarios.

“When his regiment went to Afghanistan, he was only 17 and he was gutted. He couldn’t wait to join his mates.

“We have no regrets, apart from the obvious.

“We discussed the risks, but you just don’t expect it to happen to your son.

Nothing could ever have prepared us for the news.

“Tom was a natural soldier. We were proud when he signed up and we are very, very proud of him now. ” Mum Claire, 39, deputy manager at a care home, added: “Being in the Army was all Tom ever wanted to do. He was buzzing about

Afghanistan, he couldn’t wait to go.

“We are a very open family and we all knew the risks.

We discussed them as a family.”

She also spoke emotionally of the young man behind the uniform, describing him as a “bubbly, fun and selfless” son who always thought of others before himself. “Tom was a ray of light. He would walk into a room and it would light up; everybody loved him. He was a hero, a well-loved hero.”

They told how they had spent the day packing boxes of food and goodies to send out to Afghanistan, before receiving the dreadful news.

Claire added: “Tom worried about everybody but himself, he was selfless. He spent most of his time worrying about his sister.

“Demi and Tom were very close, as they grew up they really bonded. He was always proud of his little sister and she was proud of him.”

Since Tom’s death, the whole family has been grateful for hundreds of messages of condolence at their home and on Facebook.

Mick said: “Tom was a lovely lad; everybody loved him. He would go out of his way to speak to people, he had so many close friends.

“The support we have had from everybody – everyone on Facebook and the flowers and cards – have been amazing and a real comfort and I

Tom Wroe, who died in Afghanistan, just 18 years old.

Tom as an extremely popular can only thank everyone. young man and a terrific “Our Tom will be rememsportsman who was well bered as a fun-loving, happy loved by staff and students chap, a lovely lad and a alike. proper little soldier.”

“I have spoken to his Tom was also well rememtutors who remember him as bered at Honley High School a positive, smiling, charming where he was a student until individual with a huge circle only two years ago. of friends. He will be missed Headteacher Chris Sylge and we send our deepest and said: “Staff were of course sincerest condolences to devastated to hear the news.

Tom’s family.”

“Colleagues remember

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 11

New recruits for Guide Dogs branch

Baby sale for new parents NEW parents should pop along to Hepworth Village Hall on Saturday October 20 between 10am and 12 noon for a sale of used baby and toddler clothes, toys and equipment.

There will be maternity and nursing wear, new parent and

baby books, baby, toddler and young children's clothes, toys, baby bedding, towels and lots more. All items will be in pristine condition.

Admission to the sale is free and refreshments will be on sale.

By Sandie Marshall HOLME VALLEY volunteers with the Huddersfield branch of Guide Dogs have some much-needed new recruits – four young guide dogs in training.

Zeilia, Penny, Mike and Zip have all recently taken their first steps to become valued companions and guides for blind and visually-impaired people.

Their trainers will spend the coming months training them in all aspects of guide dog life until, as adult dogs, they start their working lives.

As well as new puppy recruits, the charity needs more two-legged volunteers to help its work in the valley. October 6 to 14 is Guide Dog Week and the Huddersfield branch is hoping to raise awareness and ask local people to volunteer a few hours to help with their work.

It costs the charity around £50,000 to breed, train and support each dog throughout its working life – money that must come completely from the general public.

Branch organiser Julia

New pups and their trainers; Zeilia with Maureen Chambers, Penny with Margaret Kenworthy, Mike and Kelly Rickson and Zip with Elaine Lloyd.

Taylor said: “Volunteers can help out in a number of ways, such as assisting with fundraising collections, or driving guide dog owners, their dogs and puppies around.

“We also need volunteer collection box coordinators to place boxes in local shops and businesses, and collect and tally up the funds. Collection boxes usually raise a minimum of £35 a year per box.

“If eight new coordinators can be recruited, who

each place 10 boxes with local shops and businesses, that’s a guaranteed annual income of £2,800.

The boxes also help to remind people about Guide Dogs and the work they do.

“Joining in is easy and anyone can commit as much or as little time as they wish. We will be holding a series of fundraising events during the year as well as in Guide Dog week, and we would love new people to

join us.

“You can do as much as you want to, but however much time you can spare, you will be making a worthwhile contribution to Guide Dogs and making a real difference to the life of a visually impaired person.”

If you would like to join the group or even organise your own challenges to raise money for Guide Dogs please contact Julia at thecraftytaylor@talktalk.net

New permanent teeth now cost 50 per cent less Advertiser's Announcement

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Picture this. You walk into a dentist with gaps in your teeth or you’re wearing dentures. And you leave with new teeth the same day.

No need to wear dentures anymore.

Sounds unbelievable, but it’s true.

That’s because there is a newer dental tooth implant procedure available.

And this procedure is up to 50% less expensive than older tooth implant procedures.

What’s more, there’s NO gum flap surgery, NO extensive bone drilling and NO stitches afterwards.

Minimal disturbance to your mouth This newer procedure uses a “ keyhole” technique. So your mouth is quicker to heal after any procedure.

And the good news is this new type of tooth implanting is accessible to patients who haven’t been able to get tooth implants before because of either cost, difficulty or any lack of bone height or width.

And it’s ideal for patients who are nervous when visiting a dentist as this

process involves fewer dental visits.

So, what exactly is involved? Well, an initial tiny keyhole is made where the tooth implant is to go . The correct size implant is placed which will eventually be used to anchor to take the permanent tooth.

Your implant then has a temporary crown attached to it. This new tooth is then left for 8 – 12 weeks to allow the implant to fully stabilize.

Next, an imprint for a new crown is taken. Once the new crown is ready, you return to have your new crown fitted.

In fact, you can even have a new tooth implant the same day as you have any teeth removed. And if you have 3 or even 4 teeth missing, then these can be replaced with only 2 implants.

But do you get any soreness from tooth implanting?

This may occur in the first 24 – 48 hours. But it’s easily overcome by taking Paracetamol or similar.

But are all tooth implants successful?

The answer is no. However, I do have a 95% success rate when I perform a

tooth implant. That’s 9 out of every 10 people who don’t have to wear dentures anymore. And if your implant doesn’t ‘take’ I re-do it for FREE. And, if the new implant still doesn’t ‘take’, then I refund you your money. So you’re NOT risking a single penny.

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Imagine roaring with laughter because you’re proud of your smile.

Do you Qualify?

As not everyone is suitable for tooth implants, I’m offering a FREE 15 minute consultation - for 10 readers of The Holme Valley Review who respond before 6th November 2012.

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So phone 01484 714640 (24 hours) or email info@freshsmileclinic.co.uk and reserve your consultation today by quoting CODE: HVR10.12

Dr Zaman, BDS, LDS RCS, is the head dentist at the Fresh Smile Clinic in Brighouse. He has completed over 1000 successful tooth implants after completing a course certified by the Royal College of Surgeons. Also, he mentors other dentists on behalf of Osteocare, an implant training company.

I Fresh Smile Clinic, 2 High Street, Brighouse, West Yorkshire, HD6 1DE www.freshsmileclinic.co.uk

12 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 13

Lenny comes to Huddersfield

Parliamentary Corner with Jason McCartney MP IT MAY have been one of the wettest summers on record but we were lucky that the sun came out for the Holmfirth Food and Drink Festival, well for the Saturday at least.

It was the biggest and best Food and Drink Festival yet with over 70 stalls offering great local produce for the thousands of visitors to try and buy.

My culinary skills were tested at one of the many cooking demonstrations at the indoor market but I was fortunate to have local baker Greg Christofi to show me how it should be done. The food and drink sector is important to our local economy with the monthly Farmers’ Markets and the Thursday and Saturday indoor markets in Holmfirth making good quality local fresh produce readily available.

It was fantastic to see Holmfirth buzzing and with all the shops now having tenants I’m hoping the town can thrive at the heart of our community.

I have spoken many times in the House of Commons about the future of our high streets and I recently signed the Charter for Town and City Centres.

This initiative, backed by the British Retail

Consortium, seeks to promote town centres through Parliamentary engagement, recognising its wider role in rebalancing the economy through employment and the links to local production and supply networks.

Thriving High Streets also need services like banks. I was pleased to join the management and staff at the local Barclays branch for their Macmillan Cancer Support coffee morning.

Well done to local businesses including the Old Bridge Hotel, Parfitts and the Old Bridge Bakery for donating a tasty selection of cakes and cookies. A fine example of our community spirit.

On the same day as the Food and Drink Festival began, I opened the Bright Green Energy Show which was held upstairs in Holmfirth Parish Church.

Green energy isn’t just about windmills so it was great to see all the innovative locally designed and manufactured home efficiency products.

Good home insulation makes sense and saves pounds on our energy bills.

I’m supporting a local community project that has just received a grant to develop and investigate local hydro energy production.

I can’t end this column without mentioning Huddersfield Town’s encouraging start to life in the Championship.

Sport should always be put into context with all the bad things happening in the world. But even the biggest cynics must admit that the likes of Bradley Wiggins, Mo Farah, Jess Ennis, Ellie Simmonds, David Weir, Andy Murray and our Ryder Cup team have given us all something to celebrate this summer. Long may it continue.

As always please get in touch if you need my help.

My constituency office is opposite Ashley Jackson’s gallery on Huddersfield Road in Holmfirth: 24 Huddersfield Rd, Upperbridge House, Holmfirth, HD9 2JS. Tel: 01484 688378. Email: jason.mccartney.mp@parliament.uk

ONE OF the country’s favourite funny men, Lenny Henry, is returning to the stage and bringing his new one-man show Pop Life to Huddersfield on Monday November 26.

The much-loved comic and actor will be appearing at the Lawrence Batley Theatre as part of a 38 date national tour in which he shares his passion for, music and plays the piano in front of an audience for the first time, having recently passed his grade 4 piano exam. He said: “It will be a nerve-wracking experience, but really good fun.”

The new show comes hot on the heels of rave reviews Lenny Henry achieved from

playing Antipholus of Syracuse in The Comedy Of Errors at The National Theatre and as Othello with Yorkshire’s Northern Broadsides.

Pop Life is a joyous, freaky show about just how music goes better with everything and how it affects us in all our lives. But it’s not just about music, Lenny will also enlighten audiences on his thoughts on the Olympic and Paralympic fever that has swept the UK and open up about his friends and family.

Lenny has written Pop Life with his long term collaborator, Kim Fuller who he worked with on Three Of A Kind, The Lenny Henry Show and Saturday Night Live.

Lenny Henry Tickets for Pop Life are on sale now. To book at the Lawrence Batley Theatre Huddersfield contact 01484 430528 or book online at www.thelbt.org

14 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Sally, Lisa and Mel are hitting the stage as The Hey Diddles.

Diane Price shows the improvements at Nabb School.

Pupils begin school year in refurbished classrooms THE YOUNGEST pupils at Holmfirth Junior, Infant and Nursery (Nabb) have started the latest school year in bright new surroundings.

Over the summer holidays, builders moved into the school’s foundation stage area and transformed the open plan classrooms with an extension, new entrance, cloakrooms and toilet block.

There’s a sparkling fitted kitchen, library area and computer corner while outside the children can now enjoy an all-weather play-

ground under a sheltering canopy. The improvements have already made a massive difference says school deputy head and foundation stage co-ordinator Diane Price. “It’s all about safeguarding our children and giving them a clean and happy place to be,” she said. “Our old facilities were showing their age and we’re very proud that these improvements mean we can offer our children a fantastic environment and even more flexibility to local parents.”

The main building

improvements were funded

by Kirklees Council Education and Learning with additional furniture and play equipment bought by the school’s parent teacher association Friends of Nabb School.

The foundation stage area is home to the school’s nursery three to five year olds.

A maximum of 56 children are able to attend and although the reception class is currently full, the school does have some nursery sessions available.

Mums all set to hit the stage

By Sandie Marshall AFTER YEARS spent entertaining their own children, three Holme Valley mums are hitting the stage with their own high energy theatre show for 0-6 year olds.

Close friends Sally Norton, Lisa Kendall and Mel Brockway have formed The Hey Diddles and are already taking bookings in local theatres for their new show which will feature favourite action songs and nursery rhymes, with lots of singing, dancing and story-telling.

The trio always wanted to go into business together and with years of amateur theatre experience and seven children between them, a new kids show seemed a natural choice.

Sally says: “I just made a

throwaway comment about how we should start our children’s theatre group and that was all it took to get Lisa’s imagination fired up, and so began the Hey Diddles. Our show has a definite Panto feel about it with the children being encouraged to join in, dance and sing-along – it’s a wonderful way for young children to be introduced to the theatre.”

Taking inspiration from the famous Australian group The Wiggles, CBBC’s Justin’s House and the Tweenies, the three energetic mums are now squeezing in rehearsals, costume fittings, photograph shoots and production meetings into their busy lives.

Sally, Lisa and Mel are all principal members of Holmfirth’s award winning

drama group Turn Again Theatre and so are no strangers to entertaining audiences. Lisa also has childcare qualifications and an established local children’s party business. Add to this the fact that they have seven children between them and there’s certainly no lack of knowledge about what children like.

The Hey Diddles are currently making final preparations for their Christmas Schedule, which will include performing at Holmfirth Christmas Lights Switch On on November 24, and concerts at Denby Dale Pie Hall, Slaithwaite Civic and Holmfirth Civic.

Tickets available from October at Holmfirth Tourist Information on 01484 222444.

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 15

16 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 17

18 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Quality food is the key for Lily Pickles DIANE and Martin Sample of Lily Pickles of Holmfirth first branched out of their art and crafts business in Golcar two years ago this month.

Both were experienced cooks but Diane spent a lot of time and effort in learning the techniques needed to make honest, flavoursome and safe pickles, chutneys and preserves.

Diane was keen to produce top-quality products using traditional methods and equipment, using locally sourced produce when possible, organic if available and buying from Fairtrade suppliers when products such as spices have to be imported from foreign climes.

An absolute priority was to make quality, wholesome food without artificial additives, colourings or E numbers.

Having developed a basic product list the next step was taking it to market, so that’s just what Diane did.

Lily Pickles of Holmfirth first started at Holmfirth Market in Spring 2011 and it was a great experience from the very first time. One of the great things about the market is that Diane can talk to

customers and returning customers. And being good honest Yorkshire folk our customers told us just what they thought! “How was the Chilli Jam?” “Not hot enough.”

Mental note – make a hotter version. And she has, Lily’s Hot’n’Smokey Chilli Jam is now one of Lily’s best sellers, and for the “chilli-heads” there’s Lily’s Hot Chilli Sauce.

Going to Holmfirth Market also brought many good contacts, some people bought a jar of chutney then came back the next week and said they had a deli/ farmshop/ café and could they stock Lily’s products, they certainly could! One of the first was newly opened Emma’s Tea Parlour on Hollowgate, Holmfirth whose Stilton and rocket sandwiches with Lily’s Pear and Walnut Chutney or Brie with Lily’s Caramelised Onion are great favourites with her customers.

Other stallholders told us about other events and food festivals which led to our first two outside events, Yorkshire Day in August 2011 organised by Kirklees Markets Dept and then

Holmfirth Food Festival 2011, also organised by Kirklees. They were great successes and led on to many more.

Talks with other stallholders led to joint ventures which are one of the great benefits of local producers using local markets and help consumers to enjoy more and more locally produced food, which is something we are very keen to promote.

We now supply spice mixes to Coddy’s Farm, who make a great range of sausages alongside their home-grown beef, lamb and pork and

who did a cookery demonstration at Holmfirth Food Festival using their homegrown pork and Lily’s Hot’n’Smokey Chilli Jam as a marinade.

For Diane the great thing about talking to customers on the market is that they tell her what they do with Lily’s products. It might sound simple but you would be amazed.

Jane from the Green Valley Grocer in Slaithwaite mixes Lily’s Brinjal Chutney with mayonnaise, spreads it on quality bread from the Hand Made Bakery, Slaithwaite

(and Holmfirth Market), and tops that with cooked chicken to make the perfect tasty sandwich!

Helen, from Beadifferent on Holmfirth Market, spreads Lily’s Chilli Jam on cheese on toast for a spicy snack while Mel from Milk Street on Holmfirth Market says Lily’s Pineapple Chilli Jam goes perfectly with her Goats Cheese.

And Andrew at Coddy’s Farm, (Holmfirth Market Thursday and Saturday) finds that a marinade with Lily’s Chilli Jam is ideal on pork steak (just reduce some chilli jam with olive oil and spread it generously on the pork, then refrigerate overnight before cooking steaks next day). Also works well with chicken or fish, try Lily’s Thai Spiced Chilli Jam with salmon.

Diane’s recipes have multiplied and she now has an extensive range which is available from the market and also from lots of quality local outlets such as Bolster Moor Farm Shop, Golcar, Blacker Hall Farmshop, Wakefield, Taylor's Foodstore, Honley, and Emma’s Tea Parlour,

Holmfirth, and lots more.

Diane has just enjoyed her second Holmfirth Food Festival as well as Sheffield and Cheshire Food Festivals and is now looking forward to Holmfirth’s Christmas markets as well as monthly Holmfirth Farmers Markets on the third Sunday of every month.

As well as individual jars of chutneys and pickles, Lily’s Hampers, from £9, make great presents and Diane is happy to make up hampers with your own choice of chutneys, perhaps with added biscuits, cheeses or chocolates.

A move to bigger premises is now planned to enable Diane to keep up with demand while maintaining her home-made quality. So visit Holmfirth market for a good shopping experience, or shop online at our new website www.lilypicklesofholmfirth.co.uk or, if you have a shop, café, restaurant, farmshop or mail order food business and would like to stock a range of quality products, please email sales@lilypicklesofholmfirth.co.uk. We’d love to hear from you.

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 19

News, information and opinion from Holmfirth Transition Town

Working together for better bus services

HoTT is keen to help people find ways of leaving the car behind, so better bus services are a vital part of our vision.

Our long term aim is more low-polluting buses, with services that link up and are easy to understand.

Metro is consulting on changes to local buses at the moment. The review proposes some welcome improvements, with an increase in direct services between Huddersfield and Holmfirth and better links to local medical facilities. Current bus users might be relieved to hear the changes described as minor but, if buses are to be a bigger part of our future, are minor changes what are really needed? One opportunity we think this review has missed is the chance to link parts of the Holme Valley to Brockholes train station. In fact, with some reductions in the 911 route, links to railways will be less not more. We also want to see an integrated local bus timetable and steps to make it easier to change buses without paying twice. Metro wishes to introduce ‘quality contracting’ across West Yorkshire. This innovation has support from many local politicians.

At the moment commercial bus operators decide where buses go, how much they charge and promote their own ticket options.

Last year the Competition Commission found this system was not good for customers.

With quality contracting Metro would set the routes and services and invite bus operators to tender for them competitively.

This will help Metro plan more – and promote seamless, integrated ticketing that can be used on all local buses and trains – similar to the successful London ‘oyster card’.

Some bus companies are not keen on quality contracts as they want the freedom to change their routes whenever they wish – and promote tickets that favour their company.

Quality contracting and the ability to plan better bus services will only come about if there is a wider debate and support from current and potential passengers.

HoTT intend holding a one day workshop this Autumn (contact anne@hott.org.uk for details). We will ask experts to explain how quality contracting might make a difference, but also give you the opportunity to contribute to discussion on how it might work. With petrol prices costing the earth, better bus services have to be part of the future – but Metro might need support in planning for a less confusing system before it happens. Responses need to be with Metro by October 22.

Crowds flock to food and drink festival

THE SUNSHINE and the crowds came out for Holmfirth’s seventh annual Food and Drink Festival.

The town was packed with stalls selling goodies of all kinds, tempting shoppers to browse, taste and buy.

Most cafes, restaurants and local food producers opened their doors for special events while street entertainment was provided by a Punch and Judy show and the Frumptarn Guggen German carnival band.

The upstairs floor of the market hall was mostly given over to the festival kitchen where live cookery demonstrations continued all weekend. Local MP Jason McCartney showed his

own culinary skills by taking part in a Ready, Steady, Cook-style competition.

There was a trophy for 13-yearold budding baker Gareth Allatt who created a new triple chocolate muffin for the festival’s muffin recipe competition.

Greg Christofi from the Old Bridge Bakery judged it “very delicious – very moist but not too sweet.” His team spent the morning baking hundreds of Gareth’s muffins and selling them to impressed shoppers.

Kirklees Council, which every year organises the Food and Drink Festival in partnership with the town traders, said the turn-out was the best yet.

20 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Market to become a Christmas trove

HOLMFIRTH Market Hall will transform into a treasure trove for Christmas shoppers when the November Art Market opens over two weekends.

Once again, organisers have arranged for over 100 highly skilled artists and craftspeople to show their wares on Sunday 4 and 11 November.

The twice yearly art markets have become particularly popular because they offer the opportunity to ‘meet the makers’, watch them at work and chat about their creations.

Particularly strong this time will be jewellery, with handmade glass beads, precious and semi-precious stones, uniquely designed silver rings and beautiful paper pendants from artists including Adele Taylor, Ashi Marwaha and Elizabeth Chamberlain.

Also among those taking part will be ceramists Anna-Mercedes Wear, Amy Daniels and David Ashby and sculptors Joanne Cooke and Oliver Meller, not forgetting the Holme Valley’s own Brendan Hesmondhalgh and Mick Kirkby-Geddes.

There will be preview evening on the Saturday before each Art Market from 810pm.

The markets themselves will be open from 10am-4pm. Entry costs £2 which includes free into the art raffle.

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What’s On Guide Review Holme Valley

Until Saturday October 13, Portrait Exhibition: From Punks to Poets, Musicians to Magicians, at The Blacklight Gallery, Byram Arcade (Ground Floor), Westgate, Huddersfield, 9am-5pm. Local photographer Karl Baird who has captured on camera people from a variety of backgrounds who live or work in Huddersfield.

Until November 3, ‘Views of the North’ watercolours by Jeff Beaumont at North Light Gallery, Armitage Bridge.

Open Fridays and Saturdays 10am to 4pm.

Sunday October 7, Brass and Voices from the Holme Valley: Hepworth Band with New Mill Male Voice Choir – concert at St Paul’s Hall, Huddersfield, 7pm, in aid of New Mill Royal British Legion.

The programme includes film scores, popular classics, traditional favourites and John Williams’ rousing Olympic Fanfare. Tickets £6, available from William Sykes & Sons Estate Agents, Holmfirth, the White Horse Inn, Jackson Bridge, or from band and choir members.

Sunday October 7, New Orleans Jazz Club, 8pm-10.30pm, at the Old Bridge Hotel, Holmfirth, relaxed monthly session with a six-piece, old style jazz band. More information from Richard Lord 01484 683476 or 07932 160 508, e-mail richardblord@gmail.com Monday October 8, Honley Library, 2pm6.30pm, ‘Your Library, Your Voice’ – open day to help shape the future of your library and information service. To find out more, phone 01484 226300.

Tuesday October 9 Saturday 13, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, presents Ladies Down Under, by Amanda Whittington, funny, heart-warming sequel to Ladies’ Day, which sees the jackpotwinning foursome on the trip of a lifetime.

Performances 7.30pm nightly and 2.15pm Saturday. Box office 01484 430528, www.thelbt.org Friday October 12Sunday 14, Marsden Jazz Festival, now in its 21st year, with live music throughout the village in pubs, clubs and halls, plus open air events including Sat 13, 12noon parade with the New York Brass Band. For latest information phone 01484 846969, or go to www.marsdenjazzfestival.com Saturday October 13, Jazz Walk: meet at Marsden Station, 10am: take a break from the Jazz Festival and climb up to get fantastic views over Marsden, with a touch of local history thrown in. The walk will take approx two hours.

More information: National Trust Marsden Moor 01484 847016.

Saturday October 13Friday 19, Holmfirth Picturedrome, Sat 13, 1pm-4.30pm, Mamma

Mia sing-a-long – show for all the family, organised jointly with Holmfirth Parish Church, 7.30pm The Christians – hits including Hooverville, Ideal World, Harvest For The World; Sun 14, Ian Hunter (ex Mott The Hoople) and The Rant Band; Thurs 18, Scritti Politti (Wood Beez – Pray Like Aretha Franklin, Word Girl); Fri 19, Hazel O’Connor Greatest Hits Tour, including Breaking Glass Live. Tickets from the Box Office bar any weekday evening, 7-10pm, online at www.picturedrome.net Saturday October 13, Penistone Paramount, 2.30pm, Cinema Organ Trust concert with Robert Wolfe playing the 1937 Compton cinema pipe organ. Box office: 01226 767532.

Tuesday October 16, Holmfirth Methodist Church, 1.30-3.30pm, Dementia Awareness Cafe, friendly monthly get-together for anyone living with, or caring for someone with dementia.

Admission £2.50 including refreshments. To find out more, contact Nisah Imtiaz 07969 339 435 or Brian Garbett 0113 270 8673.

Thursday October 18 Saturday 20, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, 7pm, Thurs 18, Shakespeare Schools Festival: four youthful half-hour productions of Shakespeare plays; Fri 19, 7.30pm, Ralph McTell – one of British folk music’s great storytellers, renowned for his virtuoso guitar style, celebrating more than 40 years on the road; Sat 20, 7.30pm, Moonrise Kingdom – vivid nostalgia and deadpan comedy in a brilliantly quirky tale. Box office 01484 430528, www.thelbt.org Thursday October 18 Saturday 20, Huddersfield Town Hall, Thurs 18, 7.30pm, Northern Sinfonia concert, featuring works by Schumann and Brahms.

Ticket information: 01484 222444 (Holmfirth) or 223200 (Huddersfield); Sat 20, Pride of Yorkshire Concert, 7.15pm, with the Band of the Yorkshire Regiment and New Mill Male Voice Choir, supporting the Yorkshire Regiment Benevolent Trust. Tickets £8 to £18.

More details: info@newmillmvc.org.uk Friday October 19 December 16, ‘Kindred Spirits’ exhibition by Natlia Dolgova and Peter Whiteman at North Light Gallery, Armitage Bridge.

Saturday October 20 Sunday 21, Holmfirth Picturedrome, Sat 20, ReGenesis, the UK’s most popular Genesis tribute band mark the 40th anniversary of the classic album ‘Foxtrot’; Sun 21, Bowling For Soup – pop-punk uberband, plus support: The Dollyrots and Patent Pending. Tickets from the Box Office bar any weekday evening, 7-10pm, online at www.picture-

Ralph McTell, appearing at Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, on October 19. drome.net Station. If you would like Sunday October 21, to take part, phone 01484 Holmfirth Farmers’ 221904 or 221905, e-mail Market, 8am-2pm, in the mayors.office@kirklees.g Market Hall, monthly ov.uk array of quality local proSaturday October 27, duce, fresh fruit and veg, Elysium and Back: 8.5 meats, cheeses, cakes, miles medium walk jams and much more. through woods and Information line: 01484 around the southern part 223730. of the Holme Valley, with Sunday October 21 a couple of steep hills Friday 26, Huddersfield and a variety of stiles.

Town Hall, Sun 21, Meet walk leader Ian at 7.30pm, Canadian comeHolmfirth Swimming dian Stewart Francis, Pool car park for star of Mock The Week, 10.30am start. More Michael McIntyre's information: contact Roadshow and Live At Susan, Kirklees The Apollo; Fri 26, Rhod Countryside Volunteers Gilbert: The Man with 07979 292 781.

The Flaming Battenberg Saturday October 27, Tattoo – the Welsh wonThe Three Billy Pigs der famous for his rants children's show in the on life’s minor irritations, Sygenta Cellar, Lawrence now a much more melBatley Theatre, low fellow. Ticket inforHuddersfield, at 11am, mation: 01484 222444 2pm and 3.30pm.

(Holmfirth) or 223200 Fundraising event in aid (Huddersfield). of Kirklees Theatre Trust Wednesday October 24 - a blend of two classic Saturday 27, Lawrence fairy tales with beautifulBatley Theatre, ly crafted puppets, light Huddersfield, presents A hearted storytelling and Government Inspector: live music. Box office ‘where there’s muck 01484 430528, there's brass’ .... this hyswww.thelbt.org terically funny tale of Saturday October 27, misdeeds, misadventure Hepworth Live presand mistaken identity in ents Cathryn Craig & a small Pennine town has Brian Willoughby, in plenty of both. concert at the village Performances 7.30pm hall, 8pm. Cathryn has nightly + 2.15pm worked in the US with Saturday. Box office artists such as The 01484 430528, Righteous Brothers, www.thelbt.org Nanci Griffith and Chet Friday October 26, Atkins. Brian was the guiHonley Library, 7.30pmtarist with The Strawbs 9pm, ‘Nine Novels in 34 for over 25 years. Tickets Minutes’ – author Peter £12 – book by phone Benson will read pas07845 921 527 or online sages from his novels, at interspersed with chat, www.WeGotTickets.com refreshments available.

Saturday October 27 Tickets £2 in advance Friday November 2, from the library.

Holmfirth Picturedrome, Saturday October 27, Sat 27, Wilko Johnson Free Halloween Disco (ex Dr Feelgood); Sun 28, at Yummy Yorkshire, Holmfirth Film Festival 4.30pm-late. Competition presents Once Upon A for the best fancy dress Time In Anatolia; Fri 2, for the under fives and Wishbone Ash – legover fives. The prize is endary classic rock band free ice-cream for a year with original lead gui(fancy dress is optional). tarist/vocalist Andy Saturday October 27 Powell. Tickets from the Sunday 28, The Mayor's Box Office bar any weekCharity Walk day evening, 7-10pm, Challenge – latest in online at www.pictureseries of events throughdrome.net out Kirklees: Sat 27, Tuesday October 30, 10am-1pm, Butchers Huddersfield Library, Arms, Hepworth to The 7pm-8.30pm, Haunted Fleece, Holme; Sun 28, Huddersfield: local 10am-2pm, The Fleece, author Kai Roberts with Holme to Marsden an illustrated talk about

his latest book. Suitable for age 11+ Tickets £2, £1 Kirklees Passport holders. More information 01484 226364.

Tuesday October 30 Saturday November 3, Marsden Parish Church AODS presents High Society: fabulous feelgood musical featuring some wonderful songs by the great Cole Porter.

Show times 7.30pm nightly. Tickets £9. Contact Malcolm Payne 01484 846758.

Wednesday October 31, March Haigh March: Meet at Marsden Station, 10am, for a walk out onto the moors, up to March Haigh Reservoir, and back across the picturesque Eastergate Bridge.

More information: National Trust 01484 847016.

Wednesday October 31 Thursday November 1, Holmfirth Library, Weds, 6pm-6.45pm, Spooky Bedtime Stories for the under 5s – parents, carers and teddies welcome too! Thurs, 11am-noon, Enigma: discover the secrets of code making and code breaking, suitable for ages 8 to 12 and parents /carers. Free, but booking essential. Phone 01484 222430.

Friday November 2, Meltham Library, 10amnoon, Get Gaming!

Come and try a variety of board games from around the world, suitable for all ages. Phone 01484 222606.

Saturday November 3, bonfire, firework display and hog roast at Yummy Yorkshire. Entry is with a ticket only.

Doors open at 5pm, bonfire at 6pm and fireworks at 6.30pm. Wellies are a must. Tickets are available in the Yummy Yorkshire Ice Cream parlour.

Saturday November 3, Huddersfield Light Opera: 100 Light Years, celebration evening to end the group's centenary year, at Lawrence Batley Theatre, 7.15pm.

Box office 01484 430528, www.thelbt.org Sunday November 11, Free falconry display at Yummy Yorkshire.

The birds will be available for close inspection on their perches in between the 2pm display in the marquee from 10.30am and 5pm.

Saturday December 1, Charity quiz night at Meltham Church Hall, Green End Road: joint venture by Holme Valley Oxfam Support Group and Holme Valley Fairtrade Support Group, with live music and a Fairtrade bar. £5 per person, including pie and peas supper.

Saturday December 8, Christ Church New Mill, Christmas Market, 10am-4pm, lots of stalls selling local produce and goods, also seasonal refreshments. Musical events will take place inside the church with local schoolchildren singing carols. Stalls are available to book – contact Jane Rodgers 01484 684745.

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 21

Gym a finalist in national awards

By Christina Eccles WAREHOUSE Gym in Honley has been named as a finalist in the prestigious National Fitness Awards for the second year running.

The gym is one of six facilities shortlisted in the Regional Gym: North and Scotland category, beating off competition from hundreds of nominations nationwide.

The NFAs are the biggest and best free-to-enter awards in the gym industry and recognise excellence, innovation and hard work.

The 2012 awards, organised by Script Media in conjunction with leading fitness industry magazine WorkOut, were launched at the beginning of the year and hundreds of gyms entered before nominations closed at the beginning of September.

Each shortlisted gym will now be visited by the National Fitness Awards judging team who will be travelling to gyms as far north as Aberdeen and as far south as Falmouth to meet the owners and staff, tour the facilities and present a detailed report to an expert panel of judges.

Gym owner Andy Peacock said: “Everyone at Warehouse Gym are ecstatic

over being shortlisted at the National Fitness Awards for a second year running.

“I personally feel proud of all the staff here who work above and beyond what is asked of them to help get people fit and healthy but at the same time take a personal pride in keeping everyone happy. In the current climate it’s essential every business provides value and excellent customer service.

“The National Fitness Awards recognises this and they judge gyms on what they provide, not just how they look, which reassures us that what we are doing is not just right, but better than others.”

Trophies will be handed out at a glittering ceremony on November 30 at The Athena in Leicester, hosted by personal trainer and TV personality Charlotte Ord – giving the entire industry the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the winners and mark the end of another successful year in business.

National Fitness Awards event director Judith Halkerston added: “All our shortlisted gyms have beaten off stiff competition to make it through to the finals. The quality of entries was exceptionally high this year and it

Northern Broadsides to stage new version of classic satire

Andy Peacock was a daunting task to choose the top six but we believe we have made the right choices and we congratulate all the gyms for getting this far.

“Our awards evening always has a party atmosphere and we are working hard to ensure that the evening will not only have all the excitement of the winners being announced but will also celebrate excellence and innovation in our industry.”

FOLLOWING the critical success of Accidental Death Of An Anarchist (sold out at the LBT in 2009), Northern Broadsides’ associate director Conrad Nelson and playwright Deborah McAndrew once again team up to bring their unique brand of Northern inventiveness and humour to the stage with A Government Inspector, a Yorkshire take on Gogol’s fantastical satire The Government Inspector.

Created in partnership with Harrogate Theatres, the new production will be at

the Lawrence Batley Theatre from October 24-27.

In a small Pennine town a mysterious stranger is mistaken for a government inspector.

Fearing discovery of their corrupt goings-on, the town’s unscrupulous councillors attempt to ingratiate themselves.

Bribes, backhanders and brown envelopes abound and the young chap, who has an eye for a quick buck, takes full advantage with hilarious results.

No one is better posi-

tioned to breathe life and vigour into this barmy story than Northern Broadsides, one of the country’s finest and best-loved touring theatre companies.

If you like your references topical, your heart warmed and your brass bands live, look no further than A Government Inspector. An absurdly funny tale.

Tickets for A Government Inspector are priced at £12 £16 (Concessions £2 off) and can be purchased at the Box Office on 01484 430528 or online at www.thelbt.org

Have you got news for us? Call us on 07747 447 023

22 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Jewellery shop is a real gem A GEM of a shop has found a new home right in the heart of Holmfirth.

After nearly four years at the Riverside Shopping Centre, Jiana Jewellery is now up and running at 76 Huddersfield Road, between Outdoor Attitude and Holmfirth Pet Centre.

It is packed with a wide selection of sterling silver and gemstone jewellery, a range of 9ct gold items and lots of costume jewellery, including the exciting new fashion range with designer appeal from Honley based company “Zigi”.

Many of the beaded gemstone earrings, necklaces and bracelets are made in store by Patsy, the owner, who can make items to customers’ specifications to co-ordinate with special outfits or for special occasions, such as school proms.

She can also repair and re-design your broken or old jewellery, and is happy to talk you through the options using natural gemstones and crystals

Interiors shop opens to offer very special pieces THERE’S a new place to find quality bed linens and beautiful home furnishings in Holmfirth.

Harrisons Interiors has opened on Huddersfield Road in the town centre.

Inside the light and spacious showroom, home style lovers will find handcrafted wooden furniture for dining, living and bedrooms, original watercolours by local artists and beautifully displayed lighting, giftware and accessories, all handpicked by owner Avelynne Harrison.

Avelynne is particularly proud to offer a range of bed linens, quilts, throws and cushions – the first time for a while Holmfirth shoppers have been able to buy these locally.

The bedware range includes sheets, duvet covers and pillow cases in Egyptian cotton, satin stripe and luxury percale, all manufactured in Manchester with a seven year guarantee.

For such quality bed linen, the range offers excellent value with duvet covers starting from £28.

Avelynne and her partner Nige Beever clearly have an eye for stylish home interiors. The business began life in 2011 as a successful online supplier of furniture with traditional and contemporary items of English oak, white shabby chic and Indian

dark wood. Selected examples from the ranges are on show in the new shop, with the option to order different pieces and sizes.

There are many unusual designs too, including eye-catching cedar wood and glass occasional tables and cast iron garden accessories.

For anyone looking for that very special piece, Harrisons offers a made to measure furniture service with reasonably priced items created by a local master craftsman using locally sourced materials. Just go into the shop to discuss your requirements.

Avelynne and Nige are committed to running an ethical business and using local suppliers in every way possible. The walls of the shop are hung with original artwork by local artists including Mick Kirkby-Geddes, Jeff Beaumont, Keith Mountain, Geoffrey Harrop and Sarah Branson with more names to come. Also on display are pieces of Sarah Stillman’s bright tableware range.

Harrisons Interiors, 54-56 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth, HD9 3JH 01484 687500 , www.harrisonsinteriors.com Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5.30pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm.

tailored to your requirements.

Jewellery making is a skill Patsy has acquired since starting the business, but her eye for colour and design is natural, as she is an accomplished artist and displays some of her original paintings in the shop.

Patsy has always painted, though she has never had any formal training.

After retiring from the Valuation Office Agency where she worked as a surveyor valuer until 2008, she decided to realise a long-held ambition to display her art

Firm offers a wide range of fireworks HONLEY firm Holme Build Supplies has established a reputation as the builder’s merchant on your doorstep who supply a huge range of products together with an unbeatable friendly and knowledgeable service.

In addition to being trade specialists, the DIY shop at Holme Build Supplies stock everything for the DIY enthusiast and

there is no need to travel for your requirements as everything is stocked in the Honley branch.

However, as Autumn approaches and with Bonfire Night in mind, Holme Build extends its services to offer the widest range of fireworks in the area at unbeatable prices.

Last year the promotion of its firework sale resulted in long queues in the build-

Town’s newest cafe wine bar offers something for everyone WHETHER YOU enjoy a morning coffee in relaxed surroundings, lunchtime nibbles with friends or sharing an evening bottle of wine, Cellar 88, the newest addition to Holmfirth’s bar scene, can offer it all.

Opened at the end of September

by Kayti Naylor, Cellar 88 is a cafe wine bar with a modern twist.

And going by the reaction of the hundred-or-so people who packed the Huddersfield Road venue for its opening nights, it could become one of the town’s most popular.

Upstairs, the clean and contemporary decor with spacious tables and soft chairs provides an ideal venue for daytime relaxing over a selection of coffee, tea – including popular teapigs – and other hot drinks, with nibbles and snacks such as fresh sandwiches, warming soups and tempting handmade cakes.

The Cellar’s full range of wines, beers and spirits are also, of

work, combining this with a love of accessories and jewellery.

In addition to the jewellery, she has a huge selection of lovely, unusual and exclusive scarves, also velvet jackets, shrugs, gloves and hats to complete that outfit, with stunning handbags at very reasonable prices.

There are greeting cards with reproductions of her paintings, and a lovely selection of cards for everyday, special birthdays and occasions, as well as unusual mystical and angelic cards, windchimes and sun-

catchers.

You will also find lots of gift bags and a good choice of wrapping paper for those gifts, although you will most probably get your purchase of jewellery or scarves already wrapped, ready to give with complimentary packaging!

One of the first things to greet you in the shop is the beautiful scent, from the selection of candles, incense, and reed diffusers by Abode Aroma.

Many people comment on the calm, tranquil ambience, which may be partly due to the presence of so many natural crystals – ask to see the selection of crystal carvings and tumblestones for sale.

In short, Jiana Jewellery is a real gem of a shop, but more than that, it is a treasure trove with so much more than you expect, so do call in for a chat and an unhurried, unpressured browse the next time you’re in the centre of Holmfirth.

course, available at all times.

Downstairs, the bar’s large vaulted cellar is ideally set-up for casual evenings out, well designed to create a perfect, buzzing atmosphere. Again, there’s a menu of bar snacks to accompany the full range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including cocktails.

Kayti knows what it takes to run a successful bar. She has previously helped her uncle to launch Junction One, Golcar’s cafe wine bar and has worked on the management team at Huddersfield’s Revolution bar. Now she’s brought all her experience working in the hospitality trade to Cellar 88.

She says: “I wanted it to be somewhere I’d like to go myself – I always think that’s a good test of any bar. If I’d like to go with my friends, then hopefully others will feel the same.

“I’ve taken great care in selecting the wine list for different tastes and we will be serving cocktails as

well. There’s a wide selection of cocktails to choose from, plus we’ll be doing special cocktails each week. And, if anyone has a favourite cocktail, we’ll do our best to make it for them – just come in and tell us about it.”

Kayti is planning a series of special events for Cellar 88, starting with a wine tasting on November 15 with her supplier House of Townsend. “It should be a good evening. People can come along, try the wines and learn a little about them,” she says.

“The downstairs vaulted cellar is perfect for events such as this. As well as holding our own event, the room is also available for private hire.”

For details of all events at Cellar 88, see the website www.cellar88.co.uk and keep up to date on Facebook at Cellar.88.Holmfirth.

Cellar 88 is open Tuesday to Sunday from 11am.

up to bonfire night as a result of which director Andrew Skelton has taken steps this year to make things much easier for their customers.

He said: “Fireworks will be in stock from early October and special offers range from a bag of sparklers reduced from 99p to 89p to a complete firework display reduced from £79.99 to £64.99.”

In addition, and to avoid the queues of last year, Holme Build are offering an additional 10 per cent discount to customers who purchase fireworks before the end of October on presentation of the voucher featured in this month’s Holme Valley Review.

Holme Build Supplies can be found at Queen Square Mills, Huddersfield Road, Honley HD9 6QZ.

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 - 23

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28 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

Getting ready for Winter SEPTEMBER has been a busy month preparing for winter.

Our sheds have been mucked out and cleaned ready to house our cattle later in the year.

Our cows will graze the fields as late as November, depending on the weather.

We will then house them indoors until early spring when they will return to the fields.

Housing cattle over winter provides them with shelter and prevents our land being churned up or poached.

We have also taken delivery of 147 bales of straw to feed our livestock through the coming winter and our farmyard manure has been spread to fertilise our land.

Earlier this month we purchased two Lleyn tups – male breeding sheep. In a couple of weeks we shall introduce them to our main flock of 240 ewes which, all being well, will lamb next March.

Our breeding ewes have been turned to fresh pasture to “flush up” in preparation for mating.

“Flushing up” is feeding the ewes well, with a highly nutritious diet to enhance their body condition in preparation for mating.

This has been shown to increase fertility and the likelihood of becoming pregnant.

The two Lleyn tups which will main flock of 240 ewes.

We graze our ewes on fresh grass and feed them high energy feed blocks, similar to toffee, for two to three weeks before introducing our tups.

Before mating we also worm the ewes to rid them of internal parasites and give them a dose of vitamins so they are in the very best condition.

Last month we introduced one of our older tups to a small number of ewes, these will lamb next February, earlier than our main flock.

Splitting lambing in this way reduces our work load during the main lambing season and ensures we have ample space in our barns to cater for all our expectant mums due in March.

The tups will run with our ewes for three weeks after

shortly be introduced to the which their work is finished for the year and they will continue grazing our fields separate from our ewes until next Autumn.

The ewes will spend much of the winter in the fields, only coming indoors if the weather is exceptionally bad.

For the past few months Alex Clapham has been helping Andrew on the farm.

Alex has now begun studying agriculture at Askham Bryan college, near York, where he will learn all aspects of farming from arable to hill farming, machinery, farm business and legislation.

As part of his studies Alex will continue working with Andrew, learning about our farm business and gaining further practical farming experience.

‘Property of the Month’ Woodcroft, 23 Brownhill Lane, Holmbridge - Offers In The Region Of £499,950 Our pick for property of the month is Woodcroft, a delightful family home located in a tucked away location off of Brownhill Lane in Holmbridge.

It enjoys delightful views towards Holme Moss and is situated right on the edge of this sought after village adjoining open countryside. The property is located within large gardens amounting to approximately 0.3 acres incorporating extensive lawns, patio, small stream with bridge and vegetable garden together with parking for 3 or 4 cars.

Open to view Saturday 6th October 2 PM - 4 PM and Sunday 7th October 10 AM - 12.00 NOON

The present owners have renovated and remodelled the property extensively since purchasing it approximately 10 years ago. It was originally a 2 bedroom bungalow but now boasts extensive family sized accommodation comprising: entrance hall, large lounge, 4 bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite shower room on the upper floor and large dining kitchen, delightful garden room, large store, utility, cloakroom/w.c. on the lower floor. The property is enhanced by a gas central heating system, Upvc double glazing, attractive modern fittings and a burglar alarm system.

The property is open to view without an

appointment on Saturday 6th October 2pm to 4pm and Sunday 7th October 10am to 12 noon.

Alternatively an individual appointment can be made by contacting the agents Wm. Sykes & Son (01484) 683543.

DIRECTIONS Take the A6024 Woodhead Road out of Holmfirth for approx 1 ½ miles. In the village of Holmbridge continue past the church and take the first left and then via right onto Bank Lane. At the top of Bank Lane it becomes Brownhill Lane and the property will be seen on the left at the bottom of Kiln House Bank Lane (HD9 2QW)

Marketed by

Telephone 01484 683543

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 29

Wm. Sykes and Son are Holmfirth's

longest established independent estate agents and auctioneers. Established in 1866 we have provided over 140 years of continued service to property owners and purchasers.

We specialise in the sale of residential and agricultural properties in and around the towns of Huddersfield, Holmfirth and Penistone. We offer a full estate agency service with competitive selling fees.

Our experienced and caring staff are always on hand to assist in the sale or purchase of your property.

• FREE SALES VALUATIONS • AUCTION • RICS HOMEBUYERS’ REPORTS • RENTALS Holme Farm, Nettleton Hill Road, Scapegoat Hill

Offers Region £750,000 This unique property comprises of a detached bungalow, with further annex / garage block, agricultural building and approximately 8 acres of grazing land. The property has been extensively renovated and improved by the present owners but still allows a future owner to complete things to their own needs. The bungalow comprises: entrance hall, lounge, sitting room, dining kitchen, downstairs wc, utility, landing, 4 bedrooms, house bathroom and en-suite bathroom. There is additional accommodation in the annex which features a double garage, large living kitchen, bedroom, shower room and 3 further rooms upstairs. There are generous garden areas around the house with ample parking, field shelter and a block of grazing land amounting to approximately 8 acres.

14 Badger Gate, Meltham, Holmfirth

Woodcroft, 23 Brownhill Lane, Holmbridge

Offers Region £499,950 ** OPEN TO VIEW SAT 6th OCTOBER, 2pm - 4pm & SUN 7th OCTOBER, 10am - 12 noon. **

Occupying a delightful position with views over the Upper Holme Valley towards Holme Moss is this splendid stone built 4 bedroom detached house. The house enjoys an attractive outlook over its own large gardens which incorporate extensive lawns, patio, small stream with bridge, vegetable garden together with parking for 3 or 4 cars. The house itself offers spacious accommodation including entrance hall, large lounge, 4 bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite shower room on the upper floor and large dining kitchen, delightful garden room, large store, utility, cloakroom/w.c on the lower floor. The property is enhanced by a gas central heating system, Upvc double glazing, attractive modern fittings and a burglar alarm system. Viewing is strongly recommended to appreciate the size of accommodation on offer and the delightful gardens. No Upper Chain.

Holmeside, 10 Holme View Park, Upperthong

26 Heys Road, Thongsbridge, Holmfirth

Offers Region £465,000 This spacious individual detached home is ideally designed and positioned for family living.

It is located close to schools and amenities on surprisingly good sized plot. The spacious accommodation comprises: entrance hall, downstairs wc, study, lounge, stunning open plan dining kitchen with garden room, utility, landing, 4 double bedrooms, dressing room, 2 ensuites, family bathroom and a large attic / playroom. It is finished to a high standard throughout with triple glazed windows, underfloor heating and quality modern fittings throughout. There is a generous parking area to the front of the house, integral double garage and gardens to both sides and the rear of the house. Available with no vendor chain.

Steps Fold, 16 Magdale, Honley

Carmel House, Deanbrook Road, Netherthong Offers Region £419,950 A large individually designed detached house situated in this delightful village location. The house offers spacious and flexibly arranged accommodation including entrance hall, office/bedroom 5, lounge, sitting room, dining room, dining kitchen, utility, large reception hall, large landing, 4 double bedrooms, 2 en-suite shower rooms and family bathroom. There are attractive gardens and sitting areas, an integral garage with driveway and parking area.

The house has a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazed windows, burglar alarm system, a newly re-fitted kitchen with Aga, a newly installed bathroom and en-suite facilities. A unique property which must be viewed internally to appreciate the size and quality of accommodation on offer, with no upper chain. Would also consider a part exchange.

Atkinson House, 4 Salter Calder Court, Honley

Offers Region £374,000

Offers Region £369,000

Offers Region £349,950

Offers Region £259,950

A beautifully presented Grade II listed period residence of great charm and character featuring mullioned windows, exposed beams and timber work together with cottage style fittings. The property occupies a delightful position in a little known backwater of Meltham, with large gardens, double garage and additional parking area. The cottage offers attractively laid out accommodation including entrance porch, sitting room, breakfast kitchen, rear hall, shower room/w.c., utility, study, dining hall with minstrel style gallery, 4 bedrooms and bathroom. The cottage has a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazing and timber frames and burglar alarm system. Internal viewing is recommended to appreciate the quality of accommodation on offer, the attractive position and gardens.

Occupying a choice position at the head of a small cul-de-sac of detached properties built to individual designs is this beautifully extended detached house. The house enjoys delightful views to the front towards Holme Moss and splendid outlook to the rear over fields and woodland. The house offers spacious and attractively laid out accommodation including entrance hall, dining room, large lounge, large extended dining kitchen overlooking the rear garden, 2 ground floor bedrooms and bathroom together with 2 first floor bedrooms, both having en-suite facilities. There is an integral double garage with adjoining store and additional store below the kitchen extension. There is a delightful decked seating area to the rear with garden area beyond and garden extending to the side and front. There is additional parking to the side of the property. The house has a gas central heating system and attractive fittings. Viewing is recommended to appreciate the delightful position of the property and extent of the internal accommodation.

This 3 storey grade II listed home is part of a converted former mill and offers spacious, flexible accommodation in a picturesque location within the Magdale valley. The property has delightful south facing gardens above the millpond and exceptional views over the valley and woods. It comprises entrance hall, dining room, kitchen, downstairs bathroom/wc, landing , 4bedrooms shower room and stunning 28' x24' approx living room on the top floor taking full advantage of the views. The house has undergone a scheme of recent improvements including the installation of a quality oak staircase and refurbished kitchen and bathroom but it also retains original features including exposed beams and mullioned windows with wide stone sills. There is a parking area to the side of the house, delightful gardens and useful outbuildings to the rear.

This spacious detached house is located in a small courtyard of just 4 similar homes close to the many amenities offered in Honley. The property has recently undergone a thorough scheme of modernisation and updating of fixtures and fittings. It comprises entrance hall, studio / games room, landing, dining kitchen, lounge, garden room, utility, cloakroom / wc, 4 bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazing and quality modern fittings throughout. In front of the house there is a parking area leading to the integral garage. To the rear there is an attractive enclosed garden area with lawn and elevated sitting area. Internal viewing is essential to fully appreciate the size and quality of accommodation.

12 Grove Houses, Gynn Lane, Honley

The Coach House, Ridings Lane, Thongsbridge

2 Old Mill Lane, New Mill Offers Region £242,950

A beautifully presented and imposing stone double fronted house situated in a pleasant position with attractive outlook to the front.

The house has attractively laid out accommodation with modern fittings and a gas central heating system. It comprises large lounge, dining kitchen, utility, rear hall, 2 cellars, 3 bedrooms, bathroom/w.c., and separate w.c. There is a delightful enclosed patio and good sized garden area. A delightful property situated in a popular residential area Viewing recommended.

Internal viewing is essential to fully appreciate the size and character offered in this unique home. It has been extensively modernised by the present owners who have finished the property to a high standard throughout. It comprises: entrance hall, 2 ground floor bedrooms, bathroom, utility, stunning first floor lounge / dining room with exposed roof trusses, kitchen and study / bedroom 3.

It has the benefit of gas central heating, double glazed windows and quality fixtures and fittings throughout. There is an attractive low maintenance garden to the front with a driveway leading to the integral garage.

This superb modern end townhouse occupies a pleasant location within a popular development located off Stoney Bank Lane. It has been well maintained by the present owners and is presented to a high standard throughout with upvc double glazing, gas central heating and modern fittings throughout. The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, downstairs WC, dining kitchen, garden room and integral garage on the ground floor. On the middle floor there is a landing and two reception rooms (one of which has a balcony to the rear) and on the upper floor there are 3 bedrooms, bathroom and an en-suite shower room. There is a driveway to the front of the house, path to the side and an attractive low maintenance garden to the rear.

The Old Band Room, 15 – 17 Dobb Lane, Hinchliffe Mill

221 – 223 Woodhead Road, Holmbridge

Oakleys, Burnlee Green, Liphill Bank Road, Holmfirth

Offers Region £255,000

Offers Region £185,000 This spacious and characterful home is a real one off being one of two properties converted from the former village band room and previously Wesleyan Methodist chapel, approximately 5 years ago. It occupies a pleasant location with attractive village views to the front. It is in close proximity to local amenities and countryside and within walking distance to Holmfirth village centre. The spacious accommodation comprises a large lounge and dining kitchen on the upper floor with two double bedrooms (en-suite wc and wetroom to the master), house bathroom, store and entrance hall on the ground floor. The property has the benefit of a gas central heating system and modern fixtures and fittings throughout. There is an attractive paved sitting area to the front of the house and a useful outbuilding providing storage.

Offers Region £245,000

Offers Region £149,950 Hidden away in this delightful position enjoying open views is this beautifully presented cottage style underdwelling. The cottage has great charm and character and features mullioned windows and exposed beams. It comprises sun porch, dining kitchen, lounge, 2 double bedrooms, study/dressing room and bathroom. There are good sized gardens to the front from which to enjoy the views. The cottage has a gas central heating system and sealed unit double glazing. Viewing is recommended to appreciate the delightful accommodation on offer.

Offers Region £130,000 A large 2 bedroomed inner terraced house requiring modernisation, situated in this popular residential area. The house comprises entrance hall, large lounge, kitchen, 2 double bedrooms and bathroom. Garden area to rear. The house requires updating of fittings throughout. Offered for sale with immediate vacant possession- no chain involved.

Tel/Fax 01484 683543

43 Moorbrook Mill Drive, New Mill

Offers Region £225,000 Located on a popular modern development this three storey town house is ideally located for the local amenities on offer in New Mill. It offers spacious and flexible family sized accommodation which must be viewed to be fully appreciated. It comprises entrance hall, downstairs wc, living kitchen, lounge, 4 bedrooms (3 of which are doubles), en-suite shower room. The property is presented to a high standard throughout and has attractive modern fixtures and fittings alongside a gas central heating system, and uPVC double glazed windows. There is an attractive enclosed garden to the rear along with a single garage and parking area

148 Dunford Road, Holmfirth Offers Region £119,950 This attractive inner terraced overdwelling occupies a popular residential location close to the centre of Holmfirth and its many amenities. It was refurbished approximately 10 years and remains in good condition but offers potential for some further improvements.

The accommodation comprises: dining kitchen, lounge, cellars, landing, 2 first floor bedrooms, shower room / wc and useful attic room. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system, uPVC double glazed windows and modern fixtures and fittings. For sale with vacant possession and no vendor chain.

www.wmsykes.co.uk

38 HUDDERSFIELD ROAD, HOLMFIRTH, HUDDERSFIELD HD9 3JH

30 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012

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

Lettings & Management available at all offices

Fairfield House, Hollowgate, Holmfirth 01484 689689

Local, regional, exceptional

Family’s dream home built from pieces of historical properties A PROPERTY in Brockholes that was custom built as one family’s dream home more than 30 years ago out of pieces reclaimed from historical properties is on the market.

The Birches, owned by the Brown family, is a five bedroom home that sits in Birch Park º called so because it used to be full of silver birch trees.

The Browns bought the land in 1977 and spent three years carefully crafting their home, using local tradesmen to help them build it.

They moved in in May 1980 and have had many happy years there – celebrating family milestones like silver and ruby wedding anniversaries and their children’s 18 and 21st birthday parties.

Shirley Brown said: “My husband was a solicitor in Holmfirth and three businessmen bought the three plots of land in Birch Park to build on. But one of them decided to emigrate to South Africa and so they contacted my

husband to see if he wanted to buy the land.

“It wasn’t something I wanted to do – I hated new homes and I wanted something traditional as I’m really into antiques but whatever we had been to see just hadn’t been right, there was rising damp or something wrong.

“So we decided to build the detached house and I agreed to it but on the agreement with my husband that we keep the plot and built on it ourselves, not selling it on and also on the condition that I have a reproduction house.”

The house was built from old stone reclaimed from a nearby old mill that had been demolished and Shirley insisted on installing ‘period’ style features like a big bay window in the lounge, placing rounded tops on the interior doors and roaring fire places.

She said: “The front door is very old, is came from an old church that had been demolished. It had big brass hinges that took me hours, and hours to

clean. The fire place came out of a large mansion that was being pulled down and we had the spindles for the staircase turned to suit us as the ones we’d looked at were too spindly, like matchsticks.”

Shirley added: “It really is too big for us now. I can remember my daughter growing up and she had a pony in the garden, it’s been a great family home but it’s time to move on.

We’ve loved it here and it suited us, I’m sure the new family who moves in will want to make some changes but we’ve been very happy here.”

The Birches is in Brockholes and is priced at offers over £500,000. It has five bedrooms (one with en suite), a cloakroom, sitting room with glazed doors out to the mature lawned gardens, family room with broad bay and doors out to gardens, part panelled dining room, breakfast kitchen, pantry, utility room, fabulous first floor landing, five bedrooms, huge bathroom, double garage and driveway.

www.simonblyth.co.uk

Open 7 days a week

Holme Valley Review, October 2012 – 31

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

Lettings & Management available at all offices

Fairfield House, Hollowgate, Holmfirth 01484 689689

Local, regional, exceptional RYEFIELD HOUSE, SCHOLES

O/A £625,000

WILLOW HOUSE, SOUTHGATE, HONLEY

O/A £349,950

STANDING WITHIN MATURE GARDENS OF APPROXIMATELY ONE ACRE, RYEFIELD HOUSE IS A SUBSTANTIAL FOUR DOUBLE BEDROOM DETACHED BUNGALOW WITH A STUNNING FAMILY ROOM. Occupying a prominent corner plot within this well regarded local village with amenities only a short walk away the property stands within mature private gardens and has been extended to create an annex with its own separate entrance.Automatic entrance gates give access to its long tree lined driveway which leads to extensive parking and its double garage. Briefly comprising of entrance hallway, bay windowed lounge, dining room, quality kitchen with range style cooker and adjoining garden room.There is a family room, side entrance porch, three double bedrooms and house bathroom. The fourth double bedroom has its own en-suite, a utility having been a kitchen in the past and a first floor study. It also includes good sized cellar rooms and a storage room above the double garaging.There is a good sized lawned garden around the property.Viewing is essential.

THIS SPACIOUS 4 / 5 BEDROOM HOME CLOSE TO THE VILLAGE CENTRE YET ENJOYING A QUIETER POSITION WITH VIEWS ACROSS THE CRICKET FIELD OPPOSITE. Set back from Southgate,Willow House stands on a level plot enjoying a southerly aspect with views over the cricket ground opposite and farmland with Thurstonland in the distance. It is only a short walk from the centre of Honley with its array of local amenities and schooling making it an ideal family home and location.The accommodation offers some amount of flexibility with the option of having a ground floor fifth bedroom. Briefly comprising entrance vestibule, hallway, downstairs w.c., lounge, separate dining room, breakfast kitchen with appliances and granite working surfaces, utility, conservatory, study/optional bedroom 5.To the first floor the master bedroom has en-suite shower room and walk-in wardrobe/dressing room, three further double bedrooms and house bathroom.There is a block paved double width driveway, integral garage with automatic door, lawned gardens, the rear having a patio area.With double glazing, alarm and central heating system Willow House is an ideal family home close to the village centre with no comprise to be made with garden size or parking.

BLUEHILLS LANE, DENBY DALE

ST GEORGES ROAD, SCHOLES

O/O £199,950

O/A £155,000

A FOUR BEDROOM INNER TOWNHOUSE PRESENTED TO A HIGH STANDARD THROUGHOUT ENJOYING A PLEASANT OUTLOOK AND OCCUPYING AN IDEAL COMMUTING LOCATION. This ideal family home has quality fixtures and fittings throughout and provides contemporary living space over three floors which comprises of an entrance hallway with a guest WC and a recently re-designed dining kitchen, including a built-in oven and hob, with French doors giving access into the garden. On the first floor is the spacious lounge with twin Juliette style balconies and also the master bedroom with its en-suite shower room with double shower cubicle. On the top floor are three further bedrooms and the stylish house bathroom with a shower.There is a driveway, integral garaging and an enclosed rear garden with a seating area and lawn.There is PVCu glazing and a gas fired central heating system. The property has the advantage of the outlook at the front and is ideally placed for access to surrounding major arterial roads and the train station within Denby Dale Village.An inspection is advised. NO UPPER CHAIN INVOLVEMENT **** Recently reduced ***

A WELL APPOINTED STONE BUILT TWO DOUBLE BEDROOM END COTTAGE HAVING THE ADVANTAGE OF A SIDE DRIVEWAY AND ENCLOSED GARDEN WITH STONE BUILT OUTBUILDING. Set back from the village centre the property has its major selling feature of a side driveway and rear garden with stone built outbuildings which would be ideal for a home office, possible study or hobby room.The interior of the property itself is particularly characterful with timber panelled ceiling, exposed beams, mullioned windows and superb fireplace and multifuel stove. Briefly comprising: well presented lounge, useful keeping cellar and kitchen with oven and hob.To the first floor is a large bathroom and a double bedroom and to the top floor is a superb open plan second bedroom or optional reception room with exposed timbers and beams.There is a gas fired central heating system and part double glazing.The property has no upper chain involvement.

BRADSHAW DRIVE, HONLEY

ST GEORGES ROAD, SCHOLES

£139,950

O/A £135,000

A SUPERBLY APPOINTED THREE BEDROOMED SEMI-DETACHED HOME HAVING UNDERGONE AN EXTENSIVE PROGRAMME OF UPGRADING AND MODERNISATION,A GOOD SIZED GARDEN, LARGE DRIVEWAY AND DETACHED DOUBLE GARAGE. Presented to the very highest of standards throughout and therefore requiring an early inspection the property has a high specification interior with particular note are the kitchen and bathroom. Ideally placed for local amenities within Honley centre the property has the added advantage of no upper involvement. It comprises entrance hallway, kitchen with top of the range ovens, lounge diner with oak flooring and multifuel stove.To the first floor the house bathroom has a Roca suite and travertine tiling.There are three good sized bedroom with the master having built-in furniture.There are lawned front and rear gardens, patio areas, pond, extensive parking on the long driveway which widens before the property's detached double garage.There is a gas fired central heating system with condensing boiler, double-glazing. Essential viewing.

A STONE BUILT TWO BEDROOM END OF TERRACE COTTAGE LOCATED IN THE HEART OF THIS POPULAR VILLAGE WITH THE ADDED ADVANTAGE OF OFF ROAD PARKING AND REAR GARDEN AREA. Set back from St Georges Road and enjoying a southerly aspect the property has the added advantage of side driveway and space for garaging (subject to any necessary consents or permissions) and also a small garden area to the rear. It has no upper chain involvement and comprises of a characterfull lounge with multifuel stove, kitchen with oven and hob.To the first floor are two bedrooms, one double and one single and a house bathroom.

There is a gas fired central heating system and part PVCu double glazing.

HELME LANE, MELTHAM

MARSH, HONLEY

O/A £129,950

A SUPERBLY APPOINTED CHARACTERFULL INNER COTTAGE WITH AN ATTENTION TO DETAIL RARELY FOUND,TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS, ENCLOSED REAR GARDEN AND BEING CONVENIENT FOR LOCAL AMENITIES. A superb example of a character cottage with mullioned windows, exposed beams and complimented by stylish contemporary interior.The property itself comprises of entrance vestibule, superb lounge with beams, feature fireplace with gas stove, dining kitchen with integrated oven and hob and a useful cellar.

To the first floor are two double bedrooms and a house bathroom with white suite.There is a rear garden with decking which is enclosed.The interior has been upgraded throughout and upon viewing potential purchasers will be impressed.

O/A £122,000

IN A QUIET COURT YARD SETTING CLOSE TO THE VILLAGE CENTRE THIS EXCEPTIONALLY CHARACTERFULL COTTAGE ENJOYS DELIGHTFUL ACCOMMODATION INCLUDING A SUPERB BARREL VAULTED DINING KITCHEN (17'8" X 8'10"), LARGE LOUNGE (17'2" X 17'10") AND TWO DOUBLE BEDROOMS. Beautifully presented throughout the home exudes character from every corner and is fitted with double glazing and gas fired central heating. Briefly comprising: lounge with attractive fireplace and windows to both the front and the rear, dining kitchen, first floor landing, two bedrooms and a house bathroom.Viewing is highly recommended.

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32 – Holme Valley Review, October 2012