South Leeds Life 129 April 2026

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Covering Beeston, Belle Isle, Cottingley, Holbeck, Hunslet, Middleton, Riverside & Stourton

FIGHTING FOR THEIR COMMUNITY CENTRE

Trustees plan to sell Cottingley Community Centre building

by Jeremy Morton

Residents on the Cottingley Hall estate are fighting keep their community centre after the Trustees who own the building announced that they plan to sell it.

The Trustees, representatives of the Church of England, Methodist Church and United Reformed Church, maintain that they need to sell the building as it no longer fulfils their charitable aim of providing a place of worship. They further maintain that charity law means it must be sold on the open market at full market price which they have been advised is £400,000.

Local residents in the Friends of Cottingley Community Centre have met with the trustees, but failed to persuade them to keep the centre open. They are now in the process of registering the building as a Community Asset, which would give them first refusal to buy it before it goes on the market and they’ve launched a fundraising drive.

The two storey building houses a GP surgery, church and community centre.

The centre is a crucial hub on the estate which lost its pub years ago and has lost other facilities including a post office more recently. Its railway station is set to shut when White Rose station is completed and now the GP surgery is also under threat.

hosted at the centre cover all age groups, providing healthy activities and breaking down social isolation.

Christine Smart from the Friends of Cottingley Community Centre said:

“Every day, our community centre opens its doors to people of all ages, backgrounds, and stories. It’s more than a building—it’s a lifeline.

“It’s where children discover their talents in arts, crafts, and baking. Where young people find safety, friendship, and purpose at youth club. Where families access essential support through our community pantry. And where countless other activities bring hope, connection, and opportunity.

“It’s also where the Eritrean and Zimbabwean communities have found a home for their own Youth Provisions and Church. They describe the centre as their home and they should, having been part of the centre for 8 years.”

Michael the Eritrean leader said "You cannot build a community when community activities don't happen where you live, our children have grown up in the building and we want it to stay."

Commenting on the situation, Pat McGeever, CEO of Health For All explained:

“Health for All was approached for support several years ago by a former

Cottingley trustee when the Centre was at risk of closure due to funding constraints. We stepped in to support the local community, building trust and securing small grants to fund the crucial Coordinator post and running costs.

Financial support from National Lottery Awards for All and a Wellbeing grant with support from local Councillors has kept the Centre open since

that time.

“We at Health for All requested a lease for the community centre in recent years which would have enabled us to apply for both capital grants for building improvements and revenue grants to sustain staff posts for the longer term.

However, the trustees were informed by their legal advisors this solution was not possible

which has been unfortunate and difficult to understand.

“Christine and the team of local volunteers are truly amazing, keeping the centre running as home for activities and groups for all ages, including a wonderful Community Food Pantry, weekly health enhancing activity groups, church groups.

The GP surgery also hosted Continued on page 5

About us

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

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

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

Our aims

To inform people of events, activities, issues and opportunities taking place in the South Leeds community;

To encourage the involvement of the wider community in communicating their experiences;

To foster community spirit and involvement; and

To provide a platform for local people to contribute and respond to community life more fully.

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

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

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£15m Holbeck sports hub given final green light

Finalgo-ahead was given for work to start on a major new £15million sports hub in Holbeck at Leeds City Council’s executive board meeting on 11 March.

Senior councillors gave approval to appoint an agreed contractor to complete the work which will deliver top-class sports pitches and a new community space.

With work expected to start in August 2026, Holbeck Sports Hub will provide three full-size artificial grass football pitches, two multi-use games areas and a building with changing rooms and a café.

The hub is set to be built at the site of the former Matthew Murray High School with the ambition to also provide a new home to a GP surgery.

This would contribute to the wide-ranging health and wellbeing benefits that the development will bring for local residents.

Other elements of the development include a children’s play area and walking and running routes through the green space which sits off Brown Lane East and Ingram Road.

The new all-weather

pitches will provide sustainable, high-quality training facilities to reduce the impact on grass pitches and help overcome the shortfall of over 20 all-weather pitches across the city.

The Holbeck hub is the third in Leeds to be delivered in partnership with the Football Foundation as part of their national Parklife programme. Woodhall in Calverley is set to be completed for the

2026/27 playing season, and Green Park in Temple Newsam where work is starting this year.

All three hubs will be managed by the National Football Trust which is a not-for-profit organisation, with all surplus income generated to be reinvested into both the council’s and other third party-owned outdoor sports facilities.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for

adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said:

“We look forward to the work starting on the Holbeck Sports Hub, which will be a significant asset to the local community and residents in south Leeds.

“It will provide affordable and accessible quality sports pitches, providing more opportunities for physical activity and play and spaces to meet up and connect.

“We are also working towards an agreement with a GP practice so that the area can benefit from new high-quality healthcare provision to meet the needs of the community.”

The programme is joint funded by the Football Foundation and Leeds City Council capital funding.

Two storm overflow projects set to start in South Leeds

Yorkshire Water will begin two further storm overflow discharge reduction projects in South Leeds in the next two weeks – as part of a £1.5bn programme progressing across the county to improve water quality in the region’s rivers and seas.

The new projects mean a total of nine storm overflow improvement projects are now underway in the Leeds area.

The two new projects are:

A £2.2m project to create • 60m³ of additional storage in the network via a pipe nest solution at

Sussex Avenue in Hunslet.

A £4.7m project to install a • 250m³ storage tank on Jack Lane, also in Hunslet.

A third project will see the £3m installation of a new 250m3 underground storage tank on Spen Lane, at West Park, Headingley.

The additional 560,000 litres of storage created will hold excess wastewater, and rainwater flows during periods of heavy or prolonged rainfall, preventing it from being discharged into the River Aire. Wastewater will instead be held and sent for regular treatment when heightened flows have passed.

Storm overflows are designed to act as a relief valve for the combined sewer network, which carries both wastewater and surface water, during periods of heavy or prolonged rainfall.

They discharge when the system is at capacity to prevent flows backing up and flooding homes and gardens.

The work on Jack Lane will be carried out by partners Ward & Burke, and is expected to complete in spring 2027.

Contract partners M Group will be carrying out the Sussex Avenue project and are expecting to complete the work in September

2026.

Daniel Rhodes, project manager for Yorkshire Water, said:

“We’re planning to bring the number of storm overflow discharges into the river Aire from storm overflows in the Leeds are down by 72% over the next five years.

“These latest projects are an important step towards achieving that.”

Storm overflow discharge reduction projects are also on track at: Millshaw storm overflow in • Beeston, reducing discharges into Mill Shaw Beck Stourton, reducing discharges • into the River Aire

The work in Leeds forms part of the utility’s £1.5bn storm overflow investment project between 2025 and 2030, across over 450 overflows, and follows a £180m investment over the previous two years that helped to reduce discharges to the region’s watercourses by 12% in 2024 compared to 2023.

The storm overflow programme is part of Yorkshire Water’s £8.3bn investment into its services and the environment over the next five years.

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Elland Road land sale set to go ahead

by Don Mort

Thesale of land at Elland Road could attract £2bn of private investment to the city as the council presses ahead with the move.

Leeds City Council said the redevelopment of the site could include 2,000 new homes.

The Labour-run council is set to sell 30 acres of land around Leeds United’s stadium, which is itself set to redeveloped under plans by the club.

The land sale would be made to a joint venture company set up by the club and Lowy Family Group (LFG), an investor in United’s owners 49ers Enterprises. Peter Lowy, one of the Principals of LFG, is a Board member at LUFC.

The stadium is set to be expanded to a capacity of 53,000 after Leeds secured planning permission.

Deputy council leader Jonathan Pryor, speaking at an executive board meeting yesterday (11 March 2026) said:

“The development of Elland Road and disposal of this land will hugely benefit the local area.”

Cllr Pryor said funds raised from the sale would be used for infrastructure projects in the city.

Councillors agreed in principle to press ahead with legal agreements with the joint

venture company to make the sale possible.

The council justifies the one to one sale on the grounds that Leeds United already own land in the area and “the interface between stadium event day operations and delivery of surrounding regeneration.” For example phasing the building projects to tie in with the reprovision of match day parking.

The price for the land sale will be set by an independent RICS ‘Red Book’ valuation.

Alan Lamb, Conservative group leader, said similar stadium projects had benefited communities in Liverpool and Manchester. But he was concerned about the Leeds project after plans for a £2.5bn

tram system for the city were delayed.

Coun Lamb, who represents Wetherby, said:

“The one elephant in the room in all of this is the impact of mass transit.”

Coun Pryor said the Elland Road plans were not contingent on delivery of the transport scheme. Council leader James Lewis said:

“The reality is, work is happening on developing the tram.”

A council report said plans for the Elland Road land could include a community sports arena and education facilities. It said:

“This provides a long-term vision for the regeneration of the site and aims to position

the location as an exemplar in sports and transport-led regeneration. It is envisaged that over £2bn of investment could be secured.”

Commenting on the decision, Councillor Andrew Scopes (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck) said:

“The journey for the redevelopment of the Elland Road area could be really good for our area, if it is done in the right way and they stick to the commitments around dealing with matchday parking and making the environment better for everyone across Beeston, Holbeck and Cottingley Hall.

“With the same people owning the football club and developing the area, I’m optimistic that managing matchdays (including parking) will be incentivised (as it could impact on the value of the properties).”

Don Mort is the Local Democracy Reporter. Additional reporting by Jeremy Morton.

Historic water mill sold to property developer

Thwaite Mill at Stourton has been sold to what the BBC described as an “Ilkley-based property developer.”

The mill which includes six buildings on a 19 acre site and is Grade II listed, was owned by the Canal & River Trust and leased to Leeds City Council who operated the fully working water mill as a museum. It closed in 2024 due to the council’s funding crisis and the owners decided to sell the site.

A spokesperson for Leeds Civic Trust said:

“We are keen to speak to the purchasers of the building to

understand their intentions and work with them to see the building back in use.

“This is a listed building and is a unique part of the city’s industrial history. The building needs to have a viable and practical use but we are keen to ensure that whatever is done is sympathetic to the history and heritage.”

The mill’s history goes back to at least 1774 and was a working mill until 1975 grinding chalk to make putty. Local historian Ken Burton wrote two articles about the mill in March and April 2024.

Key information and dates for May’s local elections

Leeds City Council has issued the key information and dates for voters to be aware of ahead of this year’s local election in May.

Voting for 33 seats on the council, one for each ward area of the city, takes place on Thursday 7 May 2026. This will be followed by counting and the results being announced the following day.

The first step in the voting process is being registered to vote. The deadline to do so for anyone not already registered is midnight on Monday 20 April. This includes anyone who has moved home and needs to register at their new address. Registration takes just five minutes and can be completed online at www.gov.uk/registerto-vote

The next step is choosing which method to use to vote, either in person, by post, or by appointing someone trusted to

vote on your behalf, which is known as a proxy vote.

Under new government rules, all registered postal voters needed to have reapplied by renewing their details by the end of January in order to continue voting using that method.

Leeds City Council has since contacted all of those who did not respond by that deadline with information and guidance on their options.

Anyone previously registered to vote by post who did not complete that renewal in time and wishes to vote by post again will need to reapply in order to do so via www. leeds.gov.uk/elections/postalvoting before 5pm on Tuesday 21 April.

For those voting in person on election day, the election will continue the national system of a valid form of Voter ID needing to be shown at the polling

station. Guidance on what forms of identification will be accepted and how to apply for a new free Voter ID if required can be seen at www.leeds .gov.uk/elections/voter-id

All community hubs and libraries in Leeds will be able to help voters complete the application form including having their photo taken. The deadline to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate (free voter ID) is 5pm on Tuesday 28 April.

Poll cards for everyone registered to vote in Leeds will be posted out from March 27 onwards. Residents are being asked to check the details on their poll cards when they arrive to ensure they are correct, and also to note the location of their polling station which may have changed.

Postal poll cards will also be sent to anyone registered to vote by post, followed by postal ballot packs which will be

issued from around 21 April. Anyone wishing to vote this way can apply to do so via www. leeds.gov.uk/elections/postalvoting. The deadline for applications for postal voting is 5pm on Tuesday 21 April, and the next reminder is for postal voters to send their completed postal vote back as early as possible to help manage demand.

Another option available is to vote by proxy, which can be applied for via www.leeds. gov.uk/elections. The deadline for applications to vote by proxy is 5pm on Tuesday 28 April.

All voters are advised to read the information sent through to them carefully when it arrives, and Electoral Registration Officer and chief executive of Leeds City Council Ed Whiting said:

“The pre-election period is set to start shortly, and it is very important all those who

wish to vote are registered to do so and by their chosen method. All registered voters will be receiving information in the coming weeks and it is essential to please read the documents and guidance thoroughly to ensure everything is correct so you can have your say on the seventh of May.”

It will be a requirement at polling stations on election day to establish the identity of all voters using one of the accepted forms of photo ID. It may be necessary for polling officials to ask voters to remove face coverings in order to verify their identity. Privacy

booths will be available at all polling stations, with a choice of a male or female official to carry out the check.

The Leeds elections team can be contacted to address any issues using the helpline at 0113 222 4411 or by emailing electors@leeds.gov.uk

As in previous years, South Leeds Life will publish details of all the candidates standing in Beeston & Holbeck, Hunslet & Riverside and Middleton Park wards. We will hold online hustings meetings and put your questions to the candidates on Tuesday 28, Wednesday 29 and Thursday 30 April.

Scale of roadside rubbish problem laid bare at Hunslet Moor

Thousands of bags of rubbish are set to be collected over the coming weeks on England’s motorways and major A roads in support of the Great British Spring Clean.

Littering on England’s major roads is a problem all year round, a recent study conducted by National Highways revealed.

More than a fifth (22%) of people admit to littering on motorways and A roads, an increase of 9% (up from 13%) compared with 2024, with more than half (55%) unaware that littering could lead to delays due to road workers needing to pick up litter. Meanwhile, 35% of those surveyed did not consider how littering could injure or even kill wildlife, with the RSPCA estimating that nearly 3 million animals are killed each year due to littering.

For this year’s campaign, National Highways is planning community events, nighttime sweeps and staff volunteer events in a bid to tackle roadside rubbish and support the Keep Britain Tidy campaign.

Last year almost 8,000 bags of litter were collected by National Highways as part of the nationwide campaign.

Freda Rashdi, Head of Customer Journeys at National

Highways said:

“Clearing litter from our roads causes unnecessary journey delays and costs the taxpayer millions of pounds a year, as well as endangering wildlife living close to our roads.

“Our message is really simple, littering of any kind is completely unacceptable. Putting your rubbish in the bin doesn’t just help us keep the roads moving and keep other

Better Beeston volunteers clear up motorway slip road

by Sarah Hutchinson

Over the last couple of years, residents from across Beeston Hill have come together though the ‘Better Beeston’ campaign to try and tackle the massive issue of litter in our community. Seeing our streets lined with rubbish makes many of us living here feel miserable, and to onlookers it appears that nobody cares.

However, this is not the case. Many local people give up their time on a regular basis, whatever the weather, armed with their litter pickers, to clear up the rubbish that we see around us on a daily basis. It is often a thankless task and one that seems never-ending but a recent project has shown how valuable this work is.

Over the last three weeks a small, but dedicated team of volunteers have got up early on Saturday morning (in the cold

and the drizzle!) to tackle the mountain of rubbish by the slip road on to the M621 between Beeston and Holbeck. Anyone who drives that way will have noticed how the litter has built up and how awful it looks! Being a busy and potentially dangerous spot to litter pick, these brilliant volunteers decided to get to work at 7:30am to beat the traffic.

One of these volunteers, Telma from Holbeck, describes their efforts as “turning sad into glad”. She said: “Driving past that dirty junction was making me sad every day. After speaking to Clara, who is a Better Beeston volunteer, and a few other friends, we decided we wanted to do something about it! It took us three early Saturday mornings (just 1 hour), but it was worth it.”

As you can see from the photos, the results have been amazing and so clear to see –

what a transformation!

It is important to celebrate good people, doing good things in our community; people giving up their time for the benefit of others. As local Hunslet and Riverside Councillor Ed Carlisle said: “Litter and mess bring us all down – and that slip road’s been a horrible eyesore for too long. But together, we can make a difference. Whether you’re part of one of the local litterpick groups, or just take action wherever you are, thank you!”

Seeing the results of this work has given me a boost and hope for a ‘Better Beeston’. It is always easy to see the negatives and moan about the problems we see in our area (and we know there are lots) but we can choose to be part of the solution. Whether that’s doing some litterpicking yourself, challenging someone you see dropping litter or

drivers safe, it goes a long way to protecting wildlife and the environment.”

In partnership with Leeds City Council, the organisation kicked things off with a Community Action Day at Hunslet Moor Park, near the M621 in Leeds today (16 March 2026) to help the local community clean up litter in the area.

The event brought together local leaders from Leeds City Council as well as community groups such as the Friends of Hunslet Moor to collect rubbish that has been strewn across the park.

Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said:

“Litter picking is a great way to get involved in your local community, by helping make sure our green spaces and roads are kept tidy and welcoming.

“Littering is not just an eyesore, it can also cause injuries, fires and traffic delays, and it is not something we tolerate in Leeds. We’re proud to support the Great British Spring Clean and encourage everyone to take pride in helping look after their neighborhood and community.”

Among the items tossed from cars or dumped within the park include commonly littered items such as plastic and glass bottles, food packaging, as well as evidence of drug use –

making the park an eyesore and putting the local community and local wildlife at risk.

National Highways will also be conducting litter picks and nighttime litter sweeps of the M621, with work going on up and down the country to clean up England’s roads.

Cllr Paul Wray (Labour, Hunslet & Riverside) said:

“The Friends of Hunslet Moor have done great job to make the area a cleaner and healthier place for all the people who live near it, offering vital supporting our teams at the council.

“It is fantastic, that as part of the Great British Spring Clean, National Highways will be joining them to give the area an extra deep clean, helping maintaining the moor that much easier for both residents and local wildlife.”

Samantha Gilmore, on behalf of the Friends of Hunslet Moor Park said:

“We have a real problem with litter on Hunslet Moor. Whether it’s from inconsiderate members of the public or blowing in from the surrounding roads and motorways, it’s a relentless job that we carry out twice a week. The event with the Great British Spring Clean and National Highways was a fantastic opportunity to look at this beautiful green space, it will hopefully encourage residents to respect where they live too and perhaps contribute to future litter picks.”

reporting fly tipping to the Council – collectively these small acts, make a difference and make the place better. It feels like the issue of litter in our community is far from sorted. In an ideal world, no one should have to pick up someone else’s rubbish, but when we do so we are showing what a litter free community could look like and how that would change the area we live in. As these volunteers have shown, it doesn’t take much to make a noticeable difference.

If you are interested in getting involved in litterpicking in Beeston Hill, here are some upcoming events: There are 2 monthly Better Beeston litter picks meeting at: Lady Pit Lane on the • second Sunday of the month at 1pm

Maud Avenue on the third • Sunday of every month at 3pm

For more information visit fb.com/betterbeeston

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Theatre group secures Lottery funding to support work with children

Leeds-based Brave Words, who work with young people in Beeston, are celebrating recent funding success as the National Lottery have granted them £220,261 to support children and young people to thrive in communities across the city.

Since 2018, Brave Words has focused on the joint aims of telling stories with a social purpose, and creating adventures in the arts that invest in children, young people and communities. Youth and Education Director Fran Cairns said:

“We work hard to create long-term impact with young people; supporting them to become more confident and to discover who they are.

“Children and families are facing more and more challenges, with less and less

support available. This funding means we can remain a constant in their lives.”

The funding will support Brave Words’ work for the next three years, enabling them to continue running weekly PayWhat-You-Can Youth Theatres in Beeston, Meanwood and Seacroft for more than 160 children and young people from diverse backgrounds.

They will also run summer projects supporting families with the cost of food and childcare during the holidays, and the Young Company project, where teenagers can shadow and work with professional artists from backgrounds similar to their own.

Artistic Director, Chris Singleton, said:

“Every story has value, and we believe every child should

be able to tell theirs. We hope that in ten years we’ll see our children and young people onstage, onscreen and behind the scenes.”

Brave Words’ groups have performed on professional stages at Leeds Playhouse, produced short films which premiered at Hyde Park Picture House, and contributed to the company’s professional plays.

Rheanna Atkinson, Producing Director, said:

“The children and young people we work with are the beating heart of Brave Words. We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way and want to thank every National Lottery player for their support.”

To find out more about Brave Words’ work, visit www.bravewords.co.uk

Fighting for their community centre

Continued from page 1 by the Centre is a vital health resource serving 2,000 residents.

“Our aim now is to support the local volunteers and GP service to work in partnership to secure the future of the centre as a Health and Wellbeing hub with improved space for both expanded health services and welcoming community activities. The trustees must do everything in their power to ensure that positive outcome.”

Adam Bolton, Deputy Chief Operating Officer at Fuller & Forbes Partnership who run the GP practice in Cottingley said:

“We are just trying to maintain healthcare, we understand that the community needs a community centre and there will always be a need for healthcare on the site at Cottingley. So whatever we can do to support that, whether that’s with community groups, with Health For All we’re here to support it and facilitate that.”

Cllr Andrew Scopes (Labour, Beeston & Holbeck) commented: "I've been working with the amazing Friends of Cottingley Community Centre and Health For All to keep the Cottingley Community Centre open for a number of years and will

The following are quotes from the young people we work with, illustrating Brave Words impact:

“I’ve never done anything like this before but I want a job with the youth theatre when I’m older. It’s helped me to know what I want to do with my life.”

“We’ve grown into a family and I felt so safe on that big stage because I knew everyone was there for me.”

“We got to be these characters that we’d worked on, that were really our own, on this huge stage in front of all those people!”

And parents commented: "You've given her confidence to be herself."

“I never did any theatre, it sounds too posh for me, but she can’t get enough of your classes. I think it’ll give her more opportunities.”

Brave Words run drama sessions for 4-17 year olds at Beeston Village Community Centre every Wednesday in term time from 4-7:30pm, contact Chris on 07775 926166

New pregnancy app for South Asian families

Anewone-stop pregnancy app designed for South Asian women and families has been launched by Leeds hospitals’ maternity team.

The free JANAM app features a range of information videos in seven different languages –English, Gujarati, Urdu, Hindi, Bengali, Punjabi and Tamil.

Pregnant women and professionals helped to design the app and the videos feature experts and patients sharing their own experiences.

Topics covered include the pregnancy journey, antenatal care, emergencies, labour, bereavement, mental health, and the post-natal period.

Families can create their own pregnancy calendar and choose to receive regular public health notifications.

Jenny Roddy, Consultant Midwife, Health Equity, at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, said:

continue to fight for it to be the active and thriving community centre Cottingley needs. I'm blown away by how much good is done there, whether it is a 'welcome space' or a 'free shop'.

“While I do understand competing priorities (being a Trustee of two charities myself), the Trustees who manage the building, need to take a hard look at themselves before they sell it."

The Trustees have been approached for comment, but hadn’t responded when we went to press.

You can donate to the fundraising here: gofund.me/ 0cd832d3d

“We want to support and empower women and families from South Asian backgrounds to access important information about their pregnancies in their own language.

“We know that nationally, women from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds can experience poorer health outcomes during pregnancy and after birth. This app will help us tackle these health inequalities and give women the power to make informed choices about their care.”

Tasneema, a midwife and one of a team of app Champions at Leeds Teaching Hospitals, said:

“I’m really excited for the launch of the JANAM app. I truly believe it will help improve understanding, awareness, informed choice, and accessibility of care for women from South Asian backgrounds. I know this will be a powerful tool for our communities.”

“We are really pleased to be bringing the JANAM app to South Asian communities in Leeds. The app helps South Asian mums feel confident and informed every step of the way. It’s easy to use and is a great way of sharing information that people can understand and relate to.

Come and write for South Leeds Life

Doyou have any new year’s resolutions? Maybe getting a new job? Starting a course? Learn a new skill?

Well, have you ever thought about being a volunteer reporter for South Leeds Life?

I am one of the current volunteer reporters and I have been writing articles and carrying out interviews since 2019.

I am not originally from Beeston, or from Leeds, and writing for South Leeds Life has been a brilliant way for me to

find out more about my community, whether that has been visiting a majorette troupe, interviewing the first female president at the Holbeck, reviewing a play or reporting back on a tour of a community music studio.

I have learned a lot too about writing and research and I even went on a short course to learn more journalistic skills. There are loads of benefits to writing for South Leeds Life. You will discover different parts of our special community, increase your confidence and learn new skills. And those

skills could help you move into more volunteer opportunities, a new job or help with your studies. There is no set amount you have to do and you can write as little or often as suits you.

Don’t worry if you have never done anything like this before, there will be lots of support from the editor; just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm. There are lots of stories to be told about South Leeds. Why not bring your unique view to the local community newspaper? Come and get involved.

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Credit Union

Getting financial help if you've been rejected by High Street banks Money matters with Leeds

With everyday costs still high, people are continuing to look for ways to improve their financial wellbeing. But if you've been denied a loan or access to a savings account by high street banks, what are your options?

Greg Potter, Head of Member Services at Leeds Credit Union, takes a look.

One popular alternative to traditional banks among people struggling to make ends meet is credit unions.

The most recent figures from the Bank of England estimate that approximately 2.16 million people in the UK are currently credit union members so why exactly do so many people find them so valuable?

Credit Unions put people before profit

When you open an account with a credit union, you become one of its members.

Whereas banks are for-profit businesses with shareholders to answer to, credit unions are not-for-profit businesses that are only responsible for their members' financial wellbeing. This means they can focus on creating the best possible customer service experience for their members, instead of trying to generate profits.

Credit unions are also often more willing than banks to help you if you have a low credit

score or are temporarily out of work. Some credit unions may accept a person's application even if they have no credit history.

They work with their members

Because credit unions are owned by their members, they listen and react promptly to their questions and concerns. They also take their members' feedback and use it to make positive changes to the way they work, enabling them to introduce new loans, savings accounts and policies specifically tailored to their members' needs.

Their affordable loans are centred around their members' needs

Whatever people need the money for, regardless of the amount, credit union loans are built around their members, with them typically offering a range of flexible and affordable loans that have fair and competitive interest rates which are capped by credit union legislation.

This ensures nobody is encouraged to take out a loan with unaffordable repayment rates and everybody who needs support can access it.

They look after more than just people's financial wellbeing

If you're a member of a credit

Historic Leeds 400 challenge calls on city to go the extra mile

Thepeople of Leeds have the chance to be part of 400 years of history by answering the call to take part in a unique new city-wide challenge.

The What’s Your 400? campaign has issued a rallying cry to individuals, groups and communities across the city, asking them to get involved in celebrations to mark 400 years since Leeds was awarded its first city charter.

union, you'll also have access to financial advice, such as how to borrow responsibly or develop an effective savings habit.

It is common knowledge that financial health impacts mental health. However, having access to financial information and advice helps people manage their finances better and can stop them developing stress-related mental illnesses that prevent them from acting to improve their financial situation.

Your money is safe with them

Because they're authorised and regulated by both the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), which protects their members by ensuring they are run to strict regulatory standards, credit unions are every bit as safe as high street banks.

Furthermore, members' savings are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), meaning that if anything DID happen to your credit union, your money would be safe and your finances would remain intact.

Leeds Credit Union provides affordable financial services to people in Leeds, Wakefield, Harrogate and Craven.

Participants of all ages can help showcase the best of Leeds by coming up with their own creative ideas for activities, events or challenges, all themed around the number 400.

Examples could include anything from walking, running, cycling, baking, volunteering, dancing or painting, but no idea is too big or too small.

Anyone completing a What’s Your 400? challenge is then asked to share their efforts on social media using #WhatsYour400 and download their own certificate online to celebrate their accomplishment.

team for Active Leeds, said:

“This is a massive moment in the history of Leeds and we felt it was so important that we get involved and make our mark while also raising awareness of men’s health and a wonderful local charity.

“Leeds 400 is all about taking part, and we wanted to show that everyone can get involved in their own way, get together, have some fun and make this a year that really does bring out the best in Leeds.

taking place across the city, with residents also being encouraged to recognise the occasion in their own way.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said:

“Leeds has a rich, proud and unique history, but what really makes it such a special place is the people who live here, who have each played their part it making it such a vibrant, diverse and exciting city.

Among those already set to put their best foot forward for the cause are the Manbassadors men’s health group based in Leeds City Council’s Active Leeds team.

The group of 12 work to champion men’s health among colleagues and have pledged to walk 400 miles this May to celebrate Leeds 400 while also raising money for Yorkshire Cancer Research.

Beginning their epic effort at the John Charles Centre for Sport in Belle Isle on Thursday 7 May, the group’s first walk will take in Leeds landmarks including the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, Esholt Woods and the Meanwood Valley Trail.

Group member Neil Jones, who works in the development

“It’s going to be a massive challenge but we’re ready to take it on and we really hope we can inspire other people all around Leeds to join in and have a go at something of their own too.”

Taking place across the year, celebrations for Leeds 400 will commemorate four centuries since the very first Leeds City Charter was bestowed on the city in 1626 by King Charles I.

The granting of the prestigious charter changed the course of the city’s history, laying the foundations of modern-day Leeds by incorporating it as a “free borough” and a “body corporate and politic.”

A programme of exciting events and activities will be

“That’s why we want the people of Leeds to be at the heart of Leeds 400 and for them to have the opportunity to show everyone exactly what this year and this city means to them. Whenever there’s a challenge, Leeds never fails to deliver, and we can’t wait to see the many different ways people express themselves and help us make history as part of What’s Your 400?”

Anyone in Leeds is invited to be part of What’s Your 400? and participants can find out more about how to get involved and download a certificate by visiting bit.ly/Whats400 More information about Leeds 400 and the events programme can also be found at: bit.ly/Leeds400

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Obituary: Barbara Cavell (1938-2026)

by Jeremy Morton

Barbara Cavell touched the lives of so many people in Beeston Hill with her zest for life, generosity, her time and acceptance of absolutely everyone.

As her daughter Anita put it: “Mum did what she felt the community needed of her. She wanted to create a community that was fully inclusive, she wanted to create a safe and fairer world.”

Whether it was delivering packages of games and sweets to families trapped in lockdown, or writing letters to political prisoners overseas, Barbara brought light into people’s lives.

As Laura Hodgkinson said of Barbara’s actions in lockdown:

“It was wonderful, it was joyful, it was thoughtful, it was generous, it was kind … it was so, so Glam-ma Barbara.” She lived her life “Impacting her dearly loved community one small action of love at a time, done with total commitment, creativity and love.”

Barbara was born just before the Second World War and grew up in Kirkstall. She passed her 11+ and attended Lawnswood Grammar School, where she gained six O-levels. But she didn’t follow an academic path, instead training and working as a secretary.

In 1959 she married Brian, and they bought a house in Colwyn Road, Beeston where they lived the rest of their lives. When they discovered that they couldn’t have children they

chose to adopt, first Jonathan, then three years later Anita completed the family. The children always knew that they were wanted and loved.

Barbara was a committed member of at Trinity Methodist Church on Tempest Road, taking on many roles over the years: church steward, Sunday school teacher, youth club leader, and multi-charity fundraiser.

With her good friend Helen Ingleby, she helped organise or

Counting rainbows

by Barbara Cavell

Iamsupport a wide range of causes including Adopt a Gran, Action for Children, Gay advice, Safe Places for Sex Workers, Beeston in Bloom, Aid for Refugees, Messy Church and foodbanks. They also joined campaigners calling on the G7 nations to cancel world debt.

Despite her best campaigning efforts, Trinity Methodist Church closed, but Barbara was involved in the creation of Faith Together in Leeds 11 which spawned the

Hamara Centre and Building Blocks nursery and she served as a Trustee for many years. She worked as a dinner lady (she wouldn’t have like the title lunchtime assistant) at Greenwood Primary School and latterly joined Kidz Klub as their ‘café queen’ where she was loved and valued by children and parents alike.

In 2019 she wrote a short piece for South Leeds Life which summed her up and we are reprinting here.

Hunslet pub reopens with big plans for the community

Residents in Hunslet have a great reason to celebrate as The Prospect Pub has reopened its doors, bringing a fresh start and an exciting new vision for the local community.

Under new management, the well-known neighbourhood pub is set to become more than just a place for a drink. The new boss has ambitious plans to create a welcoming community hub where people can meet, support one another, and take part in local activities and awareness events.

One of the highlights of the venue is a free room available to hire, which can comfortably hold up to 30 people. The space is ideal for community groups, meetings, support sessions, clubs, or small events. By offering the room free of charge, the pub hopes to encourage local organisations and residents to come together and make use of a friendly, relaxed environment.

The Prospect is also bringing

back some classic pub entertainment to help bring the community together. DJ Karaoke will take place every Friday night, giving locals the chance to sing, socialise and enjoy a lively atmosphere.

In addition, the pub will be launching a weekly Quizness event starting on 25 March, promising fun, friendly competition and a great evening out for teams of friends, families and neighbours.

With a strong focus on community spirit, the new management hopes The Prospect will once again become a popular meeting place in Hunslet.

Residents are encouraged to pop in, meet the new boss, and show their support. With a warm welcome, exciting events, and a commitment to supporting the local community, The Prospect Pub is ready to become a fantastic community space and a great local pub once again.

your name is Freddie or Mary. No, no they said, I’m Hanif, I’m Blessing, I’m Tokumbo. So then I asked what they thought my name was. With one accord they said “Grandma!”

Well I recently popped into Building Blocks nursery. Whilst there I got into conversation with a group of 3 and 4 year olds. I was asking their names and saying things like I think

in competition with my daughter’s partner in regard to sighting rainbows. He lives on the edge of the Peak District, I live off Dewsbury Road. I am losing three – nil at present. So where are my rainbows?

“Out of the mouths of babes.”

Every Thursday morning I wander up Tempest Road and when I reach the junction with Maud Avenue I meet a

selection of hijabs, grey curly perms and Romanian head scarves. We are limping and struggling to make our way to various ‘keep well’ classes. We have a catch up on hips, knees headaches and other older people’s afflictions, but are glad of the rest before we press on to our various survival strategies.

“Old age is a many-

spleandoured thing.”

Every Friday I do a pop up craft table at Beeston Hill charity shop. The first half is for children, the latter for adults. I have been working with 4 year old Sophia (Iranian? Polish? Hungarian? – I don’t know and it doesn’t matter).

Every Friday she runs in, jumps in front of me and presents me with a dandelion.

She presents it, and I receive it, as if it is the fairest flower ever grown. “It’s for you!” she says. I hold back a tear and we make a windmill.

“Love, joy, creativity all free in excess.”

So Steve, these are my rainbows and guess what? I wouldn’t swap Beeston – not even for that gorgeous view of Kinder Scout and its rainbows!

Middleton Railway wins national railway award

The Middleton Railway has won the prestigious Innovation Award presented by the Heritage Railway Association, the trade body for all heritage railways in the UK.

The railway has pioneered the role of Almoner, someone dedicated to looking after the welfare of members who for many reasons including health, age and distance from the railway are now unable to attend and work as volunteers on a regular basis. Mrs Francis Bailey keeps in touch with these members and organises an annual gathering at Moor Road where former volunteers can come and enjoy a ride on the train and see colleagues with whom they have worked in the past.

Heritage Railway Association judges were most impressed by this initiative and awarded the Innovation Award to the Middleton Railway.

A second entry into the HRA Awards was a project to restore the UK’s smallest standard

gauge diesel locomotive ‘Sweet Pea’ to working order.

This small machine has been fully restored to the condition as it left the works of the Hunslet Engine Company back in 1935, which has included remanufacturing doors for the bonnet covering the engine and also sourcing an original klaxon which was used instead of a horn to warn people of the locomotive when in use.

What makes this restoration so special is that it was masterminded and overseen by 19 year old Geordie Brown, who commenced the restoration at the age of 16.

As part of the project he also did a great amount of research, which has been used to produce a booklet about the locomotive’s use at Courage’s brewery in Alton, Hampshire and its subsequent preservation in Leeds.

Whilst in service at Alton, the brewery produced a pub sign featuring their locomotive and Geordie arranged for this

original sign to be displayed at Moor Road during 2025.

The project was recognised as a runner up in the Diesel & Electric restoration category.

MRT Chairman, Charles Milner said:

“We are delighted that our railway has been recognised for the hard work involved in both these roles.

“The result is a tribute to the hard work our volunteers have carried out and we are delighted this work was recognised with a prize at the awards at Llandudno on March 7th this year.”

Middleton Railway opens for the 2026 season on Saturday 4 April.

As well as the regular weekend openings, trains will run on Easter Monday, and on Wednesday 8 and 15 April. Saturday 18 April is Community Day when a range of local voluntary organisations will have stalls in the exhibition hall and train rides pay-what-youfeel.

New dance academy opens in Beeston

Abrand-newdance academy has officially opened its doors in Beeston, bringing exciting opportunities for young dancers and performers across the city.

Xplosion Dance Academy, based at XDA Studios, Unit 9 Enterprise Park, Moorhouse Avenue, LS11 8HA, has recently launched its new premises and is now welcoming new members of all abilities.

The academy offers a wide range of performance-based dance styles including Pom Dance, Hip Hop, Lyrical Dance and Majorettes, providing students with the opportunity to build confidence, learn new skills and perform at competitions and events.

Designed to be an energetic and inspiring environment, Xplosion Dance Academy aims to help dancers develop technique, teamwork and stage presence while having fun and meeting new friends.

The academy caters for dancers from age 5 through to adults, with both recreational and competitive opportunities available.

Alongside dance training, the premises also host Beatboxing Dance Fitness, a high-energy fitness class that combines music, rhythm and movement to create an exciting and

engaging workout suitable for all fitness levels.

Owner and founder Ryan Sargent said the new academy is focused on building a strong dance community in Leeds.

“We wanted to create a space where dancers of all abilities can come together, train, perform and enjoy dance in a supportive environment.

Opening our own studio has allowed us to expand what we offer and we’re really excited to welcome new members.”

Since opening, the academy has already begun building competitive teams and preparing dancers for upcoming performances and

already had several first places awarded at national competitions.

Xplosion Dance Academy is currently actively recruiting new dancers, and beginners are very welcome. Anyone interested in joining, learning more about classes, or trying dance for the first time is encouraged to get in touch. For more information or to enquire about joining, contact: xplosiondanceacademyuk @gmail.com

You can also follow Xplosion Dance Academy on social media for updates, events and class announcements.

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Cockburn Reach Academy’s ‘transformation to excellence’ journey recognised by Ofsted

Cockburn Reach Academy in Beeston, Leeds was inspected by Ofsted in February 2026.

During the inspection, inspectors judged the academy to be strong in four areas: Attendance and Behaviour, Inclusion, Leadership and Governance and Personal Development and Wellbeing. The new Ofsted strong standard shows that ‘Leaders are working above the standard expected of them’.

Cockburn Reach Academy is an independent special school which intends to provide education for up to 40 pupils aged five to 11 years. Their students come from primary schools across south Leeds for a range of reasons and are given a chance to be successful outside of a mainstream school setting. The academy is part of the Cockburn Multi-academy Trust and opened in September 2024.

Their focus is on education, and on keeping children in education that may otherwise not be in school. They aim to reengage students with learning, offering smaller class sizes and personalised pastoral care to help them return to mainstream education. They strive to build positive relationships with parents and carers as they work together with the aim of getting pupils back in their schools as soon as possible.

Everybody is included and belongs at Cockburn Reach Academy. The staff work together to provide a broad, balanced, sequenced curriculum that supports and

challenges all. They believe that learning should be engaging and purposeful and they strive to equip their children with future life skills so that they can thrive in and outside of Reach now and in the future. Every child is valued and deserves the best possible chance to succeed and achieve in a happy, positive learning environment. They enjoy celebrating their achievements in the local press and on their website.

During their visit, inspectors met with leaders, staff, and governors. They talked to pupils about their work and visited lessons in each area of school. Inspectors spoke with other stakeholders, such as a representative from the local authority and leaders from schools who have commissioned places.

The report recognises the

caring nature of the school and that the pupils feel safe and supported, ‘Pupils enjoy coming to school. The school has the highest aspirations for them. From the start of a placement, staff prioritise getting to know pupils. They build highly effective and trusting relationships with pupils to help them get back on track.’ Inspectors reported that safeguarding standards are met and that ‘As a result, pupils are made safer and feel safe.’

During the inspection, inspectors saw the excellent attendance of pupils that reflected the normal day to day life of the school. ‘Many pupils make significant improvements in their attendance over time.

The whole school ethos, where attendance is everyone’s business, enables pupils to attend more frequently and

History in the making for CLCA students

In March, 60 Year 8 students from Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy took part in a History trip to the Imperial War Museum North in Manchester.

Students had the opportunity to tour the museum, as well as participate in two workshops led by the museum staff, which supported this term’s learning on the causes and events of the First World War.

In the morning session, students participated in the ‘Documentary Challenge’ workshop. They were

tasked with identifying three artefacts that they believed were important and to explain why people should visit the museum to learn about them. Some of the chosen artefacts included the gun that fired the first British shot in WW1, wreckage from the World Trade Centre following the attacks on September 11th, and an enigma machine used by the German Army to encrypt messages in WW2.

In the afternoon session, the students had the opportunity to meet veterans, Peter and Paul,

who served in the British Armed Forces. Peter and Paul were very generous with their time and answered many of the students’ questions, which provided them with an insight into the experience of warfare.

Museum staff commended the students for their attitude and engagement with the workshops. They were also interested to learn about the school’s namesake, Sergeant Laurence Calvert, who was awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery in World War One.

adaptations to support pupils.’

The inspectors highlighted the huge impact that leaders and governors at all levels across the school have made.

The report also signposts how others rate the school ‘The school community clearly recognises the positive difference the school makes to its pupils. Parents speak highly of the school’s work and recognise the difference it makes to their children.’

The report also highlights how the academy provides opportunities for personal development ‘The school’s offer for personal development is of high quality. It prioritises pupils’ wellbeing through a rich range of learning experiences and wider opportunities. The school has crafted daily opportunities to build confidence and self-esteem.

Pupils take pride in caring for the school’s chickens and bearded dragon.’

with greater focus.’

They also recognised excellent behaviour ‘Pupils demonstrate positive attitudes to learning. Across school, staff manage pupils’ behaviour very well. Staff use approaches to promote positive behaviour with consistency across school. This helps pupils to get on with their learning in calm classrooms.’ The report adds that pupils ‘demonstrate positive behaviour around school. They are polite, kind and respectful towards staff and each other.’

The inspectors noted how ‘highly inclusive’ the school is and how it demonstrates ‘a secure understanding of the barriers pupils face. The school ensures the academic and pastoral offer for pupils is very well matched’ to the needs of the pupils and how they use ‘highly effective strategies and

As well as in school, the report praises how ‘Pupils visit places of worship to help them understand and respect different faiths. Other school visits help pupils experience the local area and contrasting locations, such as the coast. This broadens their experiences and understanding of the wider environment.’

The report judged two areas to be working at expected standard – Achievement and Curriculum and teaching. ‘This means they are following the standard set out in statutory and non-statutory legislation and the professional standards expected of them.’ ‘Pupils produce work that is typically of a good quality across a range of curriculum subjects. They are proud to show and talk about their learning.’

‘The school’s curriculum is

broad and highly ambitious. It focuses on supporting pupils to re-engage in learning well and equipping them with the foundational knowledge and skills they need.’

Headteacher, Mrs A Quinn, said “The Cockburn Reach Academy community is extremely proud of the feedback received from Ofsted and remains fully committed to continuing our journey towards excellence. This outcome reflects the significant collective effort of the whole academy in strengthening the quality of education for every pupil. Staff, families and young people have all played a vital role in ensuring that the academy continues to provide an excellent education, with a strong focus on helping pupils reintegrate to school successfully when they are ready.”

Executive Headteacher, Mr D Gurney MBE, said “Our vision of ‘Transformation to Excellence’ is underpinned by a relentless commitment to continuous improvement and high standards across all areas of our schools. This report recognises that ambition, highlighting strong outcomes alongside the care, support and development of our pupils within a nurturing and inclusive community. I would like to thank our pupils, staff, parents and carers, trustees and governors for their continued hard work, commitment and support. We have made a clear commitment to the community across south Leeds, and this report reflects another significant and highly positive achievement. Together, our dedicated staff team and pupils work tirelessly to provide an excellent education for all.”

You can read the full Ofsted report at: bit.ly/CRAOfsted26

School soars with uplifting production of Come From Away New Bewerley reco as a

Students

and staff came together for a remarkable production of Come From Away, transforming the school theatre into the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, and bringing to life a powerful true story of kindness in the face of global crisis.

The musical, which tells the

story of how a remote Canadian community welcomed thousands of stranded airline passengers following the events of 11 September 2001, was performed to packed audiences across multiple nights. With its fast-paced storytelling, emotional depth, and moments of humour, the production

storytelling and vocal talent to create an immersive and moving experience.

Headteacher Mrs S Roberts expressed her pride in the students’ achievements: “This production has been nothing short of outstanding. The dedication, teamwork and talent shown by our students both on stage and behind the scenes have been truly inspiring. They have handled a complex and emotional story with maturity and sensitivity.”

One cast member shared their experience: “It’s been an incredible journey. Come From Away is such a meaningful show, and being part of it has brought us all closer together. We’ve worked so hard as a team and performing it for our school community has been really special.”

captivated viewers from start to finish.

Audiences praised the cast for their professionalism and energy, with many commenting on the seamless transitions between characters and the strength of the ensemble performance. The wonderful staging housed the actors’

Middleton Primary’s House of Lords invitation

In2023 Middleton Primary School received a generous grant from the BBB Trust to fund musical instruments and specialist music teachers. The grant was facilitated by

Music for All. Music for All is dedicated to changing lives across the UK by improving access to music making. They are a passionate, focused, and ambitious charity helping disadvantaged music makers experience the joys and far-reaching benefits of making music.

Three years on, Middleton Primary School Orchestra is flourishing, and on the 9th of March 2026, some of its members were invited to the House of Lords by Lord Bichard to demonstrate the impact Music for All’s grant has had.

The children delighted an appreciative crowd with two pieces composed by Leeds composer and music teacher Tamsyn Durrant. The first great ensemble piece played was ‘Dancing Giraffes,' and the second piece performed was the school’s signature tune ‘Echoes on the Rails.' An interview then followed with Cathy Newman, where the children spoke confidently about the importance of music making, and Middleton’s music subject lead, Jane Hurst, illustrated

‘hub of hope a

The production stands as a testament to the school’s thriving performing arts programme, highlighting not only talent but also empathy, collaboration and resilience. For those who attended, it was an unforgettable reminder of the power of community and the impact of a story well told.

children’s musical successes as well as positive social developments as a direct result of the grant. This was also highlighted in a film about Middleton’s use of the Grant in which Artforms Paula Brookes highlighted the magic of ensemble playing.

There was also a very interesting keynote speech from neuroscientist Dr. Julia Jones outlining the proven science behind music’s effect on our physical and mental well-being. We were very impressed with how the children could talk about facts from this address on the way home on the train!

Middleton Primary School rounded off the afternoon’s proceedings with an instrumental performance of the ‘Hokey Cokey’. It would be fair to say there was some toetapping and accompanying singing from the audience, but then it was quite a musical one as it included Gareth Malone, Orphy Robinson, and Kenza Blanka! During afternoon tea, many remarked on the children’s impeccable behavior, and the chair of the crossparliamentary group for music education, Bambos Charalambous MP, thanked Middleton staff for their commitment to music.

It was a wonderful afternoon organised by Music for All, whom they are very grateful to.

New Bewerley Community School in Beeston is celebrating a highly positive Ofsted report that praises its strong safeguarding culture, ambitious teaching and deeply inclusive ethos.

Inspectors highlighted the school’s warm relationships, high expectations for behaviour and rich personal development programme, describing the school as a valued “hub of hope” within the community.

Pupils were found to be respectful, kind and eager to learn, with bullying reported as rare and dealt with quickly and effectively. The Early Years Foundation Stage received particular acclaim for its ambitious curriculum and focus on early communication, giving children the confidence and readiness needed for Year 1.

An

PupilsInspectors also commended the school’s exceptional SEND provision, delivered through the Nest, the Learning Tree and the Rainbow Room. Leaders were recognised for their high expectations for all pupils and their investment in training and targeted interventions that are improving attendance and engagement.

The school’s refreshed personal development curriculum—including the much loved NB60 and NB30 programmes—was celebrated for fostering resilience, confidence and cultural understanding. Pupils also benefit from a wide range of clubs, leadership opportunities and support for wellbeing and healthy relationships. Leadership and governance were identified as significant

egg-citing end to term

at Cockburn Ingram Road Academy are set to enjoy a joyful end to the school term, thanks to a heartwarming Easter initiative supported by Yorkshire Children’s Charity and generous local businesses.

Through the charity’s annual Easter campaign, the academy has been partnered with three organisations - Frank Shaw Architects, Bowman Riley, and Azets- who have kindly donated special Easter treats for every child in the school. The initiative aims to spread seasonal cheer while supporting families and creating memorable moments for pupils.

Headteacher, Mrs J Millington expressed her

gratitude for the continued support, highlighting the positive impact such gestures have on the school community. She

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

ognised by Ofsted and inclusion’

strengths, with inspectors praising staff morale and the school’s clear vision: “every child, every day.” Recent improvements to curriculum, phonics and teaching are already strengthening classroom practice.

Headteacher Juli Aldwinkle said:

“We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the warmth, inclusivity and ambition that define New Bewerley. This report reflects the dedication of our staff, the strength of our community and the resilience of our wonderful children.”

New Bewerley Community School remains committed to further strengthening its curriculum and ensuring every child feels safe, valued and inspired to achieve their best.

New Bewerley is also home to

Owls Children’s Centre, an Ofsted rated Outstanding nursery offering high quality care and education for children aged three months to five years. The nursery provides 15 and 30 hour funded places, alongside a warm, nurturing environment where children make strong progress in their early development.

Parents still looking for either a Children’s Centre or school place for September are warmly invited to contact the school office to arrange a tour and receive support with the admissions process. Staff are available to answer questions, guide families around the school and help ensure every child gets off to a positive start at New Bewerley.

You can read the full Ofsted report at: bit.ly/NBCSOfsted26

m for local school children

reflected on last year’s success, when a similar partnership brought smiles to children across the school.

“Seeing all the children’s faces light up on the last day of term was a real highlight of the year,” she said. “We are so thrilled to be partnered with even more businesses this year. A huge thank you to Frank Shaw Architects, Bowman Riley, and Azets for their amazing donations - and of course to Yorkshire Children’s Charity for supporting our school and families.”

As the term draws to a close, the thoughtful contributions ensure that pupils leave for the Easter break with something special to celebratebringing both excitement and a strong sense of community spirit to the occasion.

Record breaking Cockburn School rugby teams

In the Autumn of 2021, soon after they had joined Cockburn School in Year 7, a group of boys first trained as a team, coached by PE teachers Mr Battye and Mr Law.

At the time, only five of the boys played rugby outside of school for community teams. Most had never played rugby before.

They went on to become backto-back Leeds 9-a-side champions in Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9. They won these finals each year on the pitch at Headingley Stadium.

In Year 9 and Year 10 they won the Leeds Schools Cup back-toback, playing the finals locally at the South Leeds Stadium. They became recognised as one of the best teams in the country, becoming one of the top 10 teams in England and Wales (they came 8th) in their Year 10 season.

In March 2026, they broke a record. They had again made it to the final of the Leeds Schools Cup at South Leeds Stadium. Their opponents were Brigshaw High School, who they had beaten in last year’s final. A win for Brigshaw would make them

the record-breaking school to have won the most school rugby finals of all schools in Leeds. A win for Cockburn School would make them a record-breaking school becoming the first to win back-to-back champions in Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11. A lot was at stake!

At half time, Brigshaw were 16-0 ahead. A very disappointing half for Cockburn School and a mountain to climb. The boys came out for the second half and quickly put themselves on the score sheet with a converted try. Then came another, and another, to see Cockburn take the lead.

There followed an excellent closely fought finish that at one point had Cockburn School with 22 points to Brigshaw’s 20. The end of the match saw Cockburn School forge ahead to win the game 34-24 before proudly lifting the Wilson Cup as back-toback-to-back champions.

The John Holmes player of the match trophy went to the Cockburn School captain, Jordan Day.

The majority of the team now play for school and outside of school at community level and

multiple students on Club Development Pathways (15/18 Community Level). Three of the students were selected on the Leeds Rhinos Scholarship and were part of the scholarship team that won against Bradford Bulls in March. Jordan Day (Cockburn School Captain), Dillon Eshun (Cockburn School Vice-Captain) and Dylan Baira.

The team have won seven trophies in 5 years. They are Cockburn School’s most successful sporting team ever.

Jordan Day, captain, said “From not knowing how to play in Year 7 to winning so many finals in Year 11, we are thankful to the school for their extra-curricular dedication.

“Thanks to Mr Battye and Mr Law for giving us these opportunities to learn the sport which has led to some of us moving towards a career pathway in rugby.”

Mr Battye said “It has been an absolute joy and pleasure to coach them since Year 7. They have shown incredible resilience and commitment to the team, dedication to their development of skills and have always supported one another on and

off the field. I will miss them all and I wish them the very best for all their future endeavours.”

Mr Law added “Coaching this outstanding team over the years has been an absolute pleasure. I am extremely proud to have watched them progress and grow on and off the field to the point they are at now. I wish them all the best for the future, and I am sure they will all achieve success.”

Mr Dixon, Headteacher, said “This team are a perfect example of ‘Transformation to Excellence’. They have continually worked hard to improve, learnt from their coaches, and shown great resilience. I am extremely proud of them all.”

This is not the only news for Cockburn School rugby. The Year 10 team also lifted the Harrison Shield becoming Leeds Schools Cup winners at South Leeds Stadium, and they did this in style. They beat a strong Farnley Academy team 73-3. Ceidoff Baafi was named Player of the Match, receiving the Bill Ramsey Award.

This victory makes the Year 10s back to back champions, and should they win again next year, they will match — and potentially surpass — the historic achievements of the current Year 11 team, having already won in Year 7 following a shared final after a draw with Brigshaw.

In our view

Cottingley deserves better

Cottingley Hall estate starts with the disadvantage of sitting on a windswept hill, hemmed in by the motorway and Ring Road. It needs facilities because getting to neighbouring amenities is a trek. If the churches don’t want to work on the estate any longer that’s up to them, put they shouldn’t risk the loss of the community centre and GP practice. They need to plan their retreat with compassion.

Inspirational Barbara

Sitting in a packed church for Barbara Cavell’s funeral service it was clear what an impact she had on people in Beeston. She quietly touched people’s lives by her often small, always thoughtful actions. She really embodied the phrase ‘be the change you want to see.’ Caring, inclusive, fair, all mixed with a terrific sense of fun. We should all try to be more Barbara.

Rugby’s future is safe

Whilst Hunslet’s semi-professional Rugby League club might be going through a difficult patch, it’s great to see Cockburn School producing winning sides. Not just back to back cup winners, but back to back to back winners - so successful there wasn’t room on the front page to properly acknowledge their achievement. Let’s hope we see some of these young players coming through to help make South Leeds a rugby league powerhouse once again.

The May issue of South Leeds Life will be out on Wednesday 29 April

The deadline for submissions is Thursday 23 April

Your letters and comments

Holbeck Sports Hub

I back the Holbeck Sports Hub and think it’s a great asset to the area, but I do wish the council would put some money into Cottingley, it always feels like it’s forgotten about and left behind.

Rebecca Kellett

The report says ‘with the ambition to also provide a new home to a GP surgery’? Why can’t this be a condition instead of an ambition. That is the reason a lot of people accepted the proposal and I think it’s wrong to put in a get out clause like this. Surely local councillors should be pressing for this.

Susan Jones

There are more important things to spend £15,000,000 on.

Michael Thomas

The NASUWT is now supporting the UK ban on 3G pitches plus the removal of crumb from existing ones, with other unions following. So unless they have decided to go for grass pitches then this is a total waste of cash.

Suzy Grace

Let's hope this does happen. They have been saying about that field for ages. This will be good for Holbeck and Beeston.

Pat Ollive

Elland Road land sale

As a regular Leeds Knights fan, what will happen to parking in the area? With nearly 2,000 attendees towards the end of the season the Planet Ice car park and its 50 spaces isn't enough! Just as ice hockey for the city is taking hold, another obstacle placed in its way.

Sharon Bottomley

Where are people going to park? Apparently they're not. Most will walk. Yeah right. What a nice place to live. Right next to the M621, railway and the stadium. This really hasn't been thought out. Any money made from the sale should go to sorting out LS11 issues.

Cheznie Johnson-Hartlebury

It’s happening, and about time as the

area around the stadium needs to be developed. It’s land that the council can actually make good money from to benefit Leeds.

Richard Harrison

It’s smoke and mirrors ... We’ve been hearing about developments on that land for decades and decades. Very little has actually happened given the time frame. Now it’s up for sale, “dreams are gonna come true”…?

Julie Leathley

Solidarity with Cuba

In 1999, my father, David Wharton, stood as the Counting Agent for Hilary Benn’s first election to Parliament here in South Leeds. For fifty years, my father was a stalwart of the Leeds Labour Party, a man whose life was defined by service to this community and a belief in international solidarity. Today, as the son of an RAF veteran, I am witnessing that proud Leeds legacy being met with administrative ‘fob offs’ and scripted silence.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) ignored two separate briefings I submitted — on 19

Your Leeds City Councillors

Beeston & Holbeck ward Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park to the Ring Road, Cottingley and Holbeck. The three councillors are:

Shaf Ali (Labour) (0113) 378 8810 sharafat.ali@leeds.gov.uk

Annie Maloney (Labour) 07554 969236 annie.maloney@leeds.gov.uk

Andrew Scopes (Labour) 07860 400645 andrew.scopes@leeds.gov.uk

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

Ed Carlisle (Green) 07738 921277 ed.carlisle@leeds.gov.uk

Mohammed Iqbal (Labour) 0113 226 8796 mohammed.iqbal@leeds.gov.uk

Paul Wray (Labour) 07528 512649 paul.wray@leeds.gov.uk

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

Rob Chesterfield (SDP) (0113) 378 0900 rob.chesterfield@leeds.gov.uk

Wayne Dixon (SDP) 07852 311717 wayne.dixon@leeds.gov.uk

Emma Pogson-Golden (SDP) 07794 577586 emma.pogson-golden@leeds.gov.uk

February and 5 March — detailing the total collapse of Cuba’s aviation fuel and national grid. It was only after I formally placed the department ‘on notice’ that a response arrived on 16 March: a ‘copy and paste’ of historical boilerplate that ignored the 2026 emergency entirely.

Even more distressing is the response from our local MP, Hilary Benn. Despite my father's fifty years of service to the party in this city, Mr Benn’s personal reply focused on decades-old trade statistics while remaining silent on the illegal 2026 fuel blockade currently threatening 16,000 cancer patients.

Our community has always stood for fairness and looking out for one's neighbour. If my father’s UK military veteran badge stood for anything, it was the principle that you do not starve a civilian population for political optics. It is time for a formal stance against this blockade and for our representatives to live up to the values they were elected to uphold.

Ian Wharton

M621 rubbish

Absolutely priceless. I have often thought it would be suicide to attempt this, so huge respect to the volunteers who cleared the rubbish.

Vivienne Bate

Thank you. It’s nice to see there are some who do care about where they live. I guess you can't educate idiots.

Mark Watson

Rare butterfly habitat destroyed

Re: ‘Rare butterfly habitat destroyed by tree planting’ (March 2026) Maybe it was the same nature hater who ordered

Keep up to date with

the draining of the Newt pond on the Covid Memorial Wood part of the park. It needed clearing out of bike frames and things but the powers that be came along and dug a drainage channel instead. It’s about 6 inches wide and a trip hazard. This destruction is a wildlife crime again. The pond was shallow, shaded and secluded so providing a valuable water source for nature. Lots of the ‘bomb holes’ in the area have been built on (by the Southleigh’s). They were full of tadpoles in the Spring so we need nature to thrive in places where it is still trying. Our grandchildren will only ever see animals or nature in books if we are not careful. Councillors please could you explain why things like these are being allowed to happen?

Linda Meikle

Sale of Thwaite Watermill

I hope the character of the mill can be retained. At one time three generations of my family were living in Dandy Row on the island, with my grandfather working in the mill.

Kate Whelan

So do I Kate, I started my life at Dandy Row for a short time. I vaguely remember your grandfather at the mill. Howard W Horn

Join the debate

Comment online; by email: info@southleedslife.com; or post to: 28 Back Burton Grove, Leeds, LS11 5JH.

Letters may be edited for publication.

Email: info@southleedslife.com

MP’s notebook

with Hilary Benn MP

Inrecent weeks, we have seen a serious escalation of conflict in the Gulf, following the action taken against Iran by the USA and Israel.

In response there have been strikes from the Iranian regime targeting Gulf allies, including attacks on bases, airports and hotels, which directly put British lives at risk, and more recently on energy infrastructure, with the Strait of Hormuz virtually closed.

The Prime Minister made it clear that the UK did not - and does not - support the US and Israeli offensive, and we have consistently pushed for deescalation and a negotiated solution in the face of Iran’s unacceptable nuclear ambitions. We have also been very clear that the Iranian regime poses a significant threat not just across the region but also on British soil.

When the conflict began, British nationals, including holiday makers and transit passengers, were our main concern and thankfully many British citizens have now made it home.

Our armed forces have been

helping to shoot down incoming drones and missiles to protect ourselves and our allies. That is why we have also given the US permission to use joint bases for the specific defensive purpose of destroying Iranian missiles targeting Gulf allies, and posing a risk to British nationals in the region and to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. We do not, however, want to see a protracted regional conflict spiral into longterm regional instability.

Events in the Middle East have pushed up oil and gas prices significantly, and this will of course, affect families and businesses. We are taking action to stop profiteering, and contingency planning is preparing for every eventuality so that we can provide support for those who need it most. An example of this was the £53m support package announced recently for vulnerable households who have been hit by the sharp increase in the price of heating oil. And households will benefit from money off their energy bills thanks to the action taken in the Budget, with the price cap

giving households certainty on their bills until July,

The Chancellor has been very open about what this could all mean when she said recently “it is a war that will have an impact on our country. The challenges may be significant.”

The other lesson of the Iran conflict is that if we want to avoid being impacted time and again by oil and gas shocks then we need to get on with increasing our supplies of renewable energy.

Two bits of good news for south Leeds.

Firstly, is an exciting opportunity to provide more much-needed affordable homes. The South Bank development is already well underway, and now there is the potential for over 10,000 additional homes as part of the New Towns programme.

The exact size of the development area has not yet been defined, but it seems that it will extend beyond Aire Park.

Leeds City Council says it is likely to include land to the east and west of the main South Bank area, extending along

MYP’s notebook

At the end of February, I was delighted to go down to London to meet the Children’s Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza. The other ambassadors and I for 2026 got a chance to meet and discuss our goals and ideas for the coming year and received some vital training for our roles. It was so insightful to hear from some of the other members about their passions, with some including better access to mental health and stronger efforts to combat cyber-racism.

On 18 March, I had the amazing opportunity to sing on stage at Wembley Arena with Cockburn MAT Choir at Voice In A Million 2026, in support of adoption and fostering, to raise money for Adoption UK. This was an incredible experience for all students involved, but also raised money and awareness of such an amazing cause - it was an honour to be involved.

March has been a very

interesting month for anyone working in education or with SEND young people, as the new Department for Education (DfE) White Paper came out, titled ‘Every Child Achieving and Thriving’. This paper brings promises of a reduced disadvantage gap, an expansion of technical and career education, and drastic changes to SEND support. These are explored below.

The government wants to reduce the achievement gap between students from disadvantaged backgrounds and everyone else, with the aim of students from lowincome backgrounds achieving approximately one whole GCSE grade higher than they currently do.

This also aims to bring a further 30,000 disadvantaged children above the pass grade for English and Maths each year, leading to more opportunities in work. With the current government's focus on free breakfast clubs, the DfE

Kirkstall Road towards its junction with Canal Road and wrapping around the eastern edge of the city centre.

One of the attractions of the South Bank will be the mass transit system that the Government has promised to fund. For years, Leeds has been the largest city in Western Europe without such a system, but the proposed West Yorkshire Mass Transit will finally give Leeds the connections its residents and businesses need, and the South Bank new town is designed to make the most of that investment.

The second bit of good news is that Beeston Hill Health Centre has been included in the first group of health centres that will be upgraded or expanded under the 10 Year Health Plan, which aims to shift more care into communities as part of the Neighbourhood Health Centre programme.

This investment will increase primary care provision, colocate sexual health services, and bring the former victim support unit back into use, developing the building as a neighbourhood hub. The first 27 centres across England –including Beeston Hill – will be open by 2027, backed by up to £50 million of investment in this wave.

I recently visited Westwood Primary School in Middleton to

also proposes better integrated support systems (such as free breakfast clubs and improved early family support) to ensure every student at school arrives “ready to learn”.

The white paper also brings big reforms to the national curriculum, with a larger focus on embedding disciplinary skills and furthering career education to bridge the gap between education and the workplace. As part of this plan, the government aims to have every young person in secondary education complete two weeks of work experience to support the transition to employment.

Finally, the biggest focus of the white paper is on better integrated accessibility and inclusivity for young people with SEND in mainstream education. The proposed National Inclusion Standards aims to bring high-quality, adaptive teaching to mainstream settings, integrating SEND support in all

learn more about the Children's Book Project.

This great scheme was started by a mum who wanted to help every child to own a book and learn to love to read. It started with taking pre-loved and publisher donated books and finding new homes for them with school children to encourage them to love stories and become proud readers. In the current year, the project hopes to distribute over 1 million books.

Asda, which has its headquarters in Leeds, has become a partner of the project. It encourages shoppers to donate their pre-loved books at various stores around the country, which can then be donated to the Children’s Book Project.

The children at Westwood

Primary were delighted to see the range of books on offer. Very quickly they picked out the ones they thought they would find most enjoyable and interesting, and they were only too willing to explain to me the thinking behind their choices. And, what’s more, they all read beautifully.

It was truly inspirational to see, and as the great Leedsborn writer Alan Bennett said:

”The best moments in reading are when you come across something – a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things – which you had thought special and particular to you. Now here it is, set down by someone else, a person you have never met, someone even who is long dead. And it is as if a hand has come out and taken yours.”

Hilary Benn is our Member of Parliament He represents the Leeds South constituency

Email: hilary.benn.mp@parliament.uk

Website: www.hilarybennmp.com

Constituency office: Unity Business Centre, 26 Roundhay Road, Leeds, LS7 1AB Tel: 0113 244 1097

lessons, as opposed to separating SEND students from the rest of the school. Additionally, EHCPs will be further down the support system, focusing on supporting only those with more complex, long-term needs.

Initially, this brings up the question of the quality of earlier support, such as Individualised Support Plans (ISPs), raising concerns of how standardised SEND support will actually be for those with less complex, but still important, needs.

Over the next few weeks, I will be working with young people and groups across Leeds and Yorkshire and Humber to gather views and questions on the proposed reforms.

I’ll also be attending some sessions with decision-makers and policymakers to ensure our voices are being heard in the execution of the reforms. As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

March has been an amazing month, and I was so delighted

to go down to London twice for different events! Looking forward, I am so excited to continue my work within my community and bring the voice of the people to the national scale, and I can’t wait to see what April brings in my world of Youth Voice and Disability Advocacy.

Mikey J Marsden MYP is a youth voice representative, disability advocate, and one of three elected Members of Youth Parliament for Leeds alongside Zaina Khan and Priscilla Basil.

Pathways for positivity with Shannon Humphrey Rethinking feedback

There have never been more opportunities to share what we think about someone or something.

A few taps on a keyboard and our opinions on someone’s work, service, writing, performance, even where to eat or holiday are out in the world. Immediate, visible and often permanent.

But somewhere in the speed and convenience of “speaking our truth”, things can get lost.

Feedback has become ridiculously easy to give, but harder to give well. It can be sharp, reactive or careless, not always because people intend harm, but often because they can do it anonymously and don't have to deal with any consequences of their actions.

And with that comes the rise of cyber bullies, people who say the most awful things they would never say face to face. In those moments, it's too easy to forget there is a person on the receiving end. Someone who

will read those words more than once ...

A couple of weeks ago, I visited a favourite brunch spot in Leeds. I go often, recommend it to others and always have a good time when I visit. This time, I went with a friend who had some dietary requirements. I emailed the venue in advance to check if they could accommodate her, and they did so beautifully. We had a great time.

A few days later, I sent them a quick thank you email. I told them it's my favourite place, that I recommend it often and how much I appreciate the way the team makes everyone feel welcome.

Their reply was more generous than I expected. They thanked me for my kind words and even offered to do something special for me next time I visit. I didn't write with the hope of getting anything back, I just wanted them to know their care had been seen.

Around the same time, I received an email of appreciation myself, this time from a reader who had taken the time to write to me about my newspaper column. It was so lovely it had me beaming from ear to ear for days!

And yet, if I'm honest, receiving feedback is something I still find uncomfortable at times.

As a freelancer, I work with many people in a variety of different environments, and one thing I always dread, is reading feedback forms. Not because I assume the worst or doubt my work, but because when you put yourself out there, your name, your work, your creativity, there's vulnerability in that, you're inviting people to say what they think.

Although it sounds formal, feedback is just a way of communicating feelings and thoughts.

How often do we assume

people know what we're thinking?

We assume our loved ones know how much we appreciate them.

We assume friends know we enjoy their company.

We assume our colleagues

know we value their work.

And often they don't know these things. Not unless we tell them.

A short message. A quick comment. A sentence that says, “I really appreciated that” or “You did a great job" or "Being with you today really brightened my mood." These things are small, but they carry weight. They build relationships, reinforce effort and remind people that what they do and who they are, matters to you.

And yes, sometimes there will be critical feedback. That's

part of life. Not everyone, will like everything. That's normal, and that's OK.

But if you are going to give feedback, good, bad or otherwise let it be thoughtful. Let it be constructive. And above all, let it be kind. Because long after the moment has passed, people may forget the detail, but they'll remember how your words made them feel.

Shannon Humphrey is a Youth and Adult Mental Health & Wellbeing Instructor for more information check out www. pathwaysforpositivity.com

South Leeds at Abbey House Museum

by Hon Ald Elizabeth Nash

Afternot the coldest, but certainly the most gloomy and wet Winter we are now enjoying a sunny Spring with plants and bulbs flowering very early.

This is much in evidence at the visitor attraction of the gardens of Abbey House Museum, the former gatehouse to Kirkstall Abbey.

Brightly coloured primulas cover the area. Drifts of crocus have been replaced with hundreds of flowering daffodils of different varieties. But the gardens’ crowning glory is a magnificent large white Magnolia tree. It is so outstanding that many are taking photographs of themselves in front of it. Hopefully, we will not have a late frost before Easter so that it will still be in flower for all to enjoy.

Inside Abbey House there is a new exhibition called “Objects in Focus”. Early photographs and advertisements from the Museum Service’s collection of people or their companies are displayed and have models of those people wearing the same

clothes as in the photograph or advertised products. There are three exhibits of famous South Leeds people and South Leeds companies.

The first is of Colonel Thomas Walter Harding 1843-1927 who lived at Abbey House from 1890 until 1912. He was the owner of Tower Works, a factory in Globe Road, Holbeck, making steel pins for the textile industry and he became very rich. He served for 33 years in the Leeds Artillery Volunteers and was given the honorary title of “Colonel” which he kept and used.

Harding was keen on art and championed the opening of the Leeds Art Gallery in 1888.

He donated many pictures including the famous “Scotland Forever” by Edith Butler (the one of soldiers charging on horseback). He promoted the design of City Square and commissioned and paid for the sculptures including the Black Prince.

He was the Lord Mayor of Leeds 1896-99 and became a Freeman of the City in 1903. In 1912 he moved to Lincolnshire and then to Cambridge where he became the High Sherriff of Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire. Before leaving Leeds he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the University. A portrait of him is displayed in his red robes and a model is wearing them.

Then there was the company of Simpson Fawcett founded in 1859 in Black Bull Street in Hunslet.

An original advertisement tells us that they made buckets, tubs, washing machines, wringing mangles and much furniture made from bamboo and cane. Examples of these are on display. But they were probably the most famous for inventing and making prams. Prior to that, infants had to be carried, usually by a woman with a shawl supporting the baby or toddler.

EJ Arnold & Son Ltd set up initially in Blaydes Yard at No. 3 Briggate supplying school stationery. Last July Ken Burton wrote an excellent article in South Leeds Life about them so I will not repeat his interesting comments except to

say that following expansion, they set up in Butterley Street, Hunslet, and later, a publishing company based in Dewsbury Road.

What is interesting about the exhibition is that examples of educational artefacts are on display including a counting frame or abacus and several dolls in national costumes to assist with geography lessons. Of course, there are many other exhibits, not necessarily connected to South Leeds. Two outstanding ones are that Leeds was a major musical instrument maker. For example, Dearloves made stringed instruments and Hopkinson Brothers pianos. There is also an eye-catching original Contessa scooter made in 1957 by the German firm of Triumph Werke Nurnberg which rivalled and predated Lambretta. There is a photograph of its owner, Geoffrey Unwin riding it at a scooter event. He won many prizes at scooter rallies and he kept the scooter in immaculate condition as it is now.

Both Abbey House and its lovely gardens and Kirkstall Abbey across the road, are in easy reach by Nos 33, 34, and A1 buses from the bus station. Alternatively, there is a free adjacent car park.

The Round Foundry Local history with Ken Burton

To close the Matthew Murray Anniversary I thought it might be an idea to just do the Round Foundry and its history and I hope you can bear with me on this.

Matthew Murray - the father of Leeds Engineering - set up a factory for making engines at Mill Green, Holbeck, in 1795 but moved on 11 July 1796 to Water Lane as Fenton, Murray & Wood. Fenton provided the capital, Murray was the engineer and Wood was the mechanic with Lister as a sleeping partner. Although engines had been sold since 1796, it would seem that the erection of the Round Foundry in 1802 caused Boulton & Watt to purchase land to the east of this plant to stop further expansion.

The eastern part of the site seems to have been developed first in 1802, the boiler shops and model shop were built between 1815 and 1830 and the erecting shops across the ginnel after 1831 while the malt kiln is referred to in Boulton & Watt’s notes.

Later Jackson was to replace Wood in the partnership and in 1824. Lindley noted there were four engines in use, two of

10hp and two of 6hp in addition it was noted that Murray had supplied 77 engines totalling 1,493hp to local industries. Murray died in February 1826 aged 61 and after a drawn out struggle the firm closed in 1843.

The employees re-opened the foundry in 1844 but they were not successful. The flax mill was bought by the Leeds Industrial Co-operative Society in 1848 as a new flour mill. The plan is taken from a sales plan and the details from a sales notice in the Leeds Mercury of 4 November 1868. Large erecting shop 72ftx72ft; smith’s shop 32ftx22ft; boring mill 75ftx34ft; grinding and glazing house 58ftx12ft; turning and fitting room/carpenters shop 120ftx18ft; rolled machine shop 72ft in diameter, two boilers, boiler shops, brass foundry, smiths shop, model shop, gas works with two gas holders, lime house, charcoal house, three stall stable, sawpit, malt kiln (let to Skelton), also planing machines, drill, boring engine, lathes, etc.

Smith, Beacock & Tannett were formerly of the Victoria

Foundry, New Lane, on the Benyon Beck and were founded in 1837 and in 1838 they supplied a small steam engine to drive the printing presses of the Northern Star and the Leeds General Advertiser in 1841 the partnership changed with the dropping by mutual consent of Robert Taylor, Samuel Fletcher, and Abel Archer. In 1843 they acquired the Round Foundry formerly used by Matthew Murray and no surprise in 1862 they decided to change the name to the Victoria Foundry (there was a cast iron gate post in David Street).

In 1861 Robert Beacock (1803-1869) born in Bartonon-Humber was living at 105 Beeston Road, Holbeck, with his wife Elizabeth and their five children. He died on 20 September 1869.

Thomas Tannett (18111877) was born at Malton, Yorkshire, and he was educated at the Grammar School, Wakefield and served his apprenticeship from 14 at Taylor Wordsworth & Company, a machine makers who when he attained 21 was made foreman. In 1851 he was living at Green Terrace, Hunslet, with his wife Mary and their six children. In 1861 he is listed as a widower living at Cross Flatts, Beeston with his daughter and son-in-law, two sons and his sister. In 1871 he is living at Roundhay Lodge, Roundhay, Yorkshire, with his wife Charlotte and one son. He took a prominent part in founding the Bank of Leeds of which he

was a Director at the time of his death. He died on 12 April 1877.

In 1872 the 27foot diameter Round Foundry machine shop caught fire and burnt down and a three-storey fitting shop was built on the site. The 20hp Murray engine was still in use in 1888. There was more rebuilding and the old foundry was replaced by a large workshop facing on to Water Lane and David Street, this carries a plaque commemorating Matthew Murray.

The old fitting-up shop on the east side of Foundry Street remains, but the office entrance on the corner of Foundry Street and Water Lane dated 1870 are gone. Latterly Smith, Beacock & Tannett soon rose to eminence in the manufacture of machine tools and they at one time employed 800 men becoming known all over the world for their very high class of workmanship and substantial build of tools while executing orders for most European Governments as well as for China, Australia, and India. Smith, Beacock & Tannett closed down in 1894 and in 1896 it was taken over by Greenwood & Batley. This site was divided for multiple uses. The new workshops became Holbeck Steel Foundry of John Henry Junior, Wildsmith & Company, and other users including a paint manufacturer, a mineral water maker, electrical engineer (Atlas Works), and a clothing manufacturer.

South Leeds Wildlife

with Duncan Wells

We reached the spring equinox on 21 March, and the season is in full flow with life beginning to erupt all around us with brighter and longer days.

The word ‘equinox’ comes from the Latin – aequalis (equal) and nox (night). At spring equinox, we have reached the first of only two points in the year when we experience an exact balance of dark and light.

Despite spring officially falling mid-March, it has been surprising to see daffodils and blossom on the trees appearing earlier than expected this year. In some cases, as early as midFebruary - early March. Could this be another indication of our changing climate with more frequent mild winters?

Not all trees blossom at the same time. The typical sequence in early spring in the north of England starts in early

a hedgerow bush that sprouts small white flowers before the leaves emerge. Blackthorn

common site in South Leeds, but if you need a few pointers, you can find a collection of

Changingfurniture?your

they will raise the next generation.

The buff-tailed bumblebee is usually the first to be seen, followed by the white-tailed bumblebee. The primary difference between these two species is that the buff-tailed have an orange-beige tail while the white-tail has a purely white rear end. Both bees are black in colour with the classic double yellow stripes but the buff-tailed is typically bigger than its counterpart.

This time of year, is also the primary egg laying and spawning season for birds, insects and amphibians. You might see frogspawn in your garden pond or in a patch of water in your local park. Last spring I dug a small pond in my back garden and was delighted to discover that a local frog has visited recently and left a small deposit of frogspawn.

Many birds are busy with twigs in their mouths, building nests and laying clutches of eggs in hedges and trees all around us too. As a result, this is not the time to cut back your hedge or do anything to disturb trees or bushes. You may also consider putting up a bird box.

the road on the left-hand side just as you leave behind the Tommy Wass junction and head up Beeston Park Ring Road towards Middleton. Alternatively, there are some outcrops as you head down Beggars Hill from the Holbeck Cemetery side.

Blackthorn bushes are a cornerstone species for biodiversity, and their blossom provides early spring nectar for birds, bees, butterflies and other insects. They also produce sloe berries in late autumn which benefit wildlife and gin lovers alike!

Shortly after the flowering of the blackthorn bushes follows blossom from plum, pear and crab apple trees, culminating in April with the magnificent pink wild cherry blossom. There are plenty of great examples of cherry trees in South Leeds, but a handful of mature trees just off Lady Pit Lane next to Beeston Hill United Free Church burst into a vivid pink blossom at this time of year and in my opinion, are some of the most impressive in our neighbourhood, especially as they provide an oasis of essential pollen and nectar for insects in a densely populated built-up environment.

The first bees that you see in spring are likely to be the large queen bumblebees, as they are the only ones from the colony who survive the winter. They can be seen either gorging on early nectar and pollen or flying low to the ground in a zigzag pattern seeking out a nest site (usually a hole in the ground) where

England in late February and early March is the chiffchaff. They are a dainty little bird that is relatively plain in colour (olive green-brown) however, they are very easily identified by their call which is a distinct, repetitive (and after a while, a little irritating) rhythmic alternation of two notes “chiff” and “chaff” which is how they got their name.

They have migrated all the way from Africa and the Mediterranean to come to the UK to breed and will remain with us until autumn. The call of the chiffchaff is a typical backdrop spring sound and you should be able to hear them in the woods at Middleton Park or in hedges, back gardens and clumps of trees and shrub around South Leeds at this time of year.

Bats and hedgehogs will now also emerge from hibernation in April, triggered by warmer spring temperatures and the increased availability of food. Similarly, it feels like us humans are also waking up and feeling the urge to come out to play.

The signs of new growth and new life are coming to every city park, garden and window box as each day passes so it is

hardly surprising then that the symbolism of this time of year has been special for many faith traditions and cultures going back centuries with festivities such as Easter, Ostara, Eid and Nowruz taking place all within a few weeks of each other.

Migrant birds are also beginning to arrive to spend the next 6 months living among us. One of the early visitors, appearing in the north of

Last Sunday afternoon, the weather was mild and accommodating and I took a gentle stroll around the perimeter of Cross Flatts Park. There was a simple hum of life returning to this shared space with lots of people out rediscovering the pleasure of being outdoors. Spring then, is not just a change in the weather, it is a collective reemergence for all of us, plants, insects, animals, birds and humans alike and in the spirit of equinox, may we seek to try and live more equally and in balance with nature and each other.

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Slung Low presents ...

As the days get warmer and longer, Slung Low’s Warehouse in Holbeck comes out of hibernation with three touring shows in April.

The Tower and the Telescope Saturday 4 April, 7:30pm, theOBJECTproject return to Slung Low with their latest slice of clown/puppet dystopia, following in the wake of PIXIEMATOSIS and The Ballad of the Underwater Daughter.

It’s a hand-cranked, clanking puppet world where everyone and everything feels irretrievably lost. But it’s all ok because something is watching over them. Something huge and warm and fuzzy almost like happiness .… except with massive bone crushing arms.

Fixing Saturday 11 April, 7:30pm

When Matt was little, their dad bought a classic car. A 1954 Sunbeam Talbot Mark II. Dad had ideas that he and Matt would do it up, repair, rebuild together.

Mental health networking event to boost your confidence

Weby Stewart Walton

have an exciting event coming up in April.

Men's Health Unlocked and Insight (Mental Health Peer Support Group) are coming together to bring you a networking event like no other!

I have wanted to host and get involved in a networking event of this caliber for so long, I am very excited to be bringing this to you. I approached Maz

Sultan from Men's Health Unlocked and thankfully, he was as excited as myself. It is completely free and open to everyone.

The theme will be 'Boosting Confidence together', one of the biggest downfalls these days is the lack of confidence when one's belief in yourself isn't great. But all is not lost, there is so much that we can do and together, we'll show you techniques and give you links

to group's to help boost your confidence.

Maz from Men's Health Unlocked said: “It was great to be approached by Stewart from Insight to collaborate for this event. He saw an event I led some time ago and wanted to expand and work together to do an even better one.

“I am a link worker across South Leeds and see the great initiatives in the area. It will be wonderful to showcase these

Now in their 30’s, Matt would like to learn how to fix a car engine. Matt can’t do this alone, which is tricky for a solo show.

That’s where Matt’s drag alter-ego Natalie Spanner comes in.

Matt and Natalie will try to ask, in an increasingly broken world, how might we repair ourselves, together?

Bus Stop Goths Saturday 25 April, 7:30pm.

Fantasy meets punk with a Teesside twist.

A joyfully chaotic celebration of youth expression and identity.

Join celestial beings Sid and Viv as they keep a watchful eye on the streets of Middlesbrough. Their office might be in a dingy basement, but the streets they look in on are far from drab and gloomy.

As always these shows are pay-what-you-feel, book your free tickets and decide how much to pay after the show.

The Warehouse in Holbeck is on Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ.

Full details and booking at www.slunglow.org/shows

on 17 April.

“I also feel its important for voluntary run groups which need support and resources like Insight, to get a platform and for more people to see the great things they can offer.”

We will have local acts performing, services from around Leeds showcasing how they can help you and even some light snacks.

Join us at Involve Community Centre, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet. LS10 2QE.

Friday 17 April, 12-3pm.

To book a stall or for more information contact mazs@ touchstonesupport.org.uk or insightmhpsg@myyahoo.com

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

National Year of Reading activities

2026 has been designated the National Year of Reading. This is a UK-wide campaign designed to inspire more people to make reading a regular part of their lives. Libraries are doing their bit to promote this, with ongoing initiatives throughout the year, and events in the school holidays. Coming up for Easter at Community Hubs & Libraries in South Leeds: Craft Workshops:

Wednesday 8 April 10:30-11:30am - Hunslet

Thursday 9 April 10:30-11:30am - Beeston

Thursday 9 April 2:15-3:15pm - Dewsbury Road

Lego Events:

Wednesday 8 April 1-2pm - St George’s, Middleton

Thursday 16 April 10:30-11:30am - Beeston

Thursday 16 April 2:15-3:15pm - Dewsbury Road

Opera North in the community

Coming up in Hunslet and Belle Isle, Opera North are returning to the Penny Hill Shopping Centre, Church Street, Hunslet, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS10 2AP, for another of our monthly recitals. On Thursday 30 April, Sarah Masters (clarinet) and Jenny Hobbins (piano) will be bringing a delightful mix of classical and opera highlights and popular, well-known tunes to the centre. Come along and listen between 12.15pm and 12.45pm. We are just beyond the Morrisons tills in the shopping centre. Do stop and chat with us if you have any ideas or thoughts about future performances.

On April 17th we will be joining the breakfast club at BITMO, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle, Leeds LS10 3QH between 9.45am and 11.15am. All are welcome to come and have a chat with us, and we’d love to hear your ideas about the music and activities you would like to see in the area.

Easter Trail at Skelton Grange

The Skelton Grange Environment Centre’s Easter Good Friday event on 3 April is a glorious outdoor trail wandering through the woods and gardens at Skelton Grange. Complete a treasure hunt along the way and trade in your trove for a chocolatey Easter surprise at the end! The event is a fundraiser for the Centre, but also a great chance for families to enjoy some Easter fun! The Skelton Cafe will be open to buy hot drinks and sweet treats at the end. Tickets are required for all children attending the event, but babies (18 months or under) are welcome free. Adults do not require a ticket if they are accompanied by a child or children. Tickets are £8 per child (plus Eventbrite booking fee). Choose your timeslot between 11am and 1pm. Book via www.tcv.org.uk/skeltongrange

Free guided nature walk in Middleton Park

On Sunday 19 April the Friends of Middleton Park will lead a free two hour guided Spring walk in the park. It might not quite be bluebell time, but there’s lots to see and birds to hear. We might even see the odd butterfly. Meet at 1:30pm at Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street, LS10 3SH, wear stout shoes and dress for the weather, no booking required.

Festival of Cultures Market

You are invited to come and celebrate community diversity at Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library on Saturday 18 April. The event, which will take place outside in the car park from 11am-3pm will feature music, food, stalls and an Easter egg hunts for children. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy a fun multicultural day out. For more information contact Dasha on daria.pluto@leeds.gov.uk or call 07891 279161

What’s On

Your guide to events and activities across South Leeds in April

Please check that regular events are not affected by school holidays, 3-19 April

We publish a weekly What’s On guide every Friday at www.southleedslife.com

Every Monday

Money Buddies

9am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library Tea and Toast

9am-12pm BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH Holbeck Together cafe

9am-12:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Parents & Tots Group

9:30-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Let’s Play! (under 5s)

9:30am12:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, LS11 6RD Trinity Network Tea and Toast

9:30-3pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle

MEA Crafts Group

9:30-10:45am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Crochet & Knitting Group

10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub & Library, Town Street Sew 2gether

10am-12pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH Mums and Tots

10:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston

Monday Breakfast Club

10:30am-12pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Ave, Hunslet, LS10 2QE Tea and Bacon Buttie

10am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3DU MHA Dance On

10:30-11:30am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Story & Rhyme (under 5s)

10:30-11:30am Dewsbury Road Community Hub & Library Lychee Red Chinese Seniors Lunch Club

10:30am-1:30pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Coffee Morning

11am-12pm Aspiring Communities, 49 Barkly Road, Beeston, LS11 7EN Coffee and Crafts

11am-1pm Cottingley Community Centre, LS11 0HJ MEA Bingo and Hoy

11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road

Trinity Network Indoor Curling

11:30am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle MHA Soup & Sandwich

11:30am-1pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane

Holbeck Together Lunch Club

12-1pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck

MEA Lunch Club

12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road

Trinity Network Lunch Club, Bingo

12:30-2:15pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Lunchtime meditation

12:30-1pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Walking Group

1-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3DU Green Gym

1-3:30pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, LS10 1RS

50+ Women’s Friendship Group

1-3pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston, LS11 6JG

MHA Craft Club

1-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Beeston Bookwormers Book Club

1:30-2:30pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library Beeston Dancercise

1:30-2:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road

Children’s Gardening Group

3:30-4:30pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs)

4-6pm Blenkinsop Field, Acre Road, Middleton, LS10 4JQ

Ultimate Dance Academy

4:30-7pm Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, LS10 4AW

Youth Group Multisports

4:30-5:30pm Beeston Village

Community Centre, off Town St

Community Sports Session

4:30-5:30pm Clapgate Primary School, Cranmore Drive LS10 4AW

MHA Yoga

6-7pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane

BAFF Chair-based Exercise

6-7:30pm Beeston Village

Community Centre, off Town St

ANDYSMANCLUB

7-9pm Leeds College of Building, Cudbear Street, Hunslet LS10 1EF ANDYSMANCLUB

7-9pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, LS10 2QE

Every Tuesday

Tots Group

9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle

Digital Hub and Cafe

9am-12:30am St Matthew’s

Community Centre, Holbeck Stay and Play under 5s

9-10:30am Windmill Children’s Centre, Windmill Road LS10 3HQ MHA Breakfast Buddies

9-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Advice & Advocacy

9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Trinity Network Indoor Exercise

9:45am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Mobile Hub & Library

10am-3:30pm near St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Grandparents Kinship Support Group

10am-12pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Breastfeeding Support Group

10am-12pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX Woodwork

10am Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, Belle Isle

Story & Rhyme (under 5s)

10:30-11:30am Beeston

Community Hub & Library, Town St

Story & Rhyme (under 5s)

10:30-11:30am Hunslet

Community Hub & Library, off Church Street, LS10 2NS

Chair Based Exercise

10:45-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck

Bingo and Hoy

11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road

Cuppa and Company

11am-1pm Middleton Family Centre, Sissons Road, LS10 4JG

MHA Lunch and Social

11am-2pm Arthington Court, Balm Road, Hunslet

Hong Kongers Lunch Club

11:30am-1:30pm Beeston Village

Community Centre, off Town St MHA Walkie Talkies

11:30am-2:30pm Hunslet Nelson

Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston

Salvation Army Lunch Club

11:30am-1:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, LS11 6QB

MEA Lunch Club

12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road

Holbeck Together Lunch Club

12-1:15pm St Matthew’s

Community Centre, Holbeck

Lunch Club and Social

12-3pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3DU

Trinity Network Lunch Club

12:30-1:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle

MHA Line Dancing

12:30-3pm St Andrew’s

Community Centre, Old Lane

Women Only Swimming

1-2pm Asha Neighbourhood

Project, Beeston

MEA Walking Group

1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly

Aid Social Centre, Acre Road.

Healthy Hearts Advice

1:30-4pm BITMOs Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH

MEA Line Dancing

2-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road.

Help with Computers

3-7pm BITMOs Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH

Hot Meal (free to BITMO tenants)

4-5:30pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield

Gate, Belle Isle Road

Free Football 9-13 years

3:15-4:15pm Grove Road, Hunslet

Free Kids Sports

4:30-5:30pm West Grange Road

MUGA, Belle Isle, LS10 3AW

Cockburn Community Choir

5-6pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston

Girls-only Football

5:30pm Yrs 2-4; 6:30pm Yrs 5-7

The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road, LS10 1BP

Dance Fitness (14+)

6-7pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road

Book: 07519 018675

Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs)

6:30-8:30pm Holbeck Community Centre, Old Elland Road

Yoga

6:40-7:40pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, LS10 4AW

Hunslet Nelson Women’s Rounders

7-8pm Middleton Leisure Centre, Ring road Middleton, LS10 4AX

NK9 Dog Obedience drop in 6:30pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace, LS10 2HR South Leeds Lakers Running Club

6:50pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston. Book: bit.ly/LakersRunning MINT Men’s Support Group

7-9pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH Middletones singing group (HFA)

7-9pm Laurel Bank Day Centre, Middleton Park Avenue, LS10 4HY NK9 Dog Training Workshop

7:45pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace, LS10 2HR

Every Wednesday

Seniors Breakfast Club

9am-12pm Belle Isle Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, LS10 3DN Open doors

9:30-11:30am St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Old Lane, Beeston

Holbeck Together shopping trip

9:30am-12:30pm Bacon Butty morning

9:30-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Advice & Advocacy

9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Adult Maths Support 10am-1pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH Mobile Council Hub & Library 10am-12pm outside shops, Cottingley Holbeck Together coffee morning 10am-12pm Ingram Court Community Room, Holbeck Trinity Network Keep Fit with Julie 10am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Woodwork

10am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Remember Together Group Young Dementia Leeds Hub, Cottingley Book: 07983 215865 email mcst@ageukleeds.org.uk

Beeston In Bloom Gardening Gp 10am-12pm Millennium Garden, Cross Flatts Park Scrabble Club 10am-12pm St George’s Community Hub and Library, Middleton, LS10 4UZ

Rags To Riches Sewing Group

10am-12pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX Little Lighthouse Playgroup

10:30am-12:30pm South Bank Sanctuary, 2 Hunslet Hall Road, LS11 6TT

Beeston Remembered

10:30-11:30am Beeston

Community Hub & Library,Town St Hunslet Litterpicking Group 11-12:30pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, LS10 2QE

The Lunch Club

11:30am-1:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR

Holbeck Together Lunch Club 12-1:15pm Ingram Gardens Community Room, Holbeck

MHA Cottingley Lunch Club

12-2pm Cottingley Community Centre, 115 Cottingley Approach

Trinity Network Lunch Club

12:30-1:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle

Sew It Seams Sewing Group

1-3pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX

Ladies Group

1:30-3pm Middleton Family Centre 256-262 Sissons Road LS10 4JG

Walking Group

1-2:30pm meet at Asha, 43 Stratford Street, LS11 6JG

Holbeck Together Craft Afternoon

1:15-2:45pm Ingram Gardens

Community Room, Holbeck

Parents & Tots Social

1:30-2:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston

Walk and Talk (HFA)

2-3pm meet at Middleton Park main gates on Town Street

Creating Community crafts

2-4pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, LS10 2NS

Tai Chi

2-3pm Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, Belle Isle Children bike confidence

3:45-4:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, LS11 7NA

Brave Words Drama Group (4-17)

4-7:30pm Beeston Village

Community Centre, off Town St Book: 07775 926166

Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs)

4:30-6:30pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Belle Isle.

DAZL Dance (5-11 yrs)

4:30-5:15pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle

Free Table Tennis

5-7pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Youth Group

5-6pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX

DAZL Adult Dance Fit

5:15-6pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle

3rd Middleton Scouts

5:30-7:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR

1st SLAM Beavers (6-8 yrs)

6-7:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston 51st Leeds (Hunslet) Rainbows, Brownies & Guides

6-7pm Rainbows; 6:15-7:30pm Brownies; 7:15-8:30pm Guides Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, LS10 2QE

Women & Girls Cricket

6pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston, LS11 5TT Karate

6-7pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle 3rd Middleton Rainbows, Brownies, Guides & Rangers

6:15-7:30pm Rainbows & Brownies; 7:45-9pm Guides & Rangers St Mary's Parochial Hall, North Lingwell Road, LS10 3SR

Food Cycle free hot meal

6:30pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston LS11 8PD Holbeck Moor FC: Inclusive adult football training

6:30pm Holbeck Moor

Line Dancing

6:30-9pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR Veterans In Need Together

7pm St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Rd, LS10 3DN Leeds Camera Club

8pm St George’s Community Hub and Library, Middleton, LS10 4UZ photoleeds.com

Every Thursday

Tots Group

9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle, LS10 3RR

Music & Movement

9am-1pm Little Angels Playzone, The Sugar Mill, Beeston Parents & Tots Group

9-11am Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Digital Hub and Cafe

9am-1pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Mobile Hub & Library

9:30am-3:30pm near St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck

Advice & Advocacy

9:30am-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Holbeck Community Shop

9:30am-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Ping Pong

9:30-10:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Trinity Network Craft 10am United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Kushy Nana (HFA Elder Bangladeshi Women’s Group) 10am-12pm Building Blocks Nursery, Maud Avenue, LS11 7DD Women’s Friendship Group 10am-12pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace, Balm Rd Craft and Gardening groups

10am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3DU Mindful Makes / Woodwork 10-11:45am Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Craft Group / Digital Inclusion

10:30am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus Story & Rhyme (under 5s)

10:30-11:30am St George’s Community Hub and Library, Middleton Walking Football

11am-12pm The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road Bingo and Hoy 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Holbeck Together Line Dancing 11:30am-12:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck MEA Lunch Club

12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road MHA Lunch Club

12-1:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Free Soup and a Roll

12-2pm Church of the Nazarene, Lupton Street, Hunslet Holbeck Women’s Group (HFA) 12-2pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, LS11 9SA Trinity Network Lunch Club

12:30-1:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Women Only Swimming

1-2pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston, LS11 6JG Warm Space & Computer support

1-5pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3QH Kushy Dil (Bangladeshi Women’s Group)

1-3pm Building Blocks Nursery, Maud Avenue, LS11 7DD Online Computer class

1-2:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Walking Group

1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Be Yourself Men’s Group

1-2:30pm Middleton Family Centre 256-262 Sissons Road LS10 4JG

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Social Group and Bingo

1:30-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus

After School Games Club

3-4:30pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street Youth Club

4:30-6:30pm Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3DN

Community Basketball

5-6pm 14+ women & girls

Cockburn John Charles Academy, Old Run Road, Belle Isle

Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs)

5-8pm Hunslet Moor.

Middleton Scout Group

5:30-7:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Book: scoutsmiddleton@gmail.com

Sanctuary Youth (Year 7+)

6-8pm South Bank Sanctuary, 2 Hunslet Hall Road, LS11 6TT Boys and Girls Rugby

6:30-8pm Leeds Corinthians, Nutty Slack, Middleton, LS10 4AX Yoga

6:30pm St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Cardinal Road, Beeston Book: 07512 393228

Hunslet Nelson Women’s Rounders

6:30-7:30pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston

Every Friday

Charity Shop and Warm Space

8:30-11:30am United Free Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Stay & Play

9-11am St Anthony’s Church Hall, Old Lane, Beeston MHA Nellie’s Cafe

9:30-11:30am Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Digital Hub and Cafe

9am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Affordable Breakfast

9am Cranmore & Raylands

Community Centre, Belle Isle Breakfast Club

9:15-11:15am BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Breakfast Club and Food Bank

9:30-11:30am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR IT & Computer Skills

9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Toast & Games, Knit & Natter

9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Hunslet RLFC Breakfast Club

10am-12pm Phoenix Suite, South Leeds Stadium, LS11 5DJ Breakfast / Coffee Morining

10am-12pm Cottingley

Community Centre, LS11 0HJ Holbeck Together Dance On 10-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Hobbies Together (HFA)

10am-12pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton, LS10 4HX Bacon Butty Drop-in

10am-12pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus

Julie’s Ancestry Group

10am-12pm and 1-3pm 26 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3AE

MHA Stretch & Tone

10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Green Team Volunteers

10am-3pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, Stourton Beety Din Older Women’s Group

10:30am-1pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town St Bingo and Hoy

Email: info@southleedslife.com

11:30am-1pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck

MHA St Mary’s Lunch Club

12-1:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street, LS11 8PN MEA Lunch Club

12-1:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road

Trinity Network Lunch Club

12:30pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Insight Mental Health Peer Support Group

12:45-3pm Involve Community Centre, Hunslet, LS10 2QE Ballroom & Sequence Dancing

1-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston 50+ Gup Shup Group

1-3pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Prize Bingo Afternoon

1:15-2:15pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck

Friday Social Group and Bingo

1:30-3:30pm BISA 59 Club, 59 Belle Isle Circus, LS10 3DU Chair-based Exercise

1:45-2:45pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Councillor surgery

2:30-3:30pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston LS11 6RD Free Football sessions (8-18 yrs)

3:30-5:30pm Holbeck Community Centre, Elland Road

Active Communities

4-6pm Welcome Centre, St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road, LS10 3DN Middleton Skaters 4pm (under 8s); 5pm (under 13s) Parkside Hub, Coopers Field, Belle Isle, LS10 3HF Table Tennis

4:45-5:25pm (7-11yrs) 5:306:15pm (12-15yrs) St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck DAZL Youth Club

5-7pm Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road Open Doors Men’s Group

5-6:30pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle South Leeds Lakers Juniors (Athletics)

6-7pm South Leeds Stadium Book: fb.com/juniorlakersleeds Youth Club

6-8pm The Gambia Welfare Society, Oak House, Balm Walk, Holbeck, LS11 9PG

Suzaku Martial Arts Children’s gp

6-9pm Beeston Village Community Centre, off Town Street

1st SLAM Cubs (8-10½ yrs)

6:15-7:45pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston

5th Middleton Guides & Rangers

7:30-9pm South Leeds URC Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle 1st SLAM Scouts (10½-14 yrs)

8-9:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston

Every Saturday

Debbie Heart Theatre School

8am-12:30pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle

Cross Flatts parkrun

9am Top of Cross Flatts Park, Beeston, LS11 7NA

Middleton Woods parkrun

9am Leeds Urban Bike Park

Ring Road, Middleton, LS10 3TN

Community Basketball

9-10:30am 8-12 years, mixed

Holbeck

Saturday Breakfast

9:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid

Social Centre, Acre Road

Middleton Railway

10am-4:30pm Moor Road, Hunslet, LS10 2JG

Coffee Morning

10am-12pm Aspiring Communities, 49 Barkly Road, Beeston, LS11 7EN

Park Roll skating with LS-TEN

10-11am Cross Flatts Park, Beeston (near Maude Avenue)

Adult Cycle Training

10am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston

Book: bit.ly/CycleNorth

Police Contact Point

10:30am-1:30pm St George’s Centre, Middleton, LS10 4UZ

Rowland Road Play Patch

11am-2pm Rowland Road WMC, Beeston, LS11 6ED

Ultimate Dance Academy

10am-12:20pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre ParkPlay

10:30am-12:30pm Brickfield Park, Lady Pit Lane, Beeston

Champions Soccer Saturday

10:30-11:30am Hunslet Moor 3rd Middleton Scouts

12:45-2:15pm Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR

Youth Club

6-8pm The Gambia Welfare Society, Oak House, Balm Walk, Holbeck, LS11 9PG

Every Sunday

Junior parkrun (4-14 yrs)

9am Top of Cross Flatts Park

Middleton Railway

10am-4:30pm Moor Road, Hunslet, LS10 2JG

Healthy Minds Cycling Skills

10-11am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park

16 Guidelines To Life

10:30-11:30am Jamyang

Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck, LS11 9RQ

Play For All (7-13 yrs)

11am-1pm Cross Flatts Park

Big Bike Fix drop in workshop

12-4pm Harlech Avenue, Beeston

Toning & Stretching with Julie

6:30-7:30pm DAZL HQ, Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road. Book: 07783 786776

April

Wednesday 1 April

Digital 121 support drop in

10-11am Beeston Community Hub & Library, LS11 8PN

1:30-2:30pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Greenmounts Tenants & Residents Association

6:30pm Rowland Road Working Men’s Club, LS11 6ED

Thursday 2 April

Councillor surgery

9-10am Gascoigne House, Middleton, LS10 4YA

MEA Hearing Aid Clinic

10am-12:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4JQ

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston

Hunslet Carr Residents Assoc

6:30pm Woodhouse Hill

Community Centre, LS10 2EF

Easter Trail

11am-2pm Skelton Grange

Environment Centre, LS10 1RS

Saturday 4 April

Coffee morning

10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road, Hunslet

Easter Fun Day

12-5pm Tommy Wass pub, 450 Dewsbury Road, LS11 7LJ

Beeston Repair Café

1-4pm St Luke’s CARES shop, 246 Dewsbury Road, LS11 6JQ

Leeds Knights v Hull Seahawks

6:30pm Planet Ice, Elland Road, Beeston, LS11 0EY

The Tower and the Telescope

7:30pm Slung Low’s Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ

Sunday 5 April

Hunslet Club Easter Party

12-3pm Hillidge Road, LS10 1BP

Easter Egg Hunt

12-4pm Hunslet Moor, Moor Road, LS11 5FN

Litter Pick

1:30pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre

Monday 6 April

Middleton Community Group

6pm Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4LF

Garnet and Oakley TARA

6:30pm St Luke’s CARES Shop, 246 Dewsbury Road, LS11 6JQ

Tuesday 7 April

Buy, Sell, Swap

10-11:30am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road Belle Isle LS10 3RR

Tech Tuesday

10am-2pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, LS11 9RN

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Hunslet Community Hub and Library, off Church Street

Stronger Together (parents and carers of disabled children) 11am-1pm BITMO’s GATE, Aberfield Gate, LS10 3QH

Wednesday 8 April

MHA Kurling

10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Welbeing Breakfast Morning 10-11am St Matthew’s

Community Centre, Holbeck Police & Anti-social Behaviour Contact Point

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Year of Reading Craft Event

10:30-11:30am Hunslet

Community Hub & Library, off Church St, LS10 2NS

Year of Reading Lego Event

1-2pm St George’s Centre, Middleton, LS10 4UZ

MHA Singing Sensations

1:30-3:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane Hunslet Tenants & Residents Ass 4-6pm Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church St, LS10 2NS

Thursday 9 April

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub and Library, Town Street

Year of Reading Craft Event

10:30-11:30am Beeston

Community Hub and Library, Town Street, LS11 8PN

Year of Reading Craft Event

1-2pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Community/Reflections Cafe

10am-12pm United Reformed Church, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle

Fixing

7:30pm Slung Low’s Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ

Sunday 12 April

Still Sunday Yoga Session

10-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR

Better Beeston Litter Pick 1pm meet Lady Pit Lane

Hunslet RLFC v Newcastle Thunder

3pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ

South Leeds Community Kitchen

4-5:45pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street, LS11 8PN

Leeds Knights v Milton Keynes

4:15pm Planet Ice, Elland Road, Beeston, LS11 0EY

Tuesday 14 April

Hunslet Spire plans meeting

6pm Former Hunslet Vicarage, Church Street, LS10 2QY

Wednesday 15 April

MEA Film Club:

1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4JQ

MHA Connie Crafters

3-5pm South Leeds Conservative Club, Wooler Street, LS11 7JH

Thursday 16 April

Leeds Baby Bank

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Year of Reading Lego Event

10:30-11:30am Beeston

Community Hub and Library, Town Street, LS11 8PN

Year of Reading Lego Event

1-2pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Free Tennis Coaching

5-8pm Cross Flatts Park. Book: clubspark.lta.org

.uk/crossflattspark/EventsV2

Friday 17 April

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Cottingley

Community Centre, LS11 0HJ

Boosting Confidence Together

12-3pm Involve Centre, Whitfield Avenue, Hunslet, LS10 2QE

Saturday 18 April

Middleton Railway Community Day

10am-4:30pm Moor Road, Hunslet, LS10 2JG

Festival of Cultures

11am-3pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library

Belle Isle Repair Café

1-4pm BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle, LS10 3QH

Councillor surgery

1:30pm BITMO’s Gate, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle, LS10 3QH

Hunslet ARLFC v Wath Brow

Hornets

2:30pm Hunslet Club Sports Village, LS10 2AT

Leeds United v Wolverhampton

Wanderers

3pm Elland Road, LS11 0ES

Sunday 19 April

Spring Guided Walk

1:30-3:30pm from Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street

Better Beeston Litter Pick 3pm meet Maud Avenue

Wednesday 22 April

Legal Advice drop-in

12-1pm Beeston Community Hub and Library, Town Street

Friday 24 April

Councillors’ Surgeries

4pm Beeston Community Hub & Library, Town Street, Beeston

Saturday 25 April

Afternoon Retreat: Resetting Your Nervous System

1:30-5:30pm DAZL HQ, Acre Road, Middleton, LS10 4JQ

Book: 07783 786776

Bus Stop Goths

7:30pm Slung Low’s Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ

Sunday 26 April

Still Sunday Yoga Session

10-11am St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Holbeck Together Sunday Lunch

12:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, LS11 9NR Book: 0113 245 5553

Tuesday 28 April

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Hunslet Community Hub and Library, off Church Street

Survivor-led Sisterhood

11am-1:20pm St George’s Centre, Middleton, LS10 4UZ Election Hustings for Hunslet & Riverside Ward 7pm online at southleedslife.com

Wednesday 29 April

Councillor surgery

9:30am Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4JQ

MHA Kurling

10-11am St Andrew’s Community Centre, Old Lane, Beeston Police & Anti-social Behaviour Contact Point

10am-12pm Dewsbury Road

Community Hub & Library Police Contact Point

10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Election Hustings for Middleton Park Ward 7pm online at southleedslife.com

Thursday 30 April

SEN-tastic

9:15-10:30am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, LS11 8PD Hunslet Remembered

10-11:30am Hunslet Community Hub & Library, off Church Street, LS10 2NS

Police Contact Point

10am-12pm Beeston Community Hub and Library, Town Street Salvation Army Friendship Lunch 11am-1pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, LS11 6QB Free Opera North Music Concert

12:15pm Penny Hill Shopping Centre, Hunslet, LS10 2AP Election Hustings for Beeston & Holbeck Ward 7pm online at southleedslife.com

May

Friday 1 May

MEA Legal advice drop-in

9:30-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid, Acre Road, LS10 4JQ Saturday 2 May

Leeds United v Burnley 3pm Elland Road, LS11 0ES Sunday 3 May

Middleton Park Bluebell Walks

11:20am; 12:40pm & 2:20pm Park Halt, Middleton Railway Hunslet RLFC v Workington Town 3pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ

Monday 4 May

Middleton Park Bluebell Walks

11:20am; 12:40pm & 2:20pm Park Halt, Middleton Railway

10:30am-12pm Yr6-9 Girls

Beeston Community Forum

Saturday 11 April

Leeds Dads Free Soft Play

5pm Slung Low’s Warehouse in Holbeck, Crosby Street, LS11 9RQ

Publicise your event with South Leeds

11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road Fish & Chip Lunch

3:30-5pm U16/U14 Boys Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston, LS11 5TT Holbeck Moor FC Juniors (4-6yrs) 9am Ingram Road Primary School,

7pm Beeston Village Community Centre, LS11 8DQ

Friday 3 April

Easter Egg Hunt

11am-12pm Cross Flatts Park

10am-12pm Little Angels, Sugar Mill, Oakhurst Avenue, LS11 7HL

Middleton Pop Up Market

10am-2pm Middleton Park Circus

6pm Cottingley Community Centre

Do you need to advertise a licence application for your business?

We can help if the business is in LS10 or LS11

We charge £250 for legal notices

Contact us to make sure you time your application close to our publication dates

Email: info@southleedslife.com Call: 07894 583966

Mission and Pastoral Measure 2011

Hunslet St Mary (Diocese of Leeds)

The Church Commissioners have prepared a draft scheme providing for the sale of the closed church building of Hunslet St Mary and the churchyard for monument and/or residential use.

A copy of the draft Scheme may be inspected at Hunslet Community Hub and Library, Waterloo Road (off Church Street), LS10 2NS. You may also access the draft Scheme on the Commissioners’ website from the link to draft schemes online at www.churchofengland.org/consultation or obtain or inspect a copy during normal office hours at the Church Commissioners’ office by applying to Clare Chapman. Large print and/or audio copies are available on request.

A meeting will take place on Tuesday 14 April 2026 at 6pm in the former Hunslet Vicarage, Church Street, LS10 2QY at which members of the Commissioners’ and Diocesan staff, along with the prospective purchaser, will be available to answer any questions those attending may have about the proposals.

Having considered the proposals you may make representations either in support or against the draft scheme by e-mail to patrick.brown@churchofengland.org or by writing to Representations, Closed Churches Division, Church Commissioners, Church House, Great Smith Street, London SW1P 3AZ.

Please note that any communications received after1 May 2026 cannot be treated as a representation.

For details of this process see www.ccpastoral.org. If you require further clarification about the draft scheme or process you can contact the Case Officer, Clare Chapman, on 07879 165 208 or by e-mail at clare.chapman@churchofengland.org

The Church Commissioners are a Registered Charity (number 1140097)

Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence

Manheim Limited of Central House, Pontefract Road, Rothwell, Leeds, LS26 0JE

is applying for a licence to use Linkways Distribution Services Ltd, 1343 Skelton Grange Road, Leeds, LS10 1RZ as an operating centre for 10 goods vehicles and 10 trailers

Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to The Traffic Commissioner at Quarry House, Quarry Hill, Leeds, LS2 7UE, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to Making Representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s office.

Will you help our Editor raise £1,000 for MND?

by Jeremy Morton

WhenI heard that my friend had been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) my fourth thought was ‘Oh God, now I’m going to have to run the marathon.’

Obviously my first and second thoughts were for Catherine and her family. A life cut short, the loss of a partner, a mother, etc, etc.

Catherine’s diagnosis came on top of the loss of another friend to MND. Sheila was only diagnosed shortly before she died so wasn’t able to access the help and support that is now available at the Rob Burrow Centre and that is supporting Catherine and her family.

My third thought was ‘what can I do to help?’ Apart from the fact that I live on the other side of the city, Catherine has a great support network around her, so it wasn’t going be anything practical. Having said that if she wants a vegetarian chilli bringing over or help with dog walks she only has to ask.

Which brings me to the marathon.

I am a runner. I run every week, I enter races every year, I go to parkrun, I’m a member of South Leeds Lakers, but I have always said I wouldn’t run a marathon.

I didn’t feel I needed to. My long-term running goal isn’t to run further, but to keep running into old age. On my first half marathon in 2000 I saw an old Sikh runner who looked to be about 80 years old. I decided then that I wanted to be still running half marathons aged 80. I’ve got to 65 and my next half marathon race is on 12 April.

There are other reasons for me not to enter the Leeds Rob Burrow Marathon. I much prefer trails to road running, I don’t like big events, or crowds (probably something to do with undiagnosed autism). But then

Hunslet can’t buy a win

Continued from page 24 a try and another penalty, 1229. On 77 minutes Abram and Lloyd combined well for Graham to score in the corner, then 2 minutes later a good team try saw Billy Jowitt score, having converted both it was now 24-29.

But it was too little too late as Barrow held on to win an exciting game.

Hunslet are pushing teams near the top of the table, but are just not getting over the line. It feels like it will come, but suicidal plays are costing them when they are in the ascendancy.

Unfortunately it was a different story a week later on 29 March when Hunslet crossed the Pennines to face Oldham at Bower Fold home of Stalybridge Celtic, but fell well short in what was probably their worst performance of the season.

Missing loan players from Doncaster and Leeds who have impressed recently and some

injuries to key players, The Parksiders seemed sluggish and short on ideas.

It was true that players were coming back after injury layoffs and changes in personnel meant the squad had to be shuffled, players in different positions, but it was still unlike the Hunslet of recent games.

It started so brightly when after the first set a Lee Gaskell kick hit the posts and caused havoc in the Oldham defence, but Hunslet were short on ideas and rushed a second kick under pressure enabling Oldham to survive.

On 3 minutes Jake Bibby opened the scoring when Hunslet were caught short on their right edge, and 7 minutes later an Oldham grubber was fumbled for Jack Walker to pounce. 8-0 as both conversions were missed.

Hunslet had threatened on both flanks, but the final ball went to ground whilst Oldham played simple effective rugby.

Hunslet’s re-start had gone

MND like Catherine and to research into finding a cure. For example, £700 could fund one month’s lab equipment and consumables for a PhD student working on vital MND research in the search for a cure; £945 could help someone whose muscles are weakened by MND to stand up more safely, and sit and rest more comfortably by funding a riser recliner chair.

MND is a cruel degenerative disease and there’s no cure so far – it is a terminal illness.

The profile of the disease has been raised by sportspeople like Rob Burrow and Dodie Weir, but it can strike anyone. To the best of my knowledge neither Catherine nor Sheila ever played rugby, or headed a football.

I saw Kevin Sinfield’s latest effort running 7 ultramarathons in 7 days last December for MND and I thought if he can put himself through that, then surely I can run one marathon. And because I’m running for MND it has to be the Rob Burrow marathon.

So I entered the marathon in December. It takes place on Sunday 10 May. I’ve set myself a target of raising £1,000 for MND and I’m asking everyone I know – including you dear reader – to help me.

The money raised will go to supporting people living with

dead and so Oldham were piggy backed up field, on 14 minutes quick play to the right saw Ben O’Keefe go over. 14-0

A bit of luck for The Roughyeds on 25 minutes as a kick through was dribbled back in play by Bibby only to bounce off Agoro, the Ref deeming the ball to have been played at. The resulting set saw Matty Ashurst score and 3 minutes later a loose ball was picked up for Jack Walker to sprint over for his second try.

26-0 after 27 minutes with Josh Drinkwater now finding his kicking boots.

On 35 minutes Ryan Lannon celebrated his 200th appearance slicing easily through the Hunslet defence. 32-0 at the break.

The second half couldn’t be as bad for Hunslet, but on 48 minutes Oldham scored again as a kick on the outside of the boot was plucked from the air by winger Tom Nisbet to score, superb skill or luck, nothing was going right for Hunslet. 38-

0 The Parksiders were not on

I started training properly in January with four runs per week – a long slow run, a pace run and two more training runs, plus a session at the gym with weights to help avoid injury. There are now six weeks to go, last week’s long run was 29 km. I’m on track and more or less injury free so far.

I have a target of finishing in four and a half hours, but my real target is just to finish and raise £1,000.

I realise that to some extent I’m abusing my power as Editor to put this in front of you, but it’s for a very good cause, so I’m going to ask you – will you help me raise £1,000?

If you want to and can afford to please visit my fundraising page at: www.justgiving.com/ page/jeremy-morton-2 No matter how big or small, every donation counts. Thank you.

each other’s wavelength and at times looked like strangers with the ball, but their defence did improve scrambling well against a good Oldham attack.

On 67 minutes the final try was scored by Josh Drinkwater who cut through a hole and converted to end his day with a 16 point haul. Final score: 440

Harrison Gilmore and Myles Harrop never stopped and Jimmy Watson as ever did a job for the team.

This is a game Hunslet will want to forget and put it down to a bad day at the office, the next few games are winnable and if they are to turn this season around it starts at Cougar Park, Keighley.

The coming month sees fixtures away to Keighley Cougars on Saturday 4 April at 1pm; and Whitehaven on Sunday 26 April; sandwiching a home game against Newcastle Thunder on Sunday 12 April, 3pm at South Leeds Stadium. You can read full match reports of every Hunslet match online at southleedslife.com

Website: www.southleedslife.com

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Golden Team’s Belle Isle boxing nights

by Danny Knee

South Leeds boxing fans were treated to two memorable nights of action as Hunslet’s Golden Team Boxing Gym hosted both an amateur and a semi-professional show at Belle Isle Working Men’s Club.

Organised by head coach Padraic McDonagh and his dedicated team, the events showcased the depth of talent emerging from the local gym while highlighting the club’s commitment to developing fighters of all ages and experience levels.

The amateur show, held on Thursday 5 March, featured around 14 bouts and brought together competitors from several Leeds boxing gyms. The evening included fighters making their first appearances in the ring as well as more seasoned amateurs demonstrating their experience.

The night opened with a skills bout featuring Golden Team’s promising young prospect William Littlewood, just 12 years old, who faced

Zayaan Habib. The bout offered a glimpse of William’s potential and marked an exciting first step in what will hopefully be a bright future in boxing.

Several other young boxers also made their amateur debuts on the night. Amayah Walters and Adam Smith were among those stepping through

Tennis lessons set to start in Cross Flatts Park

the ropes for the first time, gaining valuable experience and demonstrating the courage required to compete in the ring.

As the evening progressed, attention turned to the more experienced competitors.

Danny Knee made his amateur debut after transitioning from the semi-professional ranks and impressed with a composed performance. Knee secured a unanimous points decision victory over the durable Will Horner, showing both discipline and ring craft throughout the contest.

The final bout of the amateur card brought the night to a dramatic close as Golden Team’s Levi Powell faced experienced opponent Liam Collier. Powell delivered a strong and confident display, forcing a corner stoppage after the second round to secure victory and send the home crowd home on a high.

The second event, a semiprofessional show also held at Belle Isle Working Men’s Club, carried the momentum forward with another lively atmosphere. The show attracted fighters

beginner/improver (16+ years)

All sessions are 1 hour long and cost £2 per session, ensuring the programme remains affordable and inclusive for the local community.

travelling from across England, including Manchester and Blackpool, adding to the competitive feel of the evening.

The event began with several skills bouts featuring Golden Team boxers before the action intensified as the more experienced fighters entered the ring.

Golden Team coach Nicola Aldred stepped between the ropes in a closely contested bout against a former opponent. Despite a determined performance in a competitive contest, Aldred narrowly lost on points in what was described as an educational outing.

The night’s headline contest provided a memorable moment for spectators as Noel Wilders, the former British, European and world champion from Airedale, made a remarkable return to the ring aged 51. After spending years working as a coach, Wilders demonstrated his enduring skill and ring intelligence over five rounds, producing a disciplined and dominant display to earn a unanimous decision victory over a tough opponent.

Reflecting on the success of the events, Golden Team head

coach Padraic McDonagh praised the dedication of everyone involved.

“I’m extremely proud of everyone who walks through the gym door, leaves everything in the gym and puts 110% into training,” he said. “It shows on fight night as most of our boxers fought to well-earned victories. Many young boxers showed great improvements, which confirms the work going on in the gym to improve everyone there. We’ve a lot of young talent coming through along with more experienced fighters such as Danny and Levi who hope to box professionally soon.”

Across both shows, Golden Team’s boxers largely emerged victorious, with a few educational losses providing valuable experience. With a strong community spirit and a growing stable of fighters, Golden Team continues to play an important role in developing boxing talent in South Leeds while providing exciting nights of action for local fans. Golden Team is located at 36 Whitehouse Street LS10 1AD. Contact the club on 07432 297690 or on Instagram @goldenteamgym or by e-mail to Goldenteamp1@icloud.com

Continued from page 24

To launch the programme, a free open day will take place on Thursday 16 April, with sessions running at the same times as above.

Book here: clubspark.lta.org .uk/crossflattspark/EventsV2

Following this, weekly paid sessions will begin on Thursday 23 April and continue through to mid-September.

Book coaching: clubspark .lta.org.uk/crossflattspark/ Coaching

The courts at Cross Flatts Park are free to access yearround and can be booked online, making tennis easily available to the local community.

Book a court: clubspark.lta.org.uk/crossflatt spark/Booking/BookByDate

Joe Craven who’s helped him learn discipline, respect, and the value of hard work. He looks up to Joe and all the Bad Company coaches and aspires to become a champion just like them. Peyton was so excited to be invited to fight on the Hitman Legends show. Although he sometimes felt the pressure of the extra training, the help and kind words from coaches Joe and Lisa helped him settle.”

“Junior competitors are protected in fights with padded body vests, shin guards and head guards,” explained coach Richard Smith. “They’re not allowed to use elbows and

there’s no striking to the head. That comes much later. Peyton’s made a great start and is apparently in the running for a title fight opportunity on the next Leeds show.”

Hitman is organised by former world champion Leeds Thai boxer Andy Howson. “We’re grateful to everyone who came to support these elite athletes including Peyton and his friends from Bad Company. Both the Leeds and Manchester shows sold out with over two thousand at the two events enjoying fifty-three exhilarating bouts. We’re already planning our next Leeds show possibly in June.”

Saf coaching youngsters at Armley Park

by Danny Burrell

Starting this month, group tennis coaching at Cross Flatts Park joins part of the wider Leeds community tennis programme, organised by Active Leeds and designed to increase participation and provide accessible opportunities for players of all ages and abilities. Delivered in a welcoming park environment, the programme supports both beginners and those looking to develop their skills.

experience for all participants. The coaching programme runs every Thursday and is structured to offer clear pathways across different age groups:

All sessions are delivered by Leeds City Council’s LTAqualified tennis coach, Saf, ensuring a high-quality, safe and engaging coaching

4:30–5:30pm: Children aged 5–9 years

5:30–6:30pm: Girls only (10–16 years) 6:30–7:30pm: Adult

This initiative has been made possible through funding from the Sport England Movement Fund, helping to remove barriers to participation and encourage more people to get active through tennis.

Overall, Active Leeds' Cross Flatts Park coaching provides a strong example of communityfocused sport delivery, combining free court access with low-cost coaching to create meaningful opportunities for long-term engagement in tennis'.

Hunslet can’t buy a win

by Ian Pickles

After winning handsomely at Rochdale in February, Hunslet RLFC lost all four games in March.

Despite having only one match of seven their points difference is only -46, indicating that they’ve lost a lot of close games. But mistakes are costing them dearly.

Hunslet came close to that elusive home win at the South Leeds Stadium on 1 March, but an unbeaten Sheffield Eagles side held out for the win in an entertaining game.

Mackenzie Turner scored twice in the first half, but The Parksiders trailed 10-14 at half time.

Hunslet had to defend their line under sustained pressure at the start of the second period and then Hunslet found themselves on Sheffield’s line for 24 tackles, but although Whittel and Gilmore went close repeated Gaskell kicks could not break the line.

The Eagles broke the deadlock on 60 minutes, but Hunslet replied through Billy

Jowitt. 16-18 with 12 minutes to play. Sheffield scored again on 78 minutes to make it 1624 at the hooter.

The game was there to be won for Hunslet. Two mistakes

in their own 20 cost them tries, but the 24 tackles on the Eagles line probably gave the visitors confidence at a crucial part in the game.

Hunslet came close to their

South Leeds runner credits parkrun with saving his life

Aretired South Leeds man has credited parkrun with saving his life, after a noticeable drop in his running performance led doctors to discover a blocked artery, which ultimately resulted in a triple heart bypass operation.

Bill Brady, 71, a regular at Cross Flatts parkrun in Beeston, first noticed something was wrong in September 2024 when his times began averaging five

minutes slower than usual and he found himself repeatedly running out of energy mid-run.

After mentioning his symptoms to his GP, he was referred to hospital and diagnosed with a blocked arterial branch. His cardiology consultant told him that had he not maintained his fitness through parkrun, he would likely have suffered a heart attack.

In March 2025, Bill

underwent triple bypass surgery. He missed just four parkruns before returning and initially noticed new symptoms of dizziness and lightheadedness, which led to his medication being adjusted. Bill believes it shows how parkrun can help people’s health significantly. He said:

“It shows that taking part in parkrun and checking your own performance can help identify health issues early.

could be forgiven for thinking it would be an easy afternoon, but from the off The Parksiders had other ideas.

The game was end to end and swung back and forth in the first half. Scores from Ben Littlewood, on loan, Charlie Graham and Harvey Hallas led to a score of 18-14 at the break.

Hunslet went ahead after the break as Myles Harrop plucked a Lee Gaskell kick out of the air to score. Widnes hit back and were leading 32-22 when Charlie Graham put a grubber kick in and managed to touch down just before the dead ball line, Jowitt converting. 32-26 with 6 minutes to play, but it wasn’t to be. Widnes held on for the win.

Hunslet scored four tries in the last quarter of their clash with Barrow Raiders at the South Leeds Stadium on 22 March, but it wasn’t enough as the Cumbrians held on for the victory.

best victory in years taking a good Widnes Vikings side all the way in a thriller at the DCBL Stadium on 8 March.

With the bookies giving Hunslet a 20+ point start they

“parkrun fills a gap in daily social interactions which retirement inevitably brings. It has helped me maintain a reasonable fitness level, supported my mental wellbeing and saved my life – it has done a lot for me.”

Bill first came to Cross Flatts parkrun in 2016, aged 61, after signing up to run the Leeds 10k for the Leeds Rhinos Foundation. A fellow runner suggested parkrun as training. Despite being nervous when he first went, he quickly felt welcomed into the community. He has since achieved both his 250-run and 250-volunteer milestones.

parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5k event held every Saturday morning in parks and open spaces, run by volunteers and open to people of all abilities.

There are two parkruns in South Leeds every Saturday at 9am. Cross Flatts takes place in Cross Flatts Park with the start near the Beeston Road end of the park. Middleton Woods parkrun takes place in Middleton Park starting near the Leeds Urban Bike Park. There is also a Junior parkrun at Cross Flatts on Sunday mornings at 9am. This is a 2km event for children aged 4-14 years old.

To find out more about parkrun and where your nearest event to run, walk or volunteer is, visit www.parkrun.org.uk

had the visitors on the back foot. The Parksiders took the lead on 12 minutes when Billy Jowitt converted a penalty for a high tackle. 2-0

Dan Abram was lively and all the play was in Barrow’s half, until a wild pass to Bureta Faraimo gave the visitors a gift set of tackles. Barrow capitalised to lead 2-6 on 18 minutes.

Barrow stretched their lead with a penalty and a drop goal on 40 minutes. Hunslet then committed near suicide. Kicking off short they failed to get 10 yards and gave Barrow a set of tackles on their line in added time. Luke Cresswell scored from close range and with Archer’s conversion Hunslet trailed at the break 215 handing a gift to their opponents on the hooter.

Barrow were sitting in third place before kick-off and were strong favourites, but Hunslet were the better side for long periods and gifted their opponent’s points at crucial stages in the game.

Hunslet started off well and

The Raiders scored again after the break, then a Lee Gaskell 40/20 seemed to change the momentum. On 53 minutes the man himself dummied his way over and got Hunslet back in it at 8-21.Five minutes later Dan Abram put Charlie Graham away to score, the big man showing great pace. 12-21

But Barrow came back with

Continued on page 22

Hunslet boy in Thai boxing success

by James Bovington

Hunslet’s

Peyton

Silverblade is delighted to have won both his debut Thai boxing fight on the Leeds ‘Hitman’ show last November at eight years of age and now aged nine his second contest on Hitman’s recent Manchester show themed as ‘Legends’.

According to parents James Silverblade and Helen Duckworth, “Peyton lives for his coaching at Bad Company gym in Bramley.” In Manchester

Peyton defeated Liverpool’s Harrison Parkinson over five one-minute rounds at 28kg having also defeated Coventry’s Karanveer Singh on the Leeds show.

“Peyton has been training Muay Thai for 18 months and the growth we’ve seen in him has been incredible,” explained Helen. “It’s hard to believe he’s the same boy. His confidence and resilience have grown so much since he took up Muay Thai as its properly called. His coach is champion Thai boxer

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