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Issue 28 | April 2017

What’s happening in Beeston, Belle Isle, Cottingley, Holbeck, Hunslet, Middleton & Stourton

Economic cleansing

In this issue:

Spike in fires at Beeston park

page 3

Lord Mayor calls for a cuppa

page 3

Beeston tenants set to lose their homes after new landlord imposes rent hike

by Jeremy Morton In a move condemned by local MP Hilary Benn, scores of households on an estate in Beeston are facing eviction as the new owners impose steep rent rises. Last November South Leeds Life reported on the sale of the estate – Kirk Beston Close and Cross Heath Grove. New owners PlaceFirst have decided to refurbish the estate to an ‘aspirational’ level and introduce new, higher, rents. Tenants have been given two months to apply for a refurbished home at the new rent, or leave. The new rent levels will range from £550 per month for a one bed flat to £875 per month for a three bedroom house. South Leeds Life has spoken to a number of affected tenants who were shocked to receive the news. They told us they felt forced out and had no control over the situation. One tenant told us she had lived on the estate for nine years: “It might not be much, but it’s our home. I’ve always felt safe here. Now I don’t know what we’re going to do.” Another tenant said: “It’s not just a house, it’s my

home. If I can’t find somewhere nearby I’ll have to give up my job and my kids will have to move schools. “It’s not right. I haven’t done anything wrong, I’ve always paid my rent. What do I do?” “When they took over they came round knocking on the doors, all smiles.Then they sent us a letter to say get out. PlaceFirst? They should be called ProfitFirst.” Tenants have not been informed what improvements will be carried out to the properties. One tenant told us: “My house was used as show house when the last landlord was going to make improvements. It has already got double glazing and a new kitchen, yet they want to put up my rent from £450 to £875 per month.” PlaceFirst are offering up to £500 to help tenants who move and are encouraging them to seek advice from the Council’s Housing Options service. Tenants counter that moving house can cost up to £2,000 when Bonds and rent in advance are taken into account. South Leeds Life understands that PlaceFirst informed Housing Options of their plans. Staff thought they

Winning on the dancefloor

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Tenants under threat: Deborah Craven, Ian Dowthorpe and Robert Yates had an agreement with the landlord to hold off any action whilst the Council liaised with the tenants. They were shocked to see the letters had been sent out without further warning. Cllr Angela Gabriel said: “I think the best advice to give is that tenants have a right to secure legal advice to make sure their rights are being observed but to approach Leeds Housing Options as soon as possible so that we

can make sure legal rights are being observed and also to help them be re-housed.” Hilary Benn MP met with four of the affected tenants at his surgery on Friday 24 March and commented to South Leeds Life afterwards: “I think PlaceFirst's treatment of its tenants has been outrageous. It is trying to impose huge rent increases that many of them, including long-standing residents, simply can't afford. It should now

withdraw the eviction notices and do the decent thing by sitting down with the tenants and listening to them." We approached PlaceFirst for a comment but have not received a response. Staff from Housing Options have spoken to many of the tenants and are now arranging to visit them individually in their homes on the estate. More reaction in readers letters on page 10.

Get the latest news at www.southleedslife.com - new stories posted daily

Obituary: Joe Lee BEM

page 13

NEWS

SCHOOLS

FEEDBACK ARTS

p2-7

p8-9 p10

p11

PEOPLE

p12-13

SPORT!

p16

WHAT’S!ON p14-15

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About us South Leeds Life is written by and for local people. People who live and work in the LS10 and LS11 areas of South Leeds. The blog and newspaper are produced by South Leeds Life CIC, a social enterprise registered with Companies House. Our aims are: 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 started as a blog in November 2010 and still posts news every day at: www.southleedslife.com

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Defending democracy by Hilary Benn MP The terrorist attack in Westminster on 22 March claimed the lives of four people, including PC Keith Palmer. Many others were injured, some very seriously. The attacker was shot dead. The following day the House of Commons held a minute's silence and the Prime Minister made a statement. Leeds Town Hall flew its flag at half-mast in memory of those who had lost their lives and on the Friday evening I attended a vigil in the city centre. Our thoughts are above all with the families of those who were killed and with the injured: a mum walking to collect her children from school, a pensioner who was just crossing Westminster Bridge, a man who had come to London to celebrate his wedding anniversary and a police officer who was guarding the place where we work. They didn't come home to their families and friends at the end of that day. And we should also give grateful thanks to the Commons staff, police and security and emergency services for their

exemplary courage and devotion to duty. What happened will also leave scars on others caught up in this horrific event; those who witnessed the attack, or went to the aid of the wounded and the dying or were frightened by the chaos and the shouting and the sight of armed police officers walking down corridors and up staircases which are so familiar to us on a normal working day. When it was all happening, we had to deal with it whether we were locked in the Chamber (as I was) or for our staff remaining in their offices having been told not to move about. We all worried for each other while making sure our families and staff away from Westminster knew that we were OK. But shock affects people in different ways and the effects may only become apparent in the following days and weeks. Counselling is being offered and it's much better to talk about the feelings we have than to bottle them up. The sad truth is that what happened in London that day had been expected for some time. The police had been consistently clear

that an attack was highly likely and violent incidents like this are very difficult to stop. We know now what terror a car and a knife can inflict. There will, of course, be a review of security around the Houses of Parliament, and I am sure that additional protection measures will be put in place, but we cannot turn the home of our democracy into an impenetrable fortress. We have to find the right balance between security and access; after all, thousands of people come to work there every day and there are Hilary Benn MP lots of visitors from school parties to people coming to their diligent determination to keep meet their MP or give evidence all of us safe. And the best way we can respond to those intent on before parliamentary committees. The best way in which we can taking lives in pursuit of a warped defend ourselves against future ideology is to remain united and attacks - which could come show by our determination to carry anywhere is through good on that we will not be cowed or intelligence. We know that the defeated. Our democracy belongs to us all police and the security services have disrupted a number of plots and we all have a responsibility and we should applaud them for together to defend it.

Housing regeneration scheme celebrates its completion The Beeston Hill and Holbeck housing regeneration scheme has completed its capital works and held a celebration event at Bismarck Way on Wednesday 22 March. Speeches were kept to a minimum given the inclement weather, but Simon Costigan from Housing Leeds spoke about the commitment of local councillors to ensuring that “real changes were made to the environment and to the lives of the people who live here.” Colin Rossiter from Keepmoat stressed the excellent partnership between Leeds City Council and Keepmoat and stressed the company’s ongoing commitment to the community over the remaining 17 years of the property maintenance contract. Cllr Judith Blake, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: “The emphasis on quality and attention to detail shows our commitment to do right by people in our communities. The homes incorporate energy efficiency measures that will save the tenants over £300 per year in bills.” Freda Bates, a member of the Community Advisory Group, was present but did not speak. She explained that the group had started ten years ago and given up many evenings and weekends to scrutinise the plans and quiz the developers and she was happy to see the homes finally completed. Representing the City & Hunslet Councillors, Cllr Elizabeth Nash explained to South Leeds Life that she was pleased their voice had been heard

L-R: Cllr Judith Blake, Colin Rossiter (Keepmoat), Cllr Debra Coupar, Cllr Elizabeth Nash in building more family housing and retaining the historic street names. Cllr Blake went on to plant a silver birch tree, whilst the choir from New Bewerley Community School sang with staff from In Harmony Opera North. You can see the choir at: youtube.com/southleedslife. The scheme has seen 275 new council houses built and 373 homes refurbished. The work was

carried out by sc4l with Keepmoat the main contractor and completed, on schedule, in just three years. Planning the project and bidding to government for the PFI funds started ten years ago in 2007. Keepmoat won a Child Friendly Leeds Award alongside Construction Housing Yorkshire earlier this year for their overall contribution to Child Friendly Leeds.

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Beeston park sees huge spike in fires

Cross Flatts Park in has seen a Beeston significant increase in fires this winter. South Leeds Life has been canvassing opinion from park users and residents who overlook the park. In news that will come at little surprise to locals, the Fire Service has attended over 40 fires in the park the past 6 months. This marks a major increase from previous years: there were just 4 fires reported in the whole of 2015, 22 in 2014, 11 in 2013, and 19 in 2012. With each call out costing an estimated £1,000, this puts the cost of these fires at over £40,000, not including repairing any damage caused. This is at a time when central government is cutting funding to the Fire Service. West Yorkshire Fire Service has seen a £21.9m cut in the past five years, with a further £15m due to be slashed by 2020. The main concern to park users is damage to the lawns, the Multi-Use Games Area, and the children’s play equipment at the well-used top end of the park.

Linda Stanley from Beeston in Bloom said: “Damage to our projects is inevitable, as they are in open public places. But the vandalism in Cross Flatts Park since November is inexcusable: signage melted, plants reduced to cinder, paving scorched. “It’s distressing. Councillors, the Friends of Cross Flatts Park group, the Council Parks staff, and Beeston in Bloom

spoiling it.” Ed Carlisle, local resident commented: “Great work’s been done in the past 10-15 years, by local people and agencies, to improve our park – so it’s gutting to see it being damaged like this. The new CCTV will hopefully make a difference, and of course there’s always a need for more policing. But I also think we should be thinking creatively

A firefighter tackles a recent fire in Cross Flatts Park Photo: Bruce Davies have worked hard for the last 20 years to make the park a welcoming space. It’s just a shame that a small number of thoughtless individuals are

about this. “For example, it’s not a popular idea, but could we not consider creating a firepit at the underused bottom end of

the park near Dewsbury Road, to divert people away from the top end? One of the north Leeds parks has an informal firepit, and local people there say it really works. Or if not that, are their other more creative approaches to this problem?” Leeds Life South understands that both the Fire Service and the Council’s Parks and Countryside have concerns about the possibility of a fire pit. But resident Jon Gomm commented: “It might inevitably create issues, but many people around here already have fires in their yards, so they’d accept it. If it helped protect the play areas at the top end, it might not be a bad thing. Is it worth a try?” Another resident who overlooks the park Sally Cieslik said: “This sounds like a good idea if there’s a way of managing it. There is already a tree trunk area, where people seem to gather and sometimes play musical instruments. But there are of course risks around people drinking and messing around with fire.”

Lord Mayor pops in for a cuppa by Ken Ingram

The plan was to make this year’s Time For A Cuppa a big event and invite various organisations. The Lord Mayor and Mayoress where brilliant to come and support us. I kept this quiet

April 2017 | South Leeds Life

until I got to know that they could attend. Time For A Cuppa is a tea party to raise funds and awareness for the Dementia UK charity. Just after 1pm the Lord Mayor Cllr Gerry Harper arrived at the BITMO GATE centre in Belle Isle with his

Ken welcomes the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress

Lady Mayoress. The first thing the Lord Mayor said was “I’ve heard a lot about you” oh dear I thought. He gave me a badge. Very few people have a got a Civic Hall badge he said, I suppose it’s like a Blue Peter badge then. Eventually with many photos taken, we had time to have a sit down have a chat and made them a cup of tea. Gerry was very interested in my volunteer work and I pointed out other people who volunteer within BITMO GATE. I pointed out Gerry, Steph and Tony who made the Tea Party and also volunteer every Friday morning to make breakfast for anyone wanting one. I gave him copies of South Leeds Life newspaper out that morning. Now it was time for Juliana to start singing and she played a request for me: Time To sSay Goodbye by Kathrine Jenkins. I used to play this to finish my

Sunday morning show at South Leeds Community Radio a couple years back. The centre was filing up nicely and about 60 people now enjoy the music and food. The Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress leading the way to Amarillo, dancing around the centre - what a good sport. I think we were trying to copy Peter Kaye’s version for Red Nose Day, but our version was better! We made a total of £100 pounds from the raffle and contributions from BITMO GATE. Many thanks must also go to Chris Simpson (BITMO CEO) and Carla Yeomans from the GATE for paying for most of the food and the singer Juliana. Thanks go to Julie and Lynne for taking photos and Tony, Gerry and Steph for organising the food. Of course thanks got to the 60 or so people that turned up for this fantastic and amazing event.

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Beeston gang feud brought to an end

A gang feud that saw cars burned out and houses rammed by 4×4 vehicles appears to be over. An injunction was granted against seven men at a hearing in Bradford last December. Prosecutions had been brought for some of the crimes, but the injunction granted under legislation enacted in 2009 prohibits future behaviour. Any breach of the injunction is itself a criminal offence which can lead to arrest. 94 offences were committed across Beeston and Beeston Hill over a two year period, culminating in a shooting on Middleton Crescent in October 2015. The orders include a number of conditions that place strict limitations on the subjects and can see them arrested for any breaches. These include a ban from exclusion zones covering the Beeston area; restrictions on who they can associate with; requirements to register their home address and personal mobile phone numbers with the police; restrictions on only driving vehicles registered and insured to them; a ban on carrying any flammable liquid and on using threatening or violent behaviour and wilfully

remaining in the company of people engaging in such. Four of those that are subject of the orders are: Haroon Butt, aged 28, of Cross Flatts Row, Beeston; Kamran Khan, aged 24, of Park View, Beeston; Shafaqat Ali, aged 34, of Cross Flatts Avenue, Beeston; and Zubair Ali, aged 25, of Cross Flatts Avenue, Beeston. Three other men cannot be named due to legal reasons as two are the subject of ongoing court proceedings and another is yet to be served with the full injunction. Commenting on the injunction, Beeston & Holbeck Councillor Adam Ogilvie said: “The local community has been understandably concerned about the actions of these individuals over the last few years. “We would like to thank residents in Beeston for their patience and ongoing vigilance in this matter and would advise anyone with information or concerns relating to these individuals in the future to immediately report their concerns to the police. “We would also like to thank Mark Burns-Williamson, the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, for securing these important injunctions

and for showing that this kind of behaviour is not tolerated.” Cllr Patrick Davey (City & Hunslet) added: “I’m very grateful for the diligent work carried out by the Leeds District Serious Organised Crime Unit over a number of months to ensure my constituents and their property are kept safe. As the local councillor I will not hesitate to use all of the powers at my disposal and to make it clear that no one is ‘untouchable’ or above the law.” Chief Superintendent Paul Money, Leeds District Commander, said:

“These orders place severe restrictions on the ringleaders of this feud and make them liable to arrest and potential imprisonment for any breaches. “In publicising the details of those who are subject of the orders we hope the public will be able to assist us in enforcing their conditions by passing on any information they have, either directly to local officers or anonymously through Crimestoppers if necessary. “The granting of these orders is part of our continuing strategy to disrupt these criminal elements and

to avoid any repeat of the completely unacceptable scenes that the people of Beeston had to witness for too long.” West Yorkshire Police confirmed that Shafaqat Ali and one of the other injunction subjects (who has not been named due to him being yet to be formally served with the order) were each given a nine-month sentence suspended for two years, 180hrs community service and £500 costs in September last year after they both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit criminal damage in relation to some of these offences.

Ice Pak Don’t get bitten by Older people’s hearing a Loan Shark celebration

As reported last month, the public inquiry into Aspiring Communities’ planning application for the former Ice Pak site on Barkly Road in Beeston begins as we go to press. The plans for a sports hall, prayer room, classroom and offices has met widespread opposition from people in the area. Both Beeston Community Forum and Save Our Beeston will be speaking at the enquiry. The hearings will be presided over by a government appointed Planning Inspector whose decision will be binding on all parties. The hearings are scheduled to run from Tuesday 28 to Friday 31 March. A decision is not expected until 7 weeks later. South Leeds Life will be reporting from the inqiry. You can read our reports each day at www.southleedslife.com and a summary will be published in our May newspaper.

A campaign is being launched in Middleton and Belle Isle to encourage local residents, family and friends to report loan shark activity in their area. The campaign, which is being led by the Leeds South East Debt Forum, aims to get people talking about loan sharks, break the taboo and encourage people to seek help. The campaign is being supported by ward members for Middleton Park Ward: Councillors Blake, Truswell and Groves and has the backing of the Inner South Community Committee. Members of the Debt Forum have linked with the Yorkshire and Humber Illegal Money Lending Team and the campaign coincides with the launch of the team’s revamped website which offers confidential help and advice online. To support the promotion of the website there will be a leaflet drop in the area and frontline staff, who work in Middleton and Belle Isle,

have been given information landline, may be up to 55p to support clients to access per minute from a mobile) or by texting 07860 022116 the website. Anyone who has been (normal text cost). For further information offered a loan without paperwork, been on the campaign, email the threatened when they Communities Team South at could not pay, had a benefit East or bank card taken away or southeast.ast@leeds.gov. had a loan which keeps uk or telephone 0113 378 growing despite making 5808. Alternatively search payments, may have been for South East Debt Forum Cllrs Blake, Groves and Truswell are backing the campaign

dealing with a loan shark. It is hoped that by encouraging the community to report loan sharks it will help stop the activity in the area. Confidential support can be found at stoploansharks.co.uk, where a free call back can be requested, by calling 0300 555 222 (10p from a

on Facebook. Help on debt and finance is also available at the St George’s Community Hub in Middleton. You can get help here from Welfare Rights, Citizens Advice, Leeds Credit Union and Money Buddies. The hub is open Monday to Friday 8:30am-4pm.

A full room at John Charles The Inner South Community Committee held a special event for older people on Tuesday 21 March at the John Charles Centre for Sport. The event included information stands, health advice and examples of simple exercise. Refreshments were served by the West Yorkshire Pioneers from Cockburn School. Although open to all, many of those present came with the help of their local Neighbourhood Network: Belle Isle Elderly Aid,

Holbeck Elderly Aid, Middleton Elderly Aid, South Leeds Live At Home and Trinity Network. In her opening comments Cllr Judith Blake said how proud she was of the Neighbourhood Networks which are recognised nationally as an example of good practice. She went on to recall that the first network was established in Belle Isle thirty years ago as the Belle Isle Elderly Winter Aid Campaign.

Cockburn’s West Yorkshire Pioneers

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Council cracks down on dumped rubbish Two residents from City and Hunslet have been fined by Leeds City Council for dumping waste on the streets. Local councillors Mohammed Iqbal, Elizabeth Nash and Patrick Davey have welcomed the tough action taken by the council to tackle fly-tipping in the area. The two residents from Linden Grove and Rocheford Grove were both interviewed for the offence of fly-tipping

and subsequently fined. There have been ongoing problems in these areas, with black rubbish bags and carrier bags dumped in the street. Councillor Mohammed Iqbal said: “Fly-tipping is a real problem on our streets so I am delighted to see the council clamping down on littering.We have a strict no tolerance policy of fly-tipping and anyone who is caught can be guaranteed they will face firm

action. “In this case, fly-tippers had been dumping bags on the ground and open to the elements attracting vermin and leaving the streets unsightly. There is absolutely no excuse for dumping rubbish and people that chose to discard their waste on our streets will be reprimanded whether this is with a hefty fine or prosecution through the courts. I hope this example will make people think again.”

Flytipping in Beeston Hill

White Rose marks 20 years Charity chuckles with a birthday bonanza The White Rose Shopping Centre celebrated its 20th birthday with a bang on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 March, with a weekend of special entertainment, offers, bloggers’ fashion inspiration, and surprise treats for shoppers. In celebration of the opening its doors on 25 March 1997, White Rose hosted a centre-wide street party with amusing and awesome entertainment. Top Leeds bloggers displayed their favourite fashion looks for just £97 each to celebrate 1997, whilst visitors enjoyed a uniquely 1997-inspired playlist. A special logo for the occasion has also been created by South Leeds student 10year-old Alfred of Asquith

million investment into the centre for the opening of its flagship Yorkshire store. Steven Foster, General Manager of White Rose Shopping Centre, said: “We’re thrilled to be celebrating 20 years of White Rose, and what better way to mark the occasion than with a weekend full of fun with our local community? “We’ve been proud to offer something for “Happy birthday to you” party-goers join in with the band everyone under our roof Primary School, which was be special offers throughout the for these two decades, and the displayed on bunting and flags day. opening of our new leisure White Rose’s 20th birthday extension will provide even around the centre. To extend the fun even marks an exciting time for the more choice for visitors. further,White Rose lay on a VIP centre, with the upcoming Here’s to the next 20 years of Mother’s Day lunch on Sunday opening of its new leisure White Rose.” 26 March, hosting an exclusive extension which includes six The centre is hosting a group of Leeds Mums for a new restaurants and an 11- recruitment day for jobs in the roast dinner right in the screen IMAX Cineworld new cinema and restaurants on Central Atrium. In addition, multiplex, plus fashion and Thursday 6 April from 10amthere were mini surprises and homeware retailer Next’s £6 8pm. Full details on page 15.

Mark Wilson, the Beeston man who is using comedy to battle Parkinson’s disease, has raised a further £2,000 at his last show. As previously reported on South Leeds Life here and here, Mark has organised five comedy shows over the last two years. Mark suffers from Parkinson’s Disease and Charcot Marie Tooth disease, but found that comedy took his mind off his condition. The Leeds Comedy Classic

Mark Wilson show took place at the Marriott hotel on Sunday 5 March 2017 and featured top British comedians including Andy Wilky (Mrs Brown’s Boys). The show raised a lot of laughs and a whopping £2,120 for Parkinson’s UK

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Celebrating Best Start for babies by Rachel Vernelle

On 8 March more than 140 mums-tobe, parents, carers and their babies came together for fun, food and a chance to find out what is available for them in south Leeds. At Belle Isle Family Centre, Health for All provided the chance to try out baby first aid, baby massage, Bumps & Babes exercise classes and talk to Children’s Centres, health visitors, breastfeeding supporters and library services. Fathers from Health for All’s Young Dads project were on hand with practical help and there was a chance to find out how to make healthy food fun for families. A full report containing lots of information on local services for parents-

providing extra resources and responding to the needs of local parents. Paul Truswell, Councillor for Middleton and Belle Isle and Inner South Health Champion, said supporting young children and their mums, dads and carers, was a key way of reducing health Cllr Paul Truswell (R) with Vikrant Bhatia, Rachel inequalities in our area. Vernelle & Pat McGeever from Health For All “As a dad, I know being a to-be and their babies was launched at the parent is the most important role any of event. The South Leeds Best Start Zone us perform, but it’s one that few of us are report shows how services in south Leeds trained to do. Best Start has coordinated for mums-to-be, carers and their families a range of organisations providing help have worked together to offer babies the that’s readily available to parents in the best start in life, all co-ordinated by Health community. It’s an investment that benefits for All,. The report shows what can be children, their families and the wider achieved when services work together, community in the long run.”

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Gala raises £500 for Autism group

Henry Normal, Gaynor Faye, Thomas Midgley, Karl Wilson, Kay Mellor OBE, Iain Cant (LAS Director), Peter Bowker

A gala night for Hunsletbased charity Leeds Autism Services held on Wednesday 15 March raised £500 for their work. The evening, which looked to raise awareness of autism and the charity itself was hosted within The Light. The event gained support from Vue Cinema, which screened the documentary, and Zizzi, which treated guests to an Italian three-course buffet. The 20 minute documentary, named ‘A Different Way of Thinking’, provided an insight into the work of Leeds Autism Services and the impact the charity has on the lives of

people who it supports, and their families. The film is now available to watch on the Leeds Autism Services website at: las.uk.net The documentary featured Cllr Adam Ogilvie, Kay Mellor OBE, writer of ‘The Syndicate’, Peter Bowker writer of ‘The A Word’ and Henry Normal, a comedian, television producer and poet who has a son on the autism spectrum. All money raised from the event will be used to purchase new and updated equipment and help towards activity funding for adults in the Leeds area.

Beeston fundraisers get clock ticking by Jeremy Morton

and have an external makeover too. The people of Beeston have once again done themselves proud.” Rev Lindsey Pearson, the

Mary’s Church, including our Brownies who walked the whole route without complaining. Thanks to all the walkers, lunch providers, and

Repairs to the clock at St Mary’s church in Beeston have commenced thanks to a sponsored walk and Bring and Buy sale organised by the church and the Save Our Beeston Facebook Group. Forty intrepid walkers set out from St Mary’s Beeston on Sunday 12 March to ‘beat the bounds’ of the parish and raise funds for the church clock. Sean Sturman from Save Our Beeston, whose idea the walk was, told South Leeds Life: Sponsored walkers prepare to set off. Photo: Michael Storey “Once the Table Top Sale sponsors.” has taken place and all the Vicar of Beeston added: “We had wonderful weather The walk was supported by sponsor money is collected in, I’m confident we will have for our clock walk today and a local Councillors.Although Cllr topped £3,000.That means the lovely group of walkers from Angela Gabriel was unable to clock can be up and running Save Our Beeston and St go on the walk she helped Cllr

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Team plants another edible garden in Beeston

Residents of Beeston worked together with members of the Leeds National Citizen Service (NCS) team to create an edible community garden in the raised beds outside the Dewsbury Road One Stop Centre. The previously overgrown beds were cleared of weeds and grass – and filled with fruit bushes and trees, herbs, rhubarb, lavender, and more. The plants will take a few months to get established, but then – as with other local edible gardens like those in Cross Flatts Park and outside the Holy Spirit church on Tempest Road – members of the public are invited to help themselves to the fruit and produce, for free. Those involved included members of Beeston in Bloom and Friends of Hunslet Moor – both of which are always open to new volunteers. And they were ably supported by local members of the National Citizen Service (NCS) – a free leadership programme for 15-17 year olds, featuring trips away, volunteering, mentoring, and more. Applications are

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NCS volunteers get to work

now being taken for their Leeds programme this coming summer; to find out more, go to: ncsthechallenge.org. Local resident Ed Carlisle, who helped coordinate the event, commented: “Food is such a basic universal need – and it’s great to see more of these edible community gardens springing up around south Leeds. It’d be amazing to see our area follow the lead of places like

Todmorden, where local people have worked together to reclaim loads of unused spaces – big and small – to grow free food for themselves.This was a really fun little project – and it’s hopefully just the beginning…” For more info on the Incredible Edible movement, which started in nearby Todmorden, go to: incredibleediblenetwork.org.uk.

Adam Ogilvie raise £400 for the appeal. The walk took in Wesley Street, the Nosters, Cross Flatts Park, Stank Hall Barn, returning to St Mary’s via Thirlmere Avenue and the path next to the railway. Sue Ottley-Hughes from the Friends of Stank Hall Barn was on site to greet the walkers and explain the historical significance of the site – the oldest building in Leeds – and some of the latest finds. Back at St Mary’s the walkers enjoyed a wellearned soup and sarnie lunch. The clock has not worked for a number of years. It was built by William Potts & Sons, the famous Leeds clockmaker and installed when the present building was erected in the 1870s.

Group receives royal recognition

Better Action For Families (BAFF), which operates out of Beeston Village Community Centre has been recognised by the Duke of York’s Community Initiative. BAFF is one of 42 Yorkshire based community groups, who have been recognised by the prestigious royal reward scheme in its latest round of awards.The charity works to support children and adults with learning disabilities and their families, running a range of regular activities. There will be an event on 12th April 2017 to collect the award at St Paul’s Church Huddersfield. Members of BAFF have also been invited to meet Prince Andrew, the Duke of York on

Tuesday 9 May 2017 at St James’s Palace in London. “This is all very exciting has this means we now have Royal recognition of excellence and can now use the Royal logo” said Lynn Bailey who runs the group. “We are all looking forward to the events and meeting the Duke of York and all the other brilliant organisations who have also won awards.”

By Royal appointment: BAFF’s Trustees

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Green light for Middleton bike hub

urban bike park at Middleton Proposals for a new Urban year. “Cycling is already establishing Park a reality.” Bike Park in a popular south John Mills, head of cycling Leeds green space have been itself at the park through a welcomed by Middleton Park number of organised events, and development at British Cycling, with hundreds of local children said: councillors. The plans for a new cycling enjoying organised rides during “One of the great things about hub in Middleton Park were school time and at weekends. cycling is the opportunities it approved by Leeds City Council’s Executive Board on 22 March. Middleton and Belle Isle Councillors Judith Blake, Kim Groves and Paul Truswell said: “The important role that parks play in the day-to-day lives of people in our communities cannot be underestimated. As councillors, we are determined that the council and city continues to ensure that our green spaces can be enjoyed by all generations for Middleton Park Councillors visit the bike hub many years to come. “The proposal for an urban “We would like to offer a big presents to people to get bike park at Middleton Park is thank you to our hard working outdoors and enjoy the beautiful very exciting and promises to be parks team and partners British countryside and green spaces a fantastic addition to this green Cycling and Sport England, who this country boasts. jewel which already attracts have provided generous funding “We believe the Leeds Urban over two million visitors per to help make the ambition of an Bike Park project will lead to the

People Matters changes into a Charity

People Matters’ new office

by Tina Turnbull Nearly fifteen years since it originally formed in 2002 People Matters is changing into a charity from April. As one of the first Community Interest Companies (CICs) and a social enterprise it has always been not for profit, with a volunteer board and a wide membership base supporting people with hidden and other disabilities from across South Leeds. Charles Ward the current chair and parent of a former member said that the objectives of the organisation have always been charitable in nature so

meeting the requirements of the Charities Commission won’t really change anything as far as the members experience things with us. However after a review the board decided that it would be helpful to take this step to remove some of the limitations felt in the last few years. Members agreed to become a charity at an EGM held in January. Charles went on to say how the board together with members had thought about how it has sometimes been difficult when the organisation has not been eligible for grants for example. There have also been instances when the organisation

has had to take time to explain how they are not for profit and still subject to regulation but by the CIC regulator rather than talking about who members are, what happens and the difference made. So what does the future hold for People Matters? They have recently moved their office and are planning an open afternoon in May to celebrate their 15th birthday. Members will continue to be members because that is an important part of the organisation. Most important though are the services that will continue to be provided with a new prospectus of courses out this month for the summer term. Local people are invited to think about whether there is one right for them. New ‘How to sessions’ are planned this time, such as how to apply for social housing and the ‘Learning for Work’ programme which gives the opportunity to be involved in the new community business ‘Nourishing People’. For more information contact the office on 0113 234 6896, visit the organisation’s website peoplemattersleeds.co.uk, or get in touch via social media.

development of a high quality and sustainable MTB (mountain bike) venue which will be easily accessible to a large number of people. The new facility will provide opportunities for recreation, coaching and competition for all ages and abilities, who otherwise would not have the realistic chance due to the proximity and accessibility of existing MTB trail venues.” Brian Whaley, Strategic Lead Planning and Programmes from Sport England, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the development of Middleton Park, creating a unique, safe and high quality facility for people of all ages and abilities. The Urban Bike Park will benefit people in Leeds to become more physically active and we are confident it will become a destination for cycling and other outdoor activities for years to come.”

What’s coming to the bike hub? Middleton Park will be given a wide ranging refurbishment which when completed will feature: * New, family-friendly cycling trails. * Development of a 6km Cross Country Mountain Bike Trail which will be accessible to members of the public for casual use and for cross country mountain bike competitions. * Creation of a ‘Skills Zone’ which will provide visitors with a range of fun and exciting cycle trails and tracks which focus on the progressive development of fundamental bike handling skills and techniques. The Skills Zone will feature a BMX ‘Play Track’, dual slalom course and ‘flow trails’ aimed at developing a riders technical skills and a scaled down ‘Balance Bike/ Mini Pump’ perfect for less experienced riders. * Transform and expand the former golf clubhouse building and provide extra space for community activities to tie in with park cycling offer. This will include the clubhouse being used as a café, shop, for bike hire and a bike maintenance workshop. * New and upgraded pedestrian footpaths and additional car parking along with improved and safer site access for people visiting the site. * Installation of bike storage on site and a bike wash down facility. * Improvements to footpaths, parking and access to the park, including a pedestrian crossing over the Ring Road.

South Leeds Life | April 2017

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Young people 9

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Cockburn head Kyle: Remembrance, celebration Hunslet Club Arts showcase for school talent at JAMfest Europe and hope for the future support role

The headteacher and staff at Cockburn School in Beeston, Leeds, have been selected for a top role supporting schools in challenging circumstances. David Gurney is one of more than 70 headteachers to be appointed to the role of national leader of education (NLE) in the latest recruitment round. NLEs along with staff in their school – designated a national support school (NSS) – use their success and professionalism to provide additional leadership capability in other schools. NLEs are deployed to suit the needs of each school needing support. The type of support provided is flexible and can sometimes involve NLEs becoming executive headteachers. They also have responsibility for developing the next generation of NLEs and national support schools. Cockburn School Headteacher David Gurney said: “It is a huge privilege to be recognised nationally. This is excellent news for Cockburn School and an acknowledgement of the work our determined team of staff do

in supporting schools across the region. Through engaging in this national support programme, we will continue to positively influence the lives of children beyond our school, by supporting other leadership teams to improve outcomes for them. It’s about working in the spirit of partnership.” Many NLEs/NSSs report improved outcomes at the schools they support. Roger Pope, Chair of the National College for Teaching and Leadership, said: “It’s fantastic that heads like David Gurney have the passion and ambition to help improve the life chances of young people, not just in their own but in other schools as well. “The aim of national leaders of education is to drive improvement in underperforming schools. We now have over 1,200 NLEs and we’re working to increase this number further to spread educational excellence everywhere.” Successful heads have been invited to attend a formal induction and training event for the role in driving school improvement.

consultant in the Intensive Care unit at St James Hospital, spoke of looking after the poorliest patients at the hospital and the reality of how some people who do not make it donate their organs to save the lives of others. "These people are our heroes" she said "and Kyle is one of our heroes - we are incredibly proud of him." Later in the day, Year 9 students had workshops led by the intensive care consultants supported by Specialist Nurses for Organ Donation Rachel Summers and Jane Tute. Jane had been with the Asquiths throughout Kyle's last hours. Using resources from the NHS Blood and Transplant team, students were asked to consider the different arguments for and against organ donation. They discussed video clips of real life young people who had benefitted from organ donation and were given the opportunity to ask questions about life in the intensive care unit. Dr Simon Flood, another consultant in the Intensive Care unit at St James Hospital, said that is was "a fabulous opportunity to Kyle Asquith’s parents and grandparents with NHS staff at Cockburn School encourage young people

Students at Cockburn had special assemblies on Thursday 9th March to commemorate the death of student Kyle Asquith, who passed away following a fatal brain haemorrhage 4 years ago. A year after the 15-year-old’s tragic death, students and teachers at Cockburn launched a series of special fund-raising events in his memory, with the aim of raising £5,000 for The Kyle Asquith Foundation, a charity that would support the NHS Blood and Transplant Trust Fund and other local charities. The charity has since gone on to raise over £20,000. The school welcomed Kyle's mother and father,Tracy and Alex Asquith as well as his grandparents, all of whom are regular visitors to the school.

Tracy said that "Being part of this day at Cockburn is a big help to us on such a difficult day." Also there was Raymond Tait, 39, a resident of Dundee and transplant recipient, who received Kyle's kidney and pancreas in March 2013 after four years of intensive dialysis treatment. This was his second visit to the school to support the charity and raise awareness of organ donation. Raymond had written a poem which he shared with the students at Cockburn. Raymond was one of five people given hope by Kyle's parents and their act of kindness. He said he was proud to come back to Leeds and talk to the students about his life changing transplant, adding: "It goes to show how dramatically a life can change.Within a few weeks of the

transplant my life had changed so much. By making more people aware and by more people signing up to donate, Kyle will save many more lives than the 5 he saved with his organs." Assistant Headteacher, Chris Sutcliffe, talked to the students about the work of the charity over recent years and urged them to continue the fundraising into the future. She also told students about a recent £500 donation made to south Leeds charity Charlie's Angels, based in Middleton, that was set up by a parent who lost her child, and who wanted to support other bereaved parents in the community. Cockburn also welcomed a number of NHS staff who wanted to raise awareness of organ donation. Dr Claire Tordoff, a

On Saturday 4th March 2017, 72 dancers from Hunslet Club Arts travelled over the Pennines to the Winter Gardens in Blackpool to participate in the JAMFEST Northern Jam dance competition. Entering team into all Cheer-pom categories, most Hip-Hop categories as well as the contemporary section at

Thursday 2 March was World Book Day and it was celebrated in schools across South Leeds. At New Bewerley Community School in Beeston they decided to change the focus somewhat. In previous years children had been encouraged to dress up as their favourite book, or character. This year they held a Vocabulary Parade. Children were encouraged to dress as a

verb, noun or adjective. There was a vocabulary parade and winners won £5 book tokens. Prize categories included: best costume with a moving part, funniest costume and best noun. Headteacher Gary German commented: “It was a very enjoyable day for children and staff. By holding a vocabulary parade it is hoped children will start to use a wider range of words in their writing.”

to achieve a first place, four third places, two fourth places and a sixth place is a phenomenal result at this competitive level” Fellow Coach Kayley Davidson added: “What a set of results! “Everyone gave it their all and fought hard for their places. They have come a long way in the last 6 months and

proved they are more than capable of representing the Club in national competitions” Hunslet Club Arts programme delivers weekly sessions in cheer-dance, hiphop, contemporary, ballet and tap dance, performing arts, singing and gymnastics sessions. Below is the full programme.

Students discuss organ transplants with Kyle’s parents to take the stories back to their dinner table and raise the topic with their families." Year 9 student, Riley Andrews, said that the workshops had given him "more of a real life view of what it is like. It was great to be able to ask questions and understand what it is like for the medical staff." Dr Catherine Penrose, Paedictric Intensive Care Consultant at the Leeds General Infirmary spoke to students of how "the families of the young people who have died and have donated their organs have hope and something positive - a legacy moving forward.” Alex Asquith, who joined the workshops with his family and Raymond Tait, told the students "It is so comforting to know about the people who benefitted from Kyle's organs. Ray has four kids and their dad's life is thanks to our Kyle." Headteacher, David Gurney, said: "Most of our current

students weren’t here when Kyle was and as the years go on we want to make sure the Foundation is still going strong so that everyone can take ownership of it. We are very proud of the work that they do to raise funds and keep his memory alive." If you wish to contribute to The Kyle Asquith Foundation, please contact the school at info@cockburnschool.org and title the email ‘Kyle Asquith’. They also have a JustGiving site and you can make donations online at: justgiving.com/kyleasquith

Bedtime reading at Lane End Having fun with vocabulary Ziah (who is in An exciting evening filled Reception class) and his with bedtime stories took mum definitely had an place at Lane End Primary enjoyable time – they School on Thursday 2nd wrote this to the parent March. As part of their World Book email account: Day fun the teachers, parents, “Thank you for a lovely carers and children came time at the bedtime together in their pyjamas for stories event. I thought it hot chocolate and to share was a great idea and Ziah lots of wonderful children’s loved it!” books. Headteacher, Mrs “At Lane End Primary Britton, thanked all the School, we are passionate Parents and children share bedtime stories at Lane End Primary Lane End families for amazing!” explains making another school event a about all of our children to celebrate the joys of was becoming life long readers.The reading while involving parents Rebecca Bugler, a teacher at huge success, enjoyed by story evening was a great way and carers too. The turnout Lane End Primary. children and adults alike.

the US organised event South Leeds finest were up against teams from Glasgow, Liverpool and Manchester and other major cities and the competition was tough! Coach Cherry Crosby commented “90% of our dancers had never been to a competition before and I am so proud of each and every one of them who took part –

Monday 4.00–4.45pm Tiny Cheer-dance (Age 3-5) 4.45–5.30pm Mini Cheerdance (Age 4.45 5.30–6.30pm Senior Cheerdance (Age 12-16) Tuesday 4.00–4.45pm Mini HipHop (Age 6-8) 4.45–5.30pm Youth HipHop (Age 9-11) 5.30–6.30pm Contemporary dance (Age 9-11) 6.30-7.30pm Senior Cheerdance (Age 12-16) Wednesday 4.00–4.45pm Ballet for Tots (18mth-5 yrs) 4.30–5.15pm Singing (all ages) 5.15–6.00pm Performing Arts Junior 6.00–7.00pm Performing Arts Senior 4.00–4.45pm Gymnastics Beginners

The Vocabulary Parade at New Bewerley Community School

4.45–5.30pm Gymnastics Intermediates 5.30–6.30pm Gymnastics Advanced Thursday 4.00–4.45pm Ballet for Tots (18mth – 5 yrs) 4.45–5.30pm Preparatory & Primary Ballet 5.30–6.15pm Grade 1 & 2 Ballet 6.15–7.00pm Grade 3-5 Ballet 7.00–7.45pm Pointe Ballet 4.00–4.45pm Mini HipHop (Age 6-8) 4.45–5.30pm Youth HipHop (Age 9-11) 5.30–6.30pm Boys HipHop 6.30–7.30pm Senior HipHop Friday 4.15–5.00pm Youth Cheerdance (Age 9-11) 5.00–6.00pm Senior Cheerdance (Age 12-16)

6.00–7.00pm Contemporary Dance (Age 12+) Saturday 9.00–9.45am Preparatory & Primary Tap 9.45–10.30am Grade 1 & 2 Tap 10.30–11.15am Grade 3+ Tap 9.00–9.45am Gymnastics for Tots 9.45–10.30am Gymnastics Beginners 10.30–11.15am Gymnastics Intermediates 11.15–12.00pm Gymnastics Advanced 12.00–12.45pm Gymnastics Progressive (Under 10’s) 12.45–1.30pm Gymnastics Progressive (Age 10+) All activities take place at The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road, LS10 1BP

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Young people 9

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Cockburn head Kyle: Remembrance, celebration Hunslet Club Arts showcase for school talent at JAMfest Europe and hope for the future support role

The Vocabulary Parade at New Bewerley Community School

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South Leeds Life | April 2017

10 Opinion

In our view

Profits before People

For a company that claims on its website that “Our customers are our first consideration in everything we do.” PlacesFirst have shown scant regard for their customers in Beeston. A settled community of many years standing is being broken up for the sake of private profit. Old and disabled people, young families are out of their minds with worry. What they are doing may be legal, but it is certainly not ethical.

Organ Donation

The death of a loved one is a terrible time, but Kyle Asquith’s parents could take some comfort in the fact that his organs saved five lives. It’s great that they continue to work with Cockburn School to keep Kyle’s memory alive and to teach the next generation the importance of organ donation.

Happy Birthday

The White Rose Shopping Centre is 20 years old. The owners, Land Securities, deserve credit for their commitment to the local community. As well as hosting The Point jobshop, they have made a real effort to make sure local residents are able to access their jobs as well as their shops. They also co-fund the local Aspire charity fund that supports so many good causes in South Leeds.

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Your letters and comments

Top Tweets

Forced from their homes

This is absoulty disgusting. Pricing families who’ve probably lived there for years out of the market and their homes. If the houses aren’t up to spec then sort it out. These familes have no doubt lived in poor conditions (damp and such like) and still paid rent religiously, whether this is housing benefit or not. It’s total social cleansing and profit making scheme. Hope local councillors are following this unethical practice up. Tracy PlaceFirst are not even a local company. Yet this is what happens when people's homes become zeroes on the spreadsheet of some rapacious corporate landlord. If, as the government desire, the UK is going to move to a privately rented housing market, tenants need much greater levels of security and protection (as in Europe). Of course that's never going to happen under a Tory govt who are probably in bed with parasitic firms like this. I know the bit above the park is supposedly getting gentrified but £850pcm for a 3-bed house in Beeston is ridiculous. So glad I was in the right place and right time to buy my little back-to-back: it might not be much, but at least it's mine. Richard Edwards I live with my brother on Cross Heath Grove, our letter says they want £875 for this 3 bed house. We can't afford that,this is Beeston, Leeds not bloody Kensington, London! Who the hell can afford that in Beeston? My brother rang PlaceFirst and told them that they wouldn't fill these houses

Kirk Beston Close. Photo: Jeremy Morton at those prices and was told “You'll be surprised.” I've been in this property for 30 years with my parents and now without them as they have now both passed away. I really don't know what we are going to do. Carol Bainbridge This is absolutely disgraceful and has also happened in London. Whilst I welcome the growth and investment in our city I worry there will be more of this. The lack of Social Housing means that there is nowhere to go for those forced out. If it can happen in Beeston then all inner city areas are under threat and that means the poorest people will be paying the price. Cllr Kim Groves (Middleton Park ward) What

Your Councillors and MP Beeston & Holbeck ward

Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park up to the Co-op, Cottingley, old Holbeck. The three councillors are:

David Congreve 0113 257 1679 david.congreve@leeds.gov.uk Angela Gabriel 07946 632 468 angela.gabriel@leeds.gov.uk Adam Ogilvie 07969 680 024 adam.ogilvie@leeds.gov.uk

City & Hunslet ward Includes the city centre, Holbeck Urban Village, Beeston Hill and Hunslet. The three councillors are:

Patrick Davey 0113 267 1282 patrick.davey@leeds.gov.uk Mohammed Iqbal 0113 226 8796 mohammed.iqbal@leeds.gov.uk Elizabeth Nash 0113 275 8594 elizabeth.nash@leeds.gov.uk

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

Judith Blake Kim Groves Paul Truswell

0113 247 7761 judith.blake@leeds.gov.uk 07891 741 832 kim.groves@leeds.gov.uk 0113 247 6922 paul.truswell@leeds.gov.uk

Leeds Central MP – Rt Hon Hilary Benn Hilary Benn is our MP. He represents the Leeds Central constituency which covers Hunslet, Middleton, Belle Isle, Beeston, Holbeck, Cottingley in south Leeds as well as the city centre, Hyde Park, Woodhouse, Little London, Lincoln Green, Burmantofts, Richmond Hill and Osmondthorpe.

Contact: hilary.benn.mp@parliament.uk, www.hilarybennmp.com Constituency office: Suite 7, Unity Business Centre, 26 Roundhay Road, Leeds LS7 1AB; phone: 0113 244 1097

happened to investigative reporting? SLL stop sitting on the fence and hopefully you will have the run down on the company that is devastating so many people in the area that you cover. Property developer PlaceFirst has agreed a £25m five-year debt funding deal from Manchester council to support the company’s ambition of delivering 1,000 affordable private rental properties across the north by 2020. Most recently, the company entered into an exclusivity agreement with Liverpool council to develop a comprehensive masterplan for The Welsh Streets that will see over 300 empty homes brought back into use alongside new homes. It’s to be hoped Leeds City Council have not funded this project and our local paper is keeping quiet like they have been know to keep quiet on behalf of the council before. Do they call the rent increase to these house "affordable." Are Leeds Council in on this and is that why they have

been so quiet about it. If you could prove Leeds City Council has backed this project it would then be their responsibility to give all residents top priority for social housing in the area. How bad would that be for them. By the way as far as I can see PlaceFirst are not publishing anything anywhere about this Leeds "investment." It stinks. Linda Anne Meikle Thanks for your comments Linda. Having spoken to Leeds City Council I can confirm that they have no involvement with this project other than trying to help the affected tenants through their Housing Options team. From my investigations, I understand that the £25m funding has been provided by ESO Capital Group, rather than Manchester City Council. Jeremy Morton, Editor

Gang Feud

Am I understanding this right, that the consequence for all that is these guys have been told not to do it again? Community service and a small fine doesn’t seem like a significant punishment for the crimes which are described. I suspect many people find such an outcome somewhat bewildering. Rich B

New housing

While I am all for the, long overdue replacement of council homes that where promised. I have to wonder about the need to strap a woman to a sapling? ;) (see photo on page 2) Kath Kelly

Join the debate

Keep up to date, up to the minute, by following South Leeds Life’s Twitter feed: @SouthLeedsLife. Twitter is the 140 character ‘micro blogging’ site. It’s free and you can sign up at twitter.com. It’s a great place to find the very latest news. Here are some of our favourite recent tweets: @CottingleyPA Cottingley's Book Day! #Elmer #reading #worldbookday

@DewsburyRoadOSC Great free training opp for 16/25 yr olds not in work. Also get 6 months free support from @PrincesTrust #customerservices @YoungDadsHFA Friday's @ the HFA Cockburn Hub. Go-kart is coming on, allotment is too, and we moved a ton of woodchip. All in a mornings work, eh? +... @EwanMitchell First signs of spring. @BeestonFestival banners appearing!

@shoegal192 Lots of wiggly caterpillars singing, counting, dancing and reading at this mornings #rhymetime #beestonlibrary #pyjamadrama @leedslibraries @HealthforAllLds Our Little Chefs at it again … yummy meatballs and pasta – fantastic cooking guys!! For more info call 0113 2774819

Comment online; by email: info@southleedslife.com; or post to: 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Leeds, LS11 7BW. Letters may be edited for publication.

Keep up to date with planning issues in LS10 and LS11 We publish a weekly list of all new planning applications online at: www.southleedslife.com

@beestonbroncos Are brand new u7s are now playing fixtures but still would love more players to strengthen the team plz RT #southleeds #rugbyleague

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April 2017 | South Leeds Life

Arts 11

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Drawings in the Basement In the Darkest Corners

Beeston’s Basement Arts Project latest exhibition presents the artwork of Paul Digby. Paul depicts a landscape that may seem quite familiar, geographically located in the margins of Leeds, as are the lives of many who live and work in the city. Whilst the topography of the physical world maybe familiar Digby scratches beneath the surface to reveal something of the loneliness and alienation of life in the 21st Century. Presenting two series of work entitled ‘City’ and ‘At Work and At Home’ this exhibition looks at some of the artist’s experiences both as a painter and as an artist at work within communities living at the edge of a big city. The preview night will be held on Friday 21 April 7:309:30pm. The exhibition will then open for two weekends and by appointment until the end of May. For more information email basementartsproject @gmail.com

‘It’s dark. A woman walks alone on the edge of a city. The city is Leeds. Or Paris. Or maybe it’s Mexico City. She wants to be alone in the night. She wants to dance in the darkest corners.’ As part of the Transform theatre festival, physical theatre company RashDash present a powerful new show confronting violence against women, performed outdoors on the streets of Leeds.

Inspired by the city’s radical, activist history, this cabaret rally features live music, vivid physicality, and stories of resistance from around the world. The performance will take place outdoors at a “secret location” in Holbeck on Thursday, Friday and Saturday 20-22 April at 9pm. Suitable for 16+ years, contains scenes of sexual violence. Book via: transformfestival.org

Music, moving image, fashion and tech and being brought together under the umbrella of the first Leeds International Festival which runs at various venues across the city from 22-30 April. Events range widely from the premiere of a new film about Leeds United under Howard Wilkinson – Do You Want To Win; through debates about women in tech; a museum of youth culture; virtual reality, hacking and much more. On the music front, LIF brings the

Drill Festival curated by post punk legends, Wire, to the Brudenel Social Club; embraces Live At Leeds; and brings world music to Briggate. Briggate will also be the venue for two days of fashion shows. The Tech Off promises a combination of TED Talks and WWF Wrestling and there’s a chance for children to imagine the tech of the future. For full details of all events take a look at the festival’s website: leedsinternationalfestival.com

Brought to LIF

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South Leeds Life | April 2017

12 People

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Community remembers local parks champion

On The Buses: Who we are by Frank Regan

Councillors and pupils from Middleton St Mary’s help Friends of Middleton Park plant up the new viewpoint As part of ongoing improvements to Middleton Park, a brand new landscape feature, known as ‘Nick’s View’ is nearing completion. The feature compromises of a seating area with views across the Park dedicated to former Chairman of the Friends of Middleton Park, Nick Rose. Local councillors, who have been heavily involved in the improvements works to the park, joined

pupils from Middleton St. Mary’s Primary School this week in adding the final horticultural touches to the new feature.The pupils helped to plant grasses, shrubs and other herbaceous plants. Councillor Kim Groves said: “It is wonderful that we can commemorate Nick in a way which is very in keeping with his character and his love of the outdoors, especially in his local park. I hope that visitors will come to

admire the park in the same way that Nick so lovingly did. It would be difficult not to with these spectacular views!” Alan Shaw, Chair of the Friends of Middleton Park said: “We wanted somewhere where people could sit and remember Nick, our founding Chair, in a place which he thought was important, but which might also be a place for people to come along, sit, and just enjoy the Park and the views”.

Will’s marathon

A teacher at Ruth Gorse Academy in Hunslet is running the Virgin London Marathon on Sunday 23 April for Barnardo’s. Will Shuttleworth, 37, from Beeston is aiming to raise £2,000 for the children’s charity which supports vulnerable children and young people. As well as running the marathon six foot five inches Will is a volunteer at Barnardo’s Futures in Leeds – a service which provides supported lodgings to care leavers and other vulnerable young people aged 16-21, who need support and are not yet ready to live fully independently. Will says “I’m running for Barnardo’s because I think that a charity that has at its heart the idea of supporting children no matter what, is more than worth supporting. “People taking children into their homes and their families give away a huge amount of emotional energy and time, and all the people I’ve met who work and volunteer for the charity are very impressive. That’s what encourages me and that’s what makes me proud to be running for Barnardo’s.” The school, which serves Belle Isle, Beeston Hill, Holbeck and Richmond Hill,

has supported Will through a Christmas Jumper Day in December and the ‘Great Gorse Bake-Off’ with a break-time cake sale. Vicky Dobie, manager of Barnardo’s Futures says “We are so grateful to Will for running for Barnardo’s, as well as all he does as a supported lodgings volunteer for Futures. He and his wife Beth have a young person living with them and included in their family and they have been a huge support to her, educationally and emotionally.” To donate to Will’s run please look at his just giving page here justgiving.com/fundraising/WillShuttleworth

Will Shuttleworth

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For the past year or so it's often felt as though the world has been teetering constantly on the verge of chaos and it didn't feel so absurd to imagine some force outside of our control had decided to wreak havoc, toss everything in the air, and deal with the chips as they fell. But in reality it's only been a feeling of turmoil, a semblance of disarray rather than the real thing. The unexpected rather than the deranged. And then, every now and then, genuine pandemonium has momentarily held sway. As is so often the case, when the dust settled on last week's events and we knew the names of those who had lost their lives and the stories of how they'd lost them, there were, amidst the horror, moments that were unusually stirring. The staff of St Thomas' Hospital rushing out onto Westminster Bridge to give immediate care to the injured. The emergency responders and police who ran towards potential danger, heedless of their own safety, and at the same time told others to move in the opposite direction. The individuals, like boxing coach, Tony Davis, visiting parliament with students, along with Mike Crofts, and the MP, Tobias Ellwood, all former members of the Army, who ran forward when the threat was as yet unknown and who tried in vain to save the life of PC Keith Palmer. The fact that members of the emergency services battled to keep the attacker alive despite the fact that, only yards away, one of their own lay dying from the wounds inflicted upon him by the man they now sought to save. Perhaps the boldest statement of who we are. On top of all this, we were reminded of the unique ingredients that go into the recipe that makes up London when it was revealed that of the 50 injured people, they hailed from 12 different nations. In the commentary on the days immediately following, we were constantly fed the notion that attacks like this seek to divide us. And yet we don't need an attack to polarise ourselves - in the normal

course of news, it is thrown at us that we are islands torn apart by different forces. The 52% and the 48%, the North and South, the Left and Right, the seekers of Independence and the Unionists. It seems as though it's no longer possible to define ourselves without doing it in opposition to some other group. To say "I'm not one of them" rather than "I am one of these".We constantly try not to be "we". It's time we reminded ourselves who we are. We are the NHS, from cradle to grave. We are rushing home to give the kids a hug. We are impossible dreams and

glorious failures but still giving it a whirl. We are open windows leaking heavy dub on rare summer days. We are love of the underdog. We are London Grime. We are millions on buses and trains. We are the Pistols and the Clash. We are queuing and putting up with things. We are the sons of Jamaicans, we are the daughters of the Irish, we are the Grandkids of Indians, the children of Pakistanis, we are Ashkenazim from the shtetlekh and our lives bear witness. We are goat, rice 'n' peas, we are gefilte fish, we are chicken tikka masala and we are fish and chips. We are 1966 and all that and we are 1967 and the Lions of Lisbon. We are old men in pubs and we are Bowie. We are standing by our mates when times are hard. We are all faiths and none. We are Carry On films and Nicholas Roeg. We are stiff upper lips but who are we kidding. We are the Windrush docking at a sceptred isle. We are the world coming back to us.

We are Fawlty Towers and Mr Bean. We are Justice for the 96. We are the Beatles and Stones. We are council estate kids escaping through football and beats. We are Shakespeare and Morrissey. We are every colour under the sun. We are getting over disappointments and moving on. We are the Welsh Dragon and the Highland roar. We are the Falls and the Shankill, Govan and the Gorbals. We are King Arthur at the Glastonbury Festival and Men of Harlech when the chips are down. We are buying a phonecard to call our Aunties far away. We are going on a bender and a quiet night in. We are seaside camp and kiss me quick. We are The Specials AKA and UB40. We are eating cake on Test Match Special and we are former pit towns. We are pride in our communities and meeting down the local. We are Gazza, Mo Farah, George Best and Gary Speed. We are taking the mickey out of each other and ourselves. We are Remembrance poppies and the rainbow Pride flag. We are Celtic and Rangers, United and City, town and country. We are Mums kissing us better and we are Derek Redmond's Dad never giving up on us. We are barbecues at the first hint of sun and we are meat is murder. We are the Proms and we are Mark E Smith. We are never walking alone. We are a part of what we were but we are ALL of what we are now. We are not the sins of our fathers but we are responsible for the future. We are the people of these islands and we are each other's family. You are my sister and you are my brother. Together we are unbreakable. You can read Frank’s column, On The Buses, every Monday at www.southleedslife.com (Frank Regan is a pseudonym)

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People 13

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Joe Lee 1931-2017 It is with great sadness that we report the death of Joseph Keith Lee BEM, known to everyone as Joe. Joe was an active member of the South Leeds community and particularly enjoyed working with children and young people. He was a very positive and enthusiastic and keen to get stuck in. His family describe him as being at his happiest when helping others. Joe was born in Yeadon in 1931. Following National service in the RAF he joined the Leeds City Police where he served for 30 years, including a role as Juvenile Liaison Officer towards the end of his career. From 1964-88 he was Officer commanding 168 (City of Leeds) Squadron of the Air Training Corps and remained involved long after. He was a former Chairman of the Middleton Railway Trust, a governor at Hugh Gaitskell Primary School and a trustee of the Leeds Christian Community Trust. He was involved with thee Red Cross, the RAF Association and every autumn he could be found selling poppies for the Royal British Legion. Joe was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in 1989 for service to the community and the Leeds Silver Medallion in 1991 for services to the City of Leeds. A committed Christian, Joe sang in the choir at St Mary’s Beeston, rang the bells at Leeds Minster and enjoyed reading the lesson. He was one of the original team setting up Kidz Klub in 2001 and remained very active with the group until recently. Other members describe him as “much loved by the children, a steadfast

Grandfather figure. Who was always enthusiastic, always positive and always 100% committed to them.” Joe is survived by his daughter Heather, son David, six grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Joe Lee Kidz Klub add: So much of Joe's life was about investing in the next generation and supporting young people, outworked through many community and charity commitments. (At one point he was actively involved in upwards of 20 charities!). He loved to help organise positive community action projects (many and varied) , he always had ideas about what could be done next and was a deeply generous man. He shared his

time and his talents in many ways. He so often talked of his commitment to seeing young people become “responsible citizens", to “giving young people opportunities, hopes and aspirations ", to the importance of providing young people with "positive role models" and to encouraging young people to think about the "environment and to connect with the beauty of the world around us and creation"-one of Joe's great passions in life. His steadfast faith in God and optimism was a source of constant encouragement to many of us, we respected him deeply and have always tried to keep up with his example! Joe was a gentleman through and through and was committed to bringing happiness to those around him, always seeking the best and always seeing a positive opportunity. He brought so much life and encouragement to us and to the many children and local community members that he worked with in a vast variety of capacities- from events in the park, to Beeston in Bloom, to the Air Cadets, to work with local Primary Schools and the Doctors surgery, to collecting for the Poppy Appeal, to being a Trustee of the Leeds Christian Community Trust and much more. Joe was a great light in our life and instrumental in bringing much happiness to 100's of local children and families through his ongoing dedication and work. He will be very sadly missed, but his legacy and outstanding example of a life well lived will certainly live on in those his life touched and who had the pleasure of being able to call him our friend.

677 years of railway service by Malcolm Johnson

In recognition of their many years of loyal service to the Middleton Railway 16 volunteers were awarded long service lapel badges at a recent Volunteers Forum.

service. The Middleton Railway is run and operated by 66 Working Members who are supported by a number of other people working as volunteers. We have never had any paid staff. One estimate is that the length of service of the people on our

Middleton Railway’s volunteers These badges depict an image of Salamanca, the first steam locomotive to work on the railway in 1812, surrounded by the description, ‘The Middleton Railway, Working Member’. The three badges also state the minimum length of service of the member; 20, 30 or 40 years. The badges were presented by Railway Vice President and Hunslet Engine Company expert Don Townsley. Sixteen Working Members were recognised at the event, six of whom have actually given more than 50 years loyal service to The Railway! Between the recipients they have 677 years of

current list of Working Members is more than 1,000 years.Tribute must also be paid to the many people who, since the creation of the society in 1959, have contributed countless years of service ensuring the future of The Railway. Our working members are serving the public once again now the Railway has reopened after the winter break. If you would like to join the ranks of our volunteers then you will be most welcome. Call in at the Railway for a chat on any public operating day – or most Wednesdays – to find out what is involved.

Stepping out for Kidz’n’Co win the lottery Martin House by Jeremy Morton

Hunslet man Dean Hall is this month undertaking an epic 56 mile hike from the outskirts of Leeds all the way to Scarborough, in a single 24 hour stretch – to raise money for local kids charity, Martin House. Dean (42) – with friend Karl Blackburn, from Rothwell – will be setting out on the morning of Friday 7 April from the Martin House hospice itself, in Boston Spa near Wetherby. They aim to walk all day and all night – past York, Castle Howard and Pickering – to reach the medieval Scarborough Castle on the East Yorkshire coast the following morning. Both have been in training for the walk for the last six months, and have completed several local 20 mile treks as part of the build-

up. Dean commented: “I realise that – as difficult a challenge as this is going to be, and painful – it is all worthwhile, as Martin House is an amazing charity for families in times of need. Many thanks to everyone for their support: all donations are gratefully received, to raise as much for this fantastic cause.”

Walkers: Dean and Karl To find out more or to donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ Dean-Hall1.

Members at the Kidz’n’Co Saturday club are celebrating after winning a Big Lottery Fund Awards For All grant of almost £10,000. The group, which meets at Beeston Village Community Centre every Saturday, supports families who have children with special educational needs. There are games and activities and a shared hot meal. Anna Howard is a parent who’s been coming to the group for over ten years. She explained the value of the group: “It’s something to look forward to. The kids are accepted here, they can be loud and noisy, they can have a meltdown and it’s not a problem.” Matthew Giles takes charge of cooking the meals. “Five years ago I didn’t know anyone else with special needs kids. It’s so important to know we are not alone. “Sometimes when you’re out with your family people look at you like you’re wild animals. Here nobody judges you. You get support from

Members celebrate their lottery grant other parents when you need it and you give support when you can. “Food’s really important and I like to involve the children, even if its just chopping vegetables in the food processor – it’s all life skills.” Annette has been coming to the group for two years. Her 13 year old daughter has complex needs – learning difficulties and visual impairment. She travels from Scholes because “there’s nothing like this where I live.” “I’m not isolated any more” she continues, “we’ve got somewhere to go.” Suzanne Jackson Bailey & Jackie

Hartley have been running the group for the last five years since Health For All had to withdraw staffing. “We are all volunteers and the group survives hand to mouth” says Suzanne. “This grant means we can plan ahead without worrying about fundraising all the time. “We will continue our regular activities and plan some day trips for the group.” To contact Kidz’n’Co call Suzanne on 07807 486937, email: suzanneejackson@aol.com or just drop in between 10:30-12:30 on Saturday morning.

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South Leeds Life | April 2017

14 What’s On

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 or bank holidays. Full contact details can be found in our online What’s On guide

Every Monday Swimming 9:45am Holbeck Elderly Aid Happy Chinese Families Gp 9:30am-12pm Beeston Village Community Centre Friendship Group 10am-12pm Belle Isle Family Centre General fitness for over 55's 11:30am-12:30pm St Andrews Community Centre, Beeston. Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Men’s games group 1-3pm Belle Isle WMC Triathlon Training 4:15-5:45pm Middleton Park Bike Hub Kickboxing 6-9pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street This Girl Can Run 6.15pm Middleton Bike Hub, Ring Road, Middleton St Matthew’s Youth Club 6:30-8:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Zumba 7pm Middleton Parochial Hall Prize Bingo 7-9:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Middle Tones Singing Group 7-9pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Adult Jazz & Tap Dance 7-8pm Cottingley Community Centre Zumba 7-8pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Every Tuesday Keep Fit for over 55’s 9:30am Trinity Network, Belle Isle, Nesfield church hall Tots, Tea and Toast 9:30-11:15am St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Breastfeeding Support 10am-12pm Middleton Family

Centre, 252-262 Sissons Road General fitness over 55's 10-11am St Anthony's church hall, Beeston South Leeds Life News Cafe 10am-12pm Brew Coffee Shop, 287 Beeston Road Community Coffee Morning 10-11:30am Beeston Library Singing Group 10:30-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Knit & Natter 10:30am-12pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Chair based mobility session 11.30am-1pm Cottingley Community Centre Active mums, bumps & babes 11:45am-12:45pm Tenants Hall, Acre Close, Middleton Lunch Club 12:15-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Rainbows, Brownies, Guides 4:30-9:15pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Skate Light 6-8pm Middleton Community Centre South Leeds Lakers running 7pm from Beeston Co-op Every Wednesday Parents and Toddlers 9:15am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street City Tots 9:30-11am City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road Pop Up Council Services 9:30am-2:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Chair mobility 10-10:45am Trinity Network, Belle Isle, Nesfield church hall Breaklfast Club & Foodbank 10am-12pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace Computer Club

For up to date event information make sure you go online to

www.southleedslife.com and check the What’s On Calendar

10am-12pm Holbeck Elderly Aid, Balm Walk Shopping Trip 10am-1pm Holbeck Elderly Aid, Balm Walk CAP Job Club 10am-12pm Two Willows Children’s Centre, Cardinal Sq Community Craft Cafe 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Hunslet Hall Road Walk and Talk 12-1pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Free Zumba 12-12:45pm Middleton Leisure Centre Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Line Dancing 1:45pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Knit and Crochet Group 3-5pm Costa Coffee, Crown Point Retail Park Aerobics and Dance 3:30-4:30pm Cottingley Primary Academy DAZL Dance class (6-12yrs) 4:45-5:45pm Watsonian Pavilion Cross Flatts Park, Beeston DAZL Dance class 5-6pm Cottingley Community Centre City Kids (R-Y6) 6-7:15pm City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road Basic Bike Maintenance Class 6-8pm Middleton Bike Hub, Ring Road, Middleton General fitness 6:15-7:15pm Belle Isle Family Centre Cottingley Youth Club 6:30-8:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Zumba 6:30pm Middleton Parochial Hall, Town Street Zumba 7-8pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Martial Arts 7-9pm Beeston Juniors, Cardinal Square South Leeds Sisters running 7.15pm Improvers Middleton Park Bike Hub, Ring Road Clubbercise 7:30-8:30pm St John & St Barnabus Church Hall, Belle Isle Camera Club 8pm upstairs at St George’s Centre, Middleton Every Thursday Charity Shop 9:30am-3pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Heart Cafe 10-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Middleton Park Estate Volunteers 10am-3pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre

New Lives Group 10-11:30am Cottingley Children’s Centre Chair based mobility group 11:15am-12:30pm Beeston Village Community Ctr Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Line Dancing 1pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle New Lives Group 1-2:30pm Two Willows Children’s Centre, Cardinal Sq Digital Photography Club 1:15-3:15pm Cockburn Skills Hub, Gipsy Lane Craft Group 1:30-3:30pm Cleveleys Court, Holbeck Mashed up fitness session aerobic dance 1:45-2:45pm Beeston Village Community Centre Vale Circles Autism Hub 2-7pm Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Women only running with South Leeds Sisters 5.45pm Intermediates Middleton Park Bike Hub Women’s Rounders 7pm Middleton Leisure Centre Indoor Bowls 7-10pm The Holbeck (WMC), Jenkinson Lawn Youth Drop In 7-9pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Clubbercise 7:30-8:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Zumba 7:15pm Middleton Parochial Hall Every Friday Tea & Toast 9am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Charity Shop, Tea & Toast 9am-12pm Beeston Hill United Free Church, Malvern Road South Leeds Life News Cafe 9-11am BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Breastfeeding Support Group 9:45-11:15am Mothercare cafe, Crown Point Retail Park Under 5s Storytime 10-11am Dewsbury Road Library Ladies Singing Group 10:30am-12:30pm Tenant Hall, Acre Close, Middleton Luncheon Club 12-1:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Fish & Chip Lunch Club 12:30-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Krok Po Kroku (Polish Gp) 12:30-2:30pm Beeston Village Community Centre Games Afternoon

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1:30-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Rhymetime 2pm Beeston Library, Town St Urban Dance 4pm Cockburn School Holbeck Skate Park 5-6:30pm Holbeck Moor Friday Night Project 6-9pm Middleton Leisure Centre Every Saturday Breakfast Club 8:30-11am Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Cross Flatts parkrun 9am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Coffee morning 9am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Police Contact Point 9:30-11:30am St George’s Centre, Middleton Middleton Railway 10am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet Kidz ‘n’ Co 10:30am-12:30pm Beeston Village Community Centre Every Sunday Cross Flatts junior parkrun 9am, top of Cross Flatts Park Middleton Railway 10am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet

Community Centre Saturday 8 April HCRA Coffee Morning 10am-12pm Woodhouse Hill Community Centre Sunday 9 April Mining Walks 11am-3pm from Park Halt, Middleton Park Sunday Lunch 1-3pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck HCRA Egg Hunt 2-4pm Sandon Mount Community Allotment, Hunslet Gypsy Queen 5-6pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck Tuesday 11 April Children’s Den Building 1-3pm Middleton Park Visitors Centre, off Town Street Food For Thought 2-3:30pm City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road, Holbeck Wednesday 12 April Bird Survey 7-9am Middleton Park Visitors Centre, off Town Street Middleton Railway 10am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet Children’s Easter Crafts 1-3pm Middleton Park Visitors Centre, off Town Street Friday 14 April Easter Egg Trail 11am-12:30pm Skelton Grange Environment Centre, Stourton Saturday 15 April Ramblers group Meet 9am St Mary’s Church, Town Street, Beeston Tuesday 18 April Pop Up Council HUB 10am-3pm Crosby Road, Holbeck Wednesday 19 April Middleton Railway 10am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet Thursday 20 April Comics Club! 3:15-4:45pm Dewsbury Road Library Bereavement Support Group 7-8:30pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Saturday 22 April Spring Fayre 10am-12pm St Andrew’s Meth. Church, Old Lane, Beeston Wednesday 26 April Cop Shop Memory Cafe 1-3pm Elland Road Police HQ Thursday 27 April Computer Skills Course 10am-12pm Tenant Hall Ent. Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Saturday 29 April Holbeck Feast Cafe 9-11am Ingram Gardens Teens Club 1-5pm Vale Circles centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Best of BE Festival 7:30pm Slung Low Theatre, 6771 Bath Road, Holbeck Sunday 30 April BITMO Lunch Club 1-3pm BITMO’s GATE Centre, Aberfield Gate, off Belle Isle Rd Maltings Lunch Club 1-3pm Maltings Court, Maltings Road, Beeston

Saturday 1 April Coffee Morning 10am-12pm St Andrew’s Meth. Church, Old Lane, Beeston Teens Club 1-5pm Vale Circles centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Breeze Family Fun Day 1-4pm Middleton Leisure Centre, Ring Road Middleton Sunday 2 April Am I Dead Yet? 5pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck Tuesday 4 April Mostly Men! 10am-12pm Northcote Community Centre, Beeston Pop Up Council HUB 10am-3pm Crosby Road, Holbeck Children’s Den Building 1-3pm Middleton Park Visitors Centre, off Town Street Wednesday 5 April Middleton Railway 10am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet Hunslet Memories 12-2pm Garden Gate pub, Whitfield Place, Hunslet Character Lunch 12-1:30pm Belle Isle Family Centre, Belle Isle Road Children’s Arts and Crafts 1-3pm Middleton Park Visitors Centre, off Town Street Lego Club 3:30-4:30pm Beeston Library Thursday 6 April Recruitment Event 10am-8pm Central Atrium, White Rose Shopping Centre Women’s Personal Safety 6.16pm Elland Road Police HQ Hunslet Carr Residents Ass 6:30pm Community Centre, Woodhouse Hill Avenue Beeston Community Forum 7:30pm Beeston Village

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What’s On 15

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Kick Off time for boys ballet The Kick Off Boys Youth Dance Project is an opportunity to work with professional dances from the Northern School of Contenporary Dance, Phoenix Dance Theatre and DAZL. Boys aged 12-18 years are invited to take part in the four month project. If you are not sure whether to commit, why not go along to a taster session? One of three taster sessions across the city takes place on Saturday 15 April from 9:3011:30am at the South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle, LS10 3JA. If you then decide to join the

Kick Off Boys Dance Project after your taster session, you will be required to attend all of the weekly sessions, intensive dates and performances. Weekly sessions will run every Wednesday, 6:30-8pm from 19 April to 12 July at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance in Chapeltown. There will be three intensive (10am-4pm) days during half term in May at the South Leeds Youth Hub, and performances of the finished work will take place in July. For more information call 0113 219 3005.

Image: John Ramspott via Creative Commons

Easter at St Joseph’s by Ed Carlisle St Joseph's Catholic Club in Hunslet are this month holding two big community events: a family-friendly Easter Day party, and a charity tribute gig raising money for St Gemma's Hospice. The Easter party, 2pm-8pm on Sunday 16 April, will feature a traditional Easter Bonnet parade, music, games, and more; entrance is free. The gig, from 7pm on Friday 28 April, features acclaimed local 'multitribute' band Starstruck; tickets are £3 each, with half the proceeds going to St Gemma's.

Club manager Michael Whitaker commented: “We held bank holiday events throughout last year, and they were really popular – especially the Easter one. It will be a great family day out: every kid will walk away with something, and they'll be cheap beer! We really want the club to serve the local community again, as well as raising money for charities such as St Gemma's – so come join us if you can.” St Joseph's is on Whitfield Avenue in Hunslet, is always open to new members, and has function rooms to hire or borrow. For full info, call 0113 276 0844 or find them on Photo: Michael Flesman via Creative Commons Facebook.

Mums sing, kids play, join us

Spring has sprung. If you’re looking for a new activity but feel tied to the house with the children, this could be the perfect solution. Middleton Minstrels Ladies Choir was formed two years ago. Through funding and support from Awards for All and Leeds Community Fund, the facilities have been provided to members free of charge. The choir is run by the choir, for the choir. It started slowly with a handful of women of differing ages, backgrounds and abilities but with boundless enthusiasm. We were lucky to discover that our choir leader would be Heather Coulton who has wide experience with community choirs. Under her expert guidance and gentle nurturing, the choir has grown in confidence and now has a number of public performances under its belt using the stage name of ‘A Choir’d Taste’. We are very much in charge of our own identity and revel in performing punchy songs that can take the audience by surprise. After a successful and extremely enjoyable Christmas Concert which raised

money for The Isla Smith Fund, we were honoured to be invited to perform at Health for All’s AGM. The performance went down well, especially our rendition of ‘King of the Swingers’ from The Jungle Book, complete with grass skirt and monkey ears, prompting local MP Hilary Benn to Tweet how impressed he was with us.

and putting the world to rights. The health benefits of group singing are well documented and the popularity of community choirs has grown through the recent TV programmes featuring Gareth Malone. Suddenly everyone wants to be in a choir. We think ours is very special. We would love to welcome new members of all ages. There is no need to audition, just turn up and join in. We have fabulous crèche facilities run by highly qualified and professional crèche workers. It is a marvellous opportunity for mums (or grans) to come along and have quality time doing something for themselves when it is so easy to do everything for the family and feel that they are losing their own identity. So come along and join this social group, get out of the house and have some fun, while the children make new Middleton Minstrels friends in the crèche. It’s win, win! We hope to see you soon. We have a strong core of around a We meet every Friday morning, dozen members and half as many again 10.30am-12.30pm, at Tenants Hall who turn up as and when they can. It has Enterprise Centre, Middleton. become a wonderful group who not only Contact singmm@googlegroups.com love to sing but also enjoy a good laugh for further information.

Easter events at Hunslet Carr Hunslet Carr Residents Association are holding two Easter events over the weekend of 8/9 April. On Saturday 8 April they are holding an Easter Craft Fair and coffee morning at Woodhouse Hill Community Centre (behind the Bay Horse pub). They will be selling goods made from their monthly craft group which meets on the third Tuesday of the month.

Coffee, cake and good conversation will also be on the menu. Then on Sunday 9 April the group are holding an Easter egg hunt for children at the Sandon mount Community Allotment, next to Hunslet Carr Primary School. The event runs from 2-4pm and is for children under 10, who must me accompanied by an adult.

Moor action The Friends of Hunslet Moor will be holding another Action Day on Saturday 15 April. They will be tidying, cutting back and litter picking around the park, there may even be tea

and cake. So why not join them for a few hours in the open air and help put something back into the community? Just turn up anytime from 10am onwards.

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16 Sport

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Hunslet’s winning Call for more women’s sports form in the league

After a poor preseason, Hunslet RLFC had a promising March with two more league wins and good display losing to Halifax in the Challenge Cup. The month started with poor conditions at South Leeds Stadium when Hunslet met the Gloucester All Golds on 5 March. The poor conditions did not allow any exciting rugby league but both teams deserve credit for the effort and commitment shown. For the home side victory following last week’s Challenge Cup success was built on a gritty and determined defensive display. Inevitably in the rain and mud handling was difficult with both teams struggling to complete a set, especially in the second period, without the almost inevitable handling error. Hunslet came out just on top, victory being helped by a penetrative kicking game from Danny Ansell who time and again forced the visitors back with big kicks deep into Gloucestershire territory – and that defence. Hunslet won 10-6. A week later they travelled south to take on

the Hemel Stags, whom they beat 10-58. Hemel kept in touch with Hunslet through the first half going into the break 6-18 down, but in the second half Hunslet showed their superiority finishing with

Ladbrokes Challenge Cup, beating the visitors 20-6 on Sunday 19 March. Once again, monsoon conditions at the MBi Shay Stadium in Halifax meant that this was a game riddled with mistakes, but Halifax

a kick to score the decider for Halifax on 77 minutes. Steve Tyrer completed a good afternoon’s kicking by converting from the touchline. The club were bitterly disappointed that their

Hunslet battle Halifax. Photo: Steve Gaunt / Touchlinepics.com

six unanswered tries. Hunslet try scorers were: Ryan Ince (2), Jack Walton, Cameron Leeming, Brooke Broughton, George Flanagan (2), Jimmy Watson, Marcus Webb and Aston Wilson. Halifax RLFC, a division above Hunslet RLFC, saw off the south Leeds challenge to go through to the fifth round of the

showed their class in the trying conditions. Hunslet finally got on the score sheet ten minutes from time. Ryan Ince scored in the corner following a scrum. Danny Ansell converted from the touchline.With the score at 14-6 a tense finish beckoned. However it was not to be as Rob Worrincy picked up

clash with Whitehaven, due to be played on 26 March was postponed at short notice by the RFL.They had been hoping to build on their momentum against a team that could challenge for promotion. Nevertheless Hunslet finish the month with two league wins out of two and are currently 5th in the League 1 table.

Julia Hogan is a young woman on a mission – to get more women and girls in South Leeds playing football. She’s been working for the past year, with three other students from Leeds Beckett University, researching opportunities in the area for women and girls to take part in any active sports and is disappointed with their findings. “There’s a big gap between what’s out there and the community’s wants and needs. That’s even more so for black and ethnic minority women” she says. “There’s also a problem that most people don’t know what is available.” “Sport is so important. Not just for health, but for life skills. If you can be a leader or a team player on the pitch, you can take that skill to other parts of your life.” The group have planned a series of different events to try and improve the situation. They have already started running six week programmes at both Cockburn School and The South Leeds Academy. They are running a session each Wednesday in the Easter holidays at the Hunslet Club. In the first week they will be making a campaign video. Then in the second session they will be visiting the West Yorkshire County FA and meeting established women footballers. There will be two drop in sessions, again at the Hunslet Club, on Thursday

20 and Friday 21 April from 6pm. This is a chance for any women or girls of any age to pop in and find out more about sporting opportunities available in South Leeds. On 5 May they have organised a football festival for local primary schools at the John Charles Centre for Sport. The day will feature taster sessions of a range of activities for children to try between their five-aside matches. Julia is also involved in a new turn up and play women’s football session at the Hunslet Club, where she is a long time member and volunteer. The sessions, on Thursdays at 7pm are social as well sporting and all women aged 16+ are welcome. Julia hopes these initiatives will give the women’s sports agenda a push, but says there’s much more to do: “Clubs think it’s enough to set something up and people will come, but the truth is you need to go to where people are.” Julia, James, Louisa and Devon are all final year students studying Sports Development. They are hoping their degrees will lead them in different but linked directions, to football, events management, youth work and disabled sports. They have enjoyed working in the area, “We’ve met some right characters, it’s been fun.” They have also left a legacy: a toolkit for other to use and a continuing link to Leeds Beckett University.

New group up and running

Best foot forward: the Hunslet Club running group The running group that meets at The Hunslet Club every Monday evening at 7pm is a great way to start, or improve your running. Supported by a number of qualified run leaders and running buddies from the South Leeds Lakers running club,

the group is very flexible and happy to work with whoever turns up, whether novices or more experienced. “It’s a chance to get fit” explains one of the leaders. “It a social thing too, you can come and meet new people. It’s amazing how the group

progresses, little by little. Come along and push yourself!” “It’s a good group to start with. It’s friendly, safe and you don’t have to worry about being ‘fat’ or unfit.” Rose Butterfield was inspired the atmosphere watch last year’s Leeds 10K race. She tried Cross Flatts parkrun but had to walk most of it. She’s gradually built up and has now completed 10K runs and even cross country races. “I’m not the fastest, but I love it” she said. Demi Hickinson has only been running for five weeks. “I hadn’t run since school” she explained. “A friend encouraged me to come along and my uncle coaches me. ‘Slow and steady’ is the manta!” Although it is part of the GoTri

James, Louisa, Julia and Devon encouraging women’s sport at The Hunslet Club initiative, encouraging more people to take up the triathlon challenge, these Monday night sessions only focus on the running element. If you would like to join the group, as a new runner or a leader, just turn up at The Hunslet Club for 7pm on a Monday. Director of Motive8 North Gym in Holbeck Urban Village goes for gold at 2017 Soria ETU Duathlon European Championships At the other end of the spectrum Jenny Cromack, director at Motive8 North Personal Training Studio and Gym in Holbeck Urban Village, is set

to go for gold this April as she has been chosen to represent Team GB in the female 34-39 category at the 2017 Soria ETU Duathlon European Championships in Spain. Jenny, originally from Beeston, qualified in October 2016, finishing 4th in the qualifiers at Oulton Park, Cheshire. On 30th April, she will don her Team GB kit and head to Soria in northern Spain to compete in the standard distance duathlon, which consists of a gruelling 10km run followed by an excruciating 40km bike ride, finishing with a 5km run in the hilly Spanish countryside.