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Issue 38 | March 2018

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

DISGRACE OF A LANDLORD

In this issue:

Happy (Chinese) New Year

page 4

Students on the ski slopes

page 7

How many more private landlords expect their South Leeds tenants to live in unsafe homes?

rogue landlord has been fined twice in the space of two months for failing to provide a suitable standard of living for tenants at two of his rented properties – and is now nearly £14,000 out of pocket. In the latest case, Jack Collins of Woodlea Road in Yeadon appeared at Leeds Magistrates Court on 12 February for not undertaking basic safety works at one of his rented properties. Collins pleaded guilty to not complying with Improvement Notices received for a property on Sefton Terrace, Beeston Hill and was fined £7,500, ordered to pay costs of £1,155 and a £170 victim surcharge.

• Inadequate fire safety precautions • excess cold • dampness/mould growth • food safety • issues with personal hygiene, sanitation and drainage provision Mr Collins failed to comply with improvement notices served upon him for four flats and the communal areas at the property, and was found guilty of committing five offences under the Housing Act 2004 Section 30(1).

During an inspection of the property by Leeds City Council’s “Rogue landlord Unit” – part of the Private Sector Housing Team – hazards were found including: inadequate fire safety precautions; excess cold; dampness/mould growth; food safety and; issues with personal hygiene, sanitation and drainage provision. The inspection was undertaken as part of a proactive approach to landlords who persistently fail to maintain their properties to minimum standards for rental purposes. Despite being issued with an improvement notice Mr Collins failed to undertake any of the works to remove the hazards which were a risk to the health and safety of his tenants, some of whom were vulnerable. The magistrates stated that the situation was a ‘disgrace’ and they didn’t want to see Mr Collins in court again. He failed to employ anybody to undertake works at the property, stating that he preferred to do the work himself. Mr Collins owns nine properties, four of which he has converted into fifteen selfcontained flats. In 2016/17 he received approximately £100,000 from Leeds City council in housing benefit payments.

Councillor Debra Coupar, executive member for communities said: “Despite receiving significant income from his rental properties this landlord refused to employ a contractor to undertake these necessary improvement works. His inability to comply with the legal notice shows blatant disregard for the welfare of his vulnerable tenants. “There is a wide range of help and support available for landlords to make sure they understand the rules and regulations that keep both tenants and them safe. “However, when standards fall below the expected and required level, we will not stand by while people put profit ahead of the safety and welfare for their tenants.” In an earlier prosecution, which was heard at Leeds Magistrates Court in January 2018, Collins was also fined £5,121 also for failing to comply with Improvement Notices for hazards relating to: inadequate fire safety precautions; dampness/mould growth; electrical safety, falls on levels and; food safety. WHAT WE THINK Being a landlord isn’t just about sitting back and watching the rent roll in. Landlords have responsibilities to their tenants. Something Mr

Remembering Leek Street flats

pages 11

The property on this street in Beeston was a “disgrace”

Hunslet RLFC off to a flying start

page 16

The landord lives on this street in Yeadon Both images: Google Streetview Collins didn’t seem to understand. Leeds City Council is working closely with private landlords in the Recreations area of Holbeck. They are taking a proactive approach to inspecting all properties and offering landlords assistance with improvements. This is a service we need rolling out across South Leeds, but it’s the type of service that cash-strapped councils find harder and harder to resource.

Problems with your property? If you rent from a private landlord and have any issues with repair, maintenance or safety call Leeds City Council on 0113 378 4699 or email: prs.housing@leeds.gov.uk

NEWS SCHOOLS

2-6 7

PLANNING

8-9

FEEDBACK

LOCAL HISTORY 11

ARTS WHAT’S ON SPORT

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About us South Leeds Life is written by and for local people. People who live, work and play in the LS10 and LS11 areas of South Leeds. The website and newspaper are produced by South Leeds Life CIC, a social enterprise registered with Companies House, No 9998695. South Leeds Life is a member of the Independent Community News Network. Our aims 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.

MP’s notebook I

by Hilary Benn MP

t's time to talk about the air we breathe. High levels of air pollution can make asthma symptoms worse, damage our lungs and is linked to an estimated 40,000 premature deaths in the UK every year. The elderly and people with particular medical conditions like heart and lung disease are most at risk. Leeds is one of the cities with a big problem and the worst spot for nitrogen dioxide pollution is by the Corn Exchange. The truth is we can't go on like this - we're actually breaching the law and that's why Leeds City Council is drawing up a plan. There isn't one simple answer, so we need action on a number of fronts. The Council is changing over its fleet of vehicles to ultra-low or zero emissions vehicles - apparently we have more low emission vehicles than any other local authority in England. They're investing in public transport and cycling to make it easier to leave our cars at home, although we still need a modern rapid transit system in our city.

Drivers are being encouraged to switch to ultra-low emissions vehicles (ULEVS) by offering residents who do so free parking in the city centre at council car parks and the Council is supporting the development of charge points across the city for electric vehicles. And park and ride schemes are being developed, with the one at Elland Road now being well-used. But more needs to be done. So consultation is now taking place on introducing a charging Clean Air Zone in Leeds. The idea of the Zone is that buses, HGVs, taxis and private hire vehicles that fail to meet the latest emissions standards would be charged for entering the city. The aim, of course, is to encourage a switch to cleaner vehicles. Some businesses will need help to make the change and that's why we have asked the Government for assistance. The Zone would get the city pretty close to complying with national air quality standards but we will need other steps as well. Electric cars are already being produced and in the longer term we will see more and more as petrol

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and diesel engines are eventually replaced with electric power. This is about all our futures and our health. If you want to contribute to the consultation, then go to: www. leeds.gov.uk/business/environmen tal-health-for-business/air-quality Recently, I joined a community demonstration on Holbeck Moor against Royal Mail’s decision to close the Holbeck Delivery Office. There was a very good turnout including lots of Royal Mail staff and CWU representatives. I think it's a shameful decision that has paid no attention at all to the needs of customers for whom it is much more convenient to collect parcels from the Holbeck office rather than to try and make their way to the Armley gyratory system. We are not giving up, and what's happened here, in my view, reinforces the case for Royal Mail being taken back into public ownership. Finally, the scandal of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments continues. I get lots of constituents coming to see me because they think their assessment

Hilary Benn MP was wrong. So I recently asked what proportion of appeals to the Tribunal against PIP assessments were successful in Leeds in the last 12 months. The answer was an astonishing 57%. What this shows is that far too many assessments are flawed and the system needs a radical overhaul. And there's one other thing. People who don't get given what's called the ‘enhanced rate of mobility’ for PIP get their Motability cars taken away from them, even while they are waiting for their appeal. That's unacceptable and I am campaigning to stop this happening.

Key dates for Council elections

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Polling day is Thursday 3 May

he timetable for the local elections has been announced. On Thursday 3 May, we will elect Councillors to Leeds City Council. Because there have been boundary changes to the wards, we will elect all 99 members of the council this year. With three councillors in each ward, that means we will each have three votes to cast. Each party will be able to stand up to three candidates in each ward, but you don’t have to cast all your votes for candidates from the same party. And if you can’t find three candidates you like, you don’t have to use all your votes. To get back to the usual routine of electing one Councillor in each ward each year, the winning candidate with the highest vote will be

elected for three years. The second highest winner will be elected for two years and third winner will be elected for one year. After that we get back to Councillors being elected for a four year term. Voters In order to vote in the Council elections you must be registered to vote. If you are not registered yet you can do it very quickly online at: www.gov.uk/register-tovote you will need your National Insurance number. If you’re not sure whether you are registered you can check by emailing electors@leeds.gov.uk. To vote in the Council election you must register by Tuesday 17 April. If you can’t get to a polling station to vote on 3 May, you can apply for a Postal Vote or a Proxy Vote (where you

nominate someone to vote on your behalf). Applications for postal and proxy vote must be made to Leeds City Council by 5pm on Wednesday 18 April. Candidates If you wish to stand as a candidate to become a Councillor, you must hand in your completed nomination papers by 4pm on Friday 6 April. Details of all the candidates will be published by Leeds City Council once nominations have closed. South Leeds Life will publish those details on our website.

Wards We have three wards in South Leeds. There have been some boundary changes including extending Beeston & Holbeck ward to cover the ‘Holbeck Urban Village’ area around Water Lane and Marshall street. The old City & Hunslet ward has lost most of the city centre and been renamed Hunslet & Riverside Ward. There have been only minor changes to Middleton Park Ward. Beeston & Holbeck Ward includes: Beeston ‘above’ Cross Flatts Park; the

Allenbys, Southleighs and Parkwoods; part of Beeston Hill west of Beeston Road; Cottingley Hall estate; ‘Old’ Holbeck and ‘Holbeck Urban Village’. Hunslet & Riverside Ward includes: Hunslet as far south as the M621; Beeston Hill between Cross Flatts Park; The M621 and Beeston Road; some parts of the city centre as far north as Boar Lane and East Street; Stourton. Middleton Park Ward includes: Belle Isle estate; Middleton as far south as Throstle Terrace.

2018 Ward boundaries

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Making Dewsbury Road safer? W

orks have started on the second phase of works designed to make a stretch of Dewsbury Road safer, but residents are complaining that the works completed so far have made matters worse. Phase 1 covered Dewsbury Road from Hunslet Hall Road to Tunstall Road and included narrowing the road and installing cycle lanes. There have been complaints that the cycle lanes are unclear and share space with bus stops. There have already been accidents caused by car drivers pulling out of side streets and not giving way to cyclists. It is not clear whether the works are fully completed yet. Plans indicate that the junctions with Linden Road and Linden Grove will become one

way with traffic unable to exit Linden Road onto Dewsbury Road. The kerbs have been adjusted but no signage has been installed to date. The plans also indicate red cycle lane markings across side streets which are yet to be implemented. It is not clear from the plans whether the cycle lane on the pavement will be a different colour. As we went to press no one from the Council was available to clarify these points, but in a previous statement a spokeperson for Leeds City Council said: “As well as being a thriving high street surrounded by housing, local businesses and facilities, Dewsbury Road is also a busy route into the city. “The decision to carry out a

road safety improvement scheme in the area came about following a review of injuries from accidents along the A653 between Hunslet Hall Road and Garnet Road. This found that there were 67 recorded injury accidents in a 5 year period, a significant number of which involved vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. “The work for Phase 2 has recently started between Tunstall Road and Garnet Road. A central reservation will be built with crossing points for pedestrians, making it easier and safer to get across this busy road. The central reservation will also help to reduce the number of accidents that happen when vehicles turn into and out of the

Pedestrians, cyclists and bus passengers must share this stretch of pavement on Dewsbury Road junctions along that section of the road. “As in Phase 1, dedicated parking bays will be added to support the local shops. These are also designed to stop cars parking on the footpaths, therefore keeping walkways safer for pedestrians. “Other improvements to make the area more pedestrian friendly includes the removal of unnecessary signage and street furniture, making the

road look and feel less cluttered.” South Leeds Life understands that the design principles used in this project have been successful in other areas, reducing road accidents. It is also clear that new road layouts take time to “bed in” as residents get used to them.

The work is anticipated to be completed in late March / early April 2018 and Leeds City Council have apologised for any disruption during the improvement scheme. While there may be some disruption, once completed the works are expected to lead to improved safety and accessibility for all.

Police and paramedics attend to an injured cyclist

Community rallies for Jason

eople from across Hunslet, Belle Isle and south Leeds have been rallying to raise funds for popular local lad Jason Pepper and his family but sadly this month saw him pass away, aged just 27, to a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Jason – who grew up and lived in Belle Isle, attended Merlyn Rees High School, and until recently worked at Futurama in south Leeds – was diagnosed just last July with a type of cancer known as Ewing’s Sarcoma. After initially responding well to chemotherapy, he and his family were told in January that the treatment wasn’t working, and would be discontinued. In response, hundreds of local people have pulled together, aiming to raise £20,000 to support him and his family. Neither Jason nor his partner Kirsty – who became his full-time carer – were able to work for the past 6 months, placing them under a

considerable financial burden. The couple also wanted to marry, which they did on Friday 16 February - but sadly Jason wasn't even well enough to attend the reception the

for a charity night at St Joseph’s Club in Hunslet on Saturday 11 February, and for a family gala rugby match on the Sunday at the Parkside club in Belle Isle. Hundreds more have donated

Jason and Kirsty following day. Following his 27th birthday on the Monday, Jason passed away on Tuesday 20 February. Hundreds of people gathered

via the online page: www.youcaring.com/jasonpep per-1068322. And forthcoming events include Race Nights on 3 March at the Garden Gate

and at the Prospect on 24 March, and a boxing night in the Hunslet Carr Sports and Social Club. Supporters have so far raised £15,000; further donations are very welcome. Sian Wright, one of the fundraising team, commented on behalf of the group (which also included Kayley Davidson, Robyn Wilkinson, Vikki McShane, Josh Milson and Elkie Jones): “We all met Jason at High School – where he was popular, gifted, and a real joker. When we found out about him having cancer, we didn’t think twice about helping. He battled through it with unbelievable strength and courage, always thinking about others right up to the end. If everyone was as positive and determined as Jason was, the world would be a better place. Also, the community has been outstanding: we get a bad rep around here, but when something like this happens there is no better place to be.”

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Lychee Red celebrate Chinese New Year in Belle Isle T

he Lychee Red Chinese seniors project welcomed guests from the Friendship Group and the Women’s Wellbeing group to their New Year Chinese celebrations at Belle Isle Family Centre. After a traditional lion dance made its way around the room, with everyone encouraged to touch the lion for good luck, the was a review of the last year’s activities. Lychee Red celebrated New Year last February at the old Beeston Village Community Centre. They had to move when the centre was demolished and are looking forward to returning when the new building is finished. Last year they took part in

the parade at Beeston Festival, appeared on BBC1’s The One Show, enjoyed trips out including to York and celebrated Christmas at Maxi’s Restaurant. We were entertained by the seniors choir singing New Year songs including a version of Auld Lang Syne in Cantonese. The choir is a great success and very popular, as one member said; “We’ve been singing for three years and we want to sing for another 100 years!” Pat McGeever, Chief Executive of Health For All, greeted everyone with a hastily learned “Happy New Year” in Cantonese. She went on: “Health For All is honoured to be connected to the

Chinese community in Leeds. Lychee Red has done so marvellously in the last two and a half years, it’s a privilege to serve you.” Over a delicious Chinese lunch I spoke to one Lychee Red’s members, Mrs Yip. She came to Leeds in 1966 and opened a take away shop in Harehills, living in the flat above. She’s been retired for 20 years and joined Lychee Red two years ago. “I just got lonely at home. I enjoy seeing my friends, singing, eating, talking. I hope they get more funding so that we can have an extra day every week.” Lychee Red meets every Monday morning at Belle Isle A traditional Lion Dance to celebrate Chinese New Year Family Centre.

Beeston unites Holbeck residents urged to for community vote for the “People’s Plan” H clear-up

Last year’s volunteers at St Luke’s

eeston Hill residents are coordinating a ‘Big Spring Clean‘ clear-up event in their community on Saturday 3 March 2018 – and everyone’s invited! Following the success of similar events in 2016 and 2017, volunteers are invited to come to St Luke’s Church on Malvern Road for 2pm, where they will be briefed and equipped. Teams will then head out to clear up litter and junk on nearby streets – including the Normantons, Greenmounts, Bartons, Couplands, and Disraelis. Then at 4.30pm, everyone’s invited back to the church for cake, snacks, and drinks. The event has been organised by the Church in LS11 and St Luke’s Tenants and Residents Association, and

is supported by the Inner South Community Committee. Anyone is welcome, although children or young people under 16 must be accompanied by an adult; all equipment will be provided, but old clothes are recommended; and bring cake to share if you can. Ed Carlisle, one of the event organisers, commented: “Many thanks to all those who’ve turned out for previous events – it’s always good seeing different people gathering to work together (often for the first time) to make a difference in their community. And I think we’ve even managed to enjoy ourselves! Join us if you can – or if you want to organise an event in your neighbourhood, crack on, and get in touch if you want support to pull it together.”

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olbeck residents, who have spent six years developing the Holbeck Neighbourhood Plan, are urging everyone to get out and vote ‘Yes’ to the “People’s Plan.” The Holbeck Neighbourhood Forum is made up of residents and businesses in the area. It is the body that has produced the plan an it is the body that will implement the plan if it is voted for in the referendum on Thursday 1 March. Dennis Kitchen, Chair of the Forum, said: “The Plan is part of a jigsaw. It won’t solve all of Holbeck’s problems on its own, but it’s an important part of the solution.” For example, Leeds City Council are keen to sell the site of Matthew Murray High School to Leeds United, but the people of Holbeck said they wanted to use that site for a mix of

Members of Holbeck Neighbourhood Forum urge residents to vote “Yes” to the Plan housing and public green space. A ‘Yes’ vote in the referendum will make the Neighbourhood Plan part of the city’s Planning Policy. That

means it will have to be considered when any planning applications come forward in the area, even if they come from Leeds United. “It’s really important that

people get out and vote on 1 March” said Dennis. “If the Plan is passed Holbeck’s residents will have a say in our future. If it isn’t passed we are back to having no say.”

BAFF double their money

AFF, the Beeston charity that supports people with learning disabilities and their families have landed two grants in recent months. They received a National Lottery Awards For All grant of nearly £10,000 and doubled it with support from the Morrisons charitable trust. Lynn Bailey and Jackie Hartley from BAFF visited Morrisons store in Hunslet to receive the cheque from Community Champion Wendy Bairstow. The funding will allow then to continue their weekly activities and organise more trips this year. This was the second award from Morrisons who were clearly impressed with how BAFF had used the previous grant. Jackie Hartley, Wendy Bairstow and Lynn Bailey

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“You needn’t be lonely” join MEA I

by Jeremy Morton

visited Middleton Elderly Aid’s social centre to find out what the services they provide – meals, activities, trips, information and advice – mean to the people who use them. Rene Moore tells me she didn’t have anywhere to go until she found Middleton Elderly Aid. “I was sat at home all day with my dog.” The 95 year old

moved to Middleton when the Westwood estate was built in the 1960s. She likes her house and its views across the valley to Morley, but “everyone’s got a car nowadays” she says, “you don’t see anyone on the street anymore.” Rene is effusive about MEA. “You’re always welcomed and looked after here. We have meals and play games.” Rene, it turns out, is still a dab hand at ping pong.

Staff and volunteers are waiting to greet you

Jack Ellis has been coming to MEA for about five years. “Since I joined my life has gone from a lonely old man to one with lots of friends and a good dinner four times a week. I would come seven days a week if I could!” he tells me. Jack’s wife died 12 years ago and he tried to drown his sorrows with alcohol. His old friend Robin Silverwood ran into him and encouraged him to come along for his breakfast the next day. Jack wasn’t sure about coming back but was tempted to lunch later that week and has never looked back. “You can get involved with activities if you want” explains Robin “but there’s no pressure.” Lydia Smith’s daughter suggested she visit MEA’s social centre. “I wasn’t keen, I didn’t have the confidence to come to somewhere new. She kept suggesting it and to be honest, I came to shut her up! But she was right, I’ve made fantastic new friends here and

Upset at unannounced parks work in Beeston M

by Ed Carlisle

ajor work is under way on the Garnets pocket park in Beeston, and the next door Tunstall Road playground has been removed (to become relocated onto the Garnets space) - but residents have expressed anger that the work has been conducted with little or no warning or consultation. The playground - just behind the Vale Circles Centre on Tunstall Road - was removed out of the blue in mid February. Locals then found the Garnet pocket park - opposite the new housing development - fenced off and dug up the following week (Wednesday 21 February), and several of the trees there were cut down. Online and off, residents have expressed frustration and disbelief that these works happened with little or no warning. There was a consultation event back in the autumn, but many locals insist they never got any invitation to it - and attendees report that information at it was very sketchy, and that for instance the removal of the playground wasn't even mentioned. Council officers have now confirmed the plans: the playground is due to be re-

Where has our playground gone? Photo: Bruce Davies installed on part of the refurbished Garnet green space, whilst the former site of the playground is set to become an edible garden run by Vale Circles and other local partners and residents. It seems that local frustration is reducing as information gets out, but many residents are nonetheless calling for different processes in future. Michelle, a local resident, spoke for many when she told us: "It's great news that the green patch is set to be improved, but it's such a shame

no-one thought to tell local residents. “People were really taken aback and upset - especially those who regularly used these areas. Local people have plenty of ideas for the scheme - like more benching, and fitness units - but the Council didn't do enough to reach out and involve us. “I look forward to seeing the end result, but it would have been so much better if the community could have helped develop it. Can we do things differently in future?"

I’ve not looked back.” She’s now looking forward to her first holiday without her family – a week in Llandudno with MEA. Lydia’s new friend Margaret has been a member for ten years, meeting first at the charity’s shop, then at St Cross Church and now in their own social centre. “I’ve made more friends here than I’ve ever had” she says. “It really was a godsend after my husband died. People here bring you out

Warm and friendly - members of Middleton Elderly Aid of yourself.” talks from other agencies and “I can’t praise it enough. The trips out. meals are very good, there’s A new monthly memory cafe something to do everyday. You is due to start on Wednesday needn’t be lonely – come to Wednesday 28 February and a MEA.” fortnightly walking group starts Hot lunches are served on on Wednesday 14 March. Monday, Tuesdays, Thursdays Middleton Elderly Aid’s social and Fridays and cost just £4. centre in based in the old Weekly activities include crafts, Middleton Community Centre computers, Bingo and Hoy. on the corner of Middleton Park There are also chair based Avenue and Acre Road. Call activity classes, line dancing, (0113) 272 1050 for more ping pong as well as regular information, or just drop in.

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Residents challenge Club’s vocational training Stourton Park & Ride impresses Councillors I

Grand plans, but locals are pushing back at the proposed scheme

esidents of Hunslet and Belle Isle are organising a campaign against a proposed new Park and Ride scheme in Stourton, following a well-attended public meeting in February. The proposed scheme would see a carpark for 1100 cars built on fields just off junction 7 of the M621, behind Hunslet Cemetery - then buses making 70+ journeys each day into the city centre along Low Road, which would be extensively altered. Champions of the scheme argue that it will reduce congestion, and help reduce air pollution. But local resistance, that emerged last year during the official consultation period, has continued to brew. Critics argue that they're not against Park and Rides, but that this scheme is flawed on several levels. They insist: • it will consume local green space, and could easily be further extended in the future; • that its location next to the cemetery is disrespectful;

• that it will generate considerable noise and light pollution, and actually more not less congestion locally; • that the site is essentially a bog that's been repeatedly dismissed for development in the past; • that there are already Park and Ride schemes just minutes away at Elland Road and Temple Green; • and that south Leeds is once again having a development imposed upon it that might somewhat serve the city, but not the local area. Last month's meeting saw 35 residents gather at the Parnaby Tavern in Hunslet Carr, share concerns and information, and discuss their campaign. It seems that the Council's decision on the scheme has now been postponed until June - so the campaigners aim to get out locally in the meantime to promote awareness about the scheme, research it and its likely impact, gather petitions, hold further public meetings, and challenge local representatives to ditch the scheme.

Northern College T

by Tahena Ahmed

transformation of individuals and communities and promote social change through the provision of outstanding adult residential and community based learning. The Northern College has been working in partnership with Asha Neighbourhood Project in Beeston since 2014 to organise residential courses for groups.

he Northern College for Residential and Community Adult Education in Barnsley provided another opportunity for community groups in Leeds to take part in an short weekend confidence building and positive thinking course at the Wentworth Castle in Barnsley (2-4 February 2018). The Northern College is a residential college dedicated to the education and training of men and women who are without formal qualifications and are seeking to return to learning. It also offers training for those who are active in community and voluntary groups as well as in trade unions. The college provides opportunities for the Women and children from Asha at Northern College

nner South Councillors visited The Hunslet Club’s Vocational Training project to see their funding in action. Councillors (and candidates standing in the forthcoming local elections in May) representing all three wards that make up the Inner South Community Committee took time out to visit The Hunslet Club on 29 January 2018. The purpose of the visit was to see the “Monday Evening Project” – which provides young people in South Leeds the opportunity to achieve a vocational training qualification in catering, hair & beauty, mechanics, joinery or plumbing. The project has been funded by the Inner South Area committee councillors for the past 5 years and has enabled over 150 young people in Year 10 or 11 at school to attain a qualification in an area of their choice. Councillors had the opportunity to

Councillors meet staff and students in the joinery workshop speak with the young people taking part in the project and also see samples of some of the work they have been creating as well as seeing samples of the book-work that has been completed. Committee Chair, Cllr Angela Gabriel Commented: “We were all very impressed with the results of this

The Community programme. Committee has invested £26,000 over five years and it’s clearly been money well spent. We will continue funding the project so long as it continues to achieve these results. “It’s been a pleasure to meet so many dedicated people, both staff and students.”

Royal Mail told to “think again” P

ostal workers and LS11 residents rallied on Holbeck Moor to protest Royal Mail’s decision to close the Holbeck Delivery Office (LDO) on Saturday 17 February. Royal Mail announced on 13 February that they are to proceed with the closure of the office, but postal workers have threatened industrial action to stop the move. As previously reported, Royal Mail’s plan is to close the office on New Princess Street and move the operation to their City office, located off the Armley Gyratory system in LS12. At the final meeting of the consultation process, Royal Mail managers informed the Communications Workers Union (CWU) of their decision to proceed with the move. The CWU immediately lodged a formal “disagreement”, but South Leeds life understands that staff at both affected offices are prepared to take industrial action if negotiations aren’t successful. The union has cited many problems with the move including lack of workspace, welfare facilities and parking for staff, customers and red vans. In addition they point to the difficulty of reaching the site, especially at peak times. The City Delivery Office is located on Holts

Workers and residents say “No” to Royal Mail’s plans Crest Way behind the Harley find the office, that is not a Davison showroom on better experience. Wellington Road (A58). “This is the wrong In a statement, Royal Mail decision and we want Royal said: “There will be no Mail to think again.” impact on deliveries to our Addressing the rally, Chris customers as a result of Allen, the Communications this move. The postmen Workers Union (CWU) rep at and women who work in Holbeck DLO said: Holbeck delivery office will “Royal Mail has, continue to serve the local figuratively, stuck up two community, delivering a fingers to their staff and high quality service to our customers. We gave them customers.” 16 well-argued reasons not Amongst those present to close Holbeck LDO, we was Hilary Benn MP who even suggested an described Royal Mail’s alternative move to decision as “shameful.” He Parkside. They have made told South Leeds Life: no comment whatsoever. “This move is not good for “They say they want to staff and it will definitely not improve the customer be better for customers. experience, but we know When Royal Mail say ‘we’re the real reason: they want going to improve the to make a quick buck experience for customers’ selling the Holbeck site. by making people from They are asset strippers Holbeck go all the way to taking Royal Mail on a race the other side of the Armley to the bottom. Gyratory system, if they can “We are not going to lie

down, we’re going to fight it all the way. We shall not be moved from LS11! “Royal Mail – listen to your staff and customers.” George Robinson from the Royal Mail City office said: “We don’t want you to move to our office. We are right behind you, this is a terrible move and a terrible idea. Keep up the fight!” Hilary Benn MP highlighted the fact that Royal Mail was sold off by the government and is now a private company. “I asked Royal Mail how many parcels were collected from the Holbeck Office over the last five years” he said. “They refused to answer my question claiming ‘commercial confidentiality’. It’s time the Royal Mail was taken back into public hands.”

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Schools 7

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Cockburn students visit France and Italy guests every year. They also soaked up the Parisian atmosphere and visited some of the cities’ most famous landmarks. A week later, and the annual ski trip to The Aosta Valley, north west Italy, saw tremendous snow conditions and a brilliant array of après ski activities for the group of students from a range of year groups. All groups made fantastic progress as resilience paid off and most groups moved onto tackling blue runs and turning

Cockburn students at Disneyland Paris

tudents from Cockburn School have been on their winter travels to France and Italy. Firstly, a large group of Year 10 students traveled to Paris for a unique and hugely successful trip that the Mathematics Department organised to the Disneyland Resort in Paris. The four day study experience provides an exclusive opportunity for students to discover how their

subject is put into practice at this world famous leisure destination. Crucially, the education sessions aim to link areas of the GCSE Higher Mathematics curriculum to their application at Disneyland Resort Paris. Students attended three presentation-style sessions where they learned about the resort and how Disney managers and staff put their own experience and expertise into entertaining millions of

Sightseeing: the Arc de Triomphe in Paris

Hunslet’s young athletes T

he children from Hunslet St Marys got the chance to go to Halifax leisure centre and perform at the West Yorkshire U11 Athletics championships in January, having done very well in the Leeds Primary schools Sportshall athletics competitions. They made it through to represent West Yorkshire in the Yorkshire Regional Championships on Sunday 18th February. They performed very well as part of the West Yorkshire team and managed to win the competition! Superb performances from all the boys this could not have been achieved without the great support from parents and families.

Here are some quotes from some of the boys which really put into perspective their feelings and the massive achievement. “When I was travelling to the athletics I felt sick, but when I got there I was really excited. “There were teams from West, East & North Yorkshire. I was in the orange team & I got my Personal Best on speed bounce. I did the Grand Prix and a relay race too. We had a really fun and exciting time.” Billy. “I felt a little bit nervous but once I did my race I felt fine. It was brilliant when they announced our team Pupils from Hunslet St Mary’s won the had won. I'm really glad I got Regional indoor athletics final the chance to join in.” Myles representing West Yorkshire

Mastering the slopes: skiing in the Aosta Valley by the end of day two. some killer moves. Other groups then moved The ski instructors awarded further up the mountain to take the students for their efforts on some red runs and showed with awarding most a Level 2 some great skiing technique. with some achieving a Level 4 The week came to an end for mastering parallel turning. with some groups having a go Plans are already underway for at the jumps and they pulled off next year’s trip.

South Leeds Life | January 2018

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8 Planning and development

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New planning application for Middleton shops site

evised plans have been submitted by developer Marshall CDP for the St George’s Shopping Centre on the former Co-op office and warehouse site in Middleton. If successful the scheme will see both Lidl and B&M stores on the site along with nine smaller units, with permission for a betting shop. As well as bringing derelict land back into use, the project could create up to 180 jobs. We reported last October that planners had refused permission

for the original plans after eleven months of negotiations citing problems with landscaping and noise from a service yard to adjacent residential properties on Dolphin Road. Buildings on the site have been rearranged in the new submission, so that houses are shielded from noise on the site by the one of the stores. The plans show 284 car parking spaces and that nine existing mature trees will be removed and replaced by planting new trees

around the periphery and on the car park. A number of objections have already been made by residents. These focus on traffic issues at the roundabout and concerns about the impact on the existing Middleton District Centre, especially if B&M moves from their existing premises. The full plans can be viewed online via the Leeds City Council Planning Portal (search for ref: 18/00846/FU). Comments can be made until Friday 30 March.

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The park will weave through the Tetley brewery site and the new HS2 station

Planning and development 9

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Holbeck projects move forward Changing lanes ahead at Holbeck Neighbourhood Forum recently heard updates from developers about four major schemes including the iconic Grade I listed Temple Works

he Holbeck Neighbourhood Forum heard from developers about progress on a number of schemes at their recent meeting. The Forum, which is open to residents and businesses and will discuss all new planning applications if the Neighbourhood Plan is approved in the upcoming referendum, met at St Matthew’s Community Centre on Saturday 10 February. David Hodgson from CEG told the meeting how they had stepped in to buy the iconic, Grade I listed, Temple Works on Marshall Street to stop it going to auction. South Leeds Life reported in December that with a reserve price of just £1 there were fears that an irresponsible developer could by the mill and allow it to deteriorate further. CEG do not have any firm plans for the building yet and are working to understand the structure which was revolutionary in the 1840s when it was built as a flax spinning mill. They plan to have carried out urgent remedial works and make the building watertight by the end of this year. CEG’s main scheme on the

corner of Water Lane and Globe Road is progressing with the first building work due to start later this year. Architect Nick Brown explained how he had been influenced by the Holbeck Neighbourhood Plan’s emphasis on green routes. The ‘Radius’ scheme of 223 flats on the corner of Springwell Road and Whitehall Road, which we reported on last May, will use trees at street level to deal with the problems of wind that their neighbour Bridgewater Place (‘The Dalek’) has suffered from. Work is due to start on the site in June this year. The scheme for Midland Mills, near the viaduct, will shortly be submitted for full planning permission. As well as renovating the historic mill complex to form modern workshops and offices, the scheme will see a 33 storey residential tower block on the site. The design of another project of 101 flats on Manor Road was inspired by the precision engineering firm that previously occupied the site (Alan Bush). The flats will be clad in copper and bronze.

he creation of a landmark new park in the South Bank area of Hunslet has moved a step closer after plans were approved at by the Council’s Executive Board last month. The park is envisaged to be approximately 3.5 hectares in size when fully complete, and creating it would deliver the public’s number one priority for the area, following feedback received in consultation about the South Bank carried out in 2016. The land proposed for the park covers multiple landowners, with Leeds City Council working with the biggest of those Vastint UK to support the delivery of the initial phase of the park. Executive board approval would see further work carried out on detailed design for the park along after Vastint secured Outline Planning permission in 2017. Work will also consider with how the park is to be managed. Construction work on the

park could begin in late 2019 with phased implementation over the next five years. To further support the plans, Leeds City Council proposes to redevelop its own land at Meadow Lane – a site which adjoins the former Tetley Brewery – with some of this land becoming part of the park, and with the road connections there altered to help reduce traffic dominance in the area. Potential new development opportunities at Meadow Lane would also see contributions made to support the park’s delivery. To manage the park, Leeds City Council is proposing to take out a long term lease for the whole city park site, working with the landowners involved to set up and deliver a sustainable structure to govern the park which could be as a community interest company, which would see the park established and maintained as a key civic asset.

Armley Gyratory system

hilst the Armley Gyratory system is not in LS11, it affects many of us and Leeds City Council are consulting on changes to the junction aimed at improving traffic flows. Those travelling to the north of the city centre and beyond from Beeston and Cottingley will be familiar with the A643 ‘Ingram Distributor’. This is the dual carriage way which links Elland Road to the A58(M) / A64(M) section of the Inner Ring Road. They will also be familiar with the traffic queues that can stretch back beyond the M621 Junction 2 roundabout at peak times. The proposed changes to Junction 2 of the M621 which we reported on here, depend on better flow at the Armley Gyratory. The changes will also affect people trying to pick up parcels from the sorting office if Royal Mail gets its way with plans to close its Holbeck Delivery Office. The main aim of the three proposals in the consultation are to speed traffic flow from the Ingram Distributor to the Inner Ring Road and vice versa. This involves building a new route directly across the giant roundabout at ground level. Option 1 maintains the roundabout for users on other routes (a bit like the Dewsbury Road / M62 junction at Tingley. The other two options turn the junction into something more akin to the Spaghetti Junction interchange with some sections elevated onto bridges over the main south-north route. For full details, including improvements for cyclists and pedestrians, and to take part in the consultation, go to: armleygyratory.commonplace.is

Stourton Copperworks site brought back to life

Temple Works on Marshall Street

New park for Hunslet moves a step closer T

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January 2018 | South Leeds Life

A 33 floor residential block at Midland Mills will rival Bridgewater Place

he Copperworks in Stourton has been a South Leeds landmark since it was built as the Leeds Copperworks in 1894. From the invention of the Yorkshire fitting and the supply of materials for shipbuilding repairs in World War I, the Copperworks has played a pivotal role in British industry and history. Generations of families have worked at the site, seeing the transition from Leeds Copperworks into Yorkshire Copperworks, as well as multiple mergers and takeovers since. The site has played host to a number of industrial breakthroughs, as well as royal visits, and at its peak was the workplace of a 5,000 strong workforce. It closed in 1980. In 1930 a works brass band was formed as the Yorkshire Copperworks Band. This still exists today as the Yorkshire Imperial Band, or Yorkshire Imps, you may have seen them performing in Middleton Park in recent

CGI showing the refurbished Copperworks at Stourton years. warehousing and distribution facility of The old works have been 300,000 sq ft has been created which refurbished with buildings re-roofed is currently on the market. and re-clad by Towngate plc. A modern

South Leeds Life | January 2018

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8 Planning and development

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New planning application for Middleton shops site

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The park will weave through the Tetley brewery site and the new HS2 station

Planning and development 9

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Holbeck projects move forward Changing lanes ahead at Holbeck Neighbourhood Forum recently heard updates from developers about four major schemes including the iconic Grade I listed Temple Works

Armley Gyratory system

Stourton Copperworks site brought back to life

Temple Works on Marshall Street

New park for Hunslet moves a step closer T

Website: www.southleedslife.com

January 2018 | South Leeds Life

A 33 floor residential block at Midland Mills will rival Bridgewater Place

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South Leeds Life | March 2018

10 Opinion

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In our view Listening skills The powers that be carry out a lot of consultations with us mere mortals about changes they want to make. Unfortunately the word seems to have become debased. Consultation is too often about talking at people and not listening to them. A genuine commitment to consultation involves accepting that you may be an expert in your field, a resident has real lived experience of the situation which is just as valid.

1968 For some of us of a certain age, 1968 was a pivotal year. The anti Vietman War campaign, civil rights marches in the north of Ireland, a general strike in France, assassinations of Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy. There was change in South Leeds too, fifty years ago. The last local coal mine Broom Pit closed and Hunslet Grange (Leek Street flats) were opened. Both events are worth commemorating.

Care in the community These days we’re told that no one knows their neighbour and that we are all selfish, but it’s just not true. Whether it’s the tragedy of Jason Pepper or lonely older people in Middleton, time and again we see the true community spirit come out. We are (mostly) good neighbours, we are keen to help those in difficulty. it’s a great strength of the South Leeds community.

Your letters and comments Middleton retail park

Sorry, I know I don’t live in Middleton but I live not far away. Why do we need another retail park? Why can’t the one that is already there be redeveloped and bungalows and affordable housing built on the site. By the time we have finished we are going to have more supermarkets than we really need. As for the trees, are they going to plant mature tress or the little pathetic ones that are already planted in these car parks that are neither useful nor any good? Tracy Carr No, Middleton does not have enough supermarkets or retailers, and a new Lidl and even more shops are absolutely necessary. One middle size ASDA and Aldi are not enough considering number of houses built in last few years. If we need a new school, then we need more shops too. Please do not mention the existing B&M shop and retail park. It is in so poor condition and really not a place where I would like to spend my time and money. Even in such poor condition it attracts people, simply because it is only place for multiple shopping. So a new, modern retail park is absolutely necessary. New affordable houses are already planned and being built in Middleton. Traffic is a separate problem, Middleton Ring Road needs urgent upgrade and on road parking restrictions. Too many irresponsible drivers unnecessarily park on the road (they have their own drives) which slows down traffic. Middleton Resident

Artists impression of the original plans for the St George’s Retail Park in Middleton the decision had already been made and more of in Leeds. they had no intention of changing their Steve Topp minds. What happened to the public consultation, did anyone hear from Royal There didnt seem to be objections when Mail asking for their thoughts? it was proposed before linked to the tram Not having a car this decision will mean to town and a tram maintenance depot, so Royal Mail will lose some business from me why now? It’s ideal for all vehicles coming because I will not order from anyone who off the motoway. delivers through them Instead I will Having said that there is a Park and Ride purchase from other sources and go back across the valley now in the same area. It to buying from shops instead. would be better spending money on one in I suppose we should be grateful that a different quadrant of city ie North and Royal Mail did not tell us that this move will West - oh I forgot - there are rich NIMBYS enrich the customer experience as they did in those areas! in their last statement. You do not make a Alan Wrathall service better by moving it further away. Stuart Turnbull Joyce Harris (1931-2017)

Oh Dear, it’s all good and well saying we can re-deliver to another collection point It looks as though the postmen and such as a local Post Office but this will see women that I have spoken to were right, local Post Offices, such as the one where Premier is on Dewsbury Road, being inundated with mail for collection. I can see many refusing to act as collection points Beeston & Holbeck ward after a while so what do we do Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park up to the Co-op, Cottingley, old Holbeck. then? The three councillors are: Will Royal Mail allow for David Congreve 0113 257 1679 david.congreve@leeds.gov.uk redirection to the West Grange Angela Gabriel 07946 632 468 angela.gabriel@leeds.gov.uk office (whilst it’s still open, can Adam Ogilvie 07969 680 024 adam.ogilvie@leeds.gov.uk see that one closing too!) as that may be of help to some residents able to walk or catch a bus to it by City & Hunslet ward way of using the 86 or catching Includes the city centre, Holbeck Urban Village, Beeston Hill and Hunslet. The the 2 that changes to a 13/A at three councillors are: Middleton which runs past it? Patrick Davey 0113 267 1282 patrick.davey@leeds.gov.uk Profit before people, don’t you just Mohammed Iqbal 0113 226 8796 mohammed.iqbal@leeds.gov.uk hate the rich! Mr Oh Dear Elizabeth Nash 0113 275 8594 elizabeth.nash@leeds.gov.uk

Holbeck Delivery Office

Your Councillors and MP

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

In summary, "customers can continue to expect the same inadequate service they have previously." I feel sorry for the employees who are evidently treated with the same disdain Royal Mail has for its customers. Julie Bush

Stourton Park & Ride Seems like a good location to syphon of traffic from the M1, the air pollution from backed up traffic is there all ready. I’ve used the York Park and Ride and it is something I would like to see

I want to thank everyone for the cards of condolance I have received at this very sad time. And for all the support at Joyce’s funeral on 17 January, on such a coild winter’s day. To the Rev Lindsey Pearson for conducting a lovely service and for her comforting words. Also to W Kaye & Son for their caring funeral services. Thanks to everyone for theor donations to The Alzheimers Society. God bless you all. Bob Harris

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Top Tweets 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: @Retasleeds Today our printer stopped working. Luckily, Abdullah, who was a printer technician and technical manager in Syria, was on hand to lend us his expertise and fix the problem... Turns out we need our clients just as much as they need us :) Thanks Abdullah! #teamRETAS #WithRefugees @Championwonder More intel on Hunslet Grange from @SouthLeedsLife : plaques on Prosper St, one marks granting of construction contract 1967, other commemorates traditional housing built to replace the flats, and cooperation between Leeds City Council & tenants 1983 @rachalate We went #digital today at #HunsletRemembered with our theme Off The Map using #AR to bring maps of old #Hunslet to life The group couldn’t believe it! The group found where they used to live, work and go for a drink!! #augmentedreality @aurasma #memories #interactive

Join the debate 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

@EmmaMBearman Getting @playbox002 ready for her first outing this year with @Ali_Boop @biglesp @DewsburyRoadHub 9-11th Mar vimeo.com/246918973 @Clean_Leeds Fly tip waste found with evidence Balm Road, Arthington, Middleton, LS10. #wewillfindyouandfineyou. @hcpsleeds Leeds S & C SSP Mini Tennis Tournament @T_S_L_A #impossibleisnothing

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March 2018 | South Leeds Life

Local history 11

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Marking ‘Leekies’ 50th anniversary D

o you remember Hunslet Grange? This is the question that Gill Crawshaw and Louise Dwyer, students at Leeds Arts University, put to members of Holbeck Elderly Aid’s memory café last month. They tell us why they were asking and what got them interested in Leek Street Flats. We are both students at Leeds Arts University (formerly Leeds College of Art), doing a Masters in Curation Practices. This means we are learning about the field of curating – of art, heritage and much more. One of our projects this term is called “animating the archive” and we have been working together to shed new life on an item in one of Yorkshire’s many archives. We were excited to discover a film from 1968 in the Yorkshire Film Archive, called Community Builder. This showcases the development of Hunslet Grange, also known as Leek Street Flats. Primarily aimed at the construction industry, this short film shows a great slice of south Leeds life at that time. From back-to-backs with a tin bath in the kitchen and shared outside toilets, to the move to a brand new estate and its flats

with all mod cons, we see scenes of family and community life. Where once people gathered on the doorstep or the street, they later gather on the balconies and walkways of Hunslet Grange. Children play out together, under the watchful eye of parents. At first their games take place on the cobbled streets, but at the end of the film the concrete playgrounds and paths surrounding the flats have become the children’s territory. Further research in the local history library confirmed that Hunslet Grange was opened fifty years ago this month. Knowing a little of the history of this development, we gathered more information. The flats became infamous, blighted with a range of problems arising from their prefabricated construction methods, which were considered innovative at the time. Cold, draughts and damp, combined with an electric heating system that was prohibitively expensive for the majority of tenants, led to problems of condensation and mould. Following a long campaign

for improvements to living conditions by its tenants, Hunslet Grange was demolished in 1983 – a mere fifteen years after it was opened by the Lord Mayor. Of course, there’s much more to the story than that. Reading reports from the time can tell us a lot, but first-hand accounts can really bring an archive to life. Holbeck Elderly Aid is one of the nearby neighbourhood networks that supports older people. We visited their memory café at Ingram Gardens to show the film and talk about housing, neighbourhoods and communities. We discussed whether something had been lost when tower blocks and other multistorey housing replaced the old terraced houses. Communities were split up and people moved to different areas and lost touch with friends. This led to isolation for some people, while others managed to form new communities. This was certainly the experience of one visitor to the memory café, who had lived in three different flats on “the Leekies”. Her abiding memories were of a close-knit

Above and below: Pottery Vale, Leek Street Flats (Hunslet Grange) ©Leeds Library & Information Services

community, neighbours who would help each other out and mind each other’s children. It was great to hear her happy memories, in sharp contrast to dominant narrative of Hunslet Grange. The next stage of our project will be showing some of the archive materials, along with film clips and other information, to students and staff at the university. It will be interesting to see what issues this might raise for a younger

audience, and the parallels between situations past and present. South Leeds Life would love to hear from our readers about their memories of Hunslet Grange. Were you there at the opening ceremony on 27 March 1968? Did you move from the old back-to-backs into a new flat? Did you play out as a child living on the estate? Email your memories to us at info@southleedslife.com, or to

Walkway ©Ray Dickinson

Gill and Louise at: curationstreet@gmail.com. The Garden Memory Café takes place at Ingram Gardens Community Centre on the second Monday of the month, 12.30 – 2.30 pm. Contact Holbeck Elderly Aid for more information: (0113) 245 5553. Hunslet Remembered meets at Hunslet Library, off Church Street, on the last Thursday of every month, 10am-12pm. Contact South Leeds Live At Home on (0113) 271 6201.

Family bible sheds light Broom Pit anniversary T on Holbeck history

Nicholas Garvey, Frances Jones and the Ramsden’s family bible he Feel Good Furniture Shop worked in Holbeck. The entries (run by SLATE to provide show that Israel and Sarah were opportunities for people with married in Leeds Parish Church learning difficulties) has on 23 May 1868. They went on received a most unusual to have 10 children, 6 of whom donation – a family bible. lived on into adulthood. This impressive leather-bound Frances Jones from SLATE has volume is a Brown’s Self- done some research into the Interpreting Family Bible, census returns from the period, complete with illustrations and which show the family living at pages for the family to enter various addresses in Wortley, their key dates of marriage, then part of the Holbeck ward. births and deaths. Like most of his neighbours, The bible belonged to the Israel worked in industry, Ramsden family who lived and describing himself as either a

machine moulder or an iron moulder. He died in 1899, but Sarah lived on until 1910. The last two entries in the bible are for their offspring Walter, who died in 1943, and Sarah Emma, who died in 1 July 1949. SLATE would love to hear from any the Ramsden family descendants to piece together more of their family history, and to restore the bible to the family. Please contact the Hunslet shop on (0113) 270 4005 or get it touch via the SLATE web-site www.slate.co.uk. The photo shows Frances with Nicholas Garvey who works as a driver’s mate. “This is a really interesting job,” said Nicholas. “You never know when something unusual is going to turn up, like this old bible. And we meet some lovely customers – both people who donate us their old furniture and people who buy from the shop.”

he Middleton Railway Trust (MRT) has received funding from Middleton Park ward Councillors to mark the 50th anniversary of the closure of Broom Pit, the last coal mine in South Leeds, in 1968. MRT will be producing a special booklet for all primary school children in the ward as well as a more detailed book aimed at adults. A major event at the railway is being planned for September, which will be the highlight of this year’s activities at Middleton Railway. They are especially keen to hear people’s memories of Broom Pit. Perhaps you, or a member of your family worked there? If so you can share your memories by emailing coal@middletonrailway.org.uk MRT Chair Malcolm Johnson said: “Our railway was built to convey coal from the pits at Middleton to Leeds. The event in September will commemorate the closure of the last mine in the area.

Cllr Kim Groves shakes hands with MRT Chair Malcolm Johnson alongside Charles Milner (MRT) in front of a Middleton coal truck “The visual and written history of the mines and colliers is being collated for distribution throughout the city. It will be preserved as a resource for future generations. “I would like to thank Leeds City Council for their enthusiastic support and encouragement.” Councillor Kim Groves said: “On behalf of Cllr Blake and Cllr Truswell and myself I’m

delighted to support Middleton Railway with funding for this project. We are especially keen to see the work in schools which will help future generations really understand the important role coal played in this community.” The project is part of the Love Where You Live initiative and aims to build pride in the heritage of south Leeds amongst young people.

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South Leeds Life | March 2018

12 Arts

Looking at dementia through Alice’s eyes T

by Caroline Carr

he stage is jam-packed, full of props reflecting the busy lifestyle of professional Alice, played by star of stage and screen Sharon Small. Alice is a 50-year-old professor of linguistics at Harvard University where she graduated from and is clearly a highly intelligent academic. Married to John, who also works at Harvard as a research student, they have two grown up children; Tom a lawyer and Lydia an actor.

becomes disorientated and loses her bearings, clearly causing concern and resulting in a visit to her Doctor. Alice attends, hoping that it is the menopause causing her to forget, but she is sent off for more tests and eventually to a neurologist where early-onset Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed. This life changing crisis calls for all members of the family to come to terms with the trauma and frustration of this awful illness. The play is a dark topic and

When Alice no longer recognised her daughter, or when she didn’t realise her sister had died over 30 years before were such significant events especially for those of us who have experienced such a situation. Her fight to remain independent results in her speaking to medical students about the impact of her illness on friends and family and most importantly herself and how she rises to the challenge of attempting to cope. Having watched the film

Sharon Small, right, as Alice. Photo: Geraint Lewis The play commences with the family dashing about, getting on with their professional lives as well as their personal commitments and is told from Alice’s point of view. The embodiment of her is created by the formation of “Herself”; Alice’s inner voice. This allowed the audience to build up an intrinsic viewpoint of this relationship between the two of them. As daily life goes on Alice slowly starts to forget things, simple words to begin with and then whilst out on a run she

there are attempts at humour to try and lighten the mood although the sensitive nature of the matter emphasises the tone. The set decreases on stage as her disease progresses and as her mind empties of what it once knew. Family and friends rally round to help her, and it was intriguing to see how their relationships also changed as the disease invaded. It was gripping when key events in the play took hold and you could feel the poignancy within the audience.

some years ago, I was intrigued to see how this would be adapted for the stage as it is not an easy topic to portray. I must give credit to all of the cast and production team in how they have ensured that this sensitive subject is given dignity and hope for all those affected in one way or another by the cruel sword of dementia. Still Alice runs at the West Yorkshire Playhouse until Saturday 3 March 2018. Tickets £13.50-£31, box office (0113) 213 7700

Playing The Joker R

by Linda Brown

ed Ladder Theatre brought another play about a controversial sporting figure to Belle Isle WMC last month. Playing The Joker is about legenendary Rugby League commentator Eddie Waring. The play, written by Anthony Clavane, counted Jamie Jones-Buchanan amongst the cast. Here’s Linda Brown’s review: Playing the Joker - Another great production by Red Ladder. As someone who has never been interested in rugby league, it gave me an insight into Eddie Waring's perception of how to raise interest in the game beyond the North (Yorkshire) and his battle to do

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so as a BBC commentator with his strong accent. Eddie Marlowe, grieving the recent loss of his father is set on speaking to Eddie his idol and whom he was named after. This is cleverly written to leave the audience both amused and horrified at the outcome. It was not only an interesting take on this Dewsbury born entertainer, the writer (Anthony Clavane) also added humour linked to Eddie's time on the

Morcambe and Wise show which left the audience buzzing. The question time with the actors and the writer was again full of information, the audience participation was amazing as their passion for rugby league and their views of the ‘Watersplash Final’ were vented. The storyline certainly left the audience ready to air their views on this well loved, or on the other hand hated, northern guy who some saw as as a negative northern stereotype. Playing The Joker continues its tour of community venues at Hunslet RLFC’s home, South Leeds Stadium, on Friday 9 March at 7:30pm (doors open 6:30pm). Tickets are just £5.

Big Mouth’s back B

by Jeremy Morton

rian Clough, or at least Luke Dickson who plays him in Red Ladder Theatre’s The Damned United, returned to Elland Road to launch the play’s latest run in Leeds. The play focuses on Clough’s disasterous 44 day reign as Manager of Leeds United in 1974 and is an adaptation of the book by David Peace. Peace couldn’t get a consistent story of those events when researching the book, so he wrote it as a faiytale of what might have been going on in Clough’s head. It’s a fiction, but based on facts. Now as then, Clough fiercely divides opinion. Red Ladder’s artistic director Rod Dixon explains that “Clough is Richard III to audiences in Leeds, almost a pantomime villain. When we played in Derby he was Henry V!” “I see it from the motorway Floodlights and stands Fingers and fists Sticks and stones Flesh and bones Elland Road, Leeds Hateful, hateful place Spiteful, spiteful place They hate flair round here Hate it and loathe it Kill it and hang it from the lamposts for all to mock and see.”

Luke Dickson as Brian Clough, pitchside at Elland Road The Damned united is playing comes out fighting, is it a fear of at West Yorkshire Playhouse 27 failure?” March - 7 April before heading James Brining, West Yorkshire out on a tour of community Playhouse’s artistic director venues around the city says the community tour is very including including South important. Leeds. Watch out for further “We’ve been taking shows out details. for five years, reaching out to I spoke to actor Luke Dickson people who can’t afford, or about playing community wouldn’t think to come to the venues. “I’m more comfortable theatre. It’s brilliant to bring with those venues: clubs, something to where people feel schools, prisons. I enjoy the comfortable. challenge of setting up the set “If you like football, you’ll like in a different space every night. this.” With this play, in Leeds, the If you would like to review The atmosphere should be electric.” Damned United for South Leeds “Football fans either love or Life, we have two free tickets for hate Clough. I’ve tried to find his Press Night on Wednesday 28 vulnerabilities, for example March at West Yorkshire when his mother dies. Family is Playhouse. Please email info@ massively important to him. southleedslife.com telling us There’s a reason he always why you’d like to see the show.

Windrush sets sail I

by Sue Talbot

n 1948 a boat set sail from the Caribbean. It carried 800 African Caribbean men and women to Britain. Many of the men had served in the British forces during World War II. Leaving behind loved ones, they came to help rebuild a Britain that had been destroyed by bombing and bankrupted by war. Based on the reminiscences of members of Leeds Black Elders group, this ballet by Sharon Watson, the Artistic Director of Leeds-based Phoenix Dance Theatre, narrates the story of 20th century African Caribbean migration to Britain. The ballet takes us through all the joys, difficulties and disappointments of migration. It is both immensely touching, and at times very funny. “You called. We came.” Skilled engineers, teachers, nurses came to help rebuild the Motherland, as imperial Britain liked to present itself to its subjects. Yet when they arrived they were met with hostility and discrimination, and were

confined to low-skilled, badly paid work that made a mockery of their skills and abilities: “Matrons became healthcare assistants, teachers became bus drivers.” As a young (white) person in the 1970s I heard white people complain “All black people look the same.” The costume design neatly turned this on its head. Dancers, portraying white people, wore white masks, similar costumes and had a similar, repetitive series of movements (generally while miming smoking). They all looked the same to me. A very effective section had these sloppy harridans hanging up washing to bear the words “No dogs, no blacks, no Irish”. A common sight in hotels and

lodgings before racial discrimination was recognised for the evil that it is. The danced memories of the Windrush generation took us on, through police harassment, Carnival and reggae music, lovers rock, through interracial misunderstandings, marriages, births and re-unifications to a glorious finale, and the multiracial society that we have been gifted by them. As I left, an usher said, “I don’t understand dancing but that was brilliant. It was like being in my gran’s living room. She’s 85. She came here then.” I had been looking at the dance (lovely – especially Vanessa Pang). He saw, recognised and loved the theatre, the story, the truth.

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What’s On 13

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Time for over 55s to dance Fighting for breath Y

orkshire Dance has launched three new dance classes for over55s in Belle Isle and Holbeck. Each class will run for ten weeks, with participants attending twice each week. They are designed to be gentle, lots of fun and very good for people’s health. Participants don’t need to have any previous experience of dance, and Yorkshire Dance is keen to stress that it welcomes people of every shape and size. The classes are particularly suitable for people who are recovering from a fall, or who are concerned that they might experience a fall, and will give participants new confidence and stability. Adie Nivison, Project Manager at Yorkshire Dance, says, “We have been working with the local neighbourhood networks to promote, publicise and advise us on the Dancing in Time project. Yorkshire Dance value the expertise and knowledge they have of the local community and what works best for older people in their area. Sonny and all the team at Belle Isle Winter Aid have been so supportive and helpful, encouraging people to come along, get active and have some fun!” Sonny Garewal, Project Manager of Belle Isle Elderly Winter Aid, says, “We are looking forward to working

Residents are fighting to save this local health project (image: Active Together)

You’re never too old to dance. Classes in Holbeck and Belle Isle with Yorkshire Dance, to enhance the lives of the older people we serve. I hope the project will give them some positive outcomes, such as improved self-confidence, flexibility and balance, and an increased sense of Health and Wellbeing, as well as the opportunity to creatively express themselves.” Richard Porter, Health Improvement Specialist at Leeds City Council, says, “It’s an exciting time for the partnership because we’re striving to Make Leeds the Best City to Grow Old In, and one way we can to do this is by simply getting ‘active’.

The number of people who are active drops from the age of 55 above. Although it’s feasible dance is a great way to become active and benefit from reducing risk or managing existing health conditions. All it requires is having the opportunity to participate, so give it ago and get involved.” Places in the Dancing in Time classes are free, and there’s no need to book in advance. If you’d like to know more about the classes, please contact Adie Nivison at Yorkshire Dance on (0113) 243 9867 or adienivison@yorkshiredance.com

Zumba’s back at Hamara

e reported last month that the women’s exercise classes at Beeston’s Hamara Centre were under threat. The popular zumba class is back on, but the centre hasn’t been able to keep them cost free. However at £2 per session they are still good value for money. “I want to lose weight but I don’t have time.” “I really want to get fit but I don’t like going to the gym.” “I find exercise such a bore.” Sound familiar? Achieve your fitness goals by dancing your way to the Zumba classes at the Hamara Centre (*Women Only*)

Each class is HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) orientated and provides a full body workout. Lose between 600 – 1000 calories per session whilst partaking in fun, dance fitness orientated routines. The Hamara Centre provides a safe, clean, supervised environment at only £2 per person per class. If you are serious about losing weight and achieving your fitness goals, then come and join the dance challenge! For any enquiries please contact the instructor directly: 07748 078593 The Hamara Centre is located on Tempest Road in Beeston. For more information go to www.hamara.org.uk

your mental faculties. • Coding can help to relieve stress: We need to find ways to turn off the noises in our heads and relax; when you’re coding, you shut the world out and concentrate on the task in front of you. • Coding can keep you social: Coding is more fun when you’re doing it with someone else; helping each other and problem solving together can be a lot more fun. It’s interesting to see which challenges you face and which ones others face - teamwork makes the dream work! • Similar to crosswords and puzzles, a code a day can keep your brain 10 years younger!

Egg Hunt Join the fun in Cross Flatts Park on Good Friday, 30 March between 11am1pm. Games, refreshments and of course the hunt for Easter Eggs. HUB Choir returns on Tuesday 6 March at Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck. As usual we will be meeting at 6.30pm to share some home cooked food before the singing commences at 7pm. There is free tea and coffee available and we have a short break in the middle before finishing at 8.30pm. This term the choir will run every Tuesday from March 6th until and including April 10th.

Yorkshire Air Ambulance

After hearing more about the benefits of coding, there was interest and curiosity from the groups and they gave it a go! They completed the Hour of Code activities in less than an hour. The activity provided lots of laughs along with the learning; Refreshments were provided with tea, coffee and biscuits which all of the group members said helped their minds work! The next session in partnership with South Leeds Live at Home is: Digital Music Making for Over 60’s, Wednesday 7th March 1.30pm, at St Andrew’s Church, Beeston. No booking needed.

corner of the city – despite the fact that the City & Hunslet council ward has the highest levels of respiratory illness in the city. Jean Adams, Hunslet resident and Breathe Easy regular, commented: “My husband and I have found these classes really empowering these past months: it’s a friendly group, and has really made a difference to our health. But there’s not many of us, so the organisers tell us they might well stop them. Please everyone spread the word, join us, and you’ll really notice the difference.” There is also a Breath Easy exercise group in Middleton at the Parochial Hall, on North Lingwell Road every Friday at 11.30am.

Events in brief HUB Choir

Over 60s take Coding challenge

eeds Libraries has trialled a series of Hour of Code workshops with Over 60s in partnership with South Leeds Live at Home. When the groups were approached, the first question they asked was: Why would we want to learn how to code? They were adamant they were not looking for a career break in software development! So what are the benefits of Coding? • Coding can keep your brain sharp: According to a recent study, engaging in problem solving activities can help to protect an ageing brain. Coding challenges the brain and the act of learning to code will strengthen

ocal residents are urging others in their community to join an “empowering and friendly” exercise class in Hunslet – called Breathe Easy – or face the risk of losing it. The British Lung Foundation has been running the classes for anyone with breathing difficulties, such as COPD or asthma, since last year. They run each Thursday from 1.30pm, at Hunslet Methodist church on Balm Road, cost just £2 per person, and are open to anyone. They are gentle aerobics sessions, which the leader tailors to the needs and abilities of the group each week. Similar classes elsewhere in the city have flourished, but take-up and referrals have been minimal in this

On Saturday 10 March The Holbeck Club is hosting a charity night for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance. Entrance is free, there will be live music, a raffle, bingo and lots of fun activities. All wecome doors open at 7.30pm. Please drop in and support this worthy cause. The Holbeck is located at Jenkinson Lawn.

Bushcraft Days on 4 & 5 April and a Playscheme on 9-13 April. For full details go to: www.tcv.org.uk/skeltongrange

Yoga classes

Two new Yoga classes are starting at Beeston Parish Centre on Tuesday mornings at 10:30pm and Thursday evenings at 7:30pm. Classes cost £5.

Beeston Neighbourhood Plan The Beeston Neighbourhood Forum will be holding a special event at Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street, Leeds, LS11 8PN between 11am-2pm on Saturday 3 March. Local residents will be able to drop in to the event at any time between these times and give their views as to how to make Beeston a better place. A number of local community groups, and neighbourhood forums in other parts of Leeds have been invited to take a table at the event .

Together With Tots

Cottingley Community Centre will be marking International Women’s Day with tea, coffee and cake from 9:15am on Thursday 8 March.

A chance for mums with young children to get together. The group meets fortnightly at Two Willows Children’s Centre on Cardinal Square, Beeston on Monday mornings from 9:30-11:30am. The first hour is a themed play session, followed a speaker such as a health visitor. Next sessions on 5 and 19 March.

Skelton Grange

Leeds Dads

International Women’s Day

There’s lots happening down at the Skelton Grange Environment Centre in Stourton this Easter. Kicking off with Needlefelt Easter Eggs & Bunnies on Saturday 24 March. Friday 30 March sees an Easter Egg Hunt and Junior Rangers activities with

Organiser Errol Murray won a Child Friendly Leeds award last month for his Leeds Dads group. It is simply a chance for dads with pre-school children to meet up and play together. Next session is on Sunday 18 March, 2-4pm at The Tetley in Hunslet.

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South Leeds Life | March 2018

14 What’s On

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What’s On

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Full details of every event including map and contact details are available at www.southleedslife.com/events

Your guide to events and activities across South Leeds in March Full contact details can be found in our online What’s On guide at www.southleedslife.com/events Every Monday

GTT: Digital Access Holbeck 9am-12pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Hill Bridge Cafe 9:30am-2:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Women & Girls’ Drop In 9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project 43 Stratford Street, Beeston Computers with Digital Angels 10-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Lychee Red – Chinese Elders Gp 10am-12pm Belle Isle Family Centre, Belle Isle Road Friendship Group 10am-12pm Belle Isle Family Centre Julie’s Ancestry Group 10am & 1pm BITMO’s GATE Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Crafts 10-11:30am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Avenue Walk and Talk 11am-12pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Salsa-cise 11:30am-12:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston. Lunch Club 11:30am-1pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Lunch Club 12-1:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Bowling 12:30-4pm Cross Flatts Park Christmas arts and crafts 1-3pm BITMOs GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Women’s Wellbeing Group 1-3pm Belle Isle Family Centre, Belle Isle Road Dance 2-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Avenue Triathlon Training 4:15-5:45pm Middleton Cycle Hub Kickboxing 6-8:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Hunslet Warriors Juniors 6-7pm Warrior Park, The Oval South Leeds Sisters running 6.15pm South Leeds Stadium St Matthew’s Youth Club 6:30-8:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Women’s Couch to 5K running 6:30-7:30pm Middleton Park Bike Hub, LS10 3TN Zumba 7pm Middleton Parochial Hall 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

Mums & Tots 9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Bridge Cafe 9:30am-2:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park

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 Heart to Heart Breakfast 9:30am Asha Neighbourhood Project, 43 Stratford Street Coffee Morning 9:30am-12pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston HEA’s Tea & Toast breakfast 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Baking 10-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Breastfeeding Support 10am-12pm Middleton Family Centre, 252-262 Sissons Road Friendship Group 10am-12pm Hunslet Methodist Church, Telford Terrace, Balm Rd General fitness over 55's 10-11am St Anthony's church hall, Beeston Community Coffee Morning 10-11:30am Beeston Library Yoga class 10:30am Beeston Parkish Centre, Town Street HEA’s Singing Group 11am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Knit & Natter 10:30am-12pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Gentle Exercise 11.30am-12:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Lunch Club 11:30am-1pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Lunch Club 12pm Woodhouse Hill Community Centre, Hunslet HEA’s Lunch Club 12:15-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Bowling 12:30-4pm Cross Flatts Park Dancing In Time 1:30-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Social Afternoon 1:30-3pm Woodhouse Hill Community Centre, Hunslet Line Dancing 2-3:30pm Middleton Community Centre Rainbows, Brownies, Guides 4:30-9:15pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Inside Out wellbeing group 6-8pm Conservative Club, Ring Road Middleton Women’s Boot Camp 6:45-7:45 Middleton Park Bike Hub, LS10 3TN Craft & Social Evening 6:30pm Woodhouse Hill Community Centre, Hunslet Carr Free Football Sessions 6:30-7:30pm 8-12 year olds 7:30-8:30pm 13-16 year olds Holbeck Community Centre, Elland Road, LS11 0AB Holbeck HUB Choir 7-8:30pm (food from 6:30pm) Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck South Leeds Lakers running

7pm from Beeston Co-op

Every Wednesday

Bacon Butty Breakfast 9-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Messy Time 9:15-11am Middleton Play & Learning Centre, Throstle Lane Parents and Toddlers 9:15-11:15am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Get Fit Where You Sit 9:15-10:15 Lane End Primary School, Beeston Road 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 Rags to Riches Sewing Group 10am-12pm Tenants Hall Ent. Centre, Acre Close, Middleton HEA’s Shopping Trip 10am-1pm Holbeck Elderly Aid, Domestic Street CAP Job Club 10am-12pm Two Willows Children’s Centre, Cardinal Sq Community Craft Cafe 10am-12pm Church of the Nazarene, Hunslet Hall Road Money Advice 10:15am-3pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Dancing In Time 10:30am-12pm St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road Free Zumba 12-12:45pm Middleton Leisure Centre HEA’s Lunch & Film Afternoon 12-3pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck Lunch Club 12:30pm Salvation Army, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Grandparents’ Group 12:30-2:30pm Tenants Hall Ent. Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Line Dancing 1:45pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle At Home In Holbeck 2-3pm Ingram Road Primary School Walk and Talk 2-3pm meet outside Greggs, Middleton Park Circus 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 Ladies Fitness Class 6-7pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street 1st Beeston Beaver Scouts 6-7:30pm St Andrews Community

Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston Hunslet Warriors Juniors 6-7pm Warrior Park, The Oval City Kids (R-Y6) 6-7:15pm City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road 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 Women’s Couch to 5K running 6:30-7:30pm Middleton Park Bike Hub, LS10 3TN Zumba 7-8pm Hamara Centre, Tempest Road, Beeston Middleton Mavericks running 7pm South Leeds Stadium Martial Arts 7-9pm Beeston Juniors, Cardinal Square Clubbercise 7:30-8:30pm St John & St Barnabas Church Hall, Belle Isle Camera Club 8pm upstairs at St George’s Centre, Middleton

Every Thursday

Mums & Tots 9-11am Manorfield Hall, Newhall Road, Belle Isle Stay & Play 9-11am St Anthony’s Church Hall, Old Lane, Beeston Charity Shop 9:30am-3pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Bridge Cafe 9:30am-2:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park HEA’s Community Cafe 10-11:30am St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Ping Pong / Model Making 10-11:30am Middleton Community Centre Middleton Park Estate Volunteers 10am-3pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre New Lives Group 10-11:30am Cottingley Children’s Centre Storytime (under 5s) 11-11:30am Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Chair based mobility group 11:15am-12:30pm Beeston Village Community Ctr Lunch Club 11:30am-1pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Lunch Club 12pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Line Dancing 1pm Trinity Network, Nesfield Road, Belle Isle Little Explorers Baby Group 1-2:30pm Middleton Play & Learning Centre, Throstle Lane New Lives Group 1-2:30pm Two Willows Children’s Centre, Cardinal Square Digital Image Online Photography 1:15-3:15pm Cockburn Skills Hub, Gipsy Lane Breathe Easy gentle exercise

1:30pm Hunslet Methodist Church Telford Terrace, off Balm Road Social Afternoon 1:30-3pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Activites with Rocky 1:30-2:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Craft Group 1:30-3:30pm Cleveleys Court, Holbeck Vale Circles Autism Hub 2-7pm Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Kidz Klub Middleton 5:05-6:15pm Middleton Primary School, Middleton Park Avenue Mini & Junior Rugby 6-7pm Leeds Corinthians, Ring Road, Middleton 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 Yoga class 10:30am Beeston Parkish Centre, Town Street 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 Breastfeeding Support Group 9:45-11:15am Mothercare cafe, Crown Point Retail Park Under 5s Storytime 10-11am Dewsbury Road Library HEA’s Tea & Toast Breakfast 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Cuppa, Toast and Games 10am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Middleton Minstrels Women’s Choir 10:30am-12:30pm Tenant Hall, Acre Close, Middleton Dancing In Time 10:30am-12pm St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road Breathe Easy gentle exercise 11:30 Parochial Hall, North Lingwell Road, Middleton

Lunch Club 11:30am-1pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Luncheon Club 12-1:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street HEA’s Fish & Chip Lunch Club 12:30-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Bowling 12:30-4pm Cross Flatts Park Krok Po Kroku (Polish Group) 12:30-2:30pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Ballroom Dancing 1-2:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Dancing In Time 1:30-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck HEA’s Games Afternoon 1:30-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Gentle Chair Exercise Class 1.30-2.30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Rhymetime 2pm Beeston Library, Town St Urban Dance 4pm Cockburn School Holbeck Skate Park 5-6:30pm Holbeck Moor Girls Football 6-7pm Beeston Juniors, Cardinal Square Church Lads’ & Girls Brigade 6-8pm St John & St Barnabas Church, Belle Isle Road Friday Night Project 6-9pm Middleton Leisure Centre 1st Beeston Cub Scouts 6:15-7:45pm St Andrews Community Centre, Cardinal Road 1st Beeston Scouts 8-9:30pm St Andrews Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston

Every Saturday

Breakfast Club 8:30-11am Vale Circles Centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Cross Flatts parkrun 9am Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston Police Contact Point 9:30-11:30am St George’s Centre, Middleton Kidz ‘n’ Co 10:30am-12:30pm Cottingley Community Centre

Every Sunday

Cross Flatts junior parkrun 9am, top of Cross Flatts Park

Publicise your event with South Leeds Life Send full details of your event to: info@southleedslife.com or post to: 224 Cross Flatts Grove, Leeds, LS11 7BW Ring/text: 07894 583966

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Thursday 1 March HEA Supper Club 5-7pm Ingram Gardens, Holbeck Hunslet Carr Residents Assoc 6:30pm Community Centre, Woodhouse Hill Avenue Beeston Community Forum 7:30pm Old White Hart, Town St Saturday 3 March Coffee morning 9am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Coffee Morning 10am-12pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston 21st International Contemporary Artists Book Fair 11am-5pm; The Tetley, Hunslet Rd Beeston Neighbourhood Plan 11am-2pm Beeston Parish Centre Teens Club 1-5pm Vale Circles centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Great Beeston Spring Clean 2-4pm Meet St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Sunday 4 March 21st International Contemporary Artists Book Fair 11am-4pm; The Tetley, Hunslet Rd Hunslet RLFC v Whitehaven 3pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, Beeston Outrage 5-6pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck Monday 5 March Together With Tots 9:30-11:30am Two Willows Children’s Centre, Cardinal Square Lego Club 3:30-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Tuesday 6 March Mostly Men! 10am-12pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Wednesday 7 March Hunslet Memories 12-2pm The Prospect pub, Moor Road, Hunslet Pot-a-Tea Dementia Café 1:30-3:30pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Lego Club 3:30-4:30pm Beeston Library, Town Street Thursday 8 March St Andrew’s Pantomime AGM 7pm St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Old Lane, Beeston Friday 9 March Playing The Joker 7:30pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, Beeston Saturday 10 March No Stress Yoga 10-11:30am The Tetley, Hunslet Road Alzheimer’s Soc Coffee Morning 10am-1pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Family Art Workshop 11am-3pm The Tetley, Hunslet Road HEA Shopping trip 11:30-12:30pm from The Old Box Office, Domestic Street, Holbeck Best of BE Festival 7:30pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck Sunday 11 March Sunday Lunch 1-3pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck Hunslet RLFC v North Wales 3pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, Beeston The Audit 5-6pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck Monday 12 March HEA Time For A Cuppa Dementia Event

12:30-2:30pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck Tuesday 13 March Camera Club 3-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Beeston Local History Society 8pm Beeston Parish Centre (small hall), Town Street Wednesday 14 March Walk & Talk 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Thursday 15 March Jobs Day 9:30am-4pm BITMO’s GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road HEA Supper Club 5-7pm Ingram Gardens, Holbeck St Luke’s Tenants & Residents 6pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Bereavement Support Group 7-8:30pm St George’s Centre, Middleton Friday 16 March Yorkshire Aid Fundraiser 7:30pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck Saturday 17 March A Hike In The Yorkshire Dales 8:30am-6pm meeting point TBA Coffee morning 9am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Ramblers group Meet 9am St Mary’s Church, Town Street, Beeston Young Archaeologists Club 10am-12pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Teens Club 1-5pm Vale Circles centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Sunday 18 March Build A Mini Bug Home 10am-3pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Leeds Dads 2-4pm The Tetley, Hunslet Road Monday 19 March HEA Morley Shop or Swim 9am-12pm from The Old Box Office, Domestic Street, Holbeck Together With Tots 9:30-11:30am Two Willows Children’s Centre, Cardinal Square HEA Supper Club 5-7pm Ingram Court, Holbeck Wednesday 21 March Space Community Meal 6pm Church of the Nazarene, Hunslet Hall Road, Beeston Thursday 22 March Space Community Meal 6pm City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road, Beeston Saturday 24 March Family Art Workshop 11am-3pm The Tetley, Hunslet Road Sunday 25 March Wedding Open day 12-4pm The Tetley, Hunslet Road HEA Sunday Lunch 12-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck BITMO Lunch Club 1-3pm BITMO’s GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Maltings Court Lunch Club 1-3pm Maltings Court, Maltings Road, Beeston Leaving 5-6pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck Monday 26 March HEA Cinema Trip 10am-3pm from The Old Box Office, Domestic Street, Holbeck Tuesday 27 March HEA Easter Lunch 12:30-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck The Creatives

March 2018 | South Leeds Life

What’s On 15 3:30-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Wednesday 28 March Tiny Tetley 10:30-11:30am; 11:45-12:45 The Tetley, Hunslet Road Walk & Talk 11am-12pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park AveCop Shop Memory Cafe 1-3pm Elland Road Police Station Arm in Arm Memory Cafe 1:30-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Thursday 29 March Hunslet Remembered 10am-12pm Hunslet Library HEA Supper Club 5-7pm Ingram Court, Holbeck Friday 30 March Easter Egg Hunt 11am-1pm Cross Flatts Park Hunslet RLFC v Keighley Cougars 2pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove, Beeston Saturday 31 March Breakfast Club 8:30-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Middleton Railway 11am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet Teens Club 1-5pm Vale Circles centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Sunday 1 April Middleton Railway 11am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet

Hiking group strides out

Checking the route at the summit of Buckden Pike. Photo: Andrew via Creative Commons path to the top of Buckden Pike lunch! by Peter Todd followed by the walk down and Transport will be provided, ancy a brisk walk in the finished off with a stroll along leaving South Leeds at 8:30am Yorkshire Dales and climb the valley back to Buckden. No (exact locations will be notified a mountain at the same time? experience is needed although later) and we expect to be back The "South Leeds Walkers" a general level of mobility and in South Leeds by 6pm - in time are organising a trip to the fitness are required. to celebrate St Patrick's Day, Dales on Saturday 17 March The walk is likely to be muddy and your conquest of a proper and welcome anyone from the underfoot and so a good pair of mountain! South Leeds community to take waterproof shoes or walking If you are interested in joining part. boots is essential. Other than the party then contact Peter The walk is about 10 miles that, the only requirement is Todd at southleedswalkers long and involves a steepish enthusiasm - and a packed @gmail.com.

Yorksire Aid for Calais S

lung Low Theatre offers some space at their HUB in Holbeck as storage for Yorkshire Aid, a group of individuals and organisations that work together to provide aid for refugees and asylum seekers in Leeds, Yorkshire and Europe. Just before Christmas with the stocks full, much of their donated goods were vandalised during a burglary at the HUB. To make this better and to support the continued, brilliant and tireless work that they do Slung Low are holding a fundraiser. What a great excuse to get everyone together for a blummin’ great night! Get down to the HUB, 67-71

Bath Road in Holbeck on Friday 16 March from 7:30pm and see: Les Vegas and the International Playboys of

Rhythm are a big band bringing swing style to a host of surprising tunes! They’ll have you dancing all night, they promise.

The Commoners Choir is a Leeds based choir who combine political activism with singing and hope. The brilliant Greensleeveless Ceilidh Band will be playing and calling dances to finish the evening off. And The Baking Biker is a local bakery who make delicious treats and pride themselves on using using locally sourced ingredients. As with all Slung Low events it’s “Pay What You Decide” so bring lots of cash because it’s going to be a great evening. Reserve your tickets via www. slunglow.org Find out more about Yorkshire Aid at: www. facebook.com/YorkshireAid/

Space offers second helpings

Old and young enjoy their food together oung people from the and run in pratnership with the Space Youth Programme local churches and Leeds will once again be hosting their Space Network, works with Easter Meals this month. young people aged 11-18 and The youth programme, co- runs youth groups and other ordinated by the Salvation Army actvities for young people aged

11-18 in Leeds 11. For the last few years the young people have, prepared, cooked and served meals for people across the community in the run up to Easter. Once dinner is cooked and served, the young people then sit down to eat with their guests as an opportunity to build relationships across the generations with memebrs of the local churches and the wider community. Last year, over two separate meals, over 120 guests enjoyed the meals, with one guest describing it as, "one of the highlights of our year" - a sentiment shared by many

others who spoke of the great food and company with some even taking recipes away to try again. This year there will be two meals run on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 March at 6pm at the Church of the Nazarene and City Evangelical Church respectively. And as an added extra, the young people will be displaying some artwork around the theme of Easter that they have been creating during their sessions. Anyone wanting to come can book in by emailing Mark Hodgkinson: mark.hodgkinson @salvationarmy.org.uk.

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South Leeds Life | March 2018

16 Sport

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Hunslet make an impressive start by Jeremy Morton Phil Goodfield and Ian Pickles

unslet RFLC have made a great start to the 2018 season winning all four games in February. The opposition hasn’t been the toughest they will face this season, but you can only beat the team on the pitch in front of you. Hunslet completed their preseason preparations with two local derby wins. Both coaches will have taken satisfaction from the 2018 “Battle of Hunslet” friendly at South Leeds Stadium on a Sunday 4 February. A 48-22 victory score line to Hunslet RLFC possibly flattered the hosts but was a welcome outcome following last season’s shock 19-18 loss to near neighbours and friends Hunslet Club Parkside, and the previous week’s pre-season friendly defeat away at York. For the visitors it was their first outing of the season and it took them a little while to get into their stride. The game was still close at half time, 20-14, but Hunslet RLFC pulled away in the second period. The following Friday saw a young Leeds Rhinos team visit South Leeds Stadium. This was the second playing of the Harry Jepson OBE Memorial Trophy. Hunslet opened a 24-0 lead in the first half with five

Hunslet RLFC score against Leeds Rhinos. Photo: Phoenix Photography unconverted tries, but the Rhinos fought back before and after the break narrowing the score to 24-18. At last the home side woke from their slumbers and started to play some impressive rugby. Quick passing sent Jimmy Watson over, Hunslet’s own Iron man George Flanagan wrestled over from close, and then showed his handling skills to cut three men out and send Tom Ashton in the corner. More fine ball handling sent Brad Foster in for a try, but the best was saved until last. Dean Roberts took the ball on his own line and set off on a romp

down the field, he didn’t look to have the pace, but what he lacked in pace he made up for in the strength knocking off two Rhino defenders and scoring a beauty in the corner. At 50-18 with still 15 minutes to go Leeds could be forgiven for giving in, but the young Rhino’s showed some real determination and stout defence keeping Hunslet out with one or two breathtaking tackles. Final score: 50-18. And so to the first game of the Betfred League 1 – a long trip to face Hemel Stags on Sunday 18 February. Hunslet started well going 10

points up in the first ten minutes through Dee FogginJohnston and Joel Gibson with Cain Southernwood converting the second try. But that’s the way the scores stayed for the first half as the teams battled with each other and a terrible pitch. Three minutes into the second half Hemel Stags got back into the match with a try from Kadeem Williams, but the failed to convert. Hunslet’s co-Captains pulled Hunslet further ahead with two tries in three minutes. On 56 minutes George Flanagan scored for Hunslet and

Another parkrun milestone A

by Mark Hodgkinson

t 9am on Saturday 30 March 2013, 69 people gathered in Cross Flatts Park for the first Cross Flatts parkrun. Since then 3688 runners and walkers of all ages and abilities have taken part in the free, weekly, timed 5km run Taking place every Saturday of the year (except when it gives way for the Beeston Festival), Saturday 24 February marked the 250th event with 148 people braving the arctic conditions to take part. Saturday 31 March will be the 5th anniversary which will be marked in true style with a breakfast party following the run. Cross Flatts parkrun has played a central role in something of a 'running boom' in South Leeds, alongside the junior parkrun and the highly

Runners in Cross Flatts Park for the 250th parkrun successful running clubs, the South Leeds Lakers and South Leeds Sisters, which has seen a huge rise in the participation in running across the community. However, parkrun is about so much more than just running. Many speak of finding community in a way that they have never had before - one regualr runner said, "I've lived in Beeston all

my life but I've made more friends through parkrun than ever before.” And others confirm research which indicates the significant benefit on both physical and mental health gained through running regularly. Many visitors from other parkruns across Leeds, and indeed the whole of the UK, speak of the warmth and

friendliness of the Cross Flatts parkrun community which is largely down to the incredible volunteers who make the event happen each week. Anyone can join in and take part, simply register online at www.parkrun.org.uk, print off a barcode and take it along and in no time at all you will be one of the many checking their watches in the hope that, when the results come through, they have achieved that elusive 'personal best' time. It is not a race and there are no prizes for the winner except the satisfaction, shared by all those taking part, in doing something great with their Saturday morning each week. For more information go to www.parkrun.org.uk or crossflattsoffice contact @parkrun.com and make sure you are there for the big 5th anniversary celebrations.

Southernwood kicked the extras. Then three minutes later Duane Straugheir went over, Southernwood converted again and took the score to 422. Hemel hadn’t given up and pulled the score back to 14-22 with a try by Liam Darville, but Jack Lee’s converted try sealed the game for Hunslet. Final score: Hemel Staggs 14-28 Hunslet RLFC In midweek George Flanagan shocked everyone by announcing his departure to join the Bradford Bulls. How big a dent that puts in the strong well balanced squad that

Coach Gary Thornton has built over the winter remains to be seen. Hunslet rounded off the month progressing to the fourth round of the Ladbroke’s Challenge Cup with a straightforward win over local amateurs Oulton Raiders. Hunslet were first on the scoreboard through Will Cooke after 7 minutes, but Oulton pulled the score back to 6-4 a few minutes later. On 18 minutes Jack Lee crossed the whitewash to score the first of 42 unanswered points as Hunslet built up an unassailable lead. First half tries from Brad Foster, Cain Southernwood, Jimmy Watson and Nyle Flynn followed and the teams went at the interval with Hunslet ahead 36-4. The second half continued the misery for Oulton. Hunslet scored through Nathan Chappell, a second for Nyle Flynn, Ryan Mallinder, Tom Ashton, Joel Gibson and Liam Mackay on the hooter. Oulton scored two converted tries in the second half. Joel Sanderson kicked 10 goals and Cain Southwood kicked two. Final score: Hunslet RLFC 7216 Outlon Raiders In March Hunslet will face stiffer opposition in the form of Whitehaven, who won a close game at South Leeds Stadium last May; then North Wales Crusaders at home; Bradford Bulls away; and Keighley Cougars at home on Good Friday.

Hope wins again

Champion: Hope Price n Sunday 18 February Hope Price won his second National Youth title and secured his number 1 status as England's youth flyweight. He will now box in Italy in April at the Youth European Games where he secured a silver last year. He then has the Youth

Olympics in Argentina in October. Hope trains at The Hunslet Club which runs sessions for boys and girls aged 5 upwards as well as adults. Or you could try the popular Boxercise fitness classes on Wednesday evenings. Ring (0113) 271 6489 for more details.