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Issue 40 | May 2018

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

In this issue:

Queens awards for bed maker

page 2

HOW DO WE STOP

QUAD BIKE RIDEOUTS?

Local election candidates in full

page 8

Library photo via Alamy

Damage to Belle Isle Circus

n Saturday 24 March 2018 a number of motorbikes and quad bikes caused mayhem on the streets and green spaces of Middleton and Belle Isle. Reports on social media described 8 or 9 bikes on the Sissons, the Bodmins, South Leeds Golf Course, Middleton Circus as well as on Belle Isle Road where they tore up the Circus (see photo). A lot of work has gone on in the local community over many months with the public providing information to Councillors and the Police. This information has been acted on and a number of Motorbikes and Quad Bikes have been seized, however they often get replaced

quickly. One problem is that the Police have a no-pursue policy. Whilst this stops highspeed chases through built up areas with the associated risk of accidents, it gives irresponsible riders a green light to continue their antisocial activities. Cllr Kim Groves told to South Leeds Life that she was seeking meetings with Councillor Deborah Coupar, Executive Member for Communities; Chief Superintendent Paul Money; and Mark Burns-Williamson (the West Yorkshire Police & Crime Commissioner) to find out what other resources and measures can be put in place to combat this unacceptable behaviour.

“We need firmer measures and maybe South Leeds residents can lead this movement of change as it’s not just our community that is experiencing this problem” she said. “I want to publicly thank the community for names and locations provided and encourage them to continue. Intelligence is currently being worked on by the Leeds South Policing Team with hopefully planned action will follow” added Cllr Groves. If you witness people riding motorbikes or quad bikes acting in an anti-social manner, or you have information about who is riding them or where they are being stored please

Poets slam the competition

pages 11

contact the Leeds South Policing Team. You can report online, or call 101. Alternatively you can report anonymously by ringing Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Whilst most quad bikes are not designed to be driven on the road, some are. However like any other road vehicle they must be registered, taxed and insured and display number plates to the front and rear. It is not a legal requirement to wear a crash helmet whilst riding a quad bike, but it is highly recommended. Bikes can only be ridden on private or council owned land with the landowners permission.

Hunslet RLFC resurgent

page 20

NEWS SCHOOLS

2-9 10-11

FEEDBACK

ARTS

PEOPLE

WHAT’S ON

16-18

SPORT

19-20

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

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South Leeds Life | May 2018

2 News

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

Our aims To inform people of events, activities, issues and opportunities taking place in the South Leeds community; To encourage the involvement of the wider community in communicating their experiences; To foster community spirit and involvement; and To provide a platform for local people to contribute and respond to community life more fully.

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MP’s notebook T

by Hilary Benn MP

hey are becoming a familiar sight in parts of our big cities. Cyclists and cars delivering hot food for firms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, Hungry House and others. All of them make use of the latest technology to link customers to restaurants and takeaways, and riders and drivers to orders. We sit at home, use an app to choose and the food arrives. It is the same technology that is changing the taxi industry, showing us where our vehicle is, when it will arrive and who's driving it as well as allowing friends and family to track our journey - a wonderful thing for worried parents late at night! But what about those who are doing the delivering and the driving? I talked recently to a taxi driver who said that he had averaged just £5.50 an hour over the past year, which is less than the minimum wage. If you are only doing 5 hours a week while studying or to top up other earnings that's one thing though still tough - but it's something else again when it's your entire income.

And being regarded as selfemployed - even though this can be a full-time job - there's no pension, sick pay, holiday pay or maternity/paternity leave and there's little chance of getting a mortgage if earnings are so uncertain. The same is true of people on zero hours contracts. At the moment the law recognises three different categories of people who work - employees, workers and the self-employed - but the law is pretty complex in deciding who falls into which category. The biggest differences are to do with the type of work that is done and the rights that people have to things like sick pay, holiday pay and pensions. There are now a lot more self-employed people in our economy than was the case 20 years ago. Technology will continue to develop. It will make possible things we can only dream of today. We cannot stop its advance - as the Luddites learned over 200 years ago when they tried to smash the new textile machinery - but we need to make sure it works in society's interests. And that means adapting our laws and our approach to new

circumstances. When it comes to earning a living, the question for us is this. How do we balance flexibility that works for businesses and sometimes - for the person doing the work, while at the same time ensuring that people are fairly treated, get looked after if they are sick, can get a paid holiday Hilary Benn MP and are able to save for a pension and take out a mortgage? These are not new questions. Just look back in history at the struggle to win rights for people at work, including a statutory minimum wage which only became law in 1999. Trade unions played a big part in that campaign and in many others over the years for sick pay, holiday pay, pensions, maternity and paternity leave, and equal rights for part-time workers. And yet today almost none of the riders and the drivers we see on our streets, and

very few of those in low-paid, casual and insecure work, are members of a trade union. This is a challenge for trade unions too. All the evidence shows that we get better terms and conditions in a unionised workplace and a helping hand when things go wrong. But how can unions organise in these new workplaces? The law has a vital part to play in ensuring fairness at work, but so has self-organisation. And that's why joining a trade union is a very good place to start.

Double award for Beeston bed maker H

arrison Spinks has received two prestigious Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, bringing the total number won by the company to four. The bedmaker is one of just eight companies to win more than one award this year and the only organisation from Yorkshire and the Humber to receive two awards in 2018. The Beeston-based luxury bed maker was awarded a Queen’s Award for Innovation and one for International Trade in the 2018 awards announced on 21 April. It previously received Queen’s Awards for Innovation and Sustainable Development in 2013. The company believes it is the only bed-maker to receive two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise on two occasions. Simon Spinks, Managing Director of Harrison Spinks said: “To be granted two more Queen’s Awards for Enterprise is a huge honour and reflects the hard work and dedication of the whole Harrison Spinks team. “As a proud British manufacturer we’re pleased that our place in the international market has been acknowledged by the Queen’s Award for International Trade. We feel

Simon Spinks (front right) with staff celebrating two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise that our British values of How The Awards Were series of problems to reduce innovation and quality have Won the diameter of wire used by set us up for success in a The 2018 Queen’s Award 30 per cent to 0.7mm. global marketplace. for Innovation was granted Working in partnership with “Since the company was in recognition of Harrison British Steel, a unique grade established in 1840, we Spinks’ development of of steel has been developed, have always strived to novel manufacturing along with a refined drawing innovate and go about our processes for sprung process to create the business in a slightly mattresses. required wire. different way, whether that Mattress comfort is Harrison Spinks has also be creating new ways to improved as spring developed patented spring manufacture springs or concentration increases, making machines that work cultivating our farm so we however, technical issues at five times the speed of can grow our own natural across the bed-making traditional machinery. fillings. We’re delighted to be sector have meant that Lightweight, high-density recognised by the most spring density is limited by springs have delivered prestigious enterprise the gauge of wire used. The market advantages and awards in the UK.” company has solved a whole opened new markets for the

company, such as car seats, running shoes and office chairs. The Queen’s Award for International Trade for Outstanding Short Term Growth in Overseas Sales was granted to Harrison Spinks following a 296 per cent increase in exports. Internationally, Harrison Spinks trades in over 50 countries with joint ventures in USA and China, meaning it has a larger market opportunity and is closer to the market than it would be through a typical distributor model. Now overseas sales make up 25 per cent of the company’s total sales. The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are awarded to businesses for outstanding achievement in four categories: International Trade, Innovation, Sustainable Development and also for Promoting Opportunity. This year 237 awards were granted across the four categories, 26 of which were awarded to companies from Yorkshire and the Humber. Harrison Spinks employs 600 people in Leeds and all of its products are made in Yorkshire. For more information on Harrison Spinks, visit: www.harrisonspinks.co.uk

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News 3

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Family appeal for dashcam footage after woman killed crossing Belle Isle Road P

olice have revealed the name of the 57 year old woman who died from her injuries after being hit by a car whilst crossing Belle Isle Road on Tuesday 3 April. Bridgett Chappell was hit by a Skoda Fabia while she was crossing Belle Isle Road near to the junction with West Grange Drive at 8:14pm. She received a serious head injury in the incident and died the next day in hospital. The driver stopped at

the scene and has been interviewed about the incident. In a statement her family, said: “The family are absolutely devastated at our tragic and sudden loss. We would like to take this opportunity to encourage anybody who has any information relating to the incident, no matter how minor it may seem, to please contact the police at the earliest opportunity.” The Major Collision Enquiry Team (MCET) are

continuing to investigate the fatal incident. Sergeant Fiona Hoodless of the MCET, said: “We are continuing to appeal for any witnesses to the collision, anyone who may have seen Ms Chappell or the vehicle prior to the incident. I would also like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area at the time in a vehicle fitted with Dashcam. “Anyone who can assist should contact MCET on 101 quoting reference 13180156657.” Bridgette Chappell died of her injuries

Holbeck’s sign of the times

olbeck in Bloom’s mission is to improve the local environment and help build community pride. Their latest achievement is a new sign on the Moor. The sign incorporates positive images of the area including its historic buildings and the work of Holbeck in Bloom. Community stalwarts Ian Pickup and Dennis Kitchen came up with idea having seen something similar on holiday in Filey. The group commissioned Lynn Gorner work up the idea and together they took their plan to the Inner South Housing Advisory Panel who provided the funding. Ian Pickup commented: “We know Holbeck has its troubles, but Holbeck in Bloom are working hard for the area to make it look good. We hope this sign will brighten up the area. “Thanks to the Housing Advisory Panel for the grant and to Parks & Countryside for installing the sign on Holbeck Moor.” The Housing Advisory Panels (HAPs) are tenant led groups. They review the delivery of local housing services and monitor local performance. They also have a budget to make grants to fund projects that benefit Lyn Morgan, Adam Ogilvie and Dennis Moody from the HAP, flanked by Andy Rowell and John Casey from Parks tenants and the local community.

New River Island store opens

Cutting the ribbon at the new White Rose River Island store ritish fashion retailer River Centre. Island has unveiled a new River Island has created a 26,000 sq. foot flagship store new concept store with an at White Rose Shopping extended womenswear

May 2018 | South Leeds Life

offering, plus a larger children’s and menswear departments. The new site will host in-store DJs for a unique and fun visitor experience. Steven Foster, General Manager at White Rose Shopping Centre, said: “River Island’s new flagship store is a great addition to the White Rose experience. With more fashion options plus a completely new in-store music and entertainment experience, we’re really excited to see how our visitors react to this new concept. It complements our

offering of more than 120 brands perfectly – there’s something for everyone at White Rose.” Frances Baker, Property Director at River Island said: “Our strategy is about being in the best locations, at the best retail and leisure schemes. We’re keen to continue to innovate the in-store experience we provide, and the success we’ve had at White Rose made it a perfect candidate for us to expand and showcase our latest products to our customers.”

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Thanks to our subscribers: Vivienne Bate Karen Beckford Hilary Benn Amanda Binns Elaine Bower Asa Britton Andy Brown AD Brown David Bushell Ed Carlisle SJ Carlisle Barbara Cavell Rachel Darton Bruce & Debs Davies Mark Day Audrey Dickinson C Fletcher Angela Gabriel Al Garthwaite Julie Gill Keith Hitchiner Ken Ingram Pat Jackson Frances Jones Rosalinda Kincaid Toby Lloyd Alys Marsh Adam Ogilvie Mark Parry Lindsey & Alan Pearson Lucy Potter AR Price Andrew Scopes Alan Shaw Bob Shaw Scott Smith Linda Stanley Steve Thompson Sarah & Jackson Turner Andrew Wilson Peter Wood Paul Wray

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Sunnyview knitters don’t rest on their laurels

s we reported last month Wendy Stephenson and her friends, residents at Sunnyview House care home in Beeston, can’t stop knitting. Having made a blanket for St Gemma’s Hospice, they have now made and donated a cushion cover and bag to Guide Dogs For The Blind. Wendy together with Florence Hustler and Edna Varley knit squares which Wendy then sews together. Wendy has knitted since she was nine years old, but Edna had to relearn the skill. Edna said: “I was right bored and bad

tempered until Wendy got me knitting. I’m much better off knitting, it gives me something to focus on, it’s changed my life.” The multi-coloured blanket squares feature a range of different stitches including cable, moss, stocking and ribbing. Thelma Wilson from Guide Dogs For The Blind Association visited with Titan and Sabre who proved very popular with residents at Sunnyview House. Thelma said: “These donations are very welcome and will help us to raise money to give more blind and partially

sighted people independence that a Guide Dog can provide.” Thelma is keen to visit any groups in South Leeds who would like to know more about the work Guide Dogs. Schools, residents groups, care homes, youth groups are welcome to contact her on 07803 807516 to book a visit. Meanwhile Wendy, Florence and Edna will not be donating knitted goods for a few months – they are working on items to sell at Sunnyview House’s Autumn Fair. You can donate to Guide Dogs via their website: www.guidedogs.org.uk

Wendy Stephenson, Edna Varley and Florence Hustler with Thlema Wilson, Titan and Sabre

Boosting Leeds United team up with Uber confidence to cut match day congestion at Northern U College A

by Tahena Ahmed

sha Neighbourhood Centre‘s Better Together women’s group members completed a three day confidence and motivation skills course at the Northern College in Barnsley. The women learned to become more confident in dealing with difficult situations and in everyday living and to have more motivation to cope and succeed. Their children took part in Health and Well-being activities at the Northern college children’s centre. The group members learned to speak up confidently and to be more assertive. They learned about listening, communication, team work, group discussion, stress and stress management skills. In the evenings with their children they took part in Jewellery making, designing tee-shirts and explored the history of the Wentworth Castle, where the college is based. Sarul Begum, a mother of five said: “What a lovely place to spend the week learning with children. I would love to comeback for another course.” Noor Aljanabi, a mother of one added: “A beautiful experience, I hope we have another learning opportunity at the college.” Asha Neighbourhood Project supports women and children and is based at 43 Stratford Street, Beeston. Phone (0113) 270 0046.

In the library at Northern College

ber and Leeds United are joining forces to help reduce congestion and address the transport challenges around Elland Road. As part of the partnership Uber will encourage people not to drive to the stadium but to leave their cars at home and use the Uber app to connect to public transport options. Not only will this help to reduce congestion around the stadium – it will also reduce emissions in the city. The plan includes: • Creating an integrated Leeds United and Uber Fan Experience. Making travel with Uber part of the matchday experience for fans. • Reducing private car use

and peak congestion in and around Elland Road. Get more visitors out of their own cars and using Uber and public transport by helping to optimise the pick up, drop off and traffic flow experiences to reduce congestion, parking and pollution.

• Leveraging innovative technology, data and expertise to support smarter public and community planning decisions. Uber and Leeds United will work closely on a sustainable transport plan as part of a core component of the Elland Road 2020

regeneration plan. The tie up will kick off this weekend ahead of the Barnsley game where fans will notice dedicated Uber pick up and drop off points. Tom Elvidge, General Manager UK, Uber said: “We’re delighted to be working with Leeds United and have some very ambitious plans to help them create the best fan experience possible, while helping to reduce congestion and improve air quality. Leeds United managing director Angus Kinnear said: “This is a really exciting partnership for the club. Leaving the area after a game in private cars can lead to congestion and long wait times, so this deal will really help cut down congestion in the area.”

Community creates free library and orchard L

ocal residents and groups in Beeston Hill have pulled together to create a ‘free library’ and orchard in the garden at Hillside Enterprise Centre – and it’s not cost a penny. Last month saw youngsters from the Into University programme working with members of Beeston in Bloom to plant a set of apple trees – donated by the Leeds Orchard Project – in partnership with Tiger 11, who run the Hillside Centre. The group also unveiled a weather-proof ‘free library’, created for free by local company Posh Fruit Creative. ‘Free libraries’ are places for people to find and leave books, in public spaces, for free – there are a growing number across the city, and the world. The project was coordinated by

Ed Carlisle, who commented: “It’s always amazing what happens when people come together around a shared goal. A bunch of us agreed we wanted to do this, the resources appeared, people got stuck in, and hey presto. Community work doesn’t need to cost a lot – in fact, it’s often better when we keep money out of it. Massive thanks to all those who helped make this happen – it’s a small thing, but it really seems to have captured people’s imaginations.” The ‘free library’ and orchard are in the garden outside the Hillside Centre on Beeston Road, and are readily accessible to the public during the centre’s opening hours: Monday to Friday 8am-7pm, and Saturday 9am-5pm. Please go and help yourself to books at any time,

Alaric Hall, Ed Carlisle and Ali Ward (Tiger11) with children from the IntoUniversity project and feel free to leave donations if there’s space inside.

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May 2018 | South Leeds Life

News 5

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Beeston engineering firm aims for step change with £1.5m investment L

aser cutting and metal fabrication business Leeds Welding Company (LWC) Ltd is investing in future growth, with support from the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and Leeds City Council. The support has enabled the company to post a year-end turnover of £11million this year and it now has its eyes set on becoming a £15million turnover business by 2020. LWC has invested over £1.5million in new machinery – fully automated fibre optic laser cutting machines, robotic welding equipment, cranes and brake presses – at its Beeston manufacturing facility and in upskilling the company’s 110strong workforce. The investment, backed by a £100,000 grant accessed through the LEP’s Growth Service, will create 10 new jobs, in addition to five new apprentices taken on last September. The company is also working closely on projects with UTC Leeds, the city’s

manufacturing and engineering school for 14-18 year olds, and has sponsored its ‘Student of the Year’ award. “We’ve invested in people and systems as well as plant and machinery,” says managing director Richard Eaglen. “It’s not just a case of bringing in bigger and more efficient machines. The investment is part of a wider plan to overhaul the operation here and make a step change to become a different kind of business.” A full-scale reorganisation of the 33,000 sq ft manufacturing plant at Westland Square is currently underway, guided by new production director Ian Verity. A former Sulzer Pumps employee, he has experience of setting up manufacturing operations around the world. “We’ve made a big investment in upskilling the workforce to make sure they are qualified to recognised standards. We’ve brought in a product development engineer

and put our engineering design and accounts teams through industry training programmes,” says Eaglen, adding that it’s important to help develop and bring through the next generation of engineers as well. The LEP Growth Service supports businesses across Leeds City Region and is delivered in Leeds in partnership with Leeds City Council and Leeds Beckett University. The Growth Service is a one stop shop connecting businesses with the right support to meet their business needs and growth ambitions. Councillor Judith Blake, Leader of Leeds City Council and Chair of the LEP Investment Panel said: “Manufacturing is a key sector of the Leeds economy, with some 1,800 firms and a combined workforce of around 26,000, making Leeds one of the largest manufacturing centres in the UK. The sector

£1.5m investment at Leeds Welding Company in Beeston offers fantastic career new markets, improving its opportunities for young people productivity and profitability. As and it’s great to see LWC Eaglen explains: investing in its workforce, in “The core business is in subapprenticeships and in building contract manufacture for a strong relationship with the commercial vehicles, team at UTC Leeds to bring the mechanical handling and next generation into the construction sectors,” As well industry.” as opportunities to do more In addition to supporting the business in existing markets, next generation of skilled he also sees untapped manufacturing workers, the potential in oil, gas and rail support from the LEP and the industries. council will also pave the way In addition to the core for the company to break into business, LWC manufactures

innovative niche products, including passenger guidance systems for airlines and it recently developed a range of new products aimed at the agricultural sector. The LEP, working in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority has received funding through Leeds City Region Growth Deal – a £1 billion package of government investment to accelerate growth and create jobs across Leeds City Region.

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International stories and food shared in Holbeck A

by Zoe Ward

group of local residents shared their stories and food from all over the world at an event in Holbeck this week. Twenty migrants who have moved to Holbeck and Beeston in the last few years held a Human Library event at Ingram Gardens Community Centre. The event was part of the MAP+ (Migrant Access project Plus), which is being delivered by Leeds charity Touchstone. Residents from the Ingram Garden’s sheltered housing were invited to attend, and representatives from the housing team came along to take part on the day. The group, who hail from Africa, the Middle East, South Asia and Eastern Europe, shared stories about their childhood, their home

countries and experiences and their ambitions. The members of the group have all been on a free training programme with MAP+, which equips them with knowledge about how services work in Leeds which they will use to be Migrant Community Networkers, playing an active role in the local area. The group have been meeting with services and finding out about topics including health, education and training, schools and how to engage effectively with the community. One of the members May said: “The information has been very useful. I have used it myself but also to help my friends and family. I have also improved my English, even more than on my ESOL class!” The next training starts on

A food fuddle from around the world Thursday 26 April, at the Anyone who is from a migrant Discovery Centre, off Carlisle background, who moved to the Road in Hunslet, runs for 14 UK within the last twelve years, weeks and includes travel can apply. You will need to have expenses and free a reasonable level of English to refreshments. take part (approx Entry level 3).

MAP+ is also looking for volunteers from the local area to be Buddies – to help new arrivals settle in to life in Leeds, show them around, help them navigate and use services and

show them the very best Leeds has to offer! Free training, support and travel expenses are provided. To get involved, please call MAP+ on (0113) 248 4880.

Step up for gentle Holiday fun at The GATE exercise classes O by Jennifer Jennings

James puts the class through its paces

riday mornings at Trinity Network in Belle Isle is time for gentle exercise. The eight week programme is being run by Leeds Lets Get Active and the sessions are led by James Beaston. The exercises may be gentle, but James makes sure everyone is doing them correctly giving clear instructions and encouragement. Most of the session is chair based and uses large elastic strips to provide resistance to the muscles being worked. I asked 90 year old Joan Hope what she thought of the classes: “They’re alright” she said. “My legs are a lot better since I started. I can’t do the arm exercises, but I’m walking better.” The exercise sessions are aimed at helping older people stay active and manage better at home. Arm and leg strength are just as important for getting out of bed or up from a chair as for any sports activity. As well as improving mobility the exercises can help with balance and selfconfidence. The classes will also be run at

Trinity Network’s Dewsbury Road centre in Beeston. These sessions will run on Wednesdays starting on 23 May. Leeds Lets Get Active also run a longer 20 week programme targeted at people who have a history of falls, or problems with mobility, balance or confidence. This falls prevention programme focuses on strength and balance to build confidence and reduce the fear of falling, for example teaching people safe techniques to get themselves up after a fall. Sessions currently run at the Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre on Acre Road every Wednesday afternoon. You can be referred by your doctor or physiotherapist or you can ring (0113) 378 0288 or email health.programme@leeds.gov.uk to refer yourself. Of course there’s the social side of the classes as well. Joan tells me she enjoys coming and meeting different people, before heading off for wellearned hot lunch. For more information go to www.leedsletsgetactive.co.uk, or call Trinity Network on (0113) 270 3935.

n Wednesday 11 April 2018, during the school term break, a family fun day was held at the BITMO’s GATE and over 70 people attended the event. Lots of families came and enjoyed the event by taking part in arts and crafts, board games, just dance and group games. The children left their mark in the BITMO GATE by decorating a bunting flag and we have since hung the bunting up in the centre. We are really glad to say the children were excellently behaved and really made the day fun! The event truly had a

community feel as all parents contributed in delivering the event; one of the mums brought in her speaker for the music, our volunteers Debbie Flesher and David Polwarth made sure everything ran smoothly and a number of parents helped out to serve food and drink to the kids. We even had an entrepreneur on site. Demi Lloyd who is only 10 years of age, set up a stand and decorated many of the children and mum’s faces with glitter. They all looked amazing! Many of the children have asked when we will be holding such an event again, as yet there are no

A glittering career for Demi Lloyd confirmed dates but watch Community and Tenant out for what’s coming up at Support Team at Belle Isle the BITMO GATE! TMO on (0113) 378 2190, If you would like to find email gate@belleisletmo. out more about the GATE, co.uk or drop in! The GATE is what goes on and how to get located at Aberfield Gate, involved, contact the off Belle Isle Road.

Easter lunch at the 59 Club I

by Ken ingram

was invited along to the 59 Club on Belle Isle Circus by Sonny (where were you Sonny?), run by Belle Isle Elderly Winter Aid on Friday 6 April. Members were been treated to a late Easter Lunch. I was offered a coffee by Steve, who went on to organise the quiz, raffle and bingo.

When I got there the tables had been cleared of the lunch and members were ready for the raffle, bingo and results from the quiz. Carol won the quiz with getting 8 out of ten of the question right. Well done Carol, who of course received an Easter Egg. Leslie won the lottery/raffle winning £40. Leslie chose to have money as a cheque Easter lunch at Belle Isle Elderly Winter Aid Aid. rather then put into her account. BIEWA have over 20 day trips The lunch ended with bingo (what else) played for £1 a line or £5 a full throughout year. You can find out more about the centre at belleisle.org.uk or house. Belle Isle Elderly Winter Aid (BIEWA) call (0113) 277 8208. I left the centre after a couple of offers social groups for anyone over the age of 60 who live in Belle Isle and hours to write this up for the blog and is a member of Belle Isle Elderly Winter edit the photos.

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South Leeds Life | May 2018

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Your local election candidates O

n Thursday 3 May Leeds goes to the polls to elect a new city council. Local elections are your chance to vote for your local representative. Your Councillor provides a voice for people in your Ward, can influence Council decisions and help you if you are having issues with Council services. South Leeds Life does not support any political party, but we strongly urge all our readers to use their vote.

Unlike most years, this is an ‘all out’ election. All three Councillors in each ward are up for election. This is because there have been some changes to ward boundaries. The main changes in South Leeds are that Beeston & Holbeck Ward has been enlarged to include the newer developements of ‘Holbeck Urban Village’ up to the river along as far as Victoria Bridge, by Bridgewater Place. Secondly City & Hunslet Ward has lost most of the city centre, some parts of Holbeck and it has been renamed Hunslet & Riverside Ward. There have also been some changes to Polling Stations. If you are registered to vote, you

Beeston and Holbeck Ward Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park to the Ring Road, Cottingley Hall estate, Holbeck including the Normantons/St Luke’s/Bartons and the Holbeck Urban Village

Gohar Almas Labour Party

Jarrod Gaines

Liberal Democrats

should have received a Poll Card with details of where you should vote. You do not need a polling card to vote, just go to your polling station and tell the polling clerks your name and address. For this election your ballot paper will include many more candidates and you will be able to select up to three. You can only vote for one candidate once – you won’t be able to give two or three votes to one candidate. If you choose to you can opt to vote for only one or two candidates. All the votes for each candidate will be counted up and the three candidates with the most votes will be elected to represent their ward. However, the length of term awarded to each winning

Polling stations will be open 7am-10pm on Thursday 3 May candidate will vary dependent on their position: first place - 4 years; second place - 2 years; third place - 1 year. Includes Hunslet up to the River Aire as far as Asda Assigning differing term House, some parts of the city centre close to the river, lengths in this way will enable a Hunslet Carr up to the M621, Hunslet Moor, Beeston return to only voting for one Hill up to Cross Flatts Park and Stourton candidate each year. Polling Stations will be open from 7am to 10pm. Votes will be counted once the polls close with results expected in the early hours of Friday 4 May. South Leeds Life will be at the count and will publish the Richard Salt Ed Carlisle results online as soon as they Conservative Party Candidate Green Party lead candidate

Hunslet and Riverside Ward

are declared. Below we’ve produced a list of all the candidates standing our three wards. We have written to every candidate inviting them to send us a photo and write a little about why they are standing and what their policies are. You can find the details on www. our website at: southleedslife.com/elections2018. As we went to press not every candidate had responded which is why there are some gaps below.

Middleton Park Ward

Bill Birch

Save Our Beeston & Holbeck Independents

Owen Brear Green Party

Includes Belle Isle from the M621, Middleton as far as Throstle Terrace including New Forest Village and the Westwoods

Ian Robertson

Conservative Party Candidate

Eunice Goncalves

Green Party second choice candidate

Kenny Saunders Independent

Andrew Scopes Labour Party

Judith Blake

David Herdson

Labour Party

Conservative Party Candidate

James Spencer

Wayne Dixon

Rita Jessop

Michael Wheeler

Kathryn Gagen

Gareth Lamb

Paul Wray

Kim Groves

Paul Truswell

Scott Smith Alaric Hall

Conservative Party Candidate

Green Party third choice candidate

Lyn Buckley

Conservative Party Candidate

Sean Sturman

Save Our Beeston & Holbeck Independents

Liberal Democrats

Social Democratic Party

Conservative Party Candidate

Mohammed Iqbal Labour Party

Robert Durdin

Liberal Democrats

Laura Walton

Save Our Beeston & Holbeck Independents

Conservative Party Candidate

Liberal Democrats

Conservative Party Candidate

Elizabeth Nash Labour Party

Angela Gabriel Labour Party

Robert Winfield

Conservative Party Candidate

Labour Party

www.southleedslife.com

Website: www.southleedslife.com

May 2018 | South Leeds Life

News 9

Email: info@southleedslife.com

Solitaires in good company Get internet ready for at Hunslet Club comp Universal Credit O

n Sunday 15 April the newly formed Hunslet Club Solitaires took part in their first in-house competition at The Hunslet Club. The troupe was formed by Charlotte Roberts and Natalie Francis in October 2017 and already has a membership of over 50 dancers taking part. The event was attended by over 2500 people with troupes travelling from all over the country to take part. The senior troupe took first place in their category and Charlotte Roberts took home the coveted Best Leader Award. This was only the troupe’s third competition together and they are delighted with the results achieved to date. The Solitaires are open to children aged 4 upwards, training takes place on Thursdays. Ring the club on (0113) 271 6489 for more information.

The Hunslet Club hosts 2,500 cheerleaders

eeds City College is running a Digital Literacy course to help people prepare for the new Universal Credit benefit system. The controversial new benefit is being phased in and will replace six existing benefits with one monthly payment. It will replace: Child Tax Credit; Housing Benefit; Income Support; Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA); Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Working Tax Credit. Another big change is that you will only be able to claim Universal Credit online. The 20 hour course runs at the Beeston Centre on Burton Avenue, off Dewsbury Road and is free to people in reciept of state benefits. The course themes are: • Becoming familar with a

keyboard, phone, iPad and laptop computer • Safeguarding and online security • Wi-fi • Connecting to emails to receive messages • Online forms, completion and verification process • Social media using awareness, Facebook and LinkdIn to look for jobs • Accessing Universal Credit online form and video • Using Google forms to complete a variety of mock documents to assist with benefit claims • Awareness of how employers use social networking to advertise jobs On completion of the course

you should have the skills to help you with the online Universal Credit application. For more information and to enroll, ring (0113) 386 1880.

South Leeds Life | May 2018

www.southleedslife.com

10 School Life Proposal to remove the Founda!on that is The Learning Trust (South Leeds) from Beeston Primary School. School Name and Address: Beeston Primary School, Town Street, Leeds, LS11 8PN

www.southleedslife.com

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

Mannings supports school footballers with new kit

School Category: Founda!on School with a Founda!on The governing body of Beeston Primary School are publishing proposals to remove the school’s founda!on, The Learning Trust (South Leeds). This follows a consulta!on in 2017 outlining the idea (summary of responses to the ini!al consulta!on outlined below). Proposals are required to be published under Regula!on 4 of the School Organisa!on (Removal of Founda!on, Reduc!on in Number of Founda!on Governors and Ability of Founda!on to Pay Debts) (England) Regula!ons 2007. Now the Governing body has published proposals any person/s has another opportunity to comment or object to the proposals. If this is the case, they should do so by post to The Chair of Governors, Mr. Andrew Scopes c/o Beeston Primary School Town Street, Leeds, LS11 8PN or by email to atscopes@gmail.com by 15th May 2018.

Summary of responses following the consulta!on on removing the school’s founda!on: Following the ini!al proposal in the consulta!on, the Governing body received a number of responses from parents and other interested par!es, with a range of opinions, from strongly in favour to strongly against. List of those previously consulted: The families of pupils at the School Teachers and other staﬀ at the School The trustees of The Learning Trust (South Leeds) The Local Authority, Leeds City Council The governing bodies of other founda!on schools maintained by Leeds City Council and for which The Learning Trust (South Leeds) acts as a founda!on Any trade unions who represent school staﬀ These responses were considered at a full mee!ng of Beeston Primary Governors on 12th July. A unanimous decision to move forward with this proposal was taken. Copies of this proposal will go to: The Trustees of the Learning Trust Leeds City Council DfE A local newspaper Beeston Library and will be on no!ceboards at all entrances to school

Jessica Broughton. PE Coordinator, Ian Farbridge Manager of Beeston Branch Manning Stainton, Shujaat Riaz, PE Coach and children from St Francis Of Assisi Catholic Primary School

ootballers at a South Leeds school are ready for action after taking delivery of a brand new kit. The lucky boys and girls at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School in Beeston received the new strip courtesy of the local branch of Manning Stainton as part of its on-going Community Support Programme. PE Coach Shujaat Riaz said: “The children are absolutely thrilled with the new kit and we are all extremely grateful to Manning Stainton for making this possible. “As a school we put sport at the very heart of our varied

curriculum. Apart from the obvious benefits to health and general well-being we know participation has a positive impact on academic achievement, behaviour, attendance levels and selfconfidence.” The school has also worked hard to raise its own funds to purchase a full set of matching track suits. Jessica Broughton, the school’s PE Coordinator explained: “Like all schools our budgets are extremely tight so we need to be proactive and creative in the ways we raise money. We ran a number of events including

No payments to any party will be made in rela!on to the land. The proposed cons!tu!on of the governing body a#er the founda!on is removed will be as follows: 1 Head teacher 1 LA Governor 1 Elected Staﬀ Governor 2 Elected Parent Governors 8 Coopted Governors Total number of Governors 13 This will be set out in a revised dra# instrument of government for Beeston Primary School.

a cake and bun sale which were really well supported by families and friends, and we even sold an old school trumpet!” Ian Farbridge, Manager of the Manning Stainton branch on Beeston Road, said: “We are proud to work with so many different groups within the communities in which we operate. “Each and every one of them does an incredible job and this is our way of acknowledging that.” In 2017 Manning Stainton helped over 115 schools and clubs, donating in excess of £50,000.

Cockburn School wins national award for excellent results

The land that is held by The Learning Trust (South Leeds) for the purposes of the school has not been formally transferred to The Learning Trust (South Leeds) from Leeds City Council at the Land Registry. Should this proposal be approved by the governing body, the land will be transferred from Leeds City Council and The Learning Trust (South Leeds) to the Governing Body of Beeston Primary School. Requirements of the School Premises Regula!ons 1999 will con!nue to be sa!sfied. The extent of the land being transferred to the Governing Body is shown edged in red on the plan annexed to the form of transfer (Form TP1). The agreed terms of the land transfer are set out in Form TP1 annexed.

Website: www.southleedslife.com

New inclusive school opens in Belle Isle

Excellent achievement at Cockburn School ockburn School has been in the country, receiving an recognised nationally for award for being in the top 10% its excellent results in 2017 of schools nationally for based on data from the progress. Department of Education and The SSAT Educational Ofsted, analysed by SSAT (the Outcomes database Schools, Students and compares all state-funded Teachers network). schools in England, with the Cockburn School was found highest performing for a range to be among the best of key measures presented performing secondary schools with SSAT Educational

Outcomes Awards, sponsored by Lexonik. Cockburn School will be presented with their award in the summer term at a ceremony attended by winners from across the region. Sue Williamson, Chief Executive of SSAT said: “I am delighted that Cockburn School has won an Educational Outcomes Award. This recognises an important aspect of the schools’ work, but, as we know, there is much more to recognise in a good school like Cockburn School. “SSAT is pleased to recognise the quality of leadership and the hard work of all staff to ensure the success of every child. A big thank you and well done to pupils, parents, staff and governors.”

he second of three purpose-built schools which will transform education for pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs opened last month in Belle Isle. Springwell Leeds South on Belle Isle Road will serve 100 youngsters aged 1116. In January, a sister site Springwell Leeds East opened at Seacroft and in September, a further site serving the north of the city will open at Tinshill. The school has been built on the site of the former Merlyn Rees High School, next to South Leeds Youth Hub. The schools will operate, together with an already opened school at Oakwood, as Springwell Leeds Academy which manages care and education for children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs between the ages of five and 16. Leeds City Council has invested £45 million as part of an ambitious scheme with Wellspring Academy Trust to transform specialist education across the city. Wellspring Academy Trust, which operates schools across the north of England, has a track record of outstanding academies and a strong reputation for excellence in specialist education. When the final site in north Leeds opens in September, the four schools will cater for 340 children. More than 60 staff have been recruited and around 100 jobs created. The new state-of-the-art facilities will include specialist teaching areas, sensory rooms, 3G sports pitches, a library, fitness centre as well as multiuse games areas and an agricultural

School Life 11

Email: info@southleedslife.com

The proposed implementa!on date is 15th June 2018.

As outlined in the consulta!on document, it is proposed to remove the school’s founda!on for the following reasons: • More eﬀec!ve use of !me for the governors, the Head teacher, and the School leadership team. • To focus on wider collabora!on with a range of schools across the city to ensure the best provision and prac!ce is always available for our children. • Greater control for the school allowing resources to be targeted to directly improve outcomes for the children at the School. • To focus on the primary school improvement agenda. • To concentrate on the specific needs of the children at Beeston Primary School. • To coach and mentor staﬀ at Beeston Primary School, ensuring their focus is on the School Improvement Plan.

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May 2018 | South Leeds Life

Scott Jacques, Executive Principal, Springwell Leeds Academy outdoor space complete with chickens. Positive Regard’ for our students and Wellspring Academy Trust Chief this is at the centre of what we do. It’s all Executive Mark Wilson said: “These new about being authentic, showing that you schools provide a welcoming, caring, really do believe in the children. We safe, and warm environment where believe in the children and they believe children can be supported and in us.” empowered to succeed. Steve Walker, director of children and “The dedicated staff at Springwell families at Leeds City Council, said: Leeds Academy have developed a “Our ambition is for Leeds to be the curriculum that provides opportunities best city to live and grow up in for all its for academic progression as well as children and young people, and the vocational learning, whilst being council has invested £45 million to engaging, creative, and innovative. ensure that children with social, These are very exciting times for emotional and mental health needs specialist education in Leeds.” have access to world class learning Executive Principal of Springwell Leeds provision. Academy, Scott Jacques, said: “The opening of Springwell Leeds “The investment made in these South is a key milestone in ensuring that buildings will help us to deliver our children and young people with vision. Here at Springwell Leeds additional needs have the support they Academy we have ‘Unconditional require to reach their potential.” The building work for the Wellspring and city council partnership is being delivered by Interserve, the international support services and construction group. Wellspring’s unique approach was one of the reasons the Trust was referenced by the Department for Education as being a “model of inclusiveness” in a recent Parliamentary Select Committee session. All four schools in Leeds will be open by September 2018, with a further mainstream school, Elements Primary, opening in Middleton, Leeds at the same time.

Crying tears of gratitude over St Philip’s stolen school milk

theft gave an opportunity for one kind-hearted soul to show what our community is really made of. When Craig Speak of CS Projects Ltd read on the Middleton Facebook page that all the children’s milk from St Philip’s Catholic Primary School had been stolen on the morning of Tuesday 17 April, he responded by offering to pay to replace the milk – and not only did that, but gave a generous donation too! Liz Taylor, Headteacher, had asked Assistant Headteacher Kirsty McGrath to post a message saying the milk had been stolen so that if people were offered cheap milk, they’d know where it had

come from. of Dozens messages of support and outrage flooded in and amongst them the very generous offer from Craig – who didn’t have any previous connection with the school. “We were overwhelmed by the gesture,” lovely Kirsty said “and even though we let Craig know that we had replaced the milk, he insisted on paying for it and did it ten Craig Speak, Kirsty McGrath and children from St Philip’s times over!” generosity warmed our his lovely response warmed said: “Craig’s hearts. We are very grateful our hearts and brought tears Liz thoughtfulness and for his donation of course, but to our eyes!”

Poets shine at Cockburn slam J

by Jeremy Morton

ust before the Easter holiday, teams from four South Leeds schools came together to compete in a Poetry Slam. The event was held in the theatre at Cockburn School and gave children from three primary schools an insight into life in ‘big school’. Middleton Primary School were back to defend the trophy they won last year as were teams from Beeston Primary School and Hugh Gaitskell Primary. Each school was represented by a group of students who performed a poem that they had written. Cockburn Governor and published poet Ray Tough introduced the afternoon reminding the teams that they had been selected as the best in their school. “Today is about your passion” he said. “It’s about

your delivery of spoken words, but most of all it’s about your enjoyment. Enjoy your day and keep on writing.” First up were four Year 7 students from hosts Cockburn School. Their poem explored animal cruelty from different perspectives on a trip to the zoo. They used their phones as props and moved well on stage. The poem was peppered with hashtags culminating with #StopAnimalCruelty. Next came Middleton Primary School whose poem was about their teachers: Middleton, Middleton Year 5 Our teachers are fantastic and make a difference in our lives They went on to describe one teacher as “amayonnaising” but warned of her “death stare.” Beeston Primary used drums to drive the rhythm of

their poem about Kensuke, the title character in Michael Morpurgo’s book, which they have been studying. Finally a large group of Year 3 students from Hugh Gaitskell Primary took to the stage complete with glove puppets. Their poem was called ‘Fun is …” in which they listed all the fun things they like to do. They spoke in unison, no mean feat as this was the longest piece of the afternoon. The competition was judged by Mary Elliston from NCOP, an English in schools charity and Peter Nuttall, Chair of governors at Cockburn School. Mary thanked all the children saying: “It was a tough decision, congratulations to all of you for bringing poetry to life in such as lovely way.” The judges eventually chose Hugh Gaitskell as the winners, praising their

First class resources at Springwell Leeds South

Compere Ray Tough with the winning team from Hugh Gaitskell Primary School

enthusiasm. Chantelle Hudson, Deputy Headteacher at Hugh Gaitskell Primary School commented: “At Hugh Gaitskell Primary School, this academic year saw the launch of the ‘Talk Matters’ programme which has put a huge emphasis on the development of speech, language and communication skills across the curriculum. Mrs Flannery, our winning poets’ Class Teacher, is a true ambassador of the ‘Talk Matters’ approach. Today, we saw the impact of this. Our children were confident, articulate professionals, performing on a ‘real’ stage to a ‘real’ audience... we could not be prouder of them. “All participating poets, from all schools, were fantastic- we certainly have some talented children in South Leeds!”

South Leeds Life | May 2018

www.southleedslife.com

10 School Life Proposal to remove the Founda!on that is The Learning Trust (South Leeds) from Beeston Primary School. School Name and Address: Beeston Primary School, Town Street, Leeds, LS11 8PN

www.southleedslife.com

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

Mannings supports school footballers with new kit

Jessica Broughton. PE Coordinator, Ian Farbridge Manager of Beeston Branch Manning Stainton, Shujaat Riaz, PE Coach and children from St Francis Of Assisi Catholic Primary School

Cockburn School wins national award for excellent results

Website: www.southleedslife.com

New inclusive school opens in Belle Isle

School Life 11

Email: info@southleedslife.com

The proposed implementa!on date is 15th June 2018.

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May 2018 | South Leeds Life

Crying tears of gratitude over St Philip’s stolen school milk

Poets shine at Cockburn slam J

by Jeremy Morton

First class resources at Springwell Leeds South

Compere Ray Tough with the winning team from Hugh Gaitskell Primary School

www.southleedslife.com

South Leeds Life | May 2018

12 Opinion

Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife

In our view Say what you see Noisy motorbikes are a nuisance that too often disrupts the peace of a spring evening. However when ridden recklessly they are much more dangerous and it is only a matter of time before a rider or innocent bystander is seriously hurt. We all have a part to play in helping the Police crack down on this small minority. If you have any information please pass it on.

Industry and innovation Once more we celebrate innovating local firms increasing skills and employment in South Leeds. Both Harrison Spinks and Leeds Welding Company deserve great credit for their achievements. It’s particularly good to see investment in their current and future workforce. These companies are building solid jobs, no here today gone tomorrow zero hours contracts, but proper skilled work to be proud of.

Local lad made good Reader Stuart Petch describes “going down a rabbit hole” one Sunday afternoon following up the history of one of his favourite artists. Amazingly Norman Ackroyd CBE grew up just a stone’s throw from where Stuart now lives on Beeston Hill. There is a tendency to think that people from “round here” can never achieve success. But Norman Ackroyd’s story shows that it isn’t where you come from, but where you are going that matters.

Your letters and comments Matthew Murray school site

I used to live on the road parallel to one entrance to this site (Tilbury Road) and even though I don’t live there now I still reckon something other than houses will benefit that area. There are too many houses going up now and without sounding like I’m being out of turn but the houses built don’t go to the ones who are seeking housing. Why not put a retail park on there which may bring plenty of trade to that area? Just a thought. Aidan Hirst I think the training ground is a great idea better than more houses and maybe a shop or cafe or a youth club attached to bring something into the local community for the kids. Natasha Keighley Why don't they build the training ground on the Fullerton car park or the land to the rear of the Kop where the have the valentines day fair? Loads of space there, you could build outdoor and indoor facilities. Ian Bone Housing is needed and lots more of it. If Leeds United want to train get on Holbeck Moor as you’re rubbish. Robert Clarke

Election candidates I think that all councillors should actually live in the wards that they are representing. How else can they experience the real problems and know the people they are representing and the problems which they face! Anon

What should be built on the former Matthew Murray school site in Holbeck? what some believe, being a Councillor is not a 24/7 occupation, nor is it paid as such. If you live in the ward, it can be impossible to separate life from Council work - there's no going down the shops in your pyjamas! Councillors are also not just there for the small area they represent, but to jointly act for the whole city, and a bit of detachment can be very healthy when balancing between narrow, local concerns and broader, citywide issues. I think there's a place for both. Two of my three Councillors live in the ward, and you can rest assured that in their case it hasn't provided me with representatives who are effective as Councillors. Daniel Gaunt

There is another perspective. Despite

Your Councillors and MP Beeston & Holbeck ward

"South Leeds Life does not support any political party"? We all know after the Ice Pak debacle and the mismanaged area in Holbeck it's the local Labour mouthpiece. Stephen Priestley

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

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

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

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

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

Judith Blake Kim Groves Paul Truswell

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

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

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

We try to report on all issues in an evenhanded way. Given that the Labour Councillors and MP were all opposed to Ice Pak, I don’t see how that fits your arguement. I repeat that we do not support any political party, or call for a vote for any party. In fact two of our Board members are standing for parties opposed to Labour. Jeremy Morton (Editor)

Trentham Street Shop I remember this area well, the houses at the back of the picture are Colwyn View and the shop was a Hairdressers adjoining Mr Burton's shoe repairers, no longer in this picture. He was there for many years in the 1940s and 50s, he was a disabled man and walked with two sticks but this did not stop him running his shop. He usually had an apprentice who would be called up and then another one took his place. One by the name of Frank came back after National Service, married the Hairdresser next door and

eventually took over the business and I think joined the shoe shop together. As I grew up I was sent on most Saturday mornings to take or collect boots and shoes belonging to our family. Hyacinth Gregory

Recycling “The contents of our green bin.....”? Mwaaah mwaaah mwaaaah *laughs hysterically at the 14 year lunacy of not being ‘allowed’ to recycle* Considers another round of contacting council.... *instead, found rocking hysterically in the corner* Deborah Davies I am shocked that whole bales are rejected due to contamination. If only people would step up and recycle responsibly and protect our earth and life upon it and the future. Dee Dean

Leeds United and Uber Isn’t this just an advertorial for Uber? The press release contains no detail on what they’re doing over and above what information and transport is currently available. Oliver Peace Good to have a Private Hire Vehicle dropoff zone but it would only possibly reduce congestion if shared journeys were encouraged e.g. through Uber Pool. Large crowds require mass transit really. Ian Bewick

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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: @NSCDLearning #collideboys @DAZL_Leeds looking amazing

@LeedsAutism Dewsbury Road Social Club entertained the #community in style on saturday with a fantastic day of live music! 9 local bands took to the stage to rock out and helped raise £848 of much needed funds for @LeedsAutism. Raffle prizes, dancing, fun and laughter was had by all! #leeds @WeLoveHolbeck Long before it became the most creative corner in #Leeds, #Holbeck was a vital part of the industrial revolution. The first ever commercially viable steam locomotive was built here! #WorldHeritageDay @lassnleeds We think the best way to resist the hostile environment is kindness, solidarity, and helping everyone to remember that behind the statistics are human beings with loves, hopes, fears, and disappointments. @Clean_Leeds New dog fouling signs going around the #Middleton Park Ward #LS10 As a gentle reminder to #Bagit and #BinIt #ScoopThePoop as there is no such thing as the #DogPooFairy or you may be fined

Parkinsons at 40 Well done Mark. Congratulations on the publication of your poems. Naseem

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.

@WROfficePark White Rose Office Park is proud to be one of the sponsors of this years @BeestonFestival. We hope the event will provide another day of exciting entertainment and activities for the community of South #Leeds...

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May 2018 | South Leeds Life

News 13

Email: info@southleedslife.com

What happens to the contents of your green bin? H

by Rob Greenland

ave you ever wondered where everything you put in your green bin goes? Well if you live in south Leeds, the answer, at least to start with, is not very far. Premier Waste Recycling Ltd are based just off Dewsbury Road, and that’s where the contents of around 300,000 Leeds green bins are sorted. Close to 800 tonnes of recyclable waste from Leeds households arrive there, each and every week, alongside recyclable waste from a couple of other local authorities.

depending on what people have put in their green bins – with common contaminants including dirty nappies & food waste. There are two issues here – one is around it being labourintensive to sort stuff that shouldn’t be there – and also that food waste & other materials contaminate other recyclable items, such as plastics, with the result that waste processors may refuse to take them – or at the very least pay a much lower price. If the level of contamination is too high, the whole load will be rejected – and will be

Rubbish is sorted on a system of conveyor belts During our visit, organised by Leeds Civic Trust, we were shown each stage of the process, from waste being unloaded from bin wagons, through to sorted materials being baled and taken away for further processing by other companies. Here’s what happens. After a wagon-load of material is unloaded, a member of staff does a visual inspection, to check for levels of “contamination.” This could be anything and everything,

diverted instead to the Recycling and Energy Recovery Facility (the RERF – aka the incinerator) in Cross Green. They estimate that around 20% of potentially recyclable material is rejected because of contamination – a significant amount – which clearly has an impact on the city’s recycling rates. The materials then begin to wind their way around the site on a series of conveyor belts. As the waste passes along the conveyor belts, different

materials are pulled out, mostly by mechanical means. At one stage much of the material passes through a Trommel – an enormous drum with holes of assorted sizes, which automatically sorts different materials. Materials also pass over a magnet – pulling out the ferrous metals. But the sorting isn’t all done by machines. We entered a room with around a dozen people stood at two conveyor belts – hand-sorting materials passing by at speed. One conveyor belt had mostly metals, the other mostly plastics – and the job of the staff was to pull out materials that hadn’t been sorted correctly by other mechanical processes. There was some stuff that had just made it onto the wrong conveyor belt – and other things that should never have been in a green bin in the first place. Eventually (although we didn’t see this part of the process), the sorted materials are baled – ready for sale to a range of different processors. The market for recyclable materials is notoriously volatile – no more so than now, with all the talk of China no longer wanting our plastics. But we saw various materials ready for the next stage of their journey in the recycling process – be that to India (cardboard), Turkey (various materials), or north Wales (paper). It was quite an experience. It’s a noisy, smelly environment (imagine the smell of

Sorted and baled: aluminium drinks cans thousands of not very well as a city, it reinforced for me washed milk bottles) – and it’s that we need to be doing so hard not to be overwhelmed much more further up the when you’re faced with the chain too. Businesses need to amount of stuff your city throws reduce the amount of away (and remember this is packaging they use for the just the recyclable waste). things they sell to us – and we I was also struck by the all need to go out of our way to amount of things that shouldn’t buy things with less packaging. have been in green bins in the It’s not always easy – but I first place – staff were having to pick all sorts of things out by hand. It was clear to me that when it comes to recycling, we can all play our bit. First of all by putting the right things in the right bin – and secondly by giving things a wash before you put them in the green bin. So whilst I’m glad that we’re clearly working hard to Rubbish is then sorted by hand recycle what we can

think, thanks in large part to David Attenborough – public opinion is shifting and companies are starting to respond. Rob Greenland is one of the co-founders of Zero Waste Leeds – you can find them on Facebook and on Twitter at @zerowasteleeds

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

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South Leeds Life | May 2018

14 Arts

The Tetley Visual B Weekender: Experiments Worshop

art: A tale of two cities

eeston’s BasementArtsProject has teamed up with Depot Art Studios to let artists from Leeds and Manchester show their work in each other’s city. The last five years have seen a significant period of development for both BasementArtsProject; Leeds and Depot Art Studios; Manchester. Defined over time by a sense of mutual support for each others projects A Tale of Two Cities / A City of Two Tales will be the first for these two opportunity organisations to realise a project that cements a long term working relationship. Featuring the work of Michael

The Tetley Weekender - for all the family

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he Tetley Weekender is an annual micro-festival that takes its inspiration from the gallery’s next exhibition, with activities for all the family, artist-led performances, events and talks, plus great food and drink. It’s a perfect introduction to everything they do at The Tetley! The Experiments Workshop will form the centrepiece of the Material Environments exhibition and this year’s Weekender and we are excited to have four artists from the exhibition with us over the weekend. What you can expect: – See Phoebe Cummings as she continues her practice live in the Atrium as she spends time working and building on her larger than life immersive clay installation. Join her also for a science fiction experimental writing workshop where participants will be writing a story then recreating these sci-fi colourless landscapes using clay! – Take part in multiple workshops led by artist Harold Offeh, including teaching techniques through Selfie Choreography, which explores authenticity, movement, photography and narcissism. See also performance devised by Offeh focusing on interviews, talk shows and audio material transcribed into scripts and activated by a collective reading

that explores identity, realness and authenticity. – Hear Serena Korda perform her Glass Harp live in the gallery, an instrument once associated with causing madness and hysteria for its players and listeners! – See Keith Harrison demonstrate his artwork as a live science experiment, using the heritage of the building to create a large expanding installation. – Families can create shelters outside on the Brewery Green from various recycled materials, taking inspiration from Joanna Piotrowska’s photographic series Shelter in the exhibition! (weather dependant, City Workshop if rainy). – Join curator, Ben Roberts, for a tour of the exhibition on Saturday at 2pm. – Fantasy Object Tree Family Art Workshop: Take inspiration from the evolving work on display and create a colourful three dimensional object to hang from a collaborative fantasy tree. Plus great food and drink offers over the weekend and even more to be announced! There is going to be lots to do for the whole family. No need to book, FREE and open to all over the weekend of 19-20 May, 11am–5pm. For more information go to thetetley.org

Branthwaite, Kasumi Dean, Linda Hemmersbach, Kieran Leach and Martha Lyons. PREVIEW Friday 11th May | 7.30–9.30pm Exhibition Open Saturday 12th May | 2–4pm Sunday 13th May | 2–4pm Monday 14th May | 11am–2pm Saturday 19th May | 2–4pm Sunday 20th May | 2–4pm Monday 21st May | 11am–2pm BasementArtsProject is located at 28 Back Burton Terrace, Beeston, LS11 5JH. Phone 07506 721504 or visit: www.basementartsproject.com

Work by Kasumi Dean

The sun shines everyday at The Tetley T

he Sun Shines Every Day Forever is a newly commissioned sculpture by Todmorden-based artist Matthew Houlding that visitors to Hunslet’s Tetley art gallery are encouraged not only to touch, but to walk through, to picnic upon and to play hide-and-seek within! The sculpture will stay in place outside The Tetley until building work begins on the new City Centre Park, and has the potential to move elsewhere within the development. This sculpture marks a creative approach to public sculpture and spaces that will be the hallmark of the new cultural South Bank. Matthew Houlding was

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selected as the artist to make this new sculpture from an exhibition of proposals held at The Tetley in 2015. Over 4,000 visitors and school children saw the exhibition and voted Matthew’s proposal as the most appealing design. The Sun Shines Every Day Forever takes its inspiration from the desert architecture of California where the interior and the exterior, the manmade and the natural environment merge. Houlding’s sculpture is a constructed section of architecture that is landscaped with boulders, platforms, a palm tree and coloured Perspex panels. A

half-built ruin, the sculpture connects the past and future and invites visitors to imagine what might have been and might yet be. Set within the urban context of re-development in Leeds’ South Bank, The Sun Shines Every Day Forever is a fragment of a separate time, an oasis of calm and colour where generations, young and old can interact and explore. Councillor Lisa Mulherin, Executive Member for Children and Families, said: “I am very pleased to be supporting this new sculpture outside The Tetley, we know from our consultations that people want cultural

attractions and public spaces to be part of the South Bank regeneration. “What is exciting is that this sculpture is not just to be admired but also interacted with, people are encouraged to touch it and children to play on it and have fun, so it also helps reinforce our Child Friendly Leeds ideals. “It is sure to attract lots of interest and attention and I’m looking forward to seeing it finished for everyone to enjoy.” The Tetley will also show a number of Houlding’s drawings and collages in the Bar & Kitchen and a limited edition print will be available to buy in the shop.

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Norman Ackroyd CBE– an artist and a South Leeds lad John Charles. During WWII night bombing atching the BBC raids the German planes programme ‘What Do often tried to drop bombs on Artists Do All Day?’ on artist the railway infrastructure Norman Ackroyd recently from Hunslet to Holbeck’s you might have been Copley Hill: one night a bomb intrigued to hear a mention dropped outside the shop, of his South Leeds roots, blowing tiles off the inside while he was busy creating walls. A life begun in the an acid-etched picture on midst of war! sheet metal. Norman remembers the A meat trade start; high-stepping horses from Tea Factory; Ringtons Tea Factory running Ringtons Beeston Hill; and working the up and down Lady Pit Lane trams: his roots here run with their tea deliveries on deep! carts: a time of trams One of Britain’s leading everywhere and few cars. artists: etcher, engraver, Northcote Road with its painter, and printmaker, outside toilets and Norman creates expansive neighbouring terraces was landscape images – both cleared in a regeneration rural and urban, which are project: it was where part of held in galleries around the Bismarck Street is now. world. Moving to a house with Having travelled much of it more space at the top of Holbeck, 1991 by Norman Ackroyd himself he loves the coast of Cemetery Road, Norman Britain the most, and moody then enjoyed panoramic the Yorkshire Dales, where images made all over the seas, rocky islands and views across the city, and he’d spend the day fishing, British Isles, including early seabirds are often his focus. large horizons. His etching of but mostly drawing! That’s works made in Yorkshire He enjoys capturing the Holbeck in 1991 features where his passion for rural dating back to 1959, which landscapes began. have never been shown Holbeck During the summer before. Towers, St. Can’t wait? Leeds Art Matthew’s holidays at Leeds Art School he’d work in Pork Farms Gallery have some of his church meat factory prepping meat, pictures in their lending steeple and also did stints as a tram scheme - they were the first and conductor - occasionally people to buy one of his Holbeck working the scenic tramline works, and Zillah Bell Gallery Viaduct. that ran through Middleton in Thirsk, North Yorkshire He Woods to the city centre and house the largest collection regularly to both buy and view outside returns to back. Turning 80 this year, he’s of Norman’s London studio. recapture still busy working, and was You can also explore more this Norman Ackroyd at work in his studio awarded a CBE in 2007. of Norman’s work online at: changing feelings of wild lands and view. He and his brother used Yorkshire Sculpture Park www.normanackroyd.com nature around us. Pictures reproduced by to run down to the city railway will be showcasing a wide Lucky to attend Cross station from here to catch the range of Norman Ackroyd’s kind permission of Norman Flatts School from the age of pre-5am ‘milk train’ up into work this November – Ackroyd. three during World War II, Norman passed his 11 Plus exam, went on to Cockburn Grammar School (where Hunslet Moor Primary is now), then studied at Leeds College of Art and the Royal College of Art in the 50s and 60s. He sets a lot of store by the great start in life these local schools gave him. Cockburn’s arts and sports teacher Bob Newton really encouraged him in his art. His hard work ethic began with early starts in his dad’s butchers shop on Lady Pit Lane. He’d cycle down to Leeds Market early doors with meat orders. The shop and family home was an end terrace house on Northcote Road. His dad Arthur sold meat to Leeds United legend The Rumblings - Muckle Flugga - Shetland , 2013 by Norman Ackroyd

People 15

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Making his marks by Stuart Petch

May 2018 | South Leeds Life

Hunslet bids farewell to local rugby legend T

uesday 27 March saw a packed-out commemoration service for Jimmy Brogden – a characterful and much-loved Hunslet man and acclaimed sportsman, who recently passed away aged 95 following a short illness. Jimmy was born in Hunslet in January 1923, attended Hunslet Moor Junior and Senior School, then worked at Tetley’s from the age of 14 – first in the bottling department, later in sign-writing. He served in the Royal Navy during the Second World War, and saw considerable action on the Mediterrean and Arctic Convoys. After the war, he worked at a Leeds manufacturing plant named George Porteous – then much later, for the Water Board. He married his first wife Louie in 1949, and they had two boys – Lee and Jimmy. Jimmy’s great passion was sport. He played professional rugby league for Hunslet and Bramley, as well as football, and was also a very long-standing member of Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club – where he became Life President. He was also an avid dominoes player. He’ll be remembered for his sporting endeavours – amongst other things, being on the cupwinning Hunslet RL teams of the late 1940s. But he’ll also be remembered as a legendary gentleman, for his kindness, and

his ability to talk the hind leg off a donkey! He had a sharp intellect and wit, a phenomenal memory, and was incredibly well-read – often quoting Shakespeare, Dickens, and the scriptures. And he always remained fiercely proud of south Leeds, never living outside Hunslet or Beeston. Louie sadly passed away in the 1980s, after 37 years of marriage – but Jimmy found happiness again, with Edna. In later life, they enjoyed travelling – and, ever the talker, Jimmy had a good go at mastering Spanish whilst overseas. They also became much-loved regulars with the Ciaran Bingham Foundation Trust, a local charity working to support older people to live fulfilled lives.

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16 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 May

Please check that regular events are not affected by school holidays, 28 May - 1 June 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 British Lung Foundation Circuit 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 Spartans Girls Rugby 6-7pm Corinthians RUFC, Ring Road Middleton, by Leisure Centre DAZL DanceFit (women 16+) 6-7pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton South Leeds Sisters running 6.15pm South Leeds Stadium St Matthew’s Youth Club 6:30-8:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck DanceFit 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 10:30-11:30am Beeston Parish 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 Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Rainbows, Brownies, Guides 4:30-9:15pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Inside Out wellbeing group 6-8pm Conservative Club, Ring Road Middleton Middleton Park All-Rounders 6:30pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston 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 Women’s Boot Camp

6:45-7:45 Middleton Park Bike Hub, LS10 3TN South Leeds Lakers running 7pm from Beeston Co-op

Every Wednesday

Bacon Butty Breakfast and Wednesday Weigh In 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 Bridge Cafe 9:30am-2:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park 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 Bumps & Buggy Fit 1-2pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park 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 1st Beeston Beaver Scouts 6-7:30pm St Andrews Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston Hunslet Warriors Juniors 6-7pm Warrior Park, The Oval South Leeds Spartans Girls Rugby 6-7pm Corinthians RUFC, Ring Road Middleton, by Leisure Centre City Kids (R-Y6) 6-7:15pm City Evangelical Church, Cemetery Road HITT Training Class 6-7pm Belle Isle Family Centre Cottingley Youth Club 6:30-8:30pm Cottingley Community Centre DanceFit 6:30pm Middleton Parochial Hall, Town Street 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 Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave 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 Bumps & Buggy Fit 11:15am-12:15pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre 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 Children’s Summer Sports 4:30-6pm West Grange Courts, Belle Isle Kidz Klub Middleton 5:05-6:15pm Middleton Primary School, Middleton Park Avenue Mini & Junior Rugby 6-7pm Leeds Corinthians, Ring Road, Middleton General Fitness 6-7pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Middleton Park All-Rounders 6:30pm Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Indoor Bowls 7-10pm The Holbeck (WMC), Jenkinson Lawn Youth Drop In 7-9pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Yoga class 7:30-8:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street

Every Friday

Tea & Toast 9am Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Charity Shop, Tea & Toast 9am-12pm Beeston Hill United Free Church, Malvern Road Bridge Cafe 9:30am-2:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park 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 Computers with Digital Angels 10-11:30am 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 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 Middleton Woods parkrun 9am Leeds Urban Bike Park, Ring Road, Middleton Breakfast Club 9-11am Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave Police Contact Point 9:30-11:30am St George’s Centre, Middleton Middleton Park All-Rounders 10am Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Kidz ‘n’ Co 10:30am-12:30pm Cottingley Community Centre Middleton Railway 11am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet Bingo Afternoon 12:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Midd. Park Ave

Every Sunday

Cross Flatts junior parkrun 9am, top of Cross Flatts Park Middleton Railway 11am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet

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Tuesday 1 May Mostly Men! 10am-12pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Beeston Wednesday 2 May 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 3 May HEA Supper Club 5-7pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck Material Environments Exhibition 6-8pm The Tetley, hunslet Road Hunslet Carr Residents Assoc 6:30pm Community Centre, Woodhouse Hill Avenue Beeston Community Forum 7:30pm Old White Hart, Town St Saturday 5 May No Stress Yoga 10-11:30am The Tetley, Hunslet Road Coffee Morning 10am-12pm St Andrew’s Community Centre, Cardinal Road, Beeston Coffee morning 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Family Art Workshop 11am-3pm The Tetley, Hunslet Road 140th anniv Family Fun Day 12-4pm The Holbeck Club, Jenkinson Lawn 140th anniversary Entertainment 7-11pm The Holbeck Club, Jenkinson Lawn Sunday 6 May Bluebell Walks 11am-3pm from Park Halt, Middleton Park Hunslet RLFC v York City Knights 3pm South Leeds Stadium Monday 7 May Middleton Railway 11am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet Bluebell Walks 11am-3pm from Park Halt, Middleton Park Tuesday 10 April Senior Strollers 10-11:30am Cross Flatts Park, Parkfield Avenue entrance Camera Club 3-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub, Beeston Beeston Local History Society 8pm Beeston Parish Centre (small hall), Town Street Friday 11 May The 3 Amigos Show 7:30pm Rowland Road Club, Beeston Saturday 12 May Kite Festival 11am-4pm The Clearings, Middleton Park Charity Family Fun Day 1-5pm Old White Hart, Town Street, Beeston Teens Club 1-5pm Vale Circles centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston If I Can’t Be Someone Else I Might As Well Be Myself 2:30pm The Tetley, Hunslet Rd Sunday 13 May

Kite Festival 11am-4pm The Clearings, Middleton Park Sunday Lunch 1-3pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck Who Wants To Live Forever? 5pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck Monday 14 May HEA Memory Cafe 12:30-2:30pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck HEA Supper Club 5-7pm Ingram Court, Domestic Street, Holbeck Wednesday 16 May Computer Skills Taster Session 10am-12pm Tenants Hall Enterprise Centre, Acre Close, Middleton Thursday 17 May Jobs Day 9:30am-4pm BITMO’s GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road St Luke’s Tenants & Residents 6pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Saturday 19 May Ramblers group Meet 9am St Mary’s Church, Town Street, Beeston Coffee morning 10am-12pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street Young Archaeologists Club 10am-12pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street The Tetley Weekender 11am-5pm The Tetley, Hunslet Road Family Fun Day 2:30pm-late The Hunslet Club, Hillidge Road Sunday 20 May How To ... Cabaret! 11am-4pm Slung Low Theatre, 67-71 Bath Road, Holbeck HEA Sunday Lunch 12-1:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Family Fun Day 12-5pm Old White Hart, Town Street, Beeston Caspar & The Fleas 2-4pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Leeds Dads 2-4pm The Tetley, Hunslet Road Monday 21 May HEA Morley Shop/Swim trip 9am-12pm from St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Tuesday 22 May HEA May Time Celebration lunch 12-3pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Wednesday 23 May 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 Ave Thursday 24 May Hunslet Remembered 10am-12pm Hunslet Library HEA Supper Club 5-7pm Ingram Gardens Community Centre, Holbeck Saturday 26 May Teens Club 1-5pm Vale Circles centre, Tunstall Road, Beeston Sunday 27 May

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May 2018 | South Leeds Life

What’s On 17 BITMO Lunch Club 1-3pm BITMO’s GATE, Aberfield Gate, Belle Isle Road Maltings Court Lunch Club 1-3pm Maltings Court, Maltings Road, Beeston Coal Mining Through Ages Walk 1:30-3:30pm from Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Hunslet RLFC v West Wales 3pm South Leeds Stadium Monday 28 May Middleton Railway 11am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet Tuesday 29 May Free Play Session 1-3pm from Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Wednesday 30 May Middleton Railway 11am-5pm Moor Road, Hunslet Free Play Session 1-3pm from Middleton Park Visitor Centre, off Town Street Cop 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

Sunday bands in Spoken word Cross Flatts Park workshops

he Friends of Cross Flatts Park have announced this year’s programme of free Sunday afternoon concerts. They are putting on three shows in the run up to Beeston Festival, including the annual dog show. Sunday 17 June Birds and Beasts - a four piece from Huddersfield. “Birds and Beasts display a natural instinct for memorable pop music ... these songs get under your skin.” Sunday 24 June The Caribbeans ever popular steel band return to bring more lilting versions of your

favourite songs. Plus the Annual Beeston Dog Show. Pedigree and fun categories, but who will be Best in Show? There is a charge for each class you enter your dog in. Sunday 8 July Celtic Productions. The fantastic and versatile Celtic Productions with lead singer, Chris Kelly. These free concerts run 2:304:30pm at the Watsonian Pavilion, near the top of Cross Flatts Park. The cafe will be serving drinks and cakes. All welcome.

ou can call it rapping, or poetry, slamming or ranting - it’s all performing the spoken word. In the run up to Beeston Festival Phil Pearce and Kevin Philips are running free weekly workshops, starting on Tuesday 8 May, 6-7pm at City Evangelical Church on Cemetery Road. During the ten week course you’ll learn all you need to write and perform your own work. There’s no pressure, but

there is the opportunity to perform on the spoken word stage at Beeston Festival on Saturday 14 July. For more information email: beestonfestspokenword @yahoo.com “You don’t have to have any previous experience, just come along and give it a go” commented Phil. “We’ll take care of you, we’ll make sure you know what you’re doing.”

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South Leeds Life | May 2018

18 What’s On

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Middleton girls organise bake sale

Bluebell Walks kick off a summer of fun T

The Girlz Club

eet the Girlz Club of Willowdale in Middleton. They clearly know how to have fun, but as well as that they have a wish. They wish to make a difference and they are doinf something about it. With a bit of help from friends and parents they have organised a bake

sale to raise money for Cancer Research and Candlelighters. The bake sale takes place on Saturday 28 April at 1:30pm at 21 Willowdale. The girls hope to see you there. Any donations to their cause would be greatly appreciated.

Dance for Parkinson’s A

programme of dance workshops for people with Parkinson’s disease and their carers starts on Wednesday 9 May at Middleton Elderly Aid’s Social Centre. The sessions are part of work developed by the Yorkshire Dance Centre, whose Project Manager Adie Nevison explained: “We know through research and practice that dance can be extremely beneficial for people living with Parkinson’s.” The programme in Middleton has been funded by Leeds Let’s Get Active.

“Leeds Let's Get Active aims to provide more opportunities for inactive people to become active,” says Sam Coupland, Development Officer at Active Leeds. “Our aim is for Leeds to be the most active city in the UK and projects such as Dance for Parkinson's go a long way to ensure that we reach the people that other programmes don't; it’s a great example of how working in partnership with organisations such as Yorkshire Dance and Parkinson's UK can help overcome the barriers that stop people getting active.”

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by Alan Shaw

he Friends of Middleton Park run activities every Sunday afternoon from 6 May through to the end of September. We are really excited about our programme of activities this year. We hope that we have managed to achieve a blend of activities and events to ensure that at least some will be of interest to everyone! We have some old favourites back, including at the start of our programme with our Bluebell Walks, and the end with a performance by the Friendly Band. We also have some new events like the People’s Picnic - bring a picnic with family and friends for a relaxing afternoon in good company; and The Keep Fit Fun Day - with games sporting and fitness groups to show you how to keep fit in Middleton Park. Of our larger events, we are again putting on (with the help of Northern Kite Group) a colourful Kite Festival, our Show is back again as big as ever, as is Oddsocks, who are bringing along a sci-fi musical version of The Tempest that sounds crazy! We have fine selection of brass band concerts including Grangemoor, West Yorkshire, Garforth Jubilee, Yorkshire Traction Honley and aforementioned Friendly Bands. Plus music from up and coming local rock bands and some New Orleans jazz. On the nature side we have a series of walks exploring the nature and history of the park as well a Birds of Prey display and of course our Fun Dog Show. Apart from Sundays, we will continue

Bluebells in Middleton Park to run free play sessions every Tuesday and Wednesday in the school holidays from 1-3pm. Pick up a leaflet next time you’re in the Visitor Centre or check the What’s On in South Leeds Life.

We hope to see you all at our events this year. Remember they are free to all. Anyone willing to help us put events on should contact us through our website www.fomp.co.uk, or Facebook page.

Friends of Middleton Park - 2018 Highlights 6-7 May Bluebell Walks, meeting the 11am, 1 & 2:40pm trains at Park Halt 12-13 May Kite Festival on the Clearings 11am-4pm 20 May Caspar & The Fleas ukelele band 27 May Coal mining through the ages walk, meet 1:30pm 10 June People’s Picnic 3 July Oddsocks present The Tempest 7-9:30pm 22 July Rock & Folk Festival 12-4pm 12 August Keep Fit Fun Day 19 August Fun Dog Show 27 August Birds of Prey Experience 9 September Great Middleton Park Show 1-4pm 30 September The Friendly Band All events are FREE and run 2-4pm unless otherwise advised.

Holbeck Club celebrates 140th anniversary in style T

Playground Fun Day

he Friends of Beeston Primary PTA are holding a Family Fun Day at The Whistlestop pub on Sunday 20 May to raise funds for Operation Playground. The group aim to improve the outdoor areas at Beeston Primary - to help the 700 children at the school to stay active, and enjoy imaginative outdoor play. Stalls at the fun day are available to book for £10, book by 11 May. Operation Playground

he Holbeck, formerly Holbeck Working Men’s Club is celebrating 140 years of serving the community on Saturday 5 May. In the afternoon from 124pm there will be a family fun day featuring a bouncy castle, go karts, face painting, tombola, food, Leeds Rhinos, the Fire Service and a table top sale. Then in the evening the entertainment moves upstairs to the concert room for disco, bingo, raffle and live entertainment. The event is free to members but you will need a ticket. The Club opened its doors on Easter Monday, 22 April

1878 after the Hon. Emily Charlotte Meynell-Ingram (the ‘lady of the manor’) gave the club the land and lent them £900 to put up the building. The loan was repaid within 14 years. The club has seen wars and breweries come and go and several rounds of housing demolitions and rebuilding, but has remained a fixture of the community. In June 2014 we reported that regulars had rallied to save the club from financial collapse. The club is now run voluntarily by its members with everyone taking a turn behind the bar or with the mop bucket!

The Holbeck remains a fixture in its community As we reported last month including a signed shirt, the club has been raising hospitality package for a funds for the Yorkshire Air home game and an LUFC Ambulance and currently Shop voucher. Tickets cost has a raffle with items £1 and the raffle will be donated by Leeds United drawn on 6 May.

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Website: www.southleedslife.com

May 2018 | South Leeds Life

Sports 19

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Running in the beautiful south Ian Pickles writes: As at last it looks like the springtime is finally upon us, the best way to enjoy the weather is to get out and enjoy the outdoors whether that be in the form of a walk, run or bike ride. We at South Leeds Lakers Running Club prefer the middle option (the clue’s in the name), but after a winter of pounding the tarmac, the lighter nights and better weather mean we can go off road and enjoy the countryside. Living in a city like Leeds this can be hard unless you have transport. Many people will tell you there are great routes to run at Temple Newsam, Roundhay Park, Harewood House, Meanwood Valley or Otley Chevin but these are a little North of Leeds for us

(again the clue’s in the name). So we have endeavoured to produce a list of the best trail runs in South Leeds for you.

Canal from Thwaites Mill to Lemonroyd marina T

by Ian Pickles

hwaite Mills Watermill Museum is on Thwaite Lane at Stourton, a short walk from the Crooked Clock pub on Low Road. The present building was built in the 1820s and is now a museum holding regular events and open days. It is another South Leeds hidden gem. The route though starts before the canal bridge on the TransPennine Cycleway to the right. Straight away it’s off road muddy paths through woodland on the opposite bank to the Mill, but before long you have to change banks. A quick trot over Skelton Grange Bridge near the old power station (I can testify this is easier on foot than bike) and you are on a pathway between the river and the Aire and Calder Navigation (Canal). It’s advisable to wear trail shoes as it can get muddy around here, but in summer you may be OK in road trainers.

Lemonroyd Marina

Exploring Middleton Park by Linda Featherstone

iddleton Park is a gem in the urban expanse of Leeds. It is a 190 hectare (470 acre) green space with a mixture of parkland and ancient woodland just four miles from the city centre. If you want to combine a day out with a run or just have a quiet jaunt in the fresh air, Middleton Park can accommodate your needs. For those who like to explore, there are many paths and woodland trails that incorporate the mining and transport heritage trails. The profile of the park is, well, a bit hilly so it is ideally suited to those who like hills, want a variation from a flat canal run or just want a new challenge. The paths and trails consist of long gradual climbs, such as the old tram track, with the option of short steeper ascents for those wanting a harder session. The locally known ‘Scrooge Hill’ is a steep set of steps next to the John Charles Centre for Sport, which make for good hill reps. Information plaques on boulders along the Heritage trail allow you the opportunity for a breather and to take in some history of the park and its wildlife. As with

Middleton Park any grassy area and off-road trail the footpaths are prone to mud in wet weather so trail shoes would be advisable; otherwise road shoes would be suitable. The main footpaths take you around the park, which bloom with bluebells in spring and the canopy of trees provide shelter whatever the weather. The path takes you past the rose garden and Nicks view; a memorial to a former Chair of the Friends of Middleton Park, which overlooks the former golf course. The clearings and the old golf course are grassed areas that offer another terrain for your run. The clearings is the only flat area within the park, it is a large grassed area used by South Leeds Aero Modellers Society to fly model

aircraft on Sundays. It is quite easy to clock up 10k or more by snaking your way up and down the many routes. The new Urban Bike Park features a café if a pit-stop is required en route. The Park is also popular for events and has played host to the West Yorkshire Winter League, Leeds Christmas 10k and Go-Tri duathlons. The Park will become part of the Parkrun family from 28 April 2018. With its visitor centre, café, free parking, bowling greens, fishing lake, playground, multiuse games area and access to the world’s oldest working railway, Middleton Park has much to offer so there is no excuse not to make a day of it, or at least to check it out.

A Churwell urban trail Rowers on theAire & Calder Navigation Plenty of dog walkers and bike riders make it a well-used route, although it can still be quiet in areas. Before long you are going under the cavernous concrete cathedral that is the A1/M1 overbridge; a strange echoey experience. Now with the River Aire to the left you stick to the Aire and Calder Navigation path. On the opposite bank is Rothwell Country Park, the old Rothwell

Photo: Paul Johnson

Colliery now converted into parkland by the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust. Again another place for an off-road running opportunity. Eventually after more mud and gravel you change banks at Woodlesford Lock, where there is a chance for refreshment and some wildlife pictures. The local swans and ducks are ravenous so mind your fingers. Now back on the south bank of the Navigation it’s tarmac paths all the way down to Lemonroyd Marina. Under Swillington Bridge (which during the war my grandfather was asked to guard with a broom!) and Fleet Lane Bridge. The Marina has mooring for up to 85 boats, including Narrow Boats and Canal Cruisers and has nearby Methley Woods ideal for walking, but for us it’s as far as we go. The route is 7k and is pretty flat, but of course there is the return leg. Or you could walk to one of Oulton’s fine hostelries and catch the bus.

by Phil Hodgson

hill. As the road bends round to the left you can see the home of the Champions of Europe in the distance. Go round the metal gate and follow the path until you come to the field. Stay to the right and follow it round to the wooden bridge, make sure you watch your footing on the

f you’re looking for run with a bit of everything then the Churwell Urban Trail will fit the bill nicely. Tarmac, trail, grass and hills ensure those looking for a challenge have something to get their teeth into, but the beautiful woodlands mean a gentle jog is also time well spent. The 1.9 mile route starts on Rooms Lane outside St Peter’s Church. Follow the lane down for a quarter of a mile and then go through the wooden gates on the left into Springfield Mill Park. Follow the tarmac path Wildlife pond in Churwell round the 5-a-side football uneven ground. Cross the pitch (goal posts with nets, how wooden bridge, taking time to good is that). Keep following admire the wildlife pond. Follow the shale path round the path round to the right and through the gates into the to the right exiting through the woods. Cut through the woods gates onto the road. Cross the on the trail back onto the path road and go through the gates where you turn right for the into Clarke Spring Woods. Once in you’ll see Churwell’s short skip back to the lane. Back at the lane turn left and very own mini railway on your follow the tarmac road up the right.

On this stretch you get the chance to marvel at the beautiful woodland or dig in and take on the hill with gusto. Follow the hilly path round to the right until you see a set of daunting steps in front of you (1.3 miles). Don’t panic, you turn left onto the crazy paving before the steps. This is still a tricky little section so make sure you keep your wits about you as you continue your ascent. Six footers watch out for the tree !!! Your lungs will be bursting and the stile at the end of the path seems like Beeches Brook! As you come out onto Chestnut Garden cross the road and go through the wooden gate back into the park. Follow the tarmac path all the way round past the pond and the footy pitch and hey presto you’re back onto the road. A right turn takes you back up to St Peters Church (and a further 50 yards to the Nelson pub for a well earned drink). Enjoy!

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South Leeds Life | May 2018

20 Sport

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Hunslet show signs of improvement by Ian Pickles & Jeremy Morton

unslet RLFC recovered from two defeats over the Easter weekend with two important league wins against Oldham and Workington. The traditional Good Friday match saw a winless Keighley Cougars visit South Leeds Stadium. Hunslet flattered to deceive going 12 points up in the first ten minutes, but Keighley were leading 12-24 by half time. Hunslet fought back in the second half, but The gamebreaker though came on 60 minutes when Hunslet were awarded a scrum near to the Cougars line. A try at this point may have turned the tide, but Hunslet lacked organisation and leadership and trying to force a try Keighley intercepted and raced up the field. Clever hands put Ryder in the left corner and at 22-36 the game was out of reach for Hunslet. Final score Hunslet RLFC 2238 Keighley Cougars. Bank Holiday Monday brought the re-arranged Challenge Cup tie with Bradford Bulls, again at home, but heavy rain made the South Leeds Stadium pitch a quagmire. Bradford started the better going into a 14 point lead, but

Hunslet’s forwards clawed their way back into the game and Daniel Halmshaw scored on half time after good work from Jack Coventry. Two penalties from the ever dependable Joe Sanderson brough Hunslet with four points of the Bulls, but decisions against Hunslet and some good rugby from Bradford took them out to a 10-34 win. On 8 April Hunslet travelled across the Pennines to face Oldham and came away with a well won victory beating the Roughyeds 16-24. This was the first time since the teams met at Headingley in the Championship Grand Final in 2014. Hunslet won that day 16-17 with a drop goal in golden point extra time. The first half was tight, but Oldham scored eith side of half time. The teams traded tries before Hunslet took control scoring 18 unanswered points. Niall Walker (2), Duane Straugheir and Jack Blagbrough the try scorers, all converted by Joe Sanderson. On Sunday 15 April Hunslet overcame a 20 points to 8 deficit to beat Workington Town in one of the best games seen at the South Leeds Stadium for many a year. After coming from behind to win at Oldham the previous week it looks like a winning

mentality and ‘never say die’ attitude is to starting steadily grow in this group of players. A closely fought first half saw Workington go in 8-12 up at the break. They extended their lead early in the second half with a scrappy try and a penalty. But slowly Hunslet’s play became more expansive and Workington looked to be tiring, happy to try defend their lead. Tries from Tom Ashton and Jack Blagbrough brought the scores level. With David Foggin-Johnston scores under the posts five minutes to play Hunslet victory. South Leeds Life went to drove towards the posts and with calm heads made space press before Hunslet’s last for Cain Southernwood to bag a game of the month, away to Drop Goal and a one point lead Newcastle Thunder on 29 April. May sees home games 21-20. Workington’s desparate against York City Knights (6th), efforts to salvage the match led Whitehaven (13th) and West to an interception for David Wales Raiders (27th) and a trip Foggin–Johnston who scored to League leaders Doncaster under the posts to seal a 27-20 (20th).

Middleton Park are all Rounders by Hannah Fletcher

This year has been a really exciting one for us so far. We’ve teamed up with Hunslet Nelson Cricket Club to use their grounds and facilities for our training and fixtures. We’ve also got enough ladies playing with us now to be able to set up two teams; Red & Blue. We have lots of social events planned for throughout the

I joined the Middleton Park All Rounders (MPAR) a couple of weeks after the group had started way back in 2016 after seeing it advertised on Facebook. I hadn’t played Rounders since being in my school team, but I was looking at doing something a little bit different and an outdoor sport seemed just the thing! Once I started playing again I was hooked. The great thing about Rounders is its one of the most inclusive sports to play. You don’t have to be fantastic at every position, which makes it really suitable for ladies who want to increase their fitness and have fun at the Middleton Park All Rounders same time. I took over leading the season and in this year’s team in early 2017 and have league there are 8 other teams since seen everyone come on to play against too; I just can’t in leaps and bounds. Some wait! I may be ambitious, but people think Rounders is just over the next year I’m hoping to an outdoor sport, but we play see the group grow even more all year round and move inside and have enough ladies for a to local sports halls during the third MPAR team in 2019! winter months. We’ve been The main reason I love known to play in all weathers playing Rounders is feeling like too; nothing fazes us! I’m a part of something; and

the support I receive from my team – both on the pitch and off of it! We always have room for more people to join us here at MPAR and we train on a Tuesday 6:30pm, Thursday 6:30pm and/or Sunday 10am. Times are subject to change based on team fixtures so anyone who is interested is

best to join our Facebook group ‘Middleton Park All-Rounders’ for updates and information. I’d encourage anyone to come along and give it a go, you’ll be met with a warm welcome and you won’t regret it! I asked two other teams members about the reasons they love to play Rounders. Aly said: “Joining my

Rounders team back in 2016 is the second best thing I’ve ever done in my life and it’s the second love of my life (a very close second to joining POF where I met the first love of my life). I loved Rounders at school and always kept my eye out for a team to join when I left. It took about 9 years, but I finally found it! It’s something just for me, and never fails to brighten my day no matter what else is going on. The ladies in my team are the most supportive, friendly bunch and I have never felt so included and part of a group in my life. Rounders is my absolute favourite thing to do in the world!” Becky added: “I joined my Rounders team in 2017 and this will be my first league. I love playing because it’s something for me to look forward to rather than being a mum, maid and wife all the time! It’s some me-time and it’s just so much fun!” So there you have it! If you are looking for something new to start – Rounders is just the thing! You can contact me on 07875 194564.

Photo: Paul Johnson Phoenix Photography

Head to Hamara for Zumba F

by Noreen Ahmed

eeling the pinch? Is this affecting your waist line just as much as your wallet? OBESITY is on the increase, trebling in the last 30 years. The Hamara Centre is currently exploring methods on how the local community can be empowered to reduce their risk of developing long term illnesses through exercise. The weekly female only Zumba classes are a prime example of how we are engaging with the local cummunity. The Centre’s staff are fully qualified in various professions and as such can offer the best advice around healthy living Obesity can cause cancer, diabetes and coronory heart disease amongst other life threatening illnesses. The most effective methods to reduce the risk of developing these illnesses is to take part in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy diet. Zumba is a great activity to help you on your way to losing that excess weight. Zumba provides an entire body workout. Each piece of choreography is designed to target multiple muscle groups simultaneously therefore you will burn more calories through doing a fewer

amount of exercises. Each Zumba class is HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) so you burn fat at a faster rate. Zumba allows you to develop your stamina so you can keep exercising comfortably for longer. The classes are delivered by a fully qualified Zumba and Gym Instructor. Each Zumba class uses a different genre of music including but not limited to Bhangra, HipHop and Pop. Classes cost £2, we believe this is a small price to pay for living a healthy life. If you are serious about losing weight and living a healthy life then dance your way to the next class. All ages and abilities welcome. Contact the instructor for further details.