Your FREE community newspaper
Issue 75 | June 2021
Covering Beeston, Belle Isle, Cottingley, Holbeck, Hunslet, Middleton, Riverside & Stourton
HIGH SCHOOL PLANS REVEALED Designs for Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy discussed at Plans Panel by Jeremy Morton
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ndicative designs for the new Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy in Middleton were unveiled at a meeting of the South & West Plans Panel last month. The new school is being built to address the shortage of secondary school places in south Leeds and will be seven form entry, eventually accommodating 1,050 students across Years 7-11. Councillors on the Panel broadly welcomed the designs, which include a drama studio next to the main hall, as well as specialist drama and music rooms. A full size sports hall will be complemented by outdoor pitches and their are plans to share sporting facilities between the school and Middleton Leisure Centre next door. Councillors expressed some concern about the design of the kitchen block, which they felt spoiled the school’s facade. It is to be built on the site of the former LCC Highways offices. The main access to the school for visitors and deliveries is from Middleton Ring Road. A staff car park will be accessed from Acre Road. Traffic is always an issue around schools and it seems inevitable that the Leisure Centre car park will become an
unofficial drop off point. However, 75% of the initial intake of students live within walking distance of the school, which is also well served by service buses for those travelling further. The school will open this September on a temporary site behind St George’s Centre. The site will be fully remediated once the new school buildings are completed. Executive Headteacher David Gurney said: “Building a school from scratch is a rare opportunity and Cockburn Multi-academy trust will bring its tried and tested track record of excellence to Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy. There is high demand for places across all three secondary schools within Cockburn Multi-academy trust.” Both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 buildings will be a state-ofthe-art modern school buildings with fantastic facilities and engaging learning environments. Head of School Victoria Smith said: “It is such a privilege to lead the new academy and to be working with students and their families to create a community from the very start. Year 7 will be full from September and we have a waiting list for places in our opening year.”
In this issue:
Making memories with Kadiee
page 3
Pantries stretch household budgets
page 6
The best Breakfast Club in Britain
page 10
Cycling Special Clara’s journey
page 12-13
Unveiled: indicative designs for new school in Middleton
Hunslet RLFC struggle
page 24
NEWS
2-9
SCHOOL LIFE
10-11
COMMENT
14-16
LIVES
ART LIFE WHAT’S ON
17 18-19
20-22
SPORTING LIFE 23-24
Get the latest news at www.southleedslife.com - new stories posted daily
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South Leeds Life | June 2021
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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. South Leeds Life is pleased to publish views from across the political spectrum, provided they comply with our editorial guidelines. We remain a neutral publication with a diverse readership, as such we do not endorse any particular political party.
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Government rail funding will support new White Rose station L
eeds City Council has given its reaction to the announcement of a railways funding package by the Government. On 26 May Ministers confirmed details of a £317m investment in the York-Leeds-Manchester Transpennine rail route, with funds also being released for the new White Rose and Thorpe Park stations in Leeds. As well as proposals for a new accessible station next to the White Rose Office Park, the scheme also includes better walking and cycling routes between the station and Cottingley, Churwell and Millshaw, as well as the White Rose Shopping Centre and the bus interchange. The fate of Cottingley rail station remains in doubt, as it is unlikely two stations, so close together, can be fully sustained. Further substantial consultation with local people on is due to take place later this year to understand their needs and develop a scheme that best meets their requirements. The £25m station scheme is being developed in partnership by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Leeds City Council, Munroe K (owners of White Rose
Office Park) and Network Rail. It will receive £5 million from the Leeds Public Transport Investment Programme (LPTIP) and up to £12 million from the Leeds City Region Transforming Cities Fund – a major new programme of transport infrastructure investment secured as part of the West Yorkshire devolution deal – as well as contributions from Munroe K. Leeds City Council is set to discuss providing a loan facility, in order to help facilitate delivery of the station project at its Executive Board meeting on 23 June. Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “This funding package is encouraging news and it’s good to see that our long-standing calls for greater investment in the rail network in and around Leeds are being taken on board. “The White Rose and Thorpe Park stations will make a big difference to the lives of people in the city by delivering enhanced links to these two areas of employment growth. They will also play a part in our efforts to tackle the climate emergency by helping take cars off the road, which will in turn improve
CGI of the new White Rose station air quality and reduce carbon emissions. “The Transpennine route upgrade, meanwhile, will mean better transport connections between Leeds and other great cities of the North, something that will be more vital than ever as our region strives to build back stronger after the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Landmark development breaks ground in Holbeck shape over the coming months.” Designed by award-winning architects, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Globe Point offers spectacular views across the city from roof terraces on the top two floors and innovative outdoor plazas. The building will L-R: Nick Lee CEG, Tom Riordan LCC, Cllr James Lewis, Cllr Gohar Almass and Antonia Martin Wright CEG also raise the ork started on site last month Councillor James Lewis, leader of bar in terms of quality, occupant on CEG’s flagship Globe Point Leeds City Council, said: wellbeing and sustainability. development within the Temple “The start of work on Globe Point SMART Technologies will be used district of Holbeck. is hugely welcome news for the to control and drive energy BAM Construction has moved Temple district and the city as a performance. Sensors monitor air onto site to deliver the 37,800 sq ft whole. quality and adjust air flow while still seven-storey building on Globe “Developments like this will help optimising energy efficiency. AllRoad. Responding to occupiers’ drive our recovery from the electric, it will use 100% REGOS expectations and the new ways of economic effects of the Covid-19 green energy and is designed to working, Globe Point will deliver pandemic and, as the restrictions on reduce water consumption. Secure some of the highest quality all our lives continue to ease, make cycle parking, showers and lockers workspace in the city, with ground it clear that Leeds is very much open and access to electric vehicle floor break-out space, business for business. charging points will help occupants lounge and café kitchen. Ready for “We are really enthusiastic about make sustainable travel choices. occupation in spring next year, it will what the future holds for Temple Targeting BREEAM Excellent and provide flexible workspace for up to and look forward to watching this EPC A, Globe Point has also been 400 people. particular piece of the jigsaw take independently accredited as
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“It’s important to note, however, that this is just one piece of the jigsaw. We also urgently need clarity on plans for the eastern leg of HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail with a stop in Bradford, all of which would complement the work on the Transpennine route and help to further unlock the massive potential of communities across Leeds and beyond.” WiredScore Platinum, something only 10% of buildings worldwide have achieved. This means it will support tenants with best-in-class technological capacity, internet and mobile connectivity, infrastructure resilience and future proofing. Tom Riordan, chief executive of Leeds City Council, said: “The plans for Globe Point are very impressive indeed – this promises to be a landmark development in one of the city’s most exciting areas. It’s gratifying to see energy efficiency and other environmental considerations playing an important role in the building’s design, along with tech capacity and internet connectivity. “A project of this scale and ambition is a major boost for our efforts to deliver increased job opportunities for people across the city through the regeneration of Temple and the wider South Bank.” Ultimately, within the Temple district, CEG, alongside Leeds City Council, is bringing forward further development with the potential to provide some 4 million sq ft of high quality accommodation. CEG is also working closely with LCC, the British Library and Historic England to secure the historic Temple Works as its cultural centrepiece. Undoubtedly, this part of the city, which was historically the cradle of the industrial revolution, is now a focus for commerce. Offering a new way of living and working, it continues to play a vital role in Leeds’ future economic and social well-being.
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June 2021 | South Leeds Life
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News 3
Beeston family make memories Hop on board the vaccination with Kadiee while they can minibus T by Jeremy Morton
o see your child die before your eyes and not be able to stop it is every parent’s worst nightmare and it’s struck Gabrielle Green from Beeston. Her daughter Kadiee grew up like any other happy young girl, but two years ago Gabrielle noticed she was struggling to get up after falling over. She didn’t think too much about it, but over the next week Kadiee became more wobbly, “tripping over thin air.” Their GP said she was probably just a clumsy child, but she kept deteriorating. Kadiee misjudged kerbs and struggled with steps, one morning she couldn’t remember how to put her wellies on. Gabrielle had to use a pram to take Kadiee to school, so that she didn’t fall and hurt herself on the way. Eventually they saw a different GP who referred Kadiee to the LGI where she was kept in overnight for an urgent MRI scan. The diagnosis was leukodystrophy – a reduction of the white matter in the brain. Following more tests the condition has been more precisely diagnosed as Batten Disease – a fatal disease of the nervous system. Gabrielle explained: “Since that hospital stay she
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Heartbreaking: Kadiee Green hasn’t been able to walk, she’s lost most mobility in her arms … she needs a feeding plan because she’s now a choking risk, eventually she’ll lose all mobility, her eyesight and her hearing.” As if that wasn’t bad enough, Gabrielle has learned that the disease is genetic and that her son Keeton has a one in four chance of developing it too.
The family know their time with Kadiee is limited, and now want to create as many memories as they can to ensure Kadiee is never forgotten. They have set up a fundraising Facebook group: Kadiee Doo’s Fundraiser. The community has rallied to their support with donations and fundraising initiatives including a children’s dance
party at Eiger Studios on 4 July 2021 and a football match between Garden Gate FC and Belle Isle WMC on 1 August. “Despite everything she has gone through and will go through” said Gabrielle, “she is still the happy little princess she has always been. She just takes it all in her stride. She is braver than I could ever be and I’m so grateful she’s mine.”
he NHS in Leeds and Leeds City Council, working alongside local voluntary and community organisations, are encouraging people to have their Covid vaccine at the vaccination minibus. The minibus will be revisiting the 10 different areas it has already been to across Leeds, including Beeston Hill and Holbeck, to give people their second vaccinations. Anyone in an eligible group who has not had their first dose is also encouraged to visit the minibus when it comes to their area. Maud Avenue (next to Hamara Healthy Living Centre), Beeston Hill, Leeds LS11 7DN: Tuesday 1 June to Friday 4 June from 10am to 3pm Meynell Approach (next St Matthew’s Community Centre), Holbeck, Leeds, LS11 9PZ: Tuesday 29 June to Friday 2 July from 10am to 3pm Healthcare professionals will be joined by people from local community organisations and volunteers to encourage people to have their vaccination. Jack Rutter, Clinical Lead for the Leeds vaccination minibus, said; “We’re revisiting all the 10
areas we’ve covered over the past few weeks so that people who had their first dose with us can now have their second. If you’ve not had your first dose and are eligible, you can get vaccinated when we’re in the area. “We’ve had a really good response from all the local communities we’ve visited over the past few weeks, and lots of people who have had the vaccine told us that they wouldn’t have had it if the minibus hadn’t been here. “We know there’s a lot of misinformation on social platforms about the vaccine, but we want people to come and talk to us, so that they’re getting trusted and reliable information. Healthcare professionals and people from local voluntary and community organisations will be on hand so that people can come and find out more for themselves, especially if they have concerns on the vaccine. “Having both doses of the vaccine is our best hope for returning to normal life. It will not only protect you but also your families and your communities from Covid-19.”
iPad loan scheme goes ahead in Belle Isle and Middleton by Ken Ingram
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wo new digital inclusion projects are being set up across Belle Isle and Middleton, with the aim of supporting local people develop their digital skills and confidence. Thanks to funding from Leeds Older People’s Forum,
Belle Isle Senior Action (BISA) and Middleton Elderly Aid (MEA) will be working closely with older people living in the LS10 area, by providing free data enabled tablets to individuals and delivering an 8week digital learning course. Sonny Garewal, Project Manager at Belle Isle Senior Action said:
L-R: Sonny Garewal, Carla Yeomans, Ranbir Singh and Samantha Ely
“Through our new digital inclusion project, alongside our partners Middleton Elderly Aid, we hope to connect older citizens of Belle Isle and Middleton with other people and services and unlock the digital barriers that many face. Both our tablet scheme and digital learning course will help older people access vital connections to clubs and groups, and learn essential digital skills.” Belle Isle Senior Action’s digital course will run every Wednesday from Wednesday 16 June. If you live in Belle Isle and would like more information, please contact Ranbir Singh, Digital Inclusion Worker at BISA on 07399 036707 / (0113) 277 8208 or email digital@belleisle.org.uk Samantha Ely, Chief Officer
at Middleton Elderly Aid said: ”We have 10 tablets with 10 wifi if needed, for over 60s or 55 with a disability. “Middleton Elderly Aid, will pay wifi for 6 months and loan tablets for 6 months with the hope the users wants to keep them in which case they will buy them off us for the cost price. “We will then buy others and repeat the process again with other members. “This is to get our members more digital. We have a volunteer teaching our classes and I am incorporating the tablets into this to show them how to use them.” If you live in Middleton, please contact Sam Ely on info @middletonelderlyaid.org.uk / (0113) 272 1050 In addition to this, Belle Isle Tenant Management
L-R: Cllr Salma Arif, Dr Kashif Sarwar, Cllr Mohammed Iqbal and Jack Rutter Organisation (BITMO) have been successful in securing 50 data enabled tablets for its residents, with over 20 already being distributed. With the aid of Covid-19 Local Prevention Plan funding from Leeds City Council’s Public Health, BITMO are now able to loan digital equipment, alongside offering a range of online training and support opportunities so that people in Belle Isle can stay active, be involved in their community, get support for health conditions, and remain living independently and safely. Carla Yeomans, Community and Tenant Support Manager at Belle Isle TMO said:
“We know now – more than ever before – how important being able to get online is. Here at BITMO we are delighted to be able to offer support to those that need it, in ways we hope are straightforward and helpful. Through our tablet loan scheme, we hope to support those who might not be able to buy a device or have broadband in their homes, and those that find learning online skills tricky.” If you rent your home from BITMO and would like to know more about their online services, support and tablet loan scheme, please call (0113) 378 2190 or email gate@belleisletmo.co.uk
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4 News
Care home land to be auctioned
On the beat
by Insp Lucy Leadbeater
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his month we have good news as it has been announced that crime is continuing to fall in West Yorkshire. In 2020 there were nearly 33,000 fewer victims of crimes in West Yorkshire. The West Yorkshire Chief Constable has confirmed last month that: Latest statistics by the Office for National Statistics show that overall crime in West Yorkshire went down by 11.3% in the 12 months ending December 2020 compared to the previous year. That is higher than the national average (England and Wales) of a 9.9% decrease and there were significant reductions in West Yorkshire in: • Violence with injury – down by 11.7% (3,210 fewer offences) • Theft offences – down by 30.6% (28,474 less crimes recorded) • Robbery offences – down by 27.1% (964 fewer offences) • Burglary (residential) – down by 29.4% (nearly 5,000 fewer offences) • Burglary (business and community) – down by 34.7% (2,119 fewer offences) • Vehicle offences – down by 32.2% (a reduction by over
7,000 offences) These reductions are testament to the hard work that all of our officers, staff and volunteers, together with our partners, put in every day to make a real difference to the communities we serve, most especially over the last year during the Coronavirus pandemic. Whilst this is excellent news our work in South Leeds is never ending and we will continue to adapt and improve our service delivery to victims of crime and the communities. This month we have had a focus on knife crime as part of a national week of action ‘Operation Sceptre’. We have worked alongside partners to raise awareness, ensure the compliance of the sale of knives and also reduce the opportunities for knives and weapons to get into the wrong hands. Officers from Inner South Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) have conduced knife sweeps of the parks in your area to ensure there have been no hidden or discarded weapons in these locations as has been seen in other parts of the city and wider country. I am pleased to report that no knives were located at any of the parks in the Inner South area. Hate crime is another important issue that we are raising awareness and tackling as this type of crime has a significant impact on victims and the wider community. Working alongside our Hate Crime Team we have been delivering increased training and engaging with key individuals to listen to victims and ensure that we are providing an excellent service that meets their needs.
Searching green spaces for concealed knives
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The former Park Lees site in Beeston
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Briefing for officers What is a Hate Crime? A Hate Crime is any criminal offence which is perceived by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person's disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity or perceived disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity. Examples include: Physical attacks, such as physical assault, damage to property, offensive graffiti and arson; Threat of attack, such as inciting hatred by words, pictures or videos, offensive letters, abusive or obscene telephone calls, groups hanging around to intimidate, and unfounded malicious complaints. What is a Hate Incident? A Hate Incident is any noncrime incident which is perceived by the victim or any other person to be motivated by hostility or prejudice based on a person's disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity or perceived disability, race, religion, sexual
orientation or gender identity. Examples include: Verbal or online abuse, insults or harassment, such as taunting, offensive leaflets and posters, abusive gestures, dumping of rubbish outside homes or through letterboxes, and bullying at school or in the workplace. A hate incident doesn't mean that we won't take it seriously if someone reports it. How do I report a Hate Crime / Incident? A Hate Crime / Incident can be reported by: • Calling 999 in an emergency. You can also text using the emergency SMS facility by texting 999. You need to register first by texting 'register' to 999 • Call 101 for nonemergencies • Use Text Relay/TypeTalk on 18001 101 • For non-emergency hate incidents use our online hate crime reporting form which can be found at www.westyorkshirepolice.uk/ report-it/hate-crime-reportingform • Use our LiveChat facility at www.westyorkshire.police .uk/101LiveChat • Call in person at any police station If you would rather not speak to a Police Officer, you can : • contact Stop Hate UK (free reporting App available) • contact True Vision • contact Tell MAMA for Islamophic hate crimes or hate incidents • contact Community Security Trust (CST) for antiSemitic hate crimes or hate incidents • use one of the independent Hate Incident Reporting Centres provided by Local Authorities across West Yorkshire • contact Childline : Call 0800 1111
he site of the former Park Lees old people’s home off Town Street in Beeston is to be sold at auction by Leeds City Council according to a report published last month. The 0.51 hectare (1.2 acre) site lies between Beeston Village Community Centre, Hugh Gaitskell Primary School and the DePuy factory. The site is allocated for housing in the Site Allocations Plan, but any scheme would have to go through the usual planning application process.
The old people’s home was demolished in 2011 and the grassed site has been public open space since then. It was recently the scene of a traveller encampment. In consultation Beeston & Holbeck Councillors Andrew Scopes and Angela Gabriel raised issues around value for money and the trees on site. Officers confirmed that a reserve price would be set for the auction and that the trees would be dealt with through the planning process.
Cottingley Cemetery extension
Cottingley cemetery set to be extended
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ottingley Cemetery will soon have a small extension if plans welcomed by local Councillors Andrew Scopes, Angela Gabriel and Gohar Almass are approved by Leeds City Council. The cemetery is a valued community asset and while the Council is working to expand burial space in the city, this small extension will help ease the pressure in the short term. The extension will create a new welcoming and peaceful space for families to visit their loved ones and will include new tree planting and landscaping. Councillor Angela Gabriel
said: “Ensuring there is enough burial space in the city is a really important job and we are pleased that these plans for a small extension at Cottingley will help to ensure local residents have somewhere nearby where they can bury their relatives. “It was very important to us that the plans recognised the need for the extension to be a calm and restful place and we think they reflect that.” The planning application number is 21/02865/FU and can be found on the planning section of the Council’s website at www.leeds.gov.uk
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News 5
New Leeds Lord Mayor No change as Labour hold three South Leeds wards officially announced
racy Brabin was declared the winner of the first West Yorkshire Mayoral election at the count on Sunday 9 May. Brabin, Labour, won 43% of first preference votes and so there was a run off with second placed Conservative candidate Matt Robinson, where the remaining candidates’ second preference votes were allocated to the two leading candidates. Votes were cast on Thursday 6 May in Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds and Wakefield, with an overall turnout figure of 36.5 per cent. Ms Brabin secured victory over second-placed Matt Robinson (Conservative) by 310,923 votes to 209,137
ends after the Election Day, we will continue to work hard for the people of Hunslet and Riverside Ward.” Ed Carlisle commented: “Huge thanks to all those who supported us. Democracy is hard graft (!) – but we remain utterly committed to our communities here in south Leeds, and it’s great to see the Greens surging nationally. Get in touch anytime to work with us locally, to make good things happen.” In Middleton Park ward Sharon Burke was elected to replace Judith Blake who stood down from the council to take up her seat in the House of Lords. Wayne Dixon increased his share of the vote from 23% to 35%.
Cllr Gohar Almass
Cllr Mohammed Iqbal
Cllr Sharon Burke
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The Lord Mayor, Councillor Asghar Khan and the Lady Mayoress, Robina Kosar saving research, health and wellbeing initiatives, education opportunities for NHS staff, improvements to the hospital environment and specialist staff. The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Asghar Khan, said: “I am unbelievably proud to have received the honour of service as the Lord Mayor of Leeds for 2021-2022. I believe that my appointment demonstrates the huge diversity of our great city. “I came to England as an 11year-old boy, arriving at Heathrow Airport and not knowing a single word of English. I could never have
imagined back then that I would later become the Lord Mayor of Leeds. I feel extremely proud of that journey. It has taken me from a working class background, through working as a postman to becoming Lord Mayor. “It is an accolade I am delighted and blessed to have achieved. Acting as an ambassador for our city during my mayoral year will give me enormous pride. “I would like to pay special tribute to the preceding Lord Mayor, Councillor Eileen Taylor, for all her efforts over the last two years during these unprecedented times.”
Tracy Brabin elected as West Yorkshire’s first Mayor T
abour candidates have held all three south Leeds wards in the Leeds City Council election with Gohar Almass winning in Beeston & Holbeck; Mohammed Iqbal winning in Hunslet & Riverside and Sharon Burke winning in Middleton Park. Both Hunslet & Riverside and Middleton Park wards were being tipped in the city for upsets, but neither Ed Carlisle (Green Party) or Wayne Dixon (SDP) were able to make the breakthrough. This followed the voting pattern across the city where very few seats changed hands. Labour remain in control of the city council with 54 of the 99 seats. In Hunslet & Riverside ward
Mohammed Iqbal held onto his seat by just 232 votes from Ed Carlisle who has been fighting the seat since 2015. Mohammed Iqbal told South Leeds Life: “I am grateful to the people of Hunslet and Riverside Ward who have placed their trust in me once again to be their councillor for next four years. We are an excellent team, Cllr Elizabeth Nash, Councillor Paul Wray and myself. “We have reached out to every section of our ward, Leeds city centre, East Hunslet, West Hunslet and Beeston Hill to listen to people’s concerns, support all the projects and improve services. I am glad that people have recognised our hard work and commitment over the years. Party Politics
by Jeremy Morton
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ouncillor Asghar Khan has become the city’s 127th Lord Mayor of Leeds after unanimous support from members of all parties at the council’s annual meeting on 20 May. Councillor Asghar Khan will be accompanied during his time in office through 2021/22 by his wife and Lady Mayoress, Robina Kosar. Born in Kashmir, Councillor Asghar Khan moved to England in the 1980s as an eleven-yearold boy. He attended Cross Flatts Park Primary School followed by Cockburn High School and then went on to further his studies at Leeds City College. He still lives in Beeston. Since 2011, Councillor Asghar Khan has represented the Burmantofts and Richmond Hill ward as a Labour councillor, serving on the city plans panel, inner east community committee, joint plans panel, scrutiny board (environment, housing and communities) and recently as a deputy executive member. During his time as Lord Mayor, Councillor Asghar Khan has chosen to support Leeds Hospitals Charity, with a particular focus on raising awareness and funds for renal and diabetes services. Leeds Hospitals Charity is the dedicated charity for Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. With over 35,000 people living with diabetes in Leeds, donations could help fund specialist equipment and life-
votes, after the counting of both first and second preference votes. As West Yorkshire Mayor she will Chair the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and have powers – and extra funding
from central government – for transport, housing and skills. She will also replace the Police & Crime Commissioner, setting priorities for West Yorkshire Police and having oversight over them.
Tracy Brabin (centre) listens to the declaration
ALMASS Gohar MARTIN Andrew Stuart KELLETT Becky ROBINSON Francesca Leann JACQUES Robert Hugh PALFREMAN Bill SLAYTON-JOSLIN Jay Electorate: 17,887
Beeston & Holbeck ward Labour and Co-operative Party The Conservative Party Candidate Green Party Save Our Beeston and Holbeck Independents Liberal Democrats Freedom Alliance. No Lockdowns. No Curfews. Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition Turnout: 29.4%
Hunslet & Riverside ward IQBAL Mohammed Labour Party CARLISLE Ed Green Party ROWDEN Paul Richard The Conservative Party Candidate TURNER-CHASTNEY Benedict LukeLiberal Democrats BROWN Nina Charlotte Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition LYNAN Cordelia Frances Social Democratic Party Electorate: 17,537 Turnout: 31.5%
BURKE Sharon DIXON Wayne Alan BENNETT Samantha Jane ASQUITH Kay-Lee Anne SPENCER James Michael Electorate: 20,301
Middleton Park ward Labour Party Social Democratic Party The Conservative Party Candidate Green Party Liberal Democrats Turnout: 27.8%
2,777 996 748 468 117 82 34
2,535 2,303 456 90 52 43
2,313 1,963 913 306 119
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slot when they can visit and choose their items for the week. In between slots everything is wiped down, safe, clean and ready for the next member. All the pantries are busy and there’s a healthy waiting list, which organisers plan to address by increasing their opening hours. “The great thing about this being a Health For all project is that all the Food Pantry members can access to other services Health For All provide, computer training and access, peer support groups, help to get people back into work exercise classes” said Karen. Comments from members back up how this project is making a difference to people’s lives: “I really like coming here because it feels so safe, compared to going to the supermarket.” “I’ve 4 kids at home, so it's really helped me to provide extra meals and I'm batch cooking.” “I had to finish work due to ill health and can’t get a pension yet. I’ve been spending my savings on things like the
electricity bill. But now I don’t have to buy fruit and veg from the supermarket and we’re getting some treats too.” “It's saved me at least £12 and I can now put some money on the gas.” The long term plan is to support the members to take over the running of each pantry as a separate, sustainable project. If you would like to join the pantry scheme call into the centres or contact Karen on 07494 071981 or email karen.hargreaves@healthforall .org.uk Holbeck Together run a similar scheme. The Holbeck Together Community Shop is open from 10am-2pm each Thursday at St Matthews Community Centre. You can sign up to become a member and pay £2.50 a week to access a choice of 12 items of chilled, frozen, ambient and fresh food and plenty of other essential items. Items will vary each week. Those joining will receive a free cool bag to carry their shopping home each time they visit.Please call Holbeck Together on (0113) 245 5553 to sign up.
6 News NEWS IN BRIEF Drysalters plans rejected Plans to demolish the Drysalters public house on the Ring Road and build a drive through coffee shop have been rejected by Leeds City Council for second time. The pub serves Cottingley estate, morners attending Cottingley Crematorium as well as match day fans attending Elland Road. A report from the District Valuer strongly disagreed with the applicant that the pub was unviable.
Mozza opens at White Rose Italian pizza brand Mozza opened its first English restaurant at White Rose Shopping Centre on 19 May. Mozza creates carefullycrafted and authentic Neapolitan pizza, produced by skilled chefs trained in the art of wood-fired ovens – also known as a Pizzaiolo.
Pantries help stretch household budgets F
our Food Pantries are supporting people across South Leeds who are struggling put food on the table. Middleton-based charity Health For All set up the pantry scheme which is now operating at Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre in Belle Isle, Middleton Family Centre on Sissons Road, the Watsonian Pavilion in Cross Flatts Park, Beeston and Middleton Parochial Hall on North Lingwell Road. For a membership fee of £3.50 a week, members can choose from a wide range of fresh, chilled, frozen and tinned food. The food is bought in bulk from the charity Fairshare who work with the supermarkets to make sure that food near its Sell By date feeds hungry mouths rather going to landfill. As well as Fairshare the
Another satisfied customer at the Watsonia Pantry pantries receive regular donations from the Co-op, Greggs and Warburtons. Organiser Karen Hargreaves explained about how food is dated: “We will give members some things that are past their Best Before date. We’re trying to educate people that if it’s past its Best Before date it’s OK, it won’t cause you any harm, the quality might decline, but the
Julie needs some space M
iddleton resident Julie Gill is looking for some help so that she can continue to help to local people who have been going through a tough time mentally. Julie will be known to many readers from the community
safety of the food is absolutely fine. “Whereas we would never give anything that was after the Use By date, because it’s not safe; unless it’s been frozen the day before, in which case it will be labelled with a date and needs to be used within 24 hours of defrosting.” Covid security and food safety are key concerns, so each member has a 15 minute
Beeston vigil reaffirms Black Lives Matter
her some free storage space. She’s also on the look out for a free community room to offer the treatments in. “The kindness from family and friends in donating unwanted items to sell has been fantastic, but I’d like my
Touchstone CEO steps down after 17 years Alison Lowe has stepped down from the Beeston-based mental health charity to become the West Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing. Alison reflected: “I have made the difficult decision to leave and pursue my passion of inclusion, justice and fairness within West Yorkshire Police. In the current environment of Black Lives Matter and policing in general, I think this is the best way to end my working life and I will ensure I bring all the lessons I have learned over the last 17 years to bear in my new role.”
Taking the knee: protesters in Cross Flatts Park
by Jeremy Morton
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Julie’s living room is full of items for the car boot sales exercise classes she has run over the years. Over the last five weeks she’s raised £600 at car boot sales to fund free therapeutic massage and reflexology treatments in her community. Her problem is that her living room has been taken over by the donated items for the sales. She’s hoping a local business or charity will be able to offer
living room back!” she explained. “I’m also looking for a business to match fund me to enable me to provide more treatments by working with other therapists.” In the meantime Julie is still collected unwanted items, so if you offer anything please email keepfitjulie@yahoo.co.uk
eeston residents braved a downpour on 25 May to mark the first anniversary of the murder of George Floyd and reaffirm the message that Black Lives Matter. Organiser Sam Kirk reminded the group that racism was still a big issue in Britain and read out a list of black people who have died at the hands of the British Police incuding Cherry Groce and Dalian Atkinson amongst many others. To those who say ‘all lives matter’, she said: “Until black lives matter, not all lives matter.” Cllr Gohar Almass said: “I’m grateful to Stand Up To Racism for organising this vigil. When the attacks happened on the Mosque and Gudwara they
took the initiative and brought people together. In Beeston we are a united community, people have tried to divide us but they’ve always failed.” Steve Johnston spoke on behalf of Leeds Trades Council. He said trade unions support the fight against racism because divides workers and plays into employers’ hands. Racism weakens white workers as well as black workers. He suggested we take inspiration from Leeds United a crowd of 10,000 applauded the players taking the knee on Sunday, a situation that wouldn’t have happened 30 years ago. Cllr Angela Gabriel said: “We have to be very careful with our language and we have to be able to call people out. Often you will hear people saying disrespectful things and
you just think Oh I won’t say anything. But now if I hear anybody saying anything that is disrespectful to anybody I will now call them out, if we don’t we’ll never change people’s perception.” A woman called Eunice spoke of her experience: “I came here in 2013 I felt England was an open country, but since then things have changed for the worst. Beeston is different, it is strong, resilient and united; I felt welcomed, I feel it is my home now. My children are growing up hear, this is their country and I want them to feel welcome here.” Sally Kincaid from the National Education Union said as she looked around those present: “This is Beeston, this is what Beeston looks like.”
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June 2021 | South Leeds Life
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News 7
Remember the Middleton Scout Group makes joyous return Wombles? by Linda Stanley
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f you are old enough, you may remember the BBC children’s programme The Wombles - a group of furry animals who lived in Wimbledon. Their moto was “Make good use of bad rubbish.” Well there’s a modern day equivalent in many neighbourhoods, including Beeston. They may not be able to make good use of the rubbish, but they want to do something about the mounting piles of litter and debris that is on our streets. The Beeston Womblers (South Leeds) are a newly formed group of dedicated litter pickers, and they are already making a difference in our area. If you check out their Facebook page you will see the number of purple bags they have collected from hotspots like Beggars Hill (behind Holbeck Cemetery) and Middleton Grove (the road leading up to the John Charles Centre). The purple coloured bag
indicates that the litter has been collected by a volunteer, and like all community groups, they are always looking to recruit new members. If you are interested in joining you can contact the Wombler in charge of bags clare.tate20@gmail.com. Clare can also let you have one of the litter pickers that Beeston in Bloom have purchased. Just follow a few simple rules for the bags: • Don’t make them too heavy; • Tie them at the top so the rubbish doesn’t spill out; and • Leave them on the roadside near a council rubbish bin. The Facebook page will let you know of events that are being planned, and if you need advice about the council waste services you can check it out on leeds.gov.uk/bins-andrecycling. If you don’t want to join that’s fine, but please remember to take your litter home or use one of the many bins (not Beeston in Bloom planters!!) that are all over the area. Keep safe and keep it clean!
by Alannah Marsden
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n Thursday 6 May 2021, Middleton Scout Group had their first in-person class in over a year. Taking place in socially distanced conditions in the outdoor area at Manorfield Hall in Middleton, there were smiles all round as the children and leaders were reunited once more after a challenging year. It may have been 6:40pm in the evening, but everyone in attendance was full of energy and enthusiasm for the first face-to-face session. Like many of us, the Group had to move their meetings online for a while whilst restrictions were in place. They had many exciting zoom sessions consisting of activities ranging from cooking to planting seeds and everything in between. The children certainly enjoyed themselves but it’s safe to say that nothing quite beats the excitement of attending a meeting in person; especially if it’s the first one in over twelve months. During the session, the Cubs took part in an interesting task involving them moving around bases and solving clues which in turn allowed them to crack a code to a padlock. Protected by
NEWS IN BRIEF Clean Air Event A street play and community event has being held on Sunday 20 June to mark national Clean Air Day. The event will take place between 1-4pm in a closed-off section of Lodge Lane, between Stratford Street and Sefton Terrace in Beeston. There will be games, music, dance, plants, food, art, cycling and bike fixing. South Leeds Alliance for Clean Air are working with Leeds Clean Air Alliance, Leeds Civic Trust, Leeds City Council to stage the event.
Leaders are ready to welcome you at Middleton Scout Group the padlock were prizes, but the best prize of all was them all being together again for some socially-distanced fun. It may have rained but even the bad weather couldn’t spoil a great evening. The leaders were just as happy as the children to be making a return to non-virtual meetings. “We’re really happy to be back face-to-face” said Vikki, the Beaver Section Leader. “After a year of being on zoom it’s so nice to see all the children’s smiling faces again.” This was clearly a sentiment shared by all those in attendance. Middleton Cubs and Beavers Scouting Groups are always on
the lookout for new members. Cubs is for 8 to 10½ year olds and at the moment runs 6:40-7:30pm, whereas Beavers is for 6 to 8 year olds and currently runs 5:30-6:20pm. Both take place at Manorfield Hall Community Centre, which is situated on Newhall Road in Middleton (LS10 3RR). Sessions run every Thursday during term time. If your child would like the chance to learn some valuable skills whilst having fun and making new friends, then go ahead and get in touch! You can do so through the Facebook page 3rd South Leeds & Morley Middleton Scout Group (@3rdMiddleton). Alternatively you can email scoutsmiddleton@gmail.com.
Asda free car charging point at Middleton Asda will provide customers with free to use electric vehicle (EV) charging points at 19 stores, including Middleton, Asda’s sustainability store. The move is part of Asda’s sustainable business strategy, which aims to offer customers more sustainable choices and make Asda a net carbon zero company by 2040.
Friends fundraise for park tree sculpture T
Beeston Womblers at Beggars Hill
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he Friends of Middleton Park have launched a Go Fund Me page to help pay for a tree sculpture in the park. Chair of the Friends, Alan Shaw, explains: "When the Friends learnt from the Council Estate Officer for the Park that one of the trees by the lake needed to be cut down as it was becoming dangerous we were very disappointed. However we also thought that this might be an opportunity. “I have long been a fan of wooden carved sculptures – especially those large sculptures carved using a chainsaw – and I thought this would be an opportunity to have a carving that really represented the Park in a prominent place. Working with Shane, and explaining the significance of some of the features in the Park, we think we have come up with a potential design that really
Free solar panels and insulation
Draft design for the sculpture reflects all that the park means to the local community. "We are looking to further engage the local community by asking them to support the cost of the sculpture and have asked for donations. Anything beyond the amount that we receive from donations the charity will obviously cover direct out of the limited funds that we have available. "We look forward to the sculpture being completed in the next few weeks and all in
the community being able to enjoy it for years to come whilst enjoying the events that we put on over the summer (especially our ‘Great Middleton Park Show’ on 12 September – celebrating the centenary of the Park…plus one!), the beauty of the lake, and the frolicking of our celebrity swan family!" If you would like to contribute please go to: uk.gofundme.com/f/ woodcarving-a-significant-tree
Low-income homeowners in Leeds can now apply for free solar panels and insulation, thanks to a new scheme to help residents save money and tackle climate change. The scheme is funded by the government and delivered by Better Homes Yorkshire. To find out more about the scheme and how to apply, residents should go to www.betterhomesyorkshire.co .uk/leeds or call 0800 597 1500.
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South Leeds Life | June 2021
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8 News
South Leeds Slimming World groups reopen in venues Sponsored Content
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hroughout the pandemic Slimming World has continued to provide virtual weight loss services to slimmers in South Leeds. Now, as restrictions begin to ease, the UK and Ireland’s best loved weight loss organisation Slimming World is opening up for real life groups in venues. Tace who runs Slimming World groups in South Leeds, says: “For more than 50 years, Slimming World has been helping people to change their mindset and form new habits around eating and becoming more active and learn to stay slim for life. “The real key to success is found in the weekly group where trained Consultants motivate and inspire members to achieve their weight loss dreams. For anyone who has ever struggled with their weight, finding understanding care and support to help you stay
committed and reach your target is invaluable. “Plus, members learn about Slimming World’s incredible Food Optimising eating plan – no hunger, no deprivation, no counting. And as we come out of lockdown, many of us are looking for friendly support not just to lose weight but to reconnect with our community. “Our research has shown that people have found it harder than ever to manage their weight during lockdown, due to extra stress and anxiety and routines that have been thrown up in the air, so we’re delighted that we’ve still been able to help people in South Leeds to lose weight throughout lockdown. Slimming World has more than 50 years of experience behind it. She adds: “At Slimming World, we have the best eating plan in the world where members can, and do, lose weight without ever having to go hungry and a great activity programme that helps
people to find a way to move more within their daily lives. “What sets Slimming World apart though is that as well as the physiology of weight loss, we understand the psychology of slimming and help people to grow in confidence and selfesteem so they are empowered to change the habits of a
buzz being back together again. Tace has recently taken over the Middleton Tuesday evening group and is looking forward to welcoming returning and new members, as are the other consultants Jane and Barbara. To book in, or for more information please contact us: Hunslet Monday morning
lifetime. “There is nothing more rewarding than that, so being able to run a successful group and have that level of satisfaction is a magic combination!” We are now open for smaller, shorter groups in venues and it’s given the members a real
and evening, Friday morning. Middleton Tuesday evening Tace 07963 283990. Beeston Wednesday evening and Thursday morning. Middleton Thursday evening and Friday morning - Jane 07841 488658 Hunslet Thursday evening and Saturday morning -
Barbara 07521 082768 About Slimming World Slimming World was founded by Margaret Miles-Bramwell OBE in Derbyshire in 1969 and has become the UK and Ireland’s leading weight loss organisation with more people choosing to attend a Slimming World group each week than any other weight loss programme. We support hundreds of thousands of people, both in our groups and online, to lose weight and to adopt new habits to stay slim for life. Over the years our founding principles haven’t changed: • Our unique programme is based on a powerfully motivating support system called IMAGE (Individual Motivation and Group Experience) Therapy. Underpinned by a deep understanding of the psychology of overweight people, and incorporating the most effective sustainable behaviour change techniques, IMAGE Therapy is designed to inspire and motivate slimmers to make positive changes and to develop new, healthier habits around food and activity. • Food Optimising is our healthy eating plan, based on
Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife the liberating concept of Free Food. We encourage our members to fill up on those foods that are naturally lower in energy density (calories per gram) and also highly satisfying while limiting foods that are highest in fat and sugar and are less satisfying, so they lose weight without ever feeling hungry or deprived and without having to weigh, measure or count everything they eat. • Our activity programme, Body Magic, encourages members to become more active, more often in ways that they enjoy, until regular physical activity becomes an intrinsic part of daily routine. Above all, at the heart of everything we do, lies our passion for treating every member with genuine care, empathy and respect. We’re proud to work with the NHS, Public Health England, The Royal College of Midwives and others to help shape the future of weight management in the UK. For more information about Slimming World’s approach visit slimmingworld.co.uk. Follow Slimming World on Twitter: @slimmingworld or become a Slimming World fan on Facebook at fb.com/slimmingworld
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June 2021 | South Leeds Life
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News 9
Refugee Week Refugee Week, 14-20 June, is a UK-wide festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. This year’s theme is “We cannot walk alone.” The pandemic has also shown how interconnected we are – that the wellbeing of each of us depends on the welfare, safety and hard work of others. We are part of a shared ‘us’. One thing that stops us connecting is fear of the “other.” So South Leeds Life would like to introduce you to two refugees making a positive impact in our community.
Kidist’s company will unleash potential
A proud Kurd who has made his home in Leeds R
ebwar Sharrazure remembers the day he arrived in the UK, 20 September 2004, very clearly. “It was very hard for me, I didn’t know anyone, I didn’t know the language, I didn’t know the law, I didn’t know the culture – everything was different for me” he tells me. He had travelled to Europe from Kurdistan, a country that is not recognised by the four countries that occupy its land: Iran, Iraq, Turkey and Syria.
Maybe one day when we get our freedom you can return.” So he left his country and came to the UK. Live as an asylum seeker wasn’t easy. After three months in Croydon he was moved to Leeds, but had to move out of the shared house in Harehills when his initial application was turned down by the Home Office. He wasn’t allowed to work or claim benefits and now had nothing to live on for seven
Rebwar Sharrazure with his wife and son “We have problems because the countries that occupy us. We don’t have any freedom over there. We are not allowed to speak or write our language, we are not allowed to put a Kurdish name on our passports. “If you get caught, in Turkey they put you in prison for the rest of your life, in Iran they hang you, in Syria they don’t give you a passport.” Rebwar wanted to join the Kurdish freedom fighters, but his father wouldn’t let him saying: “Please, because three of my brothers have been killed and I don’t want you to be killed, please go somewhere safe.
months. Occasionally he got cash-in-hand jobs earning just £20 for 12 hours work. “I was struggling, it was very hard, a couple of times I was about to kill myself.” Eventually he found other Kurdish people living in Leeds and started making friends. He got a new lawyer and submitted a new asylum application. He was housed in Hyde Park and after a two year wait was granted Indefinite Leave to Remain. Rebwar now set about putting his life back on track. He enrolled at Park Lane College to learn English and started working first in a takeaway, then on building
sites, and has worked full time ever since. He is currently working as a delivery driver as well as working some shifts in his friend’s shop, but he has also owned two businesses over the years. Rebwar applied for and got British citizenship. “I got married once I got my passport and brought my wife here and now I’ve got a beautiful son who means everything to me. My life is now 10,000 times better than when I first arrived and had literally nothing. I’ve work hard, now I’ve got everything: I have my family, my own house, my car” he says proudly. Rebwar has been back to Kurdistan to see his family. It’s too dangerous to go to their home so they have to meet in a different city. But he’s very clear that Leeds is now his home: “Leeds is home to me, I love Leeds, I’ve lived here 17 of my 36 years.” Three years ago he decided to create Kurdish House Leeds (KHL) to help people who are new to Leeds. Having been through it himself, he knew hard it can be when you’re new to the country. As well as supporting new arrivals find jobs and houses, KHL organises Kurdish language and culture classes for children and gets involved with community litterpicking. “My family always taught me: If you drink the water from the river, don’t throw your rubbish in it” he explains. “I have learned a lot about the environment and the importance of taking care of where I live. Before it was just me, now I have my son to think about – that’s why we created our litterpicking groups to try to protect the area we are living in.” KHL also ran a self-funded food bank for four months during during the lockdown delivering food parcels to 50 families of all nationalities.
Kidist Teklemariam
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nleashing Refugee Potential C.I.C (URP) is a refugee led company which was set up in Jan 2019 by Kidist Teklemariam who came to the UK in 2015 and now lives in Cottingley. As an asylum seeker she volunteered for Oxfam and RETAS Leeds because she had to wait for a decision to look for a paid job. As Kidist explained volunteering helps her to learn more about the UK system and challenges refugees and asylum seekers are facing. Finding out the challenges of getting in to employment and self-employment opportunities among refugee and migrant communities inspires her to
join the University of Leeds Beckett University to do a research project in the Entrepreneurship and Business Development Department. During her stay with the University she designed Unleashing Refugee Potential and graduated by winning the Dines award, which is a prize given the top performer students of the year from their departments. On graduating she was appointed as a Training & Employment Advisor with RETAS, a charity with is greatly supportive of her plans. She is juggling her business with client-friendly hours (evenings and weekends). What she is aiming is to
make refugees and migrants journey as smooth as possible while integrating with the host society. Ensuring their wellbeing and improved life style by providing holistic support based on their untapped potential is her goal to achieve. Recently as a COVID response her organisation launched a Thriving Family project which is aiming to reduce educational inequality exacerbated by the pandemic. Universities and Colleges in Leeds are participating in volunteering and having their placements in this project. It’s a very rewarding opportunity according to volunteers and parents. The refugees and asylum seeker families are also getting support and advice for training, employment and selfemployment opportunities. As a refugee and newly arrived migrant family, an holistic approach to solve the challenges they are facing is vital. URP is inviting ethical employers and community members to come and work with them to make sure no-one is left behind. The team of 35 at URP is diverse and welcome any one who would like to contribute towards its aim. Sponsoring a child and young pupils in their tuition, volunteering to tutor, donating or buying one of the tote bags with a design by the refugee and asylum seeker on it, or offering volunteering, apprentice and/or job opportunities are some of the ways that you can involve in the project. You can contact URP on 07746 963497, or email: kidist@urp.org.uk
Refugee facts REFUGEES are people who have fled war, violence, conflict or persecution and have crossed an international border to find safety in another country and who cannot return home safely. In the UK: An ‘ASYLUM SEEKER’ is a refugee who has arrived in the country and ‘claimed asylum.’ They receive minimal support from the government, about £5 per day, and are not allowed to work whilst their claim is assessed. Nearly half of refused claims are overturned on appeal. 26,903 asylum applications were made in the last year. A ‘REFUGEE is someone who has been given ‘leave to remain’ in the country. They can work, access mainstream services and apply for British citizenship. 823 refugees settled in the UK in 2020. A MIGRANT is someone who has moved to another country for other reasons, such as to find work. The population of the UK is over 66,000,000
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South Leeds Life | June 2021
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10 School Life
Ingram Road wins national Best Breakfast Club award
Celebrating the best Breakfast Club
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ngram Road Primary School in Leeds has been crowned national winner in the Kellogg’s Breakfast Club Awards after winning the regional award of Best Breakfast club in Yorkshire and Humber. With over 450 amazing stories submitted, the competition was tough, but Ingram Road impressed the Kellogg’s panel of judges with their commitment to ensure every child has breakfast despite lockdown restrictions. The staff at Ingram Road Primary worked closely with the
food bank at Slung Low to deliver breakfast parcels both during term time and school holidays, showcasing a community effort to ensure the children were getting the best start to their day. This year, breakfast clubs have had to work harder than ever, with 51% of teachers saying they have had to put in more effort to provide breakfast compared to before the first lockdown. The breakfast club team at Ingram Road Primary noted how vital the club was to support working parents,
vulnerable families and ensuring that every child has breakfast so they are ready to learn. To celebrate their achievement, Ingram Road Primary School hosted a special breakfast club event with the help of a party pack delivered by Kellogg’s containing resources and equipment for the club. In addition to the party pack, Ingram Road Primary also received a £2,000 cash prize to spend on its breakfast club. The school will split the winnings between supporting
the food bank at Slung Low to ensure that their families are food secure when school is closed and investing in the club’s future sustainability. Alan Lane, Artistic Director and Food Bank Manager at Slung Low commented: “The work that Ingram Road Primary School has done in ensuring that their families were fed was an extraordinary effort. In this difficult time, they provided real practical and moral leadership and as such were the keystone in the collective community response from Holbeck. “It was a real privilege to work with them and to be a part of their team, all brilliant people” In a video message addressed to the school, Hilary Benn MP for Leeds Central said: “Congratulations to Ingram Road Primary School, you know better than anyone else how much the breakfast you provide is appreciate by the pupils, keep up the great work and I hope the award will help you to do precisely that.” This year, Kellogg’s is donating more money to support breakfast clubs than ever before. Along with their grants programmes which will provide funding for a minimum of 500 schools, Kellogg’s is pledging more investment – in cereal and money – to help Magic Breakfast to support 167,000 children every morning.
Leeds United star interviewed by Beeston Primary pupil L
eeds United star Luke Ayling met with Lennon from Beeston Primary School recently to support the youngster’s dreams of becoming a sports journalist. Lennon has followed every game for his favourite club during the 2020/21 Premier League season, writing match reports and producing his own content around the players and head coach Marcelo Bielsa. The club has developed a close relationship with the local
school that overlooks Elland Road, and throughout the season the club’s official charity have worked closely with both teachers and students. Through this work the club were able to learn about the hard work being carried out by Lennon and how much it had helped him through what has been an incredibly difficult year for him and his family. Leeds United previously published one of the detailed
match reports produced by Lennon following our 0-0 draw against Chelsea and he has also taken part in virtual calls with members of staff in the Media and Communications department, giving him the chance to ask questions and gain advice to help him in his development. To reward him for all of his hard work Lennon was then given the opportunity to meet with one of his heroes in the form of Leeds United star Luke
When Lennon met Luke
Ayling. The defender spent time being interviewed by the youngster during a Zoom call following a grueling training session at Thorp Arch, allowing Lennon to learn more about him and life at Leeds United as a footballer. If you’d like to take a look at how Lennon got on, search for When Lennon met Luke Ayling at video.leedsunited.com/ browse
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Middleton Primary pupils celebrate diversity
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iddleton Primary School has been celebrating diversity and inclusion for the last fortnight. Teaching Assistant Nichola Stanhope told us more: “We took a fortnight out of our timetable to teach our children all about the different ways families are made up and how we should embrace diversity within our communities. “All year groups were tasked with developing their biggest end outcome and they didn’t disappoint! “We eased into the fortnight with an explanation of what
would be included in our activities and how important it is to celebrate the diversity we have within school. “The children really enjoyed the ‘Love Has No Labels’ video and really began to embrace the clear message that, regardless of gender, age or disability, LOVE HAS NO LABELS! “The children at Middleton Primary School all had a fantastic fortnight creating some amazing work to show around school to remind us that we are diverse, we are inclusive and we celebrate everyone!”
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June 2021 | South Leeds Life
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News 11
Cockburn MAT schools seek new governors C
ockburn Multi-academy Trust (Cockburn MAT) are looking for committed people to join as Trustees and Governors. Cockburn Multi-academy Trust is made up of three secondary schools and one primary school in our community. At present they are Cockburn School, Cockburn John Charles Academy and Middleton Primary School. They are also building a free school Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy which will open in September 2021. The Trust was formed in 2016 and has continually grown since. They have an excellent reputation in Leeds and beyond and are in a privileged position to be able to give considerable support to an increasing number of schools within the city of Leeds and across the region.
The Vision of Cockburn MAT is every child deserves an exceptional education. Their vision is to create a group of exceptional schools that radically improve students’ life chances. They seek to widen their students’ aspirations; to reach destinations that are attainable and fulfilling. They work to raise attainment and provide exceptional teaching and learning for all of their students through high expectations of academic success and behaviour. The Cockburn MAT Board Trustees have overall responsibility and ultimate decision-making authority for all work of Cockburn MAT including the establishing and running of the schools. The Local Governing Body operates at a strategic level and are not involved in the day-to-day
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running of a school. They are responsible for both the conduct of the school and for the promotion of high standards. Governors must ensure that the school works efficiently and effectively towards achieving the Vision, and that the school provides a high-quality education for its pupils. Governors have to build a thorough knowledge of the school and its community. They
must support and constructively challenge the school. Governors already in place at the schools say that the benefits of being a governor are immense. Being a governor develops professional skills and experience such as strategic planning, chairing, financial planning, and team working, all of which are valued by employers and can assist their own career development.
‘Soft skills’ are also important – the ability to be able to build relationships with a range of people, to be able to work as part of a team, to be able to question, and to make connections between different types of information. Being a governor helps to build relationships and networks in the local area while most importantly supporting children and young people in the community.
If our readers would like to become Governors and Trustees they do not need to be experts in the field of education. What they do need is an interest in the schools and in the welfare of the pupils, together with the time and willingness to get involved. For further information please contact Sharon Burns, Chief Operating Officer, on info@cockburnmat.org in the first instance.
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South Leeds Life | June 2021
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12 Cycling Special
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Get Set for Clara’s story summer cycling B by Karen Peck
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he last 12 months has seen a real community of cycling opportunities develop and bought together within the Inner South. In 2020 Get Set Leeds Local secured British Cycling Places to Ride funding, matched through Active Leeds to develop a hub for cycling opportunities from Cross Flatts Park. Being able to provide bikes and helmets to groups, having community conversations and creating new connections has sparked a programme of activities for this summer, from beginner learn to ride sessions for adults and road confidence sessions through Cycle North commissioned by City Connect, to social led riding groups through Better Action for Families, Your Space and South Leeds Lakers and Cycle for Health sessions. There’s hopefully something there to support anyone hop on a bike, whether cycling is an activity someone has just never had the opportunity to learn, or it’s something not done since they were a child, or someone just looking for others to go on a social ride with, there will be something for you. Watch out for the full timetable of opportunities on our social media fb.com/ GSLHolbeckandBeestonHill and @GetLeeds on Twitter. We’re keen to hear from any local residents with an interest in helping us develop the cycling opportunities further. Although there will be a packed programme of activity for this summer, we’re always keen to look at how we can work with the community to develop sustainable activity which meets the needs of the community. Cross Flatts Park would be a great location for a regular
parent and toddler session balance bike session. We can provide bikes, helmets, and mini ramps along with Ready Set Ride training to any parents who might want to set up an organised weekly session. Get in touch if it’s something you’d like to help develop getsetleedslocal@leeds.gov.uk Get Set Leeds Local are looking forward to planning a cycling summer event at Cross Flatts Park, working with all the great cycling groups and partners to showcase all the good stuff happening. Watch this space for further information. Get in touch if you’d like to be involved in planning something. In addition we’re starting to talk about an Autumn Sportive event. A Sportive is a set route distance event to give people a challenge to work towards, a little like a running 5km or 10km event which gives people a goal to work towards. One of the things we’ve been asked is about local cycling routes which are ideal for bike rides. Middleton Park from Cross Flatts Park is accessible by nearly all off road cycle routes (head towards John Charles Centre), where from Middleton Park or Leeds Urban Bike Park you can enjoy a range of routes. Search online to find ideas for your next ride: • Child Friendly Bike Rides in Yorkshire (Facebook group) • www.leeds.gov.uk – plan your cycle journey • www.letsride.org.uk – search local routes • www.cyclinguk.org/journe y-planner • komoot.com If you have an enjoyable and accessible local led ride then share it with us, and together we can start to build up a bank of enjoyable ride routes, which start from South Leeds. Where’s your favourite local ride?
eeston Hill resident Clara has shared how she got into cycling last year: “I was 13 by the time I first had a go on a bike. So I tried it out once or twice and one time I fell off, I got scared and I never got back on a bike again until recently. “Back in March last year, when lockdown started – learning to ride was always in the back of my mind. I have three kids, and we’re a very active family – we love walking and I love going out and about, but I didn't know how to ride a bike. “So in lockdown I thought maybe I could learn something new. I thought maybe I could learn to ride a bike and we could all go out together. “So I searched for lessons online, and I came across the training that was being delivered by City Connect, running at Cross Flatts Park. My first session was in August, and I did about 10 lessons. With each session I slowly grew in confidence.” After the initial lessons Clara got a bike through the Leeds Big Bike Fix, which takes donated bikes, volunteers do them up and then they’re donated back out to the community. “The bike had a few problems, I went back and they fixed them. Although my three children all had bikes, my husband didn't and he received a bike from the Big Bike Fix project as well. The project just kind of worked off the street - it was amazing - the project kind of converted a small
Clara out cycling with her daughter
yard into repair shop. “After the cycle classes, I got really confident on my bike, and I have been going for bike rides on my own and with my kids, every Saturday, something we couldn't do before. And I've learned about new places that you can ride - like the canal - I didn't know about it before - so we all go there together as a family. “I’ve also gone with groups of friends - because we could exercise together outdoors in group of six - so we have been on two rides together.” On the confidence building sessions Clara and the group were taken as a group on a ride to Temple Newsam. “That was really helpful! That helped me develop a lot of the skills that Chris had taught us in the classes. “I think those rides out were really useful because, someone like me I learned to ride – that’s fine - but getting out and about will make you feel more confident using roads and visiting new places where you wouldn't actually go if it was just you. “If there was a group locally that went for short rides that would be great for me. I'm kind of like intermediate at the moment - I'm not confident to cycle on the roads in Leeds city centre yet. I’m still avoiding very busy roads - if I come across a really busy road, at the moment - I get off my bike push it to where I can get on a quieter
Clara has discovered new parts of the city since she learned to ride road, and off I go again. “You can't imagine the number of people my age who never learned to ride a bike. After I learned, I spoke to a few people and I told them what I had done, and I've referred three more people to the cycle training classes. “There are lots of people out there just like me who for different reasons never learnt to ride a bike. The free cycle training was amazing for that! I don't think I could have done it on my own.” Q: How would you say cycling makes you feel? “Oh lovely, is one of the best things I've ever done I really love it, I never thought that I would like it so much! It's like doing an activity, being active, and you don't have to force yourself to go to the gym.” Q: Are there any other benefits you think you get out of cycling? “Because I'm riding now, I'm helping not only myself, but my kids to be confident riding. My daughter next year is going to go
Cycle for health A
The South Leeds Lakers Cycling Club is waiting to welcome you
to High School - if the High School is within cycling distance, she could ride to school. I think that would be really good. “When we know which high school she'll be going to, we were thinking of cycling there and back with her together a few times, to give her the confidence to cycle there on her own – that would help her. “I think we should think about the access to high schools for kids - so that they could get to school by bike. “I think you it would help make people more confident cycling - if we know that the roads are safe, or if there are special cycle routes just for people cycling. “I think for your mental health you need to get out at least once a week.” Q: What would you like to do in the future? “I would like to do some more advanced cycling. I would like there to be more groups who can help people raise their confidence by going on rides from where they live. I think it
programme of Cycle For Health sessions will soon be starting at Cross Flatts Park. Cycle for Health is a cycling led intervention by Cycling UK, which seeks out and then offers a route into regular activity for those identified as suffering from a physical or mental health condition, helping to kick-start the drive to improve their condition and lifestyle. Participants are usually referred by health workers, local authority health and physical activity teams, GPs, charities or community groups. The project has clear targets:
1. Promote a healthy & active lifestyle 2. Offer cycling to those who suffer from a long- or shortterm health condition 3. Increase access to cycling in deprived communities where barriers to activity are prevalent 4. Have a positive and lasting influence on an individuals’ health and wellbeing beyond the 12-week intervention 5. Influence lifestyle and travel choices 6. Develop lasting and clear referral routes onto the
June 2021 | South Leeds Life
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Cycling Special 13
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Your Space & BAFF set up new cycling groups A
would be good to have that kind of support after we learn how to ride. “I think it would be really good to have activities for kids - so that they can learn to ride - so that people don't get to their 40s like me, without being able to ride a bike. “I think local repair projects like the Big Bike Fix is really important – people in your local neighbourhood who can maybe help with small fixes that can keep your bike ‘on the road’. There are lots of people who can’t afford to get repairs done in bike shops, so a project like this one is really valuable. Everytime I go there with a problem, they try to show me how I could fix it myself next time. “I really couldn’t have done it without both the cycle training and the Leeds Big Bike Fix project.” Clara is now looking at one day becoming a ride leader, to support others in a sociable way to enjoy cycling too.
project to continue the level of impact We’ll be delivering this programme through a 12 week free course, with one 2 hour session per week taking place at Cross Flatts Park. Each course will be delivered in a small group and is led by a qualified instructor. Bikes and all equipment is provided and the course delivers a steady but achievable increase in activity each week. If you’d like to know more about becoming a referral partner, please email: zoe.westerman@cyclinguk.org
ctive Leeds has supported two new cycling groups in South Leeds, through the Cyclying UK’s Community Cycle Club programme. "Cycling UK has been instrumental in getting our group set up and feeling confident to get out and about.” commented Arlie Haslam, Community Wellbeing Development Worker at Your Space. “We have received lots of advice and support, and we are looking forward to investing the grant we have received back into our cycling group. “Our group offers a great opportunity to build your confidence and skills in cycling in a supportive and friendly environment. We also focus on the social aspect of cycling, and the benefits that this has on mental health and wellbeing. Our Cycling UK membership will help us to buy more bikes, offer more sessions and training opportunities for our participants. We have a lot to look forward to!" Over the last few weeks, Your Space has been busy with their new ‘women’s cycling & social group’ in Beeston Hill. The group has been a great way for local women to get back into cycling, build up their skills and confidence, and meet others. Your Space is a community project in partnership with Touchstone, Women’s Health Matters and Holbeck Together, with a focus on improving mental health and wellbeing. Cycling and exercise is a wonderful way to boost your wellbeing and feel good.
The Your Space group aims to build a sense of community amongst female cyclists; making the sport more accessible, and less intimidating. It has been great watching our participants improve and surprise themselves at their progress. Some of the participants had not cycled in over 30 years before joining the group. But it is true what they say – you never forget how to ride a bike! It is never too late to set yourself a new challenge and take up a hobby like cycling. Here is some of what the group members have said: "Thank you for the opportunity, I never thought I would do something like this." "It is great to have my own thing, without the kids being involved." "I'm really proud of myself. So glad I came - it felt like being a kid again!” After the first few weeks of building up the basics in Cross Flatts Park, they are now venturing out a bit further, and building up knowledge around road safety and commuting. “Our ambition is to start riding on the road, canal and beyond. We want to utilise bike riding as a way to socialise and explore new areas in Leeds.” If you are a woman and are interested in getting into cycling, you would be very welcome to join us. Our group is a fantastic way to start your cycling journey in a friendly and nonjudgemental environment. We have bikes and helmets you can borrow – all you need to bring along is yourself!” You can find out more by
contacting Arlie on 07435 914350 or email: arlieh @touchstonesupport.org.uk. Julie Gill rediscovered a love of cycling last year after Covid-19 prevented her delivering her usual community fitness classes. In March 2020 all her freelance work stopped and her business, like so many others, was forced to close. “I needed to get out of the house so I borrowed my brother’s bicycle and started to cycle. This gave me such a buzz, not only was it great to get outdoors in the fresh air I was also getting the exercise I so much needed too. I could feel my anxiety and depression lift every time l cycled.” Before Covid-19 Julie delivered fitness activities with Better Action for Families. When they stopped they looked at setting up a friendly local cycling group. Julie received funding through Cycling UK to develop a community cycling club. Julie was able to attend ride leader training, and is now running regular Saturday morning rides most weeks at 10am from Middleton Park Circus (weather permitting) and details on her South Leeds Social Cycling Group Facebook page. The South Leeds Social Cycling group now have a growing number of followers, with others catching the cycling bug! “We managed to get out this Saturday and had two new members who joined us. Hopefully the group will build back up over the next few weeks as the weather improves.”
CYCLING SHORTS Lakers launch cycling club South Leeds Lakers was established in 2015 as a running club and has gone from strength to strength with around 80 people running regularly. We are now pleased and excited to be able to offer a Cycling section to the people of South Leeds. We currently have three recently qualified British Cycling Level One Ride Leaders who have been preparing to lead small groups of riders on short to intermediate rides. Our rides will generally set off from Cross Flatts Park in Beeston on a Saturday morning to begin with, but we hope to offer regular evening rides throughout the Summer too. We hope our inaugural ride will take place in June 2021, but please follow our Facebook page @SouthLeedsLakersCycling for regular updates and information or email us at southleedslakerscycling@gmail.com for further details. We look forward to welcoming you to the Laker family!
Free cycle training in the park from Cycle North Free socially distanced sessions in Cross Flatts Park are available to book each week with a qualified instructor. Learn to ride – for the complete beginner. Experienced instructors will guide you step by step, from getting on and off, to bike handling and balance. Beginner – for the new or returning rider. These sessions are delivered in a traffic-free environment for people who can already ride but want to build up their confidence. They’ll help you pick up the skills and knowledge you need to go down to the local park or to take a trip out into the countryside. Improver – for people who want to make short road journeys safely. Gain the skills and confidence to ride alongside other road users. Learn to keep the best position on the road, communicate with other road users, anticipate other’s behaviour and stay safe. Sessions start on quiet streets and progress onto busier roads as skills and confidence develop. Bikes will be available to borrow at all group training sessions. To book your place visit: cyclenorth-leeds.eventbrite.com
Free cycle training
Big Bike Fix The Big Bike Fix is a locally-led project, to fix up unwanted bicycles and donate them back into the community. Founded in Beeston in 2020, the south Leeds team (based across LS10 and LS11) have now restored and given away close to 600 bikes. For full info, including how to request a bike, look for 'The Big Bike Fix Leeds' on Facebook, or message 07738 921277. Unwanted bikes, and volunteers (especially fixers) are always welcome. The team also run drop-ins for people to get their own bikes fixed every Sunday, 12pm-4pm, at their workshop on Harlech Avenue in Beeston.
Bike Library returning soon to Community Hubs The Bike Libraries are anticipated to reopen at Dewsbury Road and St George’s Community Hubs from the 21st June. They offer opportunities for everyone to learn to ride and enjoy cycling, regardless of their circumstances, income or location. The bikes can be hired for a day, a week or even longer and a great way to exercise, get to work, school or college and spend time with friends and family.
Help the Big Bike Revival
Building confidence: Your Space’s women’s cycling and social group
Cycling UK’s Big Bike Revival is all about making cycling accessible to all. The 2021 programme is now open for applications, and they are encouraging local community organisations and groups in the Cross Flatts park area to apply. Head to our web site for full details and a link to apply: www.cyclinguk.org/bigbikerevival/current-programme
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South Leeds Life | June 2021
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14 Comment
In our view New school South Leeds has been in need of a new high school for several years so it’s good to see plans for the new Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy at last. The new building promises to bring extra benefits for the local community with access to sporting and drama facilities. Both the temporary building opening in September and the new school proper are using off-site construction techniques which will reduce their environmental impact and the new school is set have solar panels and a grey water system.
Refugee Week Britain has a long tradition of accepting refugees from French protestant Huguenots in the 16th century and Russian Jews in the 19th century fleeing religious persecution, through to today’s refugees from Syria fleeing war or like Rebwar Sharrazure on page 9 fleeing political persecution. Some people see accepting refugees as a one way process that has a cost to our country, but in fact refugees bring so much with them. They enhance our culture, our economy and our communities. Refugee Week is an annual opportunity to celebrate that contribution.
In praise of cycling Bicycles come in all shapes and sizes to fit the myriad ways you can enjoy them. Many of us learn to ride a bike as a child, perhaps starting with a balance bike before moving on to a BMX or other bike. For those who didn’t learn, or haven’t ridden for many years, it great to see training courses and led rides to boost your confidence. If you would like commute to work on a bike and take advantage of the new cycling infrastructure in Leeds you can even get a trainer to help you find the best route and get you used to it. Cycling can be a great family activity and is a great way for kids to burn off some energy. Cycling is a means of transport, exercise, a social activity and best of all it’s carbon neutral. Go on now: get on yer bike!
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Your letters and comments Refugee Week
that are being spent on these projects would be far better used on social care, education, improving social housing etc. It is time the council got their heads out of the clouds and dealt with the problems that are all around them if they would but look. Stuart Turnbull
Pear class have been learning about refugees and reading The Boy at the Back of the Class. Here’s a sample of some of the poems they have written when imagining what life can be like for refugees. Cottingley Primary Academy
Cycle lanes
Shame Wayne or Ed didn’t get in, we’re just gonna be left with the same old same old. Areas losing even more of their identity and more unsustainable housing, less green space. I don’t think there’s any left in south leeds apart from Middleton Park and Cross Flatts areas where 2 of the 6 councillors live. Judith Tempest
I am glad to see the cycle lanes. I live in Morley but cycle to work in Leeds city centre twice a week I will be pleased once the Elland road cycle path is finished. It will be great when there are queues on the road but as a cyclist you can whizz past all of those annoyed drivers (joking). I can now pretty much guarantee half an hour to 35 minute commute which matches driving a car. Plus cheaper, healthier less wear and tear on my car. The one thing I do sympathise with is either drivers who need to drive due to disability and families who would struggle with the public transport we have. However in One of Pear class’s refugee poems terms of the later if we can make Sadly, Stewart, the proposed railway places closer to home more attractive to go station does not really support the White to maybe we won’t feel the need to always Rose SHOPPING Centre as it will still be a be driving off somewhere. bit of a hike to reach such from station to As for the bus stops and how cycle lanes shopping centre entrance. navigate these I think it is difficult to think It’s been sold on the basis that it will of better methods. I do agree about a support the business park and the current significant portion of cyclists in the and proposed housing in the surrounding pedestrian areas of Leeds city centre that area. Like the vast majority of Leeds City they need to give priority to pedestrians Council’s transport policies it’s another slow down if using shared space ditto for badly thought out, ill prepared and underthe canal path. consulted idea. I am surprised at the vitriolic response to The chances of Cottingley station existing the plans. Fair enough disagree but then to support the commuters on the Cottingley realise that south leeds probably has very and lower Churwell housing estates beyond poor air quality due to the amount of traffic the creation of this white elephant is NIL. and the more people use alternatives the Martin Cossins better this will be for air quality. Andrew McLoughlin
What a great event! We should see events like this in all primary schools. Eve Tidswell
Amazing little girl deserves nothing but the best and to be overwhelmed with love & support! Well done Leeds - what a community! Kelly Hughes
Extremely interesting to read this about Leeds past history. Jan
Kadiee Green
I just cannot believe the mentality of constructing such a massive pile of potentially underused tarmac. Narrowing the roads and causing unnecessary frustrations for motorists. Geoffrey Ewen The money Leeds City Council is spending on cycle lanes and similar projects comes from the government and is only available to spend on these types of project, it simply can’t be spent on social care. The Council also have duty to make transport work in the city. I don’t blame individual motorists, but as a whole we bring the city to gridlock on a regular basis. Building bus lanes and cycle lanes will help make these alternatives more attractive. Personally, I’m looking forward to the cycle lanes being completed so I can have a safe alternative to driving into Leeds. Sue Talbot
New rail station I think it’s a good idea to have a train line to the White Rose Center, it should have been done when it was first built, so should a line to Leeds Bradford Airport Leeds has been behind for years. Stewart
Amazing parents as well. My heart goes out to them. Linda
Local election results Labour has nothing to be proud about when the turnout was so low. It is sad but true that many people do not vote in local elections because they do not see the point, believing that very little or nothing will change. The council is fixated on vanity projects such as pedestrianizing the area around the Corn Exchange and the cycle path on Dewsbury Road that will only be used by a handful of people. The millions
Celebrating diversity Well done Middleton Primary School. This is where it starts, children need educating about this at a young age. Lynne
Hunslet Warriors ARLFC The World Cup grant to improve their facilities is great news for the Warriors, a great club run by unpaid volunteers. Grants like this subsidise other fundraising work that this club does, to offer boys and girls from 6 years upwards to enjoy rugby league. Some may go on to represent their country, like others in the past, whilst others will enjoy the chance to meet new friends, in a safe environment. Support this fantastic club! Jim Samme
A gravestone older than the cemetery
Thanks for an interesting read, more like this please. Raymond
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@HealthyCommsLDS Thanks Mary Grant @HousingLeeds + 'Green Drs' @GroundworkYorks who helped our workers Bally + Huazhu get electricity switched back on for a chap in his 70s + to @CentreCranmore for helping with food parcel deliveries. He now feels hopeful for the future @HealthforAllLds @leedslibraries The original Beeston Library was inside Beeston Primary, in a classroom that transformed into a library after the children went home. It must have been a nightmare for both the librarian and the teacher! @NewBewerleySch 6W medal winners! A great sports day was had by all
Really enjoyed reading this, thanks. Ann Wilson
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.
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@LeedsCC_News Women’s Safety Survey Women Friendly Leeds have launched this survey to gather views & experiences about the safety of women, girls & nonbinary people who live, work or study in #LEEDS . Please take part and share with friends and colleagues orlo.uk/pxpcU @MH_LD_Carers We had a lovely walk around Middleton Park...the sun broke through ..birds were singing and the bluebells were spectacular. A great way to connect with nature 😊
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Comment 15
MP’s notebook by Hilary Benn MP
T
here are now just five months to go before world leaders gather in Glasgow for the big climate change conference. Meanwhile, the scientific evidence about our changing climate accumulates. The 2015 Paris climate agreement committed countries to keep the global temperature increase to just 1.5C above late 19th century levels so as to prevent the worst effects of global warming. But the latest report from the World Meteorological Organisation says that there is a 40% chance that global temperatures will reach this 1.5C limit in the next five years. This increase may not seem a lot, but its effects will be significant. Climate change is already affecting the UK with rising sea levels, higher
June 2021 | South Leeds Life
average temperatures and more frequent very wet days. And globally, we are seeing heat waves, drought, more cyclones in the Atlantic, extreme rainfall and coastal flooding. The cause is rising carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and the solution is to get these down to zero. And that means we have to get on with changing the way in which we produce things, travel and heat our homes all of which are currently heavily dependent on fossil fuels - ie oil and natural gas. Let's take our homes as an example. Many households in South Leeds depend on gas central heating, but that's going to have to change because eventually we won't be able to use natural gas anymore. This won’t be the first time in our history that we've made a significant change to how we
heat our homes; the era where heating depended entirely on coal is almost completely gone. So, the question now is what’s going to replace those gas boilers? There are two basic choices; one is electric heating - eg heat pumps - and the other is replacing gas with hydrogen. The advantage of heat pumps – which work by extracting heat from the air outside our homes - is that for every unit of electricity used, a heat pump can produce three or four units of heat which makes it much more efficient than direct electric heating. And provided the electricity for the pump comes from renewable sources no CO2 is produced. The same is true of hydrogen when it burns but it has to be made by electrolysis using water and renewable electricity (known as green hydrogen).
There are other ways of producing hydrogen using natural gas but the issue is whether all the CO2 emissions can be captured in the process. Heat pumps have a unit outside of the home but they don't generally produce as much heat as current gas central heating, so we would probably need larger radiators and better internal insulation. In the case of hydrogen, all that’s needed is to replace the boiler and everything else could remain the same. There are, however, practical issues to do with the safety and operation of hydrogen which are currently being worked on, and it will only succeed as a long-term replacement for natural gas if we can produce enough green hydrogen quickly enough. And that, in turn, will require a huge increase in renewable electricity. How much will all this cost? What will the price be of a heat pump as opposed to a hydrogen-ready boiler and what will the respective running costs be? All this remains to be
Hilary Benn is our Member of Parliament. 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: Unity Business Centre, 26 Roundhay Road, Leeds LS7 1AB; Tel: 0113 244 1097
Hilary Benn MP seen, but in the last couple of decades the cost of renewable electricity, which was originally very high, has come down significantly. Should government decide which of these technologies to use or should it just set the standard - namely that by a certain date all homes must have zero emission heating – and then leave consumers to make the choice between the different technologies? What is certainly the case is that those making heat pumps and those working on hydrogen are busy producing and testing products
because they can see what’s coming. The final question is how will we pay for this change? This is really important because we cannot have a transition to a zero carbon future in which some people end up facing costs that they simply cannot afford. Tackling climate change has to be done in a way that is fair for our homes, our jobs and the way in which we live our lives. So, the message from Glasgow will be that change is coming, and we need to be ready for it.
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Councillors’ briefing B
eeston & Holbeck Ward Update: With election season being over we’re keen to focus our time and energy improving our local area. One thing that we have heard from the lovely people of Beeston, Cottingley Hall and Holbeck is they are keen for us to do more to engage with residents. We’re looking forward to doing that in person as lockdown eases! As ever, please get in touch if you want to meet one of us and discuss any local issues. More widely, we have secured agreement from the Active Travel Team to do a much wider consultation on the Active Travel Neighbourhood which will mean traffic calming measures being put in place following consultation – so those residents who live between Cross Flatts Park and Old Lane should receive some correspondence from the Council in the next few months. In Holbeck, we have been listening carefully to residents and are looking to find ways to engage with many more and improve the area. We’re looking at how the Managed Approach works, but also keen to put together a plan to improve Holbeck Moor, with funding for lighting for the Multi Use Games Area already in place! In addition work continues on the
multi-million pound scheme to improve the insulation in a number of local houses, particularly in the Recreations area. As we move out of lock-down, it is great to see some of the usual events start up again, particularly the free to participate ones, so a massive thanks to those who help with Junior Parkrun on Sunday mornings at Cross Flatts Park and to the Junior Lakers volunteers! Thank you. unslet & Riverside Ward Update: With pandemic restrictions on course to be lifted on the 21 June, our focus in the last few weeks (on top of our regular duties) has been planning how we return to our pre-pandemic engagement activity. The last 15 months have made it difficult for us to engage with residents - we followed not just the letter of restrictions but the spirit of them. It hurt politically but it was the right thing to do. Going forward, we want to keep the best of what we did digitally over the pandemic and combine it with what we did well face-to-face. Therefore we have: • arranging the return of face-to-face Cllr advice sessions beginning on the 26 June. These will be on the 4th
Saturday of every month – excluding August and December • restarted intense streetby-street issue finding walks. These cover the whole ward roughly every six weeks and highlight hundreds of environmental and highways issues • redesigned our social media communications so resident in all the major local
signed the long-awaited contract to fund the new Cockburn Laurence Calvert Academy in Middleton. The acute shortage of local high school places has frustrated parents, young people and ourselves for many years. The Government no longer allows Councils to build their own schools to meet local needs. All new ones have to be agreed and funded by them.
Consultation coming on Middleton golf course land
H
Cross Flatts residents will be consulted on new traffic calming plans, similar to this scheme in Hyde Park
groups get more regular updates and reminders of our contact details • designed new Councillor contact posters which are ready to be distributed to noticeboards, community venues and shop across the ward • arranged to restart of door-to-door street advice sessions And much more. We do our jobs best when we speak to the people we represent. The last 15 months have made that difficult. But as we now come towards the end (we hope) of a difficult period – we will not only return to what we did before, but double our efforts. Because if we don’t know, we can’t help. iddleton Park Ward Update: The Government has finally
M
Meanwhile, work is progressing on the temporary two-year site
next to St George’s Centre. As Covid measures are relaxed, we will be carrying out public consultations on the future use of the former South Leeds Golf course land (with its wonderful views) and clubhouse. We are working in partnership with the Beeston and Holbeck Councillors, the Friends of Middleton Park, Leeds Urban Bike Park, Council departments, Wade’s Charity and the Leeds Hospital Charity. Ideas and opinions from the community will play a crucial part. Current suggestions about how to enhance these invaluable green spaces include tree planting, pathways, wildflower meadows and improving access
(including essential parking provision). Leeds Urban Bike Park has put forward plans for activity areas and an education centre, and the Leeds Hospital Charity has a proposal for a Covid memorial wood. We are continuing to press Highways for durable pothole repairs, which we know isn’t always the case. The condition of our roads is a massive challenge. There are 2,321 streets across the city and 75 in Middleton Park Ward that require refurbishment. The citywide backlog is over £130m. Funding is available for only 2 or 3 schemes per ward each year. So decent repairs are essential in the meantime.
Your Leeds City Councillors Beeston & Holbeck ward Includes Beeston from Cross Flatts Park to the Ring Road, Cottingley and Holbeck. The three councillors are:
Gohar Almass 07445 878 333 gohar.almass@leeds.gov.uk Angela Gabriel 07946 632 468 angela.gabriel@leeds.gov.uk Andrew Scopes 07860 400 645 andrew.scopes@leeds.gov.uk
Hunslet & Riverside ward Includes parts of the city centre and riverside, Beeston Hill and Hunslet. The three councillors are:
Mohammed Iqbal 0113 226 8796 mohammed.iqbal@leeds.gov.uk Elizabeth Nash 0113 275 8594 elizabeth.nash@leeds.gov.uk Paul Wray 07528 512 649 paul.wray@leeds.gov.uk
Middleton Park ward Includes Belle Isle and Middleton. The three councillors are: Sharon Burke Kim Groves Paul Truswell
0113 378 8814 sharon.burke@leeds.gov.uk 07891 741 832 kim.groves@leeds.gov.uk 0113 378 8811 paul.truswell@leeds.gov.uk
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South Leeds Lives 17
Bile Beans sign recalls a time before the NHS by Cllr Elizabeth Nash
I
t must go without saying that we are all very grateful for our wonderful National Health Service especially during this awful pandemic. But we did not always have the NHS. It was the post-war Labour Government which created the NHS in 1948 to give treatment free of charge at the point of need. Before then, for ordinary working people a visit to the doctors was a very expensive business and illness or injury brought extreme hardship. Before 1900 the only place where medical treatment of any kind was available was at the workhouse! Hunslet had two workhouses – one at Carr Hall on Hillidge Road which eventually moved to a purposebuilt workhouse at St George`s Rothwell, and the other at the bottom of Beeston Road on the site where St Luke’s School is now. Leeds was reasonably lucky in that, in common with other cities, a charitable trust was formed and opened a Dispensary, originally in Briggate before moving to a purpose-built Dispensary on North Street in 1904. Dispensaries were the original minor injuries clinics but
doctors were also present for consultation. Doctors gave their services free but many did so to enhance the reputation of their private practices. All these dispensaries were absorbed into the NHS and Leeds’ North Street Dispensary remained open until 1971. St James’ Hospital was originally called the Leeds Union Hospital and incorporated a workhouse which existed until 1925 when the Leeds Dispensary made the workhouse part of it redundant and the hospital changed its name. When I was a very young
councillor I remember on a few occasions meeting elderly constituents who would not go to St James for treatment and especially not as an in-patient because they had grown up during the time when it was a workhouse! Elsewhere workhouses still existed until the creation of the NHS and a state pension for retired people. The only alternative to the workhouse for working people was to take patent remedies and Bile Beans were one of them and were very popular. They were a laxative when people believed that being regular was a sign of, and
helpful to, good health. The marketing of them was so good that they were manufactured right up until 1981. At the request of the Hunslet Carr Residents Association, your councillors have paid for the restoration of an historic advertisement for Bile Beans at the crossroads of Moor Road and Balm Road. The background to the advertisement is bright yellow and certainly makes one smile in these gloomy days. I hope the advertisement is a reminder to all how valuable our NHS is, particularly now when it is rolling out the vaccines for Covid19 free of charge at the point of need which would have been unthinkable prior to its formation. We should all guard against and oppose any attempts to privatise this invaluable service.
A ‘Leeds Pal’ from Hunslet by Peter Taylor
W
illiam Arthur Hollings from Hunslet joined the Leeds Pals Battalion and fought in the Battle of the Somme during the First World War. Although he survived the battle, he later died of pneumonia. This is his story. William was born on 4 September 1890, the fourth of six children. The family lived at 3 Grove Road, off Church Street. His father, also called William was born in Hunslet and worked as a blacksmith.
L.Cpl William Hollings
June 2021 | South Leeds Life
William senior’s first wife, Alice Rumfitt, had died, probably in childbirth, and although the son survived, he died aged 8. Two of the six children William had with his second wife Mary Anne Hamer also died very young. This was typical for a working class family in Victorian Hunslet. When William was 19 he was working as a shorthand typist in an engineering firm. His sister Dorothy was also a shorthand typist, at a brush manufacturer. This was a time when secretarial jobs were gradually changing from being traditional men’s occupations to women’s, a change which was to be greatly accelerated by the war. Britain declared war on Germany on 4 August 1914, exactly one month before William’s 23rd birthday. On the day before his birthday he put his name down to join The Leeds Pals, and a week later he was attested. His service records have not survived, but he will have
gone to Colsterdale for his basic training, then on to Ripon and Fovant. William was quite a prolific letter writer and kept his father up to date on what was happening and many of these letters have survived. William had been put into No 13 Platoon of D Company, and was made Lance Corporal. The Battle of the Somme began on 1 July 1916, and a few days later William wrote once more to his father: “The honour of being first ‘over the lid’ of our brigade fell on my own platoon and No 10. Not a man hesitated. In broad daylight last Saturday morning our lads had the order to advance. No sooner had the first lot got over the parapet than the Germans opened up a terrific bombardment … They had machine guns every few yards, and it seemed impossible for a square inch of space to be left free from flying metal.” But William somehow survived, and on 22 October he wrote: “Isn’t it somewhere about a year ago since I was
home on leave last. Nearly all the men about me are new, as very few of the old lot are left.” He would not be ‘one of the old lot’ for much longer. In another letter he wrote about: “Canteens run by men who had done their bit and many a time I wished that I could get a similar job … We are having some very wretched weather here and the water has nowhere to drain away to, therefore the whole country, roads and trenches are in a mobile muddy mess. We used to have hopes of some day going into a rest camp, but I do not think such camps exist.” Then William fell ill, and was taken to No 44 Casualty Clearing Station, where, on 4 March 1917, he died of pneumonia. He was buried in Puchevillers British Cemetery, Picardy, and after the war was awarded the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal and the Victory Medal. These, together with his Memorial Plaque and Scroll, would have been sent to his mother, his father having died in 1920, aged 66.
A vinegar brewery on Elland Road by Ken Burton
A
fter beer was brewed it was packed into casks to mature, but in warm weather this led to problems with the beer frequently turning sour and the vinegar maker depended on this for his supply of malt vinegar. In Leeds the major producer was the Cambrian Vinegar Company. This was established in 1864 by Joliam Chivers at Pontypridd, Glamorgan. A branch of the Welsh company was opened in Leeds in 1865 and another in Cardiff in 1866, the Cardiff business being sold to S. Chivers & Company. In Leeds it began life in a cellar in New Briggate before moving in 1868 to a former wool warehouse in Water Lane, Holbeck. The lease of these premises expired and the business was transferred to a newly-built vinegar brewery on Elland Road in 1877. The site was near the junction with Cemetery Road. This was described in great detail by the Manager James Brodie on page 16 of his book 'Tis Thirty Years Since' in 1884 and again in 1892. This new brewery covered about an acre and was equipped with the most up-to-date equipment and employed some 50 staff who produced some 35,000 to 40,000 gallons a week. Basically it was a tower brewery with two steam engines and vats of 4,000 gallons capacity. James Brodie was appointed manager in 1869 to succeed Taylor, who had come from the parent company at Pontypridd, and he became a partner and Managing Director in 1875. It was about this time that a branch was opened in Birmingham, and after a time this was sold to Edward Samson Moore. Moore renamed it the Midland Vinegar Company and went on to make a fortune from HP Sauce after paying a sauce maker FG Garton £150 for the recipe to clear a debt.
In 1833 the original Welsh site was sold and James Brodie was joined by his brother John following the move to Elland Road. The firm was incorporated as a Private Limited Company in 1898 with the brothers holding nearly half the shares. James Brodie commented on the state of the trade in 1894: "To begin with, prices of the common qualities of vinegar are little better than half of what they were a quarter of a century ago, whilst an expensive plant has to be kept in working order." The problems of the trade derived from the competition from the chemical manufacturers and wholesalers who added caramel colouring to dilute acetic acid and sold this as malt vinegar. Malt vinegar was made by brewing a malt liquor and fermenting it like beer, the brew was then allowed to percolate through casks of beechwood shavings. The action of Mycoderma Aceti oxidised the dilute Ethanol into Acetic Acid (about 4%) but retained essential Malt Esthers which produced the distinctive flavour. Certificates from Somerset House and Public Analysis attest to it being vinegar from malt and grain. Vinegar breweries were comparatively rare. The economies of scale were such that an efficient brewery like the Cambrian could supply the needs of a large area. With the Penistone Company at Barnsley, they could supply all of Yorkshire, North and South Midlands as well as Southern Scotland and beyond. All this lasted until the 1960s when the brewery closed and was then demolished. The letter head in the photo is dated around the turn of the 19/20th century and was printed by Goodall & Suddick, colour printers and manufacturing stationers of Cookridge Street, Leeds.
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South Leeds Life | June 2021
Twitter: @SouthLeedsLife
18 Art Life
Playhouse reopens!
Leeds 2023 promises to “let culture loose” by Hazel Millichamp
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eeds Playhouse finally reopens its doors with a piece specially commissioned from Northern writers to celebrate the theatre’s 50th anniversary. Audiences have been enjoying the live performances in the Courtyard Theatre from and the performance can be streamed online through Playhouse: At Home until 5 June. DECADES: STORIES FROM THE CITY has been created by writers Simon Armitage, Leanna Benjamin, Kamal Kaan, Alice Nutter, Maxine Peake and Stan Owens. Each writer has been inspired by a different decade, spanning the 1970s – 2020s and have created a companion set of short plays (see review). A treat for all of the family is touring community venues across Leeds. “Fairy Poppins and the Naughty Winter Ghost” is a show written by Robert Alan Evans and follows a trio of rambunctious travelling tumblers with a tale to tell. You can also catch it on Wednesday 2 June at The Bridge, Holbeck Community Centre and on Wednesday 23 June at Hamara Healthy Living Centre, Beeston and tickets are only £3! From 2-5 June “The Not So Ugly Sisters” arrives – a brand new musical re-telling the Cinderella story from the perspective of the “Not So” Ugly Sisters. The age guidance for this performance is 5+. “The Damned United” will be performed on 10 & 11 July. The play is adapted from the acclaimed novel by David Peace. It follows Brian Clough as he attempts to redeem his managerial career and reputation by winning the European Cup with his new team Leeds United. Unfortunately there is not much love lost between them.
26 June – 17 July “A Little Night Music” is a collaboration between Leeds Playhouse and Opera North. Stephen Sondheim’s tale mixes musical theatre and opera and includes the classic song “Send in the Clowns”. Looking further ahead, the Playhouse has announced that its Chritmas family show will be “Wendy & Peter Pan”. This retelling of the famous story will run from 18 November to 22 January 2022 and tickets are on sale now. To keep people safe the Playhouse are: • Limiting contact wherever possible • Installing hand sanitiser points for you to use around the building • Reducing capacity and installing signage to help you maintain social distancing • Implementing socially distanced seating at 1m+ • Carrying out enhanced cleaning between performances • Maintaining ventilation in the auditorium (It may be a little cooler than usual!) During your visit: • Contactless temperature checks will be carried out at the point of arrival • Please wear a face covering whilst in the building including at your seat, unless eating or drinking. This is in accordance with theatre guidelines • A one-way system will be in place, please follow via signage • Please arrive on time, latecomers will not be admitted • If you have any symptoms of coronavirus or a high temperature on the day of the show please do not attend and contact us within 24 hours to arrange a credit or refund You can find more information here: leeds playhouse.org.uk/whats-on
eaders may remember that back in 2015 Leeds decided to bid to be European Capital of Culture in 2023. Hopes were dashed when following so much work by people across the city, UK cities were banned from entering following the vote to leave the EU. The city collectively said “Let’s do it anyway!” and this is some of what we can expect from Leeds 2023: Artists have been asked to “let culture loose” to coincide with the launch of LEEDS 2023. Across the city and online, projects include: Artist Kate Genever has been working collaboratively with children & young people on “Letting Loose in the City”. Across Leeds, school children were asked “to imagine Leeds
afresh – a city for the future. If you could make it and build it any way you liked, what would it be?” Kate has made drawings inspired by the ideas the children came up with and a set of prints of these will be sent to each child and school that contributed. Every child in Leeds will have an opportunity to take part in activity across the city’s big year. The Holbeck-based charity Pyramid has collaborated with artist Emma Hardaker to create a new sculpture by learning disabled artists and will be sited in Meanwood – more details to follow. Hookers & Clickers is a local crochet & knitting group who have collaborated with artists Rosie Vohra and Amelia Wood from artist-led studio Assembly House to create a sculpture
celebrating Armley’s rich industrial heritage. A film fusing original poetry, voices and music to celebrate the diversity of languages spoken in the city has been produced by multi award winning writer and performer Rommi Smith and film and photography director Ndrika Anyika. Musician and composer Ivan Stott will collaborate on the poem written and performed by Rommi with members of MAFWA Theatre Company and refugees and asylum seekers through Armley’s allotment project and Armley’s Christ Church Meeting Point Project. Sable Radio the independent radio station are hosting a specially curated show live from restaurant and grocery store Eat Your Greens. The station’s tagline is “made in Leeds,
Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife enjoyed worldwide” and guests will include mainstays of the Leeds cultural scene. Listeners can tune in at sableradio.com to hear conversations ranging from the histories of carnivals in Leeds and Sheffield to the function of art in queer rave culture. As part of the project Lens Lab Leeds, photographers Benedict Philips and Jonathan Turner have been taking a mobile dark room to Lincoln Green & Burmantofts and taking photographs of people living in the community. Participants are posted a print of a photo taken with a Victorian wet plate and another with a super high resolution camera that they can keep for years to come. The launch of LEEDS 2023 took place on Tuesday 25 May . Kully Thiarai, Creative Director and Chief Executive LEEDS 2023 said: “We want everyone to have the opportunity to be part of our year of culture; there is so much to showcase to the world about the city, its people and its creativity. I’m excited that today we’ve been able to share some of the ways we will do that. “LEEDS 2023 is all about ‘letting culture loose’ and being completely open to any and all ideas that emerge, involving as many local people as possible in this crucial and exciting stage. Our imagination enables us all to be storytellers. Creativity is in all of us, sometimes we just need to be guided to re-connect with that bit of ourselves that wants to joyfully and curiously play and dream. LEEDS 2023 creates an opportunity for us all to come together and collectively do this. “LEEDS 2023 will be a catalyst for transformation; one that brings people together to participate, celebrate and see the world afresh. It also will be a massive team effort locally, regionally, nationally and internationally and I’m thrilled to welcome our latest Patrons Corinne Bailey Rae and Simon Rix whose backing is a big vote of confidence in our vision for LEEDS 2023 and all that we are trying to do.”
Free tickets for theatre shows I
n the coming weeks we hope to be able to reopen our scheme to offer readers two tickets for performances at Leeds Playhouse and other productions. All we ask in return is a 500 word review of the production within 48 hours of seeing the performance. If you need any help in putting together a review we can give you that.
Please let us know if you would like to see any of the upcoming shows and we will try and arrange you tickets. We can currently offer you two tickets for each of these performances: Saturday 6 June, 6pm at The Holbeck, Leeds “A Dog’s Tale” a musical comedy looking at dogs past and present and the love
between people and their canines. You’d be barking to miss it! and Wednesday 9 June, 6pm at The Piece Hall, Halifax “Atlanta Forever – The Fight for Women’s Football” based on the true story of one of postwar Britain’s three women’s football clubs. The Atlanta Ladies Football Club was
formed in 1920 to ‘to provide games for the women of Huddersfield, to foster a sporting spirit, and a love of honour among its members.’ The play follows amateurs Ethel and Annie as they take a shot at the big time. Tickets are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Please email info@ southleedslife.com.
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Art Life 19
A sculpture for Beeston by Bruce Davies
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Keith Ackerman and John Barber working on Jacob’s Ladder
he last twelve months has been, not just a lockdown nightmare for BasementArtsProject, but also a production hell for the number of projects that we have been forced to continually push back to the twelfth of never. The good news is that all of the projects that we had lined up for 2021 are still going ahead. Of course, we are keeping an open mind and an open end as to the current 2021–22 schedule in relation to the end of lockdown. Whilst many projects are achieved in a very short space of time, some are more of a slow burn and take time to
Review: Decades at Leeds Playhouse by Hazel Millichamp
I
t was amazing to be back at Leeds Playhouse to see Decades: Stories From The City – six monologues specially commissioned from northern writers to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Playhouse. It seemed a little odd at first with the audience very much diminished to take into account social distancing but after a while it just felt more intimate and I felt much closer to what was happening on the stage. The stage setting was also sparse, it always amazes me how such minimal changes between acts (or in this case whole plays) can evoke a place and time so successfully. The Bodyguard (1970s) By Simon Armitage, Directed by James Brining, Performed by
June 2021 | South Leeds Life
Connor Elliott as Wilf “We’ve got a new Prime Minister. She’s got big blonde hair that lifts up at the front like a curl of butter on the blade of a knife.” It’s not often you hear about the terrible time in West Yorkshire when the ripper was on the loose from the perspective of a male teenager. A very funny young teenager who has to meet his Mam off the bus just in case. Armed with his Doc Martins tied up extra tight and a cookie cutter, Wilf is relieved when his detective work shows the ripper is not his Dad. Nicer than Orange Squash (1980s) By Alice Nutter, Directed by Evie Manning, Performed by Isobel Coward as Loz A young woman, Loz is
finding her way in the world as a somewhat reluctant activist and the resident of a squat. Loz finds out that her boyfriend may not be what he first appears and tells us about it all with great humour and energy. Don’t You Know it’s Going to be Alright (1990s) By Maxine Peake, Directed by Amy Leach, Performed by Eva Scott as Danny Danny pops some pills in Leeds Market and tells us about her about her dubious father and the illegal rave her sister is arrested at. You really feel for her as she tells us of her struggles in her unique and hilarious voice. The Unknown (2000s) By Leanna Benjamin Directed by Amanda Huxtable Performed by Nicole Botha as Sophia “Majestyk is going to be
Eva Scott as Danny in Don’t You Know It’s Going to be Alright (1990s) by Maxine Peake. Photo Sharron Wallace
install. This is very much the case for Jacob’s Ladder, a public sculpture for South Leeds by stone sculptor Keith Ackerman and Nature of Balance by Dominic Hopkinson. Both of these projects began as part of the Yorkshire Sculpture International 2019 and the Index Festival of Visual Arts, with the intention that they would be in place in time for Leeds2023. Despite a year of inactivity on the physical aspects of these projects, this particular deadline is still in sight. The hope is that Jacob’s Ladder will be in place before the end of this summer and that Nature of Balance will arrive not long after in early 2022. Finally, in March this year we were able to free Jacob’s Ladder from the Tadcaster quarry where we began the sculpture. Since moving the 6.5 rammed. Yeah, I know I’m too old for clubbing.” Sophia has moved back to Leeds and as the new Millennium approaches we see her struggling with her body and wrestling with the loss of her Mum and with asking anyone for help. A heartrending and touching performance. After we sailed a thousand skies (2010s) By Kamal Kaan Directed by Sameena Hussain Performed by Cassie Layton as Layla “Is this the city for me?” A poignant piece told by Layla, an immigrant in Leeds, the City of Sanctuary. For a while this accolade of the city doesn’t exactly ring true for Layla, but after trials and tribulations she finally rediscovers her own voice and we get to hear it. Pie in the Bus Stop (2020s) By Stan Owens Directed by Tess Seddon Performed by Akiel Dowe as Jamie “What kind of grown adult doesn’t know how to make beans on toast?” Jamie waits for his bus, called constantly by his Mum to check where he is, ask him to bring shopping, let him know she has eaten his chicken he was saving for tea, check again – where is he? As he tells us about his exciting plans to move out with a friend, he slowly comes to the realisation that Mum needs him at home. After he lets his friend know he can’t move out just yet, we see his anger at the lack of empathy his almost-housemate expresses. All six Decades: Stories From The City monologues are also available to enjoy online At Home via the Playhouse website from 24 May–5 June: leedsplayhouse.org.uk/events /decades
tonnes of limestone to Tunstall Road back in early May, the artist along with his technician John Barber, have been able to work on the piece and regain the lost year. In the coming months we will be organising some stone carving workshops in which we will be inviting the public of South Leeds to join in, creating some stone seating for the area too. Our vision, forged
in hope - is that over the next couple of years we will turn this piece of land into a landscaped garden - with sculpture and the community at its heart. If you would like to know more information, or have ideas for the community garden please get in touch: phone/text 07506 721504 or email basementartsproject @gmail.com
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South Leeds Life | June 2021
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20 News
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 June All events listed here have been planned around current Covid-19 restrictions and booking is often required, please contact the organisers to make sure the events are going ahead as the situation changes Please check that regular events are not affected by school holidays, 31 May - 4 June Full contact details can be found in our online What’s On guide at www.southleedslife.com/events
Every Monday ESOL class 9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Holbeck Together coffee morning 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre Dinner Jackets (baked potato) 12-1pm St Matthew’s Community Centre Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeing Baking Together 1:30-2:30pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre over Zoom Book: 07305 167629 Dance On 2-3pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Book: 0113 272 1050 Single Parent Family Gardening Group 3:30-4:30pm Dewsbury Road Community Hub Women’s Cycling & Social Group 4-5:30pm Book: 07435 914350 Peaceful Space 6-7pm St Mary’s Church, town street, Beeston. Book: 07961 016052 revlcp@btinternet.com Be Creative 7-8:30pm over Zoom. Book: fb.com/YourSpaceLeeds Introduction to meditation 7-8pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Kickboxing 7-8:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street
Every Tuesday ESOL class 9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Computer class 9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Holbeck Together shopping trip 9:30am-12:30pm Book: 0113 245 5553 Hunslet TARA Litterpicking 10am meet Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road Zumba / Pilates 11am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeing ESOL class 12:30-3pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Walking Groups 1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Book: 0113 272 1050 Line Dancing 1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Book: 0113 272 1050 The Support Hub
1:30-3pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Book: 07305 167629 Yoga 2-3pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Outdoor Yoga 6pm Top of Cross Flatts Park Book: 07576 113269 Free Football sessions 6:30-8:30pm Holbeck Community Centre, Old Elland Road. Book: richard.foye@leedsunited.com Discovering Buddhism 6:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/buddhism Yoga 7-8pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Book: 07305 167629
Every Wednesday Slimming World Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street. Book: 07841 488658 Gardening Group Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Book: 0113 272 1050 ESOL class 9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Holbeck Together coffee morning 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre Dance 11am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Hunslet TARA Estate Walkabout 11am meet Best One shop, Rocheford Walk Community Cafe 12-2pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre, Belle Isle Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeing Peer Support Group 1-2:30pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Skate Mates 3:30-5pm LS-TEN, Kitson Road Book: ls-ten.org/skatemates Tai Chi 4-5pm Cranmore & Raylands Community Centre Book: 07305 167629 Free Football sessions 5-7pm South Leeds Youth Hub, Belle Isle. Book: richard.foye@leedsunited.com Yoga 5-6pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 Free Cycle Training 6pm Watsonia Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston. Book: cyclenorth-leeds.eventbrite.com Dru Yoga 7-8:15pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck
Every Thursday Slimming World Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street. Book: 07841 488658 Computer class 9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Holbeck Together shopping trip 9:30am-12:30pm Book: 0113 245 5553 Holbeck Community Shop 10am-2pm St Matthew’s Community Centre Book: 0113 245 5553 Inclusive dance 11am-12pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeing Walking Groups 1:30-3:30pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Book: 0113 272 1050 Camera Club 1:30-3pm over Zoom. Book: 07754 391490 Elevate Women’s Wellbeing Group 4-5:30pm over Zoom. Book: fb.com/YourSpaceLeeds Zumba / Pilates 6-7pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston via Zoom Book: 0113 270 4600 South Leeds Lakers Juniors (Athletics) 6-7pm Cockburn School Book: fb.com/juniorlakersleeds Yoga 7-8:30pm Beeston Parish Centre, Town Street. Book: 07512 393228
Every Friday ESOL class 9:30am-12pm Asha Neighbourhood Project, Beeston Book: 0113 270 4600 Holbeck Together coffee morning 10am-12pm St Matthew’s Community Centre Holbeck Together Dance On 10-11am Holbeck Moor Hunslet TARA Gardening 10am meet Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road Lunchtime meditation 12:30-1pm Over Zoom. Book: jamyangleeds.co.uk/wellbeing Chair-based Exercise (outdoor) 1:45-2:45pm Middleton Elderly Aid Social Centre, Acre Road. Book: 0113 272 1050 Women’s Cycling & Social Group 4-5:30pm Book: 07435 914350 Free Football sessions 4-5:30pm Holbeck Moor. Book: richard.foye@leedsunited.com
Every Saturday DAZL Tinys (Age 3-5) DAZL Xplode (Age 6-9; 10+) DAZL HQ, Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road. Book: fb.com/danceactionzoneleeds
Park Roll rollerskating 10am-12pm Sports Courts, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston Book: ls-ten.org Outdoor Yoga 10:30am Top of Cross Flatts Park Book: 07576 113269 Women’s Walking Group 11am-12:30pm Book: 07435 914350
Every Sunday Junior parkrun (4-10 yrs) 9am Top of Cross Flatts Park Knitting Group 10am-12pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Middleton Railway 10:30am3:30pm Moor Road, Hunslet Grow Your Own gardening Group 2:30-4pm Holbeck Book: fb.com/YourSpaceLeeds Toning & Stretching with Julie 6:30-7:30pm DAZL HQ, Middleton Community Centre, Acre Road. Book: 07783 786776 Tuesday 1 June Free Play Sessions 1-3pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Grandparents Social Circle 7-8:30pm Charlies-Angel-Centre, 6B Ashbrooke Park, LS11 5SF Wednesday 2 June Middleton Railway 10:30am3:30pm Moor Road, Hunslet Free Play Sessions 1-3pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Hunslet Tenants & Residents 6:30-8pm over Zoom Book: fb.com/HunsletTARA Miscarriage Support Group 7-8:30pm Charlies-Angel-Centre, 6B Ashbrooke Park, LS11 5SF Thursday 3 June Pop Up Smoothie Bar 11am-2pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Hill Community Support Group 7-8:30pm Charlies-Angel-Centre, 6B Ashbrooke Park, LS11 5SF Friday 4 June The Lost Property Library Children’s storytelling (5-12) 2:30-4:30pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Hill Book: 0113 245 5553 Saturday 5 June Holbeck & Beeston Cemetery Volunteers 10am-1pm Meet centre of Holbeck Cemetery, Beeston Road The Lost Property Library Children’s storytelling (5-12) 10:30am-12:30pm St Luke’s Church, Malvern Road, Beeston Hill. Book: 0113 245 5553 A Dog’s Tale 6pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn. Book: slunglow.org Sunday 6 June Men’s Corner 7-8:30pm Charlies-Angel-Centre, 6B Ashbrooke Park, LS11 5SF Foxwood Panyard - Caribbean Rhythms 2-4pm
Middleton Park Visitor Centre Hunslet RLFC v Rochdale Hornets 3-5pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove. Book: hunslet.mysportstickets .co.uk/events/home Tuesday 8 June Live Well Together 1:30-3:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Saturday 12 June South Leeds Music Centre 9am-1pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Beeston In Bloom Plant Sale 10am-12pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park, Beeston Film: Dalai Lama “Scientist” 1-4pm Jamyang Buddhist Centre, Ingram Road, Holbeck Whistle Stop Opera: The Magic Flute 3-4pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn Book: slunglow.org Mystic Grifters 8-9pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn Book: slunglow.org Sunday 13 June Walk around Middleton Park 2-5pm Meet: Middleton Park Visitor Centre Thursday 17 June Live Well Together 1:30-3:30pm St Matthew’s Community Centre, Holbeck Saturday 19 June South Leeds Music Centre 9am-1pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Fairy Poppins & The Naughty Winer Ghost 12pm; 2:30pm; 4pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn Book: slunglow.org Sunday 20 June Hunslet RLFC v Doncaster RLFC 3-5pm South Leeds Stadium, Middleton Grove. Book: hunslet.mysportstickets .co.uk/events/home Wednesday 23 June Inclusive adult football training 6:30pm Holbeck Moor Thursday 24 June Be Friends Group 1-2:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Saturday 26 June Cross Flatts parkrun
9am Top of Cross Flatts Park Middleton Woods parkrun 9am Leeds Urban Bike Park South Leeds Music Centre 9am-1pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Craft & Homemade Food Market 9:30am-12:30pm Watsonian Pavilion, Cross Flatts Park Alice In Wonderland 2-3pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn Book: slunglow.org Welcome Back Cabaret 7:30-10pm The Holbeck, Jenkinson Lawn Book: slunglow.org Sunday 27 June Hands Across Ceilidh Band 2-4pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Tuesday 29 June Oddsocks Theatre: A Comedy Of Errors 7-9:30pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Wednesday 30 June Hunslet Cemetery Volunteers 10am-1pm Meet by the chapel Middleton Road, Hunslet Inclusive adult football training 6:30pm Holbeck Moor Hunslet Tenants & Residents AGM 6:30-8pm Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road Book: fb.com/HunsletTARA Wellness in the Park with Slung Low & Jamyang 7-9pm Holbeck Moor Saturday 3 July South Leeds Music Centre 9am-1pm Cockburn School, Gipsy Lane, Beeston Holbeck & Beeston Cemetery Volunteers 10am-1pm Meet centre of Holbeck Cemetery, Beeston Road Encounters Festival: Calling Tree 10-11:30am & 2-3:30pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Holbeck Gala 12-4pm Holbeck Moor Sunday 4 July Encounters Festival: Calling Tree 10-11:30am & 2-3:30pm Middleton Park Visitor Centre Men’s Corner 7-8:30pm Charlies-Angel-Centre, 6B Ashbrooke Park, LS11 5SF
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What’s On 21
Middleton Railway gets back on track T
he familiar whistle of trains running on the world’s oldest railway could be heard again as Middleton Railway reopened on 23 May after it was forced to close in November, having been shut for most of 2020. Steam trains are operating every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday every hour between 10:30am and 3:30pm until the end of June, when it is hoped to re-introduce Saturday services, assuming that the distance and additional cleaning rules could then be suspended. Additionally, a diesel service will operate on Wednesday 2 June during the school half term, again hourly from 10.30am. The Middleton Railway museum, shop and cafe have
also re-opened for indoor trading. Ian Smith the railway’s Vice President commented: “The railway reopened yesterday and the first train at 10:30am was flagged off by Cllr Kim Groves (Middleton Park Ward). “We welcomed many old friends back to the trains and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves immensely!” The Middleton Railway was built in 1758 and is the first railway authorised by an Act of Parliament, the first to have commercially successful steam locomotives, in June 1812 and also the first standard gauge preserved railway, opening in June 1960. It has operated trains every year since opening in 1758.
IN BRIEF Peaceful Space St. Mary’s church Beeston is creating a space where you can find peace. You’re invited to four sessions to help us with managing anxiety, reducing stress, sleeping better. They are for ordinary people, who’ve found the last year challenging, and want to learn and share simple self-care ideas and techniques. Led by Shannon Humphrey, First Aid for Mental Health Instructor, the sessions are open to all, not just those who share the Christian faith. The sessions are free, and you can come to one or all. Minimum age: 18 years. Monday evenings, 6pm-7pm, starting 14 June. Numbers are limited so booking is required: contact Lindsey 07961 016052 revlcp@btinternet.com
Hunslet Tenants & Residents Association This month’s meeting of Hunslet TARA will take place online on Wednesday 2 June at 6:30pm. Full details of how to login to the meeting are on the group’s Facebook page. The group’s Annual General Meeting will be in person at the Church of the Nazarene, Grove Road on Wednesday 30th June at 6:30pm. Hunslet TARA have also restarted their action mornings every Tuesday for litter picking and every Friday for gardening. Both start at 10am and volunteers are asked to meet at the Church of the Nazarene main entrance which faces Grove Road. No equipment is needed.
Cllr Kim Groves flagged off the first train
Holbeck Together welcomes back the community, safely H
olbeck Together are delighted to be able to safely welcome back members of the community following the easing of lockdown restrictions. There’s lots planned and lots to look forward to over the coming months. We continue, during this transitional period as we emerge from lockdown, to provide home based activities and our door to door meals service. It is not going to be easy to jump into going out after over a year of restrictions. All activities are designed with people’s safety in mind and the
June 2021 | South Leeds Life
organisation is passionate about supporting clients to return at the right time for them. Each week, clients are able to enjoy outdoor coffee mornings, day trips to places like Crossgates and Barnsley Market, transport to the supermarket, and much more. In the near future, clients will be welcomed back to St Matthews for the much-loved lunch clubs. Dance lessons with Yorkshire Dance, fish and chips delivered on Fridays and a Digital Cafe are some of the other weekly
Covid-secure activities are being held in a marquee next to St Matthew’s
activities on offer this Spring/Summer. Holbeck Together also runs a Community Shop which is open from 10am-2pm each Thursday at St Matthews Community Centre. For £2.50 per week, you can access a choice of 12 items of chilled, frozen, ambient and fresh food and plenty of other essential items. To help with welcoming you back, we are excited to announce the launch of our new Live Well Together service. Over the course of the summer, the service will help and encourage you to get out and
about as we emerge from lockdown, and support you to be active and engaged in a safe and supported way. We know from talking to many, that although people are eager to ‘get back to normal’, there is a lot of anxiety associated with the risks of leaving their homes. Live Well Together will support you both within your own home and out in the community when it’s safe to do so. You are invited to join us for informal wellbeing workshops twice a month that will cover a range of subjects, and run alongside refreshments and the chance to join in outdoor games such as chess, Jenga, skittles and lots more. The workshops in May and June will take place on: • Tuesday 8 June • Thursday 17 June • Tuesday 13 July • Thursday 22 July We will also be providing you with wellbeing packs featuring at-home activities, as well as practical items like water bottles, hats, and portable fans. There will also be advice and encouragement for going out and staying safe in the warmer weather. For more information about any of Holbeck Together’s activities and services, or to enquire about booking, please call the office on (0113) 245 5553.
Charlies-Angel-Centre Support Groups Charlies-Angel-Centre Foundation offers many different kinds of support for bereaved parents & families. Their community support groups which run on a monthly basis, at their centre at 6B Ashbrooke Park, Parkside Lane, LS11 5SF. Regular groups include Men’s Corner, Grandparents Social Circle, Miscarriage Support Group and Community Support Group. For more information go to www.Charlies-Angel-Centre.org.uk
St Luke’s Pop-up Smoothie Bar The girls’ youth project at The Shine Project are running a community smoothie bar on Thursday 3 June, 11-2pm at St Luke’s Church on Malvern Road, Beeston Hill. The delicious fresh smoothies are pay as you feel, and open to anyone in the community.
Community Arts Competition Youth organisation Re:establish are running an arts project and competition about taking pride in their local community of Beeston Hill and Holbeck. Young people will be creating an instalation art piece out of rubbish and recycled material that highlights the the contrast of beauty and deprivation. The group would love you to get involved by creating pieces that are personal to you, that reflect how the local area looks through your eyes. Entries will be shown & winners announced at the Holbeck Gala on 3 July. Prizes to be won for winner and runners up. Whether you are a poet, artist, photographers, etc of any ability please join in. Email: i.will.communityart@gmail.com or text 07984 588955
Single Parent Families’ Gardening Group A new after school gardening group is starting at Dewsbury Road Community Hub. The group, which aims to built support and friendship amongst families, will meet every Monday, 3:304:30pm at the Hub’s community garden. To sign up or find out more, contact Grace, call or text: 07711 189421; Email: grace.feeney@leeds.gov.uk
South Leeds Silly Olymics Plans to hold a 'Silly Olympics' event in south Leeds, on 7-8 August (to coincide with the official Tokyo Olympics), are developing - and the local volunteer organisers need YOU to help make it happen! To get involved, or to find out more about this wacky event - for a wide range of locals to get active and have a laugh together, look for 'South Leeds Silly Olympics 2021' on Facebook, or contact Ed on hello@greenleeds.org or 07738 921277. There are a range of volunteer roles - and organisers are especially looking for extra core team members, to help coordinate it. Roles include: planning, logistics, marketing, financials, and more. Volunteers would ideally commit between 20-30 hours between June-September. An online Zoom meeting is scheduled for 8.30pm on Monday 7 June.
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22 What’s On
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Shakespeare’s back in South Leeds Hiking Group conquer Yorkshire 3 Peaks the Middleton Park
O
ddsocks Theatre are returning to Middleton Park on Tuesday 29 June, bringing their madcap, family friendly take on Shakespeare. This years production is The Comedy Of Errors and the plot goes something like this: A servant and master from far off Syracuse arrive in Ephesus in search of their long-
lost twin brothers. In no time at all they are trapped in a terrifying chain of chaotic events. Tormented by a wild wife, a moody mistress, challenged by a crazy jeweller and damned by a demonic doctor the terrified twosome run headlong into a climactic happy ending which defies all probability.
Oddsocks are a favourite fixture in the Friends of Middleton Park’s summer season, managing to perform Shakespeare as panto without losing touch with the original play. The show starts at 7pm, but come early to get the best seats. It will last about 2 hours plus an interval. The audience is asked to bring their own chairs or rugs to sit on and invited to bring a picnic. Keep an eye on the weather and bring a brolly just in case, because as we know from previous years, the show will go on come rain or shine. Other events this month include a rearranged concert from Foxwood Panyard steel band on Sunday 6 June, 2-4pm on the bandstand; a guided walk around the park on Sunday 13 June, meet at the visitor centre at 2pm; and there’s a chance to dance with Hands Across Ceilidh Band on Sunday 27 June, 2-4pm.
L-R: Ian Swithenbank, Ethan Swithenbank, John McKee
by John McKee
A
t 7am on Sunday 2 May 2021 three intrepid members of the South Leeds Hiking Group set off from Horton in Ribblesdale. 1 Hour 6 mins later breakfast was had on the summit of Peny-ghent, the first of our Yorkshire three peaks summits. Coffee, scones and chocolate consumed and we were headed down the mountain’s western flank for the long slog to Whernside. This part of the route is an enthusiasm sapping hike of 8 miles to Ribblehead viaduct and the 4th peak cafe. Suitably
refreshed with a hot cuppa our intrepid trio climbed the well trodden path to the summit of Whernside and joined a small crowd for lunch on the sunny summit and a quick live-stream broadcast to the South Leeds Hiking Group. Half an hour later and we were off again, knees beginning to creak with the harsh descent, to cross the valley floor towards the steep hulking Mordor-like western side of Ingleborough, shrouded in dark clouds. Wheezing with the steep ascent our brave trio topped the mountain to a stiff breeze and bright sunshine.
Another long knee jerking descent found us back in Horton in Ribblesdale 9 hrs 13 mins after we started. To our disappointment and that of the three Australian lads following us the pub was shut. South Leeds Hiking Group have restarted activities. At the time of writing we are not able to use the community minibus so participants need to be able to get to the start point of our hikes under their own steam. Keep checking our Facebook group fb.com/groups /southleedshiking/ and Facebook page fb.com/SouthLeedsHiking for up to date details.
Get going with growing at the allotments F
ree daytime allotment courses started this week aimed at South Leeds residents with learning difficulties, mental health concerns, or those who have been shielding against Covid19. Local unemployed people in South Leeds are invited to take up the offer of a free place on a gardening and allotment course to support their efforts to find employment or training. The course running on Mondays aims to help individuals gain new skills as well as improving their confidence to help support attendees towards training or employment. The Tuesday course is aimed at people with learning difficulties. Wednesdays are for those who have been shielding from Covid-19 who may feel isolated, lonely and like their levels of
mobility have decreased with accessible by bus from aims to increase confidence, Dewsbury Road, with room for improve mental wellbeing, and bicycles to be brought onto the socialising in a Covid-secure, plot, on-site accessible toilets, outdoor area. hot drinks available and Activities include creating running water as well as a herb boxes, planting seeds and barbecue and socialising outdoor exercise. outdoor area. The sessions run at Lady Pit To find and more or to Lane allotments – off Linden reserve a place, contact Lou on Avenue, opposite Tesco 07730 765551 or email your Express on Dewsbury Road. name and contact phone Lou, Groundwork Project number to christianne Officer, commented: .kerrin@groundwork.org.uk. “Gaining exercises whilst being outdoors and observing nature will improve health and wellbeing at the same time as meeting new people” Lady Pit Lane allotments is a hidden gem of the community, easily Planting potatoes
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Sporting Life 23
Getting active with Get Set Leeds Local by Karen Peck
S
ummer is a great chance to recharge and reset after the challenging year we’ve all had, at whatever pace is right for you. Get Set Leeds Local works within Beeston Hill and Holbeck to develop community solutions and ideas which will help make moving more an easier choice. Follow us on Facebook (@GSLHolbeck&BeestonHill) or on Twitter (@GetLeeds) to find out about local opportunities for all ages, along with information on community funding we have available to help get more people active. We’ve just released the June e-training catalogue, with current opportunities and course training ideas all in one space. Find it on our social media or email James to send you a copy. If you are someone who would love to help others in Beeston Hill and Holbeck be more active, and some upskilling would help you do that then get in touch: james.beaston@leeds.gov.uk. We’ve recently supported a local youth group access some first aid training, and upskilled some community table tennis champions, whom will be supporting new people to enjoy the game. We’re excited to be supporting an arts and photography based project, led by the friendly Highrise Project team, which will take place weekly at The Holbeck (Slung Low) on Fridays 1–3pm for 6 weeks from 11 June. The sessions are free, and no equipment, or arts or photography experience is required.
Become a Mover&Shaker like Erica It’s all about getting out together in a social and safe way, and seeing the local spaces through a different lense. Please contact Victoria via 07856 695969 or thehighriseprojectleeds@gmail .com to book on or to find out more information. Leeds is getting behind a #SummerofPlay. One way to get involved is to have a street play on your street. Anyone can apply for a temporary order to close their street for a couple of hours, so that children can play out on their street in a safe way. If its something you’d like to try on your street, but not sure where to start, then get in touch and we’ll connect with Fall into Place who are looking at how we can support more Play Streets within Beeston Hill and Holbeck to be trialled. We’d love to keep hearing your ideas, and work with you
to make some of them realities. Feel free to connect with us via getsetleedslocal@leeds.gov.uk sharing your thoughts for what could help being active within Beeston Hill and Holbeck an easier choice for people, or drop me, Karen Peck, a message on 07891 274130. Movers and Shakers A new project which has been launched as part of the bid to help make Leeds the most active city in the UK. Local charity Touchstone hopes to harness people-power by bringing together the city’s Mover&Shakers to get everyone moving more. With the aim of recruiting 100 Mover&Shakers by January 2022, Touchstone are looking for people who know it feels good to be active and want to support others to move more too. All Mover&Shakers will be
offered training opportunities, volunteer support and a welcome pack with information and goodies. Mover&Shakers can use their influence on social media to inspire their friends – like Erica Martin, 54, who broadcasts dance routines to her mates on Zoom. Other Mover&Shakers are encouraging their community to join in with litter picking and campaigning for improvements in their local park, organising for their street to be closed to traffic a couple of hours a month to host a Play Street, or training as walk-leaders to bring local dads together for outdoor walking meet-ups. It’s all about making links and sharing ideas – so anyone who simply shares information about opportunities to be active with their online and local community networks can be a Mover&Shaker. The project is a response to the 2019 Get Set Leeds conversations, led by a partnership of Active Leeds, Public Health, Leeds Beckett University and the Yorkshire Sport Foundation. Involving 1,800 face-to-face conversations, and 2,200 survey responses, Get Set Leeds is the largest-scale physical activity research project attempted in the UK. The research found that people are heavily influenced by their social environment – others in their local community, workplace and friendship groups. A small nudge from someone you know can be significant in encouraging you to be more active. See the Mover&Shakers charter and sign up for a welcome pack at the getsetleeds.co.uk/ movershaker website, or contact the Mover&Shakers coordinator Sarah So on 07824 481269, email moverand shakers@touchstonesupport. org.uk. You can also follow Mover&Shakers on Facebook and Twitter.
Youth soccer project kicks off P
remier League Kicks, a sports programme that’s free of charge for children and young people in Beeston and Holbeck, kicked off last month, thanks to funding from Beeston and Holbeck Councillors, Angela Gabriel, Andrew Scopes and Gohar Almass. The Premier League Kicks programme, delivered by the Leeds United Foundation, aims to offer opportunities for children and young people to develop their character, resilience and determination, whilst developing their social responsibility and skills for their
June 2021 | South Leeds Life
future. The Councillors have welcomed this opportunity for young people aged 8 – 18 in Beeston and Holbeck. The weekly sessions, which were delayed due to the pandemic, began on 11 May and will run until 23 February 2022 at Holbeck Community Centre. The programme is run on Tuesday evenings, 6:308:30pm, with the first hour for 8 -12 year olds and the second hour for 13-18 year olds. To book onto the sessions email richard.foye@leedsunited .com. Councillor Angela Gabriel
(Beeston and Holbeck) said: “My colleagues and I are delighted to be working together with the Leeds United Foundation to support this fantastic project to get young people engaged with sport. “After the year that we’ve all had, this is a really positive and exciting opportunity for local young people to develop their skills and confidence whilst getting active in our community. “I hope that local young people, particularly girls
and those aged between 14 – 18, who might not usually be involved in sport, will be inspired to take part.” Sessions also run at: • South Leeds Youth Hub, Middleton Road, Belle Isle, LS10 3JA on Wednesdays 57pm • Holbeck Moor, LS11 9QL on Fridays from 4-5.30pm
Hunslet struggle Continued from page 24 The Parksiders got off to a flyer when good passing sent Tom Ashton over in the left hand corner after only 3 minutes. The game swung like a pendulum until midway through the second half. Brambani converted a penalty and from the restart a brilliant 40/20 kick put Hunslet on the attack. After a couple of sets knocking on the door an opportunity came when Simon Brown sent a great ball to Kieden Hartley who was too quick for the Crusaders defence. Brambani converted and Hunslet led 18-26 with 15 minutes to go. Hotly fancied Barrow Raiders were the visitors for Hunslet’s first home match in front of the fans on 23 May. Again the game turned on a Hunslet disallowed try on the hour mark when Barrow misfielded a kick and George Senior gathered to feed Wayne Reittie who looked to have scored in the corner, but was adjudged to have knocked on. The knock on was costly as Barrow soon edged in front and never looked like losing from that moment on.
ran out 6-29 winners. Hunslet’s season went from bad to worse as they took a hammering away to much fancied big spending Keighley Cougars on 30 May. The game was played in the first real hot weather of the summer and unusually was still 0-0 at the half time hooter. It would be fair to say Keighley had the better of the half as they came close on three more occasions before the break, but with Hunslet playing down the slope in the second half, on-loan players Dave Gibbons jnr and Curtis Davies looking lively and Harry Kidd carrying the ball well Hunslet had some hope. But it was Keighley who came out the better side though and after Hunslet had had the ball stolen in a tackle Moran went over from close range making it 6-0 after 51 minutes. Five minutes later Miller managed to touch down from a smart kick, and now in the ascendancy free flowing football sent Charlie Graham strolling over the line. 18-0. Although Hunslet had a chance to get back into the game the ball was knocked on
Wayne Reittie in action against Barrow The first half was a tense defensive affair, with both teams trying to arm wrestle each other into submission. Both Ashton and Hartley had gone close for the Parksiders, but constant mistakes invited the visitors onto Hunslet’s line. The game took a turn on 50 minutes when Jamie Dallimore threw a blatant punch that was missed by the referee (he’s since received a one match ban) and soon after Reittie’s missed chance Barrow lay siege to Hunslet’s line. Hartley had made a great try saving tackle, but on the hour mark Dallimore ghosted over (despite a possible obstruction), then converted his own try to nudge Barrow in front 6-12. Five minutes later a Barrow kick seemed not to trouble the Hunslet defence until a speedy Ritson came from nowhere to claim a try 6-18. By now Hunslet were spent and Barrow
Photo: Paul Butterfield
with the line begging, and that seemed to knock all hope out of the Parksiders. Keighley then started to show their quality with an impressive hat-trick from Brenden Santi and another stroll over for Charlie Graham. Jack Miller converting 6 out of 7 goals. Final score 40-0. On a positive note the club have raised £2,900 for MND (Motor Neurone Disease) and SITraN (Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience) including a ‘Run for Rob’ event where people ran, walked and cycled from Leeds to Keighley. This month Hunslet will host Rochdale Hornets on 6 June and Doncaster RLFC on 20 June. Both games kick off at 3pm at South Leeds Stadium. Tickets must be purchased online before the match via hunsletrlfc.com South Leeds Life publishes full match reports online every week at southleedslife.com
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24 Sporting Life
Hunslet struggle to get going
Slung Low launches inclusive football club A
Tom Ashton opens the scoring for Hunslet at North Wales Crusaders
by Ian Pickles
W
ith three losses in their first four matches, it’s fair to say Hunslet RLFC are struggling to make an impact on the BetFred League 1 season. Coach Gary Thornton is coping with a rash of injuries to key players iincluding full back Jimmy Watson, captain Duanne
Photo: Richard Long Photography UK
Strauheir and half back Simon Brown. This has resulting in loan players being brought in, who need time to bed into the team. He has also cited the fact that Hunslet do not own their ground and weren’t able to start preseason training as early other clubs in the division. Hunslet opened the season on 9 May at home, behind closed doors, against
Workington Town who are rapidly becoming a bogey team for the Parksiders. The match turned on two mad minutes early in the second half.With the scores locked at 12-12 early in the second half Jake Sweeting looked to have scored for the Parksiders before the try was disallowed for a knock-on. Immediately Town went down
Run, walk or cycle with the South Leeds Lakers by Becky Townesend
G
reat news for the pavement pounders of south Leeds; South Leeds Lakers are still going strong and are bursting with energy for their new changes and opportunities after the lockdowns of the last year restricted their activities. During lockdown South Leeds Lakers stepped up to the challenges that faced all community groups and helped keep people active and connected even when exercise had to be taken alone or in smaller groups with creative
Fun and games with Junior Lakers
activities like take a picture of an animal on your run and facilitating smaller groups of runners. Going forward runners can look forward to using the newly opened Beeston Village Community Centre pre and post runs so participants will have a safe place to keep their belongings, use the toilet, and socialise with other runners afterwards with a cuppa and a bun. Come autumn they will have a couple of fully trained Running Fitness Coaches too who will be able to offer free sessions for those who want to get more from their running.
For those who would like something to train for the Lakers Running Group are involved with organising the December 2021 Bah Humbug 10k Christmas race in Middleton Woods and the Winter League Trail Race also in Middleton Woods in January 2022. They are using the ‘Run Together’ app now which is ready to download if you would like to book your place. The Junior Section of South Leeds Lakers is up and running again with groups of limited numbers at Cockburn School supporting children and young people ages 8–14 for activities combining running, jumping and throwing. Visit the Facebook page to book a place. The walking group (which was formally approved along with the cycling group at the recent South Leeds Lakers AGM) also has exciting plans for summer and autumn 2021. They have three trained walk leaders and are waiting to train
the field to score, and less than 2 minutes later carved Hunslet open to stretch their lead. Final score 16-28. An away trip to North Wales Crusaders the following week proved more fruitful. Kiedan Hartley’s brace of tries saw Hunslet home 18-26 to register their first points of the season in a tough match. Continued on page 23 more through the council as well as seeking more so if you would like to get involved, please message them on the Facebook page. They will be meeting weekly on Tuesday evenings and are planning daytime weekend walks too. You can find details of the cycling group on page 13. Both Ian Pickles from the Running Group and Linda Featherstone from the Walking Group emphasised that whatever happens with Coronavirus restrictions the Lakers will be there to support the community to get out for free in the fresh air and enjoy some movement and exercise and more details will follow in future editions. For more information keep in touch via the Facebook groups. • South Leeds Lakers Walk to Fitness | Facebook for walking • South Leeds Lakers Running Club | Facebook for running • To book your place for a run Google South Leeds Lakers to find the Run Together app • South Leeds Lakers Juniors | Facebook for the Juniors section • South Leeds Lakers Cycling Club | Facebook for the Cycling section
Facebook: facebook.com/southleedslife
ward-winning theatre company Slung Low has launched subs-free Holbeck Moor Football Club. Open to all adults, the men’s and women’s teams will begin weekly training on Holbeck Moor on Wednesday 23 June 2021 at 6:30pm. Ewan Speck, coach of Holbeck Moor FC’s men’s team explained: “I have played football since I was a child and know what it can do for improving mental health and fitness. I wanted to be part of creating a space where everyone feels safe and fully part of the team – that’s why I chose a husky logo. “I know Slung Low’s ethos of never saying no to anybody, so I approached them with the idea of an inclusive football club for men and women.” Ruth Middleton, Producer at Slung Low, and Holbeck Moor FC Secretary said: “There’s no adult sports team in Holbeck. So when Ewan, a member of our community, tasked us with starting an inclusive football club, knowing how sport can be a powerful catalyst for change, we couldn’t resist taking on this new challenge.” Based in Holbeck, Slung Low’s activities and performances are always
provided on a Pay What You Decide basis. And to remove some of the barriers to participation, Holbeck Moor Football Club will be subs-free, and players supported with transport and anything else they might need. Alan Lane, Artistic Director at Slung Low, and Holbeck Moor Co-Chair explained the need for physical activity in the area: “We know fewer than one in ten Holbeck residents access the local leisure services. And yet the mortality rate, linked to coronary heart disease, diabetes, obesity and COPD, is higher in this area than the Leeds average. “So as we wind-up our food bank next month, this is a natural progression of our commitment to the health outcomes of the community we serve.” Claire Blue, Holbeck resident and coach of the Holbeck Moor FC’s women’s team agreed: “We want to encourage people who may have never kicked a ball before to take part, football is about so much more than winning; it’s about community and supporting each other.” Anybody interested in joining the club can email holbeckmoorfc@slunglow.org or call 07305 155698.
Holbeck Moor FC coaches: Claire Blue, Ewan Speck and Mark Catley