Asian Standard Leeds (3-15 Jan) E-paper

Fatima Patel

WELCOME TO OUR FIRST ISSUE OF 2023

As 2022 has ended and a fresh new year begins, here at Asian Standard we have only one thing to say – THANK

Like everyone, team Asian Standard have been reflecting on the things that occurred this past year. From the stories we have written, the year indeed has been eventful, interesting, historic, but often challenging and turbulent. Irrespective, those of you reading this, can take comfort that we have seen it through.

We have immense gratitude for all those who have trusted Asian Standard to share their stories. From devastating news to new business openings, to achieving accolades, thank you for allowing us to be your voice.

Every time we read and edit a story, we re empowered and comforted by the fact that there are people out there fulfilling their own missions to turn a difficult story into a good story. By doing what you do, we get to fulfil our mission by delivering the message that we all have a voice and the power to make a difference.

2022 has been great year for events post the pandemic. We thank everyone for the invitations and celebrations, at your events and those for attending and celebrating at our events. We hope to attend and deliver many more events in 2023.

Along with our loyal readers we of course could not have gotten through this year without our sponsors and advertisers, of whom without we cannot fund our journalism. We thank each and every one of you for your business through what has been a big growth and rebuilding year of Asian Standard. It's a year which has seen us clinch the Best Publication Award at the Asian Media Awards and move into new and bigger premises to continue our growth and have more exciting content and news for you in the years to come.

We are proud to announce our charities of the year Bradford Hospitals Charity and Forget Me Not Children s Hospice, after all community is at the heart of everything we do, and we are sure our readers will help us with their donations to these fantastic causes.

Let's start the year by celebrating the cities, most Influential South Asians of 2022.

Hello 2023

BRITISH INDIAN ARMY MEMORIAL COMING UP IN GLASGOW

Glasgow City Council has approved plans to erect a memorial in Scotland to recognise the service and sacrifice of

RISHI

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak during an interview refused three times to reveal whether he uses private healthcare or not.

When asked during an interview with BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme if he was or had ever been registered with a private GP, Mr Sunak replied "Healthcare was a personal choice."

"I grew up in an NHS family. My dad was a doctor, and a mum who was

more than four million Indian soldiers in the British Army.

The plans for the memorial, which

pharmacist," The BBC quoted the UK Prime Minister as saying.

He said "We should be making use of the independent sector so patients could choose where they have treatment."

On whether National Health Service (NHS) was "in crisis", he said "It is undeniably under pressure."

The recovery from the pandemic was "going to be tough", he said but was optimistic to overcome the problem.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

New British Indian Army Memorial to be built in Glasgow

will come up near Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, were submitted by Colourful Heritage -- a group that captures first-hand accounts of first-generation South Asians in Scotland, The Glasgow Times reported.

Glasgow City Council approved the plan subject to conditions, which include full details of the designs and content of carvings into the stone.

Samples of the materials for the pavilion and surrounding blocks have also been submitted for approval, according to the paper.

The upcoming structure will feature a 'Chattri' (dome) design for the roof and Locharbriggs sandstone columns, matching the Kelvingrove architecture.

Pillars will be carved creating a South Asian design, and cherry trees will be planted along with benches for people to sit and reflect.

Indian Army soldiers in the UK were from modern day Pakistan, India and Bangladesh.

The memorial will represent the diversity of Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and Gurkhas who fought alongside British troops during the First and Second World Wars.

It will also highlight the special link between Scotland and Force K6 -- the allMuslim Punjabi regiment that escaped from Dunkirk during World War II and made their way to Scotland, as per reports.

SNAPCHAT TO ABANDON ITS

LADEN DESKTOP CAMERA APP

Snapchat has announced the departure of a major feature from its layout recently.

The instant messaging app decided to shut down on its camera app for the desktop which allowed users to choose from a variety of filters from cat ears to pirate hats to apply during video calls.

On the support page of the app's website, a message was posted which notified users that 'on 25 January 2023, Snap Camera will no longer be available to use or download'.

"You can continue using Lenses on your computer with Snapchat for Web," the message further read.

The camera feature was introduced to the app in 2018. At the time it was available to use with apps like Skype, YouTube, Zoom and Google Hangouts. Available on both Mac and Windows operating systems, it allowed users to switch different filters during a video call or a live stream.

On Twitter, the messaging app announced that it was now focusing more on making the Camera Kit access more expansive for a better experience on web.

"Hi there, thanks for asking! We're adjusting our web-based investments for the AR creator and developer community to focus on expanding access to Camera Kit for Web. Stay tuned for more info this year, and you can keep using Lenses on your

WHATSAPPS NEW FEATURE TO ALLOW TRANSFER DATA

ON ANDROID

Meta-owned WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature called -- 'Chat Transfer', which will allow users to transfer their data from one Android device to another using a local network.

According to WABetaInfo, the company will bring the new feature to a future update of the app as it is in the developing stage.

With this feature, users will be able to transfer chat history to a new device by scanning the QR code.

It will eliminate the need for Google Drive, so users will no longer have to back up their chat data to the cloud service if they want to transfer the chats from one device to another, said the report.

Meanwhile, WhatsApp also launched a proxy support for users all over the world, like millions of

people in Iran and elsewhere who continue to be denied the right to communicate freely and privately.

Choosing a proxy will enable them to connect to WhatsApp through servers set up by volunteers and organisations around the world dedicated to helping people communicate freely.

"We are making it easier for anyone to connect to WhatsApp using a proxy. So when a connection to WhatsApp is blocked, people have the power to restore access," said Will Cathcart, Head of WhatsApp.

computer with Snapchat for Web," the app's tweet read.

Earlier in June 2022, Snapchat had formally unveiled Snapchat+, a premium membership at USD3.99/month service that will give users access to unique features including the option to alter the app icon and the ability to know who has rewatched your stories.

According to TechCrunch, the company had said that it is testing this capability, although it did not provide any information. It has now formally established Snapchat+. With additional nations to be added shortly, the new subscription plan will debut in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

An Indian man faces up to three years in prison if convicted of outraging a woman's modesty, was reportedly drunk during a New York to New Delhi flight on 26 November.

Shankar Mishra, a former vice president of operations for banking giant Wells Fargo, was arrested in India for allegedly urinating on an elderly woman during the Air India flight.

Indian police say the man, aged 34, was detained in the southern city of Bengaluru following the incident.

Mishra, was transported to the Indian capital on Saturday 7 January, where he was put in custody for 14 days while police investigate.

If convicted the man, who was fired from his job at a high-profile banking firm following the allegations, faces up to three years in prison.

The Times of India newspaper reported the suspect saying that he was drunk at the time of the alleged incident and that he could not

believe what he had done.

Air India only filed a police complaint this week regarding the incident, citing that the crew did not summon police upon landing in New Delhi as they believed that the two people involved had sorted out the issue between them.

Meanwhile, Air India said it had issued written notices and grounded one pilot and four cabin crew in relation to the incident.

The company had faced criticism on social media over its decision to prevent the man from flying with them for 30 days - a ban which activists said was not long enough.

The airline's CEO and managing director, Campbell Wilson, said in a statement: "Air India acknowledges that it could have handled these matters better, both in the air and on the ground and is committed to taking action."

Image: Pixabay

BANISHING BOY RACERS: FINES FOR NUISANCE BIKERS BEING CONSIDERED

By DAVID SPEREALL

New legislation is being considered to clamp down on nuisance motorcyclists who’ve been plaguing Leeds residents with late-night noise.

The city council has revealed it may introduce a public space protection order (PSPO), which could see engine-revving riders slapped with on-the-spot fines. Similar orders are already in place across parts of Leeds to stop people boozing in the street.

Local police said last summer they would dedicate more resources to tackling nuisance bikers, following reports in east and south Leeds that noise was regularly keeping people awake at night.

A senior council officer suggested on Thursday 5 January that “young people having time on their hands” was linked to the problem.

As a result, public money has helped fund a scheme in Seacroft, where around 15 young people have been taught

mechanics skills, as well as how to ride vehicles safely and legally.

Speaking at a scrutiny meeting, Paul Money from the council’s safer stronger communities team, said: “I think the issue of anti-social use of vehicles, and motorcycles in particular, is a significant one that’s been experienced in a lot of communities – certainly in east Leeds and south Leeds as well.” Mr Money said the council was working with the police on a possible PSPO which cover “the whole of the city”, but added that

less punitive measures, such as the Seacroft course, had “proved to be effective” in tackling the problem.

He added: “Our approach is being developed and enhanced over time.

“The enforcement type of approach is something we need to do and we’ll continue to do it.

“But our preference really is still to stop this at source. Some of this is to do with the time young people have on their hands, which is not dissimilar to other forms of antisocial behaviour.

“But there will be continued work on this agenda, not least on the PSPO.”

Last April, the Department of Transport announced a trial of new noise cameras in certain areas in a bid to “banish boy racers”.

Under the scheme, rowdy motorists face fines of up to £50 if they breach legal limits.

Bradford, Bristol, Birmingham and Great Yarmouth are all taking part in the trial, with the technology potentially being rolled out to other areas if successful.

PARK CAR PARKING CHARGES

LIKELY TO START AT 40P-AN-HOUR

By DAVID SPEREALL

New parking charges at parks and attractions across Leeds are likely to start at 40p-an-hour, the city council has revealed.

The cash-strapped local authority revealed in December it was planning to introduce fees at some green spaces in the city to balance its books.

Golden Acre Park in Bramhope, Kirkstall Abbey, Middleton Park, Otley Chevin Park, Roundhay Park and Temple Newsam are among the sites where free parking for the city’s residents is set to end.

Visitors at 24 other public spaces around Leeds will also be told to pay for using their cars.

Further details of the plan, which is likely to be signed off in February as part of the council’s new budget, have now been outlined.

Venues where people park for relatively short periods of time are likely to see relatively “modest” charges introduced.

Season tickets could also be introduced at parks where people go several times a month.

Speaking at a scrutiny meeting on Thursday 5 January, senior council officer James Rogers said the scheme would be rolled out gradually over the course of the next year.

Mr Rogers, who is the service director for housing, communities and environment, added: “In terms of the charges, what we’re proposing is modest charges, recognising most people will use these car parks for one

or two hours a day.

“40p-an-hour is what we’re currently proposing as part of the consultation process.

“We might just need different arrangements where some of these car parks are used for maybe longer stay parking, where we’re happy to encourage that.

“We’ll put the price in according to the

appropriateness of each car park. But generally, it will be 40p-an-hour.”

The council says blue badge holders will be exempt from the charges and that the money will help fund maintenance of the car parks themselves.

It also insists the charges will be enforced, despite admitting at the end of last year it was grappling with a parking warden shortage.

The system is also likely to be cash-

less, with drivers asked to pay through a phone app.

Conservative councillor for Adel and Wharfedale, Barry Anderson asked: “For those people who are regular users –for example in my ward, Golden Acre Park is used by a lot of people who walk their dogs there every single day – will there be season tickets where you can pay a one-off (fee)?

“If you did that it would probably

improve the cash flow for the council because you’d get the money up front? “Have you thought of those alternatives?”

Mr Rogers replied: “We will include season ticket options where we consider those to be an appropriate and useful addition, which I’d have thought would be at most of the car parks.”

Cllr Barry Anderson

James Rogers, Leeds City Council

Roundhay Park, will be among the sites, where free parking for the city’s residents is set to end

LEEDS’ MOST INFLUENTIAL SOUTH ASIANS OF 2022

Every year with the help of our readers, we are able to compile our annual list of key influencers and movers and shakers of Leeds. This year we were particularly looking for influencers, who have used their position to help in those going through difficult times with the cost-of-living crisis and have helped improve society, business, and our environment. Earning money and achieving success is surely hard work, however being able to have influence is something that only a special few can command. These influencers can help make or break a decision, help set trends but also use their status for the good of their industry or community. So, we set out to find out, just who are the most influential within Leeds’ South Asian community.

This year again we have received a huge number of nominations, and we would like to thank each and every one of you who took time out to nominate.

This made the task even more difficult of shaving down the list to the final 14. However, thanks to our panel made up of our editorial team and input from public figures this has finally been achieved. It wasn’t easy trust us as there are so many who are doing some incredible work and deserving of recognition, that it was a real challenge to get to our final 14 influencers. The list is in no particular order and brings forward men and women from all sectors of business, politics, sport, entertainment, and charity and here they are:

NAVEEN AHMED

Naveen Ahmed is managing director of Park Lane Group. Managing Director of Parklane Group which has a unique portfolio of property and leisure brands based across the UK. Naveen is a very charismatic businessman who tries to take on a hands-on approach in whatever he undertakes.

With over 30 years of experience in the property industry Naveen has a wealth of industry experience with an enviable property portfolio which includes a golf course. Naveen is committed to charity and last year held a charity dinner raising thousands to help the Pakistan floods. It is for his philanthropic work as well as business acumen he continues to top our most influential list

IMAM QARI ASIM

Qari Asim, MBE is senior Imam at Makkah Mosque in Leeds, which has won the award of being UK’s model mosque. He is a Legal Director at global law firm, DLA Piper.

Qari Asim has worked tirelessly to help the government in defining Islamophobia and also tackling the hate crime.

He is Chair of Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board and senior editor of ImamsOnline.

Qari is a trustee of British Future, a think-tank which addresses identity, integration and migration. He is also a trustee of the charities Peace Matters and Hope not Hate, which seeks to challenge and defeat the politics of hate and extremism.

He is a member of ITV Yorkshire’s Diversity Group, on the advisory panel of Oxfam and on the regional leadership board of Mosaic, founded by HRH Prince of Wales, to inspire young people to realise their talents and potential.

Qari is passionate about fostering relations between communities and is a trustee of Christian Muslim Forum, a director of Forum for Promoting Peace (London) and one of the faith advisors to Holocaust Memorial Day Trust and the Near Neighbours programme. Along with being part of several boards and committees Qari Asim has been a leading force in Leeds on speaking up for the Muslim community.

DR SHAID MAHMOOD MBE

Dr Shaid Mahmood although is currently the Pro – Vice Chancellor for EDI at Durham University, he has also had many influential roles within Leeds. He had a senior position at Leeds Council, where he led on the Council’s work on equality, migration and counter-extremism; in addition he is the first Chair of the newly created Luminate Education Group.

Dr Mahmood has had an enormously positive impact with his work in Leeds and in the Leeds City Region both in his role at Leeds City Council as Chief Officer for Communities and as the Chair of the Board at the Luminate Education Group, which includes one of the largest further education establishments in the country, Leeds City College, as well as higher education institutions and academy schools.

Dr Shahid was recently honoured in the King’s New Years honours with a MBE

JABBAR KARIM

Jabbar Karim is lovingly known as Mr Fever, having founded Leeds most established community radio stations – Fever FM. As well as championing West Yorkshire s Asian community radio scene since 1989 and being a nurturer of the region s new and emerging broadcasting talent, he is also a charming, affable and versatile presenter.

Jabbar and his team have been using their power and influence of the community radio station, to not only entertain listeners, but to champion debate and discussion on the airwaves.

In addition to that Jabbar and his team have raised millions for charity over the years, helping local, national and international causes. His work is consistent and that brings him back to be noted as one of Leeds’ most influential for the second year.

LUKE PATEL

Luke Patel is a partner at Leeds law firm Blacks Solicitors LLP specialising in commercial dispute resolution and heads up that team. Luke was the winner of the Best Professional in Business award at the Asian English Business Awards 2013. Described in the Legal 500 as “exceptional” he primarily acts for individuals, owner managed businesses and SME’s in a wide range of sectors.

Luke has been at the heart of landmark dispute cases.

BOBBY THANDI

Bobby Thandi Founder and CEO, XR Games. Bobby’s revolutionary vision has seen his company grow from strength to strength employing more than 100 staff members.

Since launching in 2017, XR Games has become an established player across the gaming scene.

His company specialises in VR games development. Bobby’s hard work and impact on significant projects in the digital world has been recognised on both local and national levels.

He superseded all growth plans which saw him clinch the Entrepreneur of the year award at Leeds Digital Festival Awards 2022.

Bobby attracts talent to build teams, secures licences from Hollywood film studios, and wins key clients for work-for-hire projects. He’s also responsible for developing key relationships with global partners such as Sony Pictures, Meta, Microsoft, Valve, and others.

His journey has been a remarkable one, growing up in Bradford working on market stalls with his family to now securing £5.9m in investment and building a state of the art studio in Leeds

Bobby is certainly a major game player and influencer in the digital gaming world.

CLLR ASGHAR KHAN

Asghar Khan arrived in Beeston in Leeds in 1980 at the tender age of 11, to join his father. Not knowing a word of English, but that didn’t deter him and his hard work today has paid off, making him one of the most respected and influential councillors in Leeds.

Cllr Asghar became a Labour councillor in 2011 representing the Burmantofts and Richmond Hill ward, serving on the city plans panel, various scrutiny and community committees, and more recently as a deputy executive member.

After successfully winning his ward seat over 3 elections, Cllr Asghar was then appointed as Leeds’ Lord Mayor, in and chose to support Leeds Hospitals Charity, with a particular focus on raising awareness and funds for renal and diabetes services. During his term as Lord Mayor Asghar raised a phenomenal £125,000 in funds for his chosen charity.

After returning to councillor duties Cllr Asghar has continued to make waves in both Leeds and Bradford for his charitable and community work, which led him to meet King Charles recently and lauded by local community groups for his work.

ABID HUSSAIN

Abid Hussain is a businessman, philanthropist and CEO of chain of Abu Bakr Supermarkets. The successful entrepreneur has been in the supermarket industry for 20 years.

The first established Abu Bakr supermarket was launched in 2001. The demand was to provide a high-quality shopping experience for South Asian products.

Abid revolutionised and led from the front when it came to innovation and creating a one stop shop for fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, meat and poultry.

Abid also created the Abu2Go, brand which offers hot food service that you can order straight to your door. This includes starters, main course dishes and sweets such as curries, pastries, biryani and mixed Mitai sweets.

Despite some challenges in the past, the local South Asian community see Abid as the go to person whenever they are stuck or in need of help.

Abid has been instrumental in supporting other business owners in the region and given thousands in donations to charity

CLLR SALMA ARIF

Salma Arif is a trailblazing Leeds councillor, who became Leeds Council’s first female British Asian health chief in 2021.

Salma, grew up in Harehills Lane and enjoyed a happy childhood, now living in Gipton, Cllr Arif has become one of the most influential South Asian female councillors in Leeds.

After being selected to contest the Gipton and Harehills ward at the 2016 local elections, Coun Arif won with a landslide 79 percent of the vote. Despite a good job working as a legal adviser at a software company, she chose to become a full-time councillor a year into representing Gipton and Harehills.

Among some of her many accomplishments Cllr Arif’s most recent success has been is to manoeuvre her influence to reduce burial costs in Leeds.

Currently Cllr Arif is focused on increasing vaccine and booster uptake across Leeds.

RASHIK PARMAR MBE

Rashik Parmar is an engineer and Lead Cloud Adviser – Europe for IBM by profession. However, he has made his mark by providing useful input and services to innovation and business.

Rashik is Chair of the LEP’s Business Communications Group, which provides a link between the LEP Board and business representative organisations and membership bodies in the City Region to influence policies on business growth.

He is also a member of the LEP’s digital working group, which is currently steering work to develop a digital strategy for the City Region. This work will contribute to the ambition in the recently refreshed Strategic Economic Plan of making the region a global centre for digital jobs and talent.

Rashik has been awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to innovation and business.

PROF. GEETHA UPADHYAYA, OBE

Born and raised in India, Professor Geetha schooled in Presentation Convent and obtained her MBBS., MD (Medicine) and her Ph.D from Madras University and worked in India and Malaysia as a Prof of Metabolic Medicine before joining the NHS, UK as a Consultant. She is a visiting Professor at the Leeds Beckett University. She has a post graduate degreee (Vidvat) in classical Indian dance and music –Geetha has been teaching and performing Bharatanatyam over 30 years nationally and internationally in India, Sri Lanka, USA and UK.

Along with her husband Dr Shripati Upadhyaya, Prof. Geetha founded the internationally reputed Bradford based charity Kala Sangam, south Asian arts, culture and heritage company with its own arts centre.

Geetha is also the Director of Axxonet Global Ltd, UK, a medical focus-based company, Sanjeevani Health Care Trust, India which supports young people with learning difficulties and Autism and Kashi Kalash, India which promotes the rich heritage of Varanasi and addresses social and community issues through creative activities. She is a Consultant for Anahat Foundation, India.

Geetha has been on many educational, artistic, health and cultural diversity boards and has received awards such as an OBE for her work on cultural diversity, Niramaya Award by Vibhuti Foundation, Champion for Cultural Harmony, Cultural diversity award and Doctorate of Letters (Bradford University) and most recently the globally recognised Begum Rokeya award (Bangladesh) for Cultural Heritage and diversity. Geetha is committed to equality and race relations nationally and uses her skills and experience to influence change.

SHARON JANDU

Sharon Jandu is founder of the well-established and leading business networking organisation Yorkshire Asian Business Association and is Project Director of Northern Asian Power (NAP)

Sharon has given almost two decades in connecting the South Asian businesses communities with national and global business world.

Her pioneering work at YABA has helped businesses grow, but also achieve significant recognition and platforms to have a key voice in important strategic and policy making decisions.

Sharon is also a magistrate and has been actively sitting on the bench since 2009.

NAHID RASOOL

Nahid Rasool is the Chief Executive Officer of Shantona Women’s Centre situated in the heart of Harehills. Nahid has been managing the centre since its foundation in 1998. In the beginning there was only Nahid and one other member of staff, but today it employs over 30 staff members supporting particularly women from Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic communities.

Nahid is a pro-active representative for voicing the needs of local people and issues affecting their lives. She is highly committed and passionate about improving race relations and to reduce inequality in education, health and other sectors. She has major influence as she is on various committees including the Education Leeds Equality and Diversity Team, Family support subgroup, BME strategy group, Community cohesion strategy group’ and many others where she can bring about change and help impact the lives of people in Harehills positively. In 2017 Nahid received an Honorary Doctorate from Leeds Beckett University.

SAIR KHAN

Sair is probably one of Leed’s most famous South Asian woman. Born and raised in Leeds Sair made her television debut in the BBC TV programme Doctors.

The talented woman of Pakistani heritage then went on to play the popular role of Alya Nazir in the ITV soap opera Coronation Street in 2014. Alya has continued making her presence felt as a regular character in Coronation Street. Her popularity even got her a stint to compete in the ITV reality series I’m a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! In 2018. Whenever she can Sair, visits her family in Leeds and tries to use her influence to encourage others from the South Asian community to take up acting or performing arts.

WORKING FROM HOME BLAMED FOR MISSED BINS

By DAVID SPEREALL

A previous version of this story suggested quoted chief officer John Woolmer as saying Leeds ranked “middling” when it came to missed bin collections. This quote in fact related to recycling rates instead. Have corrected piece below, with the relevant bit in italics for clarity. Any questions, please let me know.

Working from home culture has been blamed for missed bin collections in Leeds.

Senior city councillor Mohammed Rafique said cars being parked on streets all day made it harder for bin crews to access some areas.

But he praised the service provided by staff as “exemplary”, with less than 0.2 per cent of all collections missed across the last calendar year.

The issue was raised at a council scrutiny meeting on Thursday morning, where Conservative councillor Paul Wadsworth suggested the council’s “performance on paper” was “not what we see on daily basis”.

Councillor Wadsworth, who represents Guiseley and Rawdon said: “It’s the most annoying thing when you pay your council tax and then you come home and your bin hasn’t been collected.”

In response, Councillor Rafique, who is the Labour administration’s executive member for environment, said: “I’ve never hidden from the fact that we’ll always miss bins for various reasons.

“(There’s) Vehicle obstruction and more cars parked on our streets than ever before because more and more

people are working from home.

“In the past when people left their homes and went into the office, it was somewhat easier to navigate through some narrow, difficult streets.

“There’s also vehicle breakdowns, roadworks and sometimes we have a

shortage of crews.”

Councillor Rafique said the refuse service had improved its performance in 2022, after acknowledging there were “difficulties” in the late summer of 2021.

A spate of missed collections around that time was blamed on a rise in household waste from home deliveries and annual leave being taken by crews, as Covid restrictions ended.

Councillor Rafique added: “If you’re the customer at the end of the day whose bin is missed, then it’s not what you want to see. Nobody would be pleased.

“But on the flip side if there was any service, public or private, achieving more than 99 per cent, that’s exemplary.

“When you’re collecting every bin in the city on a weekly basis, then inevitably some will be missed.

“What’s important is when they are missed, we get it right. 99 per cent of the time we do go back and collect them.”

The council’s chief officer for environmental services, John Woolmer, told the meeting that the authority’s response to missed bin collection had “improved over the last two or three years”.

He also said that Leeds ranked “in

the middle” among major cities for recycling rates, but added that its “size, geography and “demography” offered unique challenges.

Labour councillor for Cross Gates and Whinmoor, Jess Lennox, said the service had visibly got better, however.

She told the meeting: “We’ve had a few problem areas in our ward where have bins have been repeatedly missed because of access issues, but the team have been really responsive in terms of sending the crews back.

“I don’t remember a time when we’ve not been able to get something cleared up within a couple of days.

“The responsiveness and the communication has improved.”

Leeds Town Hall

It’s the most annoying thing when you pay your council tax and then you come home and your bin hasn’t been collected.

Conservative

Cllr Paul Wadsworth

We’ll always miss bins for various reasons. Vehicle obstruction and more cars parked on our streets than ever before because more and more people are working from home.

Labour Cllr Mohammed Rafique

Councillor Mohammed Rafique, executive member for housing on Leeds City Council

Image: LDRS

Conservative Cllr Paul Wadsworth

Legal Matters with Luke Patel OPINION

Luke Patel is a Partner at Leeds law firm Blacks Solicitors LLP specialising in commercial dispute resolution and heads up that team.

Luke has been named Leeds' most 'Influential South Asian 2021 by Asian Standard readers. Described in the Legal 500 as “exceptional” he primarily acts for individuals, owner managed businesses and SME’s in a wide range of sectors.

FAILING TO BEAT THE SYSTEM

Defence for noise-induced hearing loss which they claim had been caused during military service.

The High Court has rejected an attempt by a firm of solicitors to issue multiple claims on a single Claim Form.

Mansion Place Limited (“MPL”) was a property developer and it contracted Fox Industrial Services Limited (“FISL”) to build student accommodation in Nottingham. There were delays with the construction which FISL stated was due to the pandemic and MPL’s failure to give vacant possession of the site on time. MPL, on the other hand, claimed that the delay was due to FISL’s failure to progress the works and to commit sufficient labour and resources to the project.

In the case of Abbott & Others v Ministry of Defence Hugh James Solicitors represented 3,500 Claimants who were all seeking damages against the Ministry of

Hugh James sought to issue all 3,500 claims on one Claim Form for which there would be one issue fee payable to the court rather than 3,500 separate fees for each Claim Form.

The High Court Master ruled that it was impermissible to join multiple Claimants with widely different claims on a single Claim Form. The Master said that although the individual claims all

featured a common Defendant with some common themes, they were “far too disparate” and that they consisted of “a huge variety of unitary claims”.

Further, the Master noted that placing 3,500 separate claims with one Claim Form would put an impossible strain on the courts’ computerised case management system. He referred to an instance where the court staff had mistakenly closed an entire group action when they were informed

that (only) one of the cases from the group had settled. The Master directed that unless individual Claim Forms were issued within 6 months then the claims would be struck out.

Under English Law, it is possible to bring group actions where multiple Claimants issue one Claim Form. For example, the Claimants seeking compensation against car manufacturers in the diesel emissions litigation is being pursued as a group action. The ability to issue a group claim under a single Claim Form undoubtedly increases access to justice as, currently, Claimants need to pay a court issue fee equivalent to 5% of the value of their claim up to a maximum of £10,000 and this could be unaffordable for many Claimants who do not qualify for a fee remission, particularly in the current economic climate.

However, given that it is the Government’s intention to make the courts self-sufficient and less reliant on public funds, it is understandable that judges may view attempts to avoid paying court fees as an abuse of process. Therein lies the dilemma, affordability over access to justice even if it is at the expense of the taxpayer. Are we slowly creeping towards the privatisation of the court system?

Blacks Solicitors can provide assistance on all aspects of court and tribunal proceedings. If you require advice or assistance then please contact Luke Patel on 0113 227 9316 or email him at “LPatel@ LawBlacks.com”.

ROHIT SHETTY GETS BACK TO WORK WITH A BANDAGED ARM; SIDHARTH

IN AWE OF HIM

Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra has posted a video of filmmaker Rohit Shetty on Instagram with his right hand completely bandaged.

Sidharth will be seen playing the lead role in Rohit's upcoming series 'Indian Police Force'.

The filmmaker got injured when he was shooting a car action sequence on the sets in Hyderabad.

Sidharth also posted a video with him on Instagram. He wrote "A true master leads by example. We all know about @itsrohitshetty Sir's love for action and his passion towards the stunts he directs. Last night while performing a CAR STUNT action piece HIMSELF, he met with an unfortunate accident. After a sleepless night and a minor surgery he's back on set in less than 12 hours. Sir, you are an inspiration to all of us. Love n Respect."

In the video, the filmmaker expressed his gratitude and said "Thank you for all the concerns, prayers and so many calls. Nothing major has happened, just stitches in two fingers, that's it we are back to work."

Sidharth added "It's only him guys. The whole crew is here. He is all good, the OG rockstar. It's not even 12 hours and he's back on set."

Rohit also posted a picture from the sets and wrote in the caption "Another car topple...But this time with stitches on two fingers...Nothing to worry about, I am absolutely fine...Thank you so much for your love and concern... Shooting Indian Police Force for Amazon Originals in Hyderabad."

'Indian Police Force' also stars Vivek Oberoi and Shilpa Shetty Kundra in the lead roles and will premiere on Amazon Prime Video.

AJAY DEVGNS NEPHEW AAMAN TO MAKE HIS DEBUT IN ABHISHEK KAPOORS FILM

Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn's nephew Aaman Devgn is all set to make his Bollywood debut with Abhishek Kapoor's directorial action film.

As per media reports, he is all set to launch Aaman in his movie.

The shooting for this untitled project will be starting soon.

A source close to the production house told Pinkvilla "Abhishek Kapoor has been willing to explore the action-adventure space for a while now and his next story pushes him in this unchartered territory as a director. He is very excited to take the film on floors. He launches Aaman Devgan with the film, and it's an exciting space to tap on at this point of time. The film will be produced by Pragya Kapoor with Ronnie Screwvala."

According to the reports, Abhishek needed new and well-established faces and thus he thought of Ajay and Aaman. This will be Ajay's second time collaboration with Abhishek as earlier he did a cameo in his 2016 film 'Fitoor'.

"It's a big scale action adventure and the team is planning to create a certain world for the film. The characters will be presented in a certain way in this unique world of adventures created by Abhishek. The yet untitled film is slated to go on floors in the next few months," the source added.

On the work front, Abhishek is known for his movies such as 'Rock On', 'Kai Po Che', 'Fitoor', 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui', 'Kedarnath', among others.

HANSAL MEHTAS THRILLER FARAAZ TO RELEASE ON FEB 3

Director Hansal Mehta is back with another hard-hitting story titled 'Faraaz', based on the real-life terrorist attack that ravaged a Dhaka cafe in 2016, which will release on the big screen on 3 February.

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta said, "To me, Faraaz is a story of our polarised times. Through the one event that rocked Dhaka - the 2016 attack on the Holey Artisan cafe - I've tried to explore the broader theme of violence and what really drives young, vulnerable minds towards it."

"Designed as a nail-biting thriller that plays out over one tense night, my attempt

with Faraaz has also been to shine a light on the immense courage and humanity that it takes to stand up against violence. Because standing up against bigotry and the carnage it triggers is the only way to defeat it."

The film stars Zahan Kapoor, Aditya Rawal, Juhi Babbar, Aamir Ali, Sachin Lalwani, Palak Lalwani and Reshham Sahaani in the cast.

Producer Anubhav Sinha added "Faraaz is a story that needs to be told and Hansal has done justice to the story of the catastrophic event that shocked the world. It is a story about a hero who made

a brave choice and celebrates the spirit of a young boy who stood tall for his loved ones."

Producer Bhushan Kumar said, "Faraaz will surely strike a chord in your heart as it celebrates bravery, friendship, and humanity at its core. I am glad to be associated with such an important film."

The film is directed by Hansal Mehta, and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Anubhav Sinha, Sahil Saigal, Sakshi Bhatt and Mazahir M. The film is jointly produced by T-Series and Benaras Media works in association with Mahana Films.

SAMANTHA RUTH PRABHU REVEALS TOUGHEST PART OF SHOOTING FOR SHAKUNTALAM, DONT MISS HER QUIRKY CAPTION

VIJAY DEVERAKONDA GIFTS 5-DAY MANALI HOLIDAY TO 100 FANS

Actor Vijay Deverakonda's fans are truly lucky.

The 'Liger' star comes up with exciting gifts every year to make Christmas and New Year more special for his fans. This year, he is sending his 100 fans to Manali as a New Year gift from his initiative #Deverasanta2022.

Taking to Instagram, Vijay dropped a video in which he said, "Happy New Year, my love. This is a 'DeveraSanta Update'. I told you that I am going to send 100 of you on an all-expenses paid trip holiday, food, travel, and accommodation on me. I asked you guys where you want to go and every pole chose the mountains, so to the mountains we go."

He added, "I am sending 100 of you on a 5-day trip to Manali. You are going to see snow-capped mountains. You are going to see temples and monasteries, and we have a lot of activities planned! If you are 18+, I am sorry you have to be 18+, and you have been following me, just fill out the attached 'Devera Santa google document form and we are going to pick 100 of you".

Actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu revealed the toughest part of shooting for 'Shakuntalam' and shared pictures from the training session.

Taking to Instagram, the 'Oo Antava' star treated fans with a video of her pet dog and behind-thescenes picture from her upcoming movie sets.

Samantha was seen posing gracefully as her character in 'Shakuntalam' and flaunted her curves in the picture from a training session.

In the video, her pet dog Sasha could be seen lying on a couch.

Along with a post, she wrote a hilarious caption mentioning how grace is not either hers or Sasha's thing.

The caption read, "The toughest part of #Shakuntalam was maintaining grace and posture while walking, talking, running... even crying! And grace is sooo not my thing. Had to take training sessions for it! Should have taken Sasha along... clearly so not her thing either! #LikeMotherLikeDaughter."

Based on Kalidasa's acclaimed Sanskrit play Abhijnana Shakuntalam, the film is written and directed by award-winning director Gunasekhar (Rudhramadevi) and produced by Neelima Guna and Dil Raju under the banner of Gunna Teamworks and Dil Raju Productions respectively. The film also features Dev Mohan as Dushyanta, the king of the Puru Dynasty.

'Shaakuntalam' revolves around the epic love story of Shakuntala and King Dushyant, portrayed by Yashoda star Samantha and Dev Mohan of Sufiyum Sujatayum fame, respectively. It will be out in Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada.

The film will hit the theatres on 17 February 2023.

Samantha has been keeping a low profile ever since she was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition called Myositis.

A few months ago, Samantha revealed that she is diagnosed with an autoimmune condition called 'Myositis'.

The 35-year-old diva broke the silence on her health update via her latest social media post. She took to her Instagram handle and shared a picture of herself, sitting on a couch with an IV drip connected to her wrist.

She captioned the picture, "Your response to the 'Yashodha' trailer was overwhelming. It is this love and connection that I share with all of you, that gives me the strength to deal with the seemingly unending challenges that life throws at me. A few months back I was diagnosed with an autoimmune condition called Myositis. I was hoping to share this after it had gone into remission. But it is taking a little longer than I hoped. I am slowly realising that we don't always need to put up a strong front."

BAFTA 2023: SS RAJAMOULIS RRR MAKES IT TO NOMINATIONS LONGLIST

The British Academy has revealed the results of the first round of voting across all 24 categories for the 2023 BAFTA Film Awards, and this initial longlist included SS Rajamouli's 2022 blockbuster 'RRR'.

The period action movie featuring Ram Charan and Jr NTR scored one nod for Film Not in the English Language category.

Following the longlist's announcement, the movie's official Twitter handle expressed gratitude by tweeting, "Very happy to share that RRR is in the LONGLIST of #BAFTA FILM AWARDS. Thank you everyone. #RRRMovie @BAFTA."

According to The Hollywood Reporter, an American entertainment news outlet, other

TOM HANKS IS OVERCOME BY SELF-DOUBT WHEN HE WATCHES HIS FILMS

Hollywood star Tom Hanks chooses not to watch his hit movies.

While having doubts about his acting ability, the 66-year-old also has to wrestle with authenticity when looking back at his films.

"I wrestle with authenticity. I wrestle with the difference between lying for a living as an actor and lying to myself as a human being," Hanks said when speaking on 'The Great Creators with Guy Raz' podcast, reports aceshowbiz.com.

The two-time Oscar winner prefers not to watch his films again as it always leaves him with a sense of regret about his performance.

Hanks explained "(I see) the falsehood in them. I see the loss. I see that one time, 'Oh man, I missed that opportunity.'"

"And it's not because, at the moment, I chose not to - it's because, after it was done, I realised I didn't go far enough. I didn't go to the place that I could have gone."

"Then I asked myself, well, why? Was it

because I was satisfied with what I had? Was it because I wasn't up enough on the text? Was it because I didn't have enough of those ideas in my pocket? Or you know, was it because I was late that day and we had to rush the shot and instead of six passes, we only got two passes at it? That's where the self-doubt creeps in."

Hanks claimed that the 1994 film 'Forrest Gump', which landed him an Oscar for Best Actor - as one of the few movies where he gave his all.

The 'Cast Away' star recalled "We all sat together for weeks with (director Robert Zemeckis), and Bob was saying, 'Well, what do we make of that?'"

"We started at the beginning of the script and we all talked about everything. Even scenes we're not in, and what it meant to the text. That doesn't mean your own lines. You must know the text, because the text is the interpretation of the theme, and the theme is why you're all there in the first place."

films in the same category included 'All Quiet on the Western Front', 'Argentina, 1985', 'Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truths', 'Close', 'Corsage', 'Decision To Leave', 'EO', 'Holy Spider', and 'The Quiet Girl'.

Out of the lot, Netflix's anti-war epic 'All Quiet on the Western Front' emerged as an early frontrunner because along with Film Not in the English Language category it was also named in 15 categories, including best film and director.

Shaunak Sen's celebrated documentary 'All That Breathes' was also nominated.

However, Sanjay Leela Bhansali's period drama 'Gangubai Kathiawadi', starring Alia Bhatt in the titular role,

failed to make the cut.

This announcement, the result of the first round of voting which closed on 30 December, is only the third time BAFTA has published nominations longlists, a decision it made in 2020 as part of a major overhaul of its voting procedures aimed at addressing the lack of diversity at its film awards, reported The Hollywood Reporter.

The additional longlisting round -bringing the total rounds of voting to three -- was brought in among some 120 wide-ranging changes.

As per The Hollywood Reporter, the final list of nominations will be announced on 19 January 2023, with the ceremony due to take place on 19 February 2023.

PRIYANKA CHOPRA SEES OFF HUMA QURESHI AT NICK JONAS CONCERT, FLAUNTS HER CONVOY

Actor Priyanka Chopra was all jolly and giddy as she shared a fun banter with fellow actor Huma Qureshi.

The 'Quantico' star was spotted in a video posted to the Instagram stories of Huma, dressed in a black jacket along with denim jeans with a handbag.

"This is how @priyankachopra packs all of us off for the concert #convoy #2023," the 'Bell Bottom' actor captioned the video.

"We'll miss you," Huma was heard saying to Priyanka from behind the lens.

"I know. Look at my convoy," Priyanka replied with a giddy laugh as Huma panned the camera around to showcase the numerous black limousines standing in a line.

"Bye! Enjoy London," Huma replied before the video ended with Priyanka making a victory sign with her hands and smiling as she bade farewell.

In earlier Instagram stories, the 'Maharani' actor shared snippets from a concert of 'Jonas Brothers', including one where Priyanka's husband, singer Nick Jonas was performing.

"Jiju is a rockstar .. ufff @ nickjonas," she wrote with star emojis alongside the video.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Huma was last seen in the neo-noir comedy thriller film 'Monica, O My Darling' opposite Rajkummar Rao. Priyanka, on the other hand, will be seen in two important projects 'It's All Coming Back To Me', and the series 'Citadel'.

It's All Coming Back to Me will release in the US on February 10, 2023. The movie is based on the 2016 German film 'SMS fur Dich' by Karoline Herfurth, Deadline reported.

While 'Citadel' is a science fiction drama created by Russo brothers.

On the Bollywood front, Priyanka is expected to start shooting for Farhan Akhtar's directorial 'Jee Le Zaraa' in 2023. The film will also star Alia Bhatt and Katrina Kaif in lead roles. It is an all-female road trip story.

TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT’S COMING UP FOR JANUARY 2023

2022 was an unusual year for the Bollywood film industry, as it was recovering from the pandemic with boycotts trending and Pan Indian films ruling the roost. However, 2023 looks promising for the largest film industry in the world. Here’s taking a look at what’s in store for January.

PATHAAN

Starring: Deepika Padukone, Shahrukh Khan, John Abraham

Director: Siddharth Anand. Pathaan

Release date: 25 January 2023

Platform: Theatres

Pathaan is perhaps the most anticipated film of 2023, as it marks Shahrukh Khan’s return to the big screen after a Zero in 2018. The first look of the movie garnered a lot of attention, clocking up millions of hits for the teaser and its songs.

attire in the first released song Besharm Rang, proved to be a heartthrob, as well as courting controversy. Irrespective the song crossed 42 million views in about 2 days.

MISSION MAJNU

Starring: Siddharth Malhotra and Rashmika

Mandanna Director: Shantanu Bagchi

Release date: 19 January

Platform: Netflix

The film is described as the untold story of India’s greatest covert operation, taking place before and during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. Set in the 1970s, an undercover Indian spy takes on a deadly mission to expose a covert nuclear weapons program in the heart of Pakistan.

KUTTEY

Starring: Arjun Kapoor, Radhika Madan, Tabu, Konkana Sen Sharma, Naseeruddin Shah and Kumud Mishra

Director: Aasman Bhardwaj

Release Date: 13 January

Platform: Theatres

Kuttey is the directorial debut of renowned director Vishal Bhardwaj’s son, Aasman Bhardwaj. The black comedy thriller includes an ensemble cast and is a production of Vishal Bhardwaj Films, Luv Films, and T-Series Films. One rainy night in the outskirts of Mumbai, three stray gangs unknowingly cross paths on the hunt and it’s every man for himself.

GANDHI GODSE: EK YUDH

Starring:

Director: Rajkumar Santoshi

Release Date: 26 January Platform: Theatres

TRIAL BY FIRE

Director:

Release

Based on the 2016 book Trial by Fire: The Tragic Tale of the Uphaar Fire Tragedy by Neelam and Shekhar Krishnamoorthy, this drama series outlines the story behind the Uphaar Cinema fire mishap that occurred on 13 June, 1997 in Delhi. It caused 59 deaths and over 100 injuries. Abhay and Rajshri Deshpande are seen as struggling parents fighting the worst war of any parent’s life - the fight for justice after their kids' death and compensation for the families who lost loved ones.

Deepika Padukone saffron coloured

Chinmay Mandlekar and Deepak Antani. Debutants Tanisha Santoshi, Anuj Saini along with Arif Zakariya and Pawan Chopra will also be seen in pivotal roles.

Gandhi Godse provides an alternative ending to the real story of the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi by Nathuram Godse. In a turn of events, Gandhi survives the attempt at his life and renders Godse a visit in the prison. What happens next is an ideological debate that answers most Indians’ questions.

Starring: Rajshri Deshpande and Abhay Deol

Prashant Nair

Date: 13 January Platform: Netflix

FLASHBACK 2022

Even while it is difficult to argue on paper why Bollywood movies have failed, the hostility the industry has seen since the lockdown has left a mark. The boycott Bollywood movement have only fueled the already suffering industry efforts to find assistance.

As we enter a new year, we take a moment to reflect on the year that has just ended, 2022, and hope to learn from the failures and setbacks. We list some of the significant events that made headlines, occasions that altered the concept of Hindi film and shed some light on the failure of the business.

By UMA RAMASUBRAMANIAN

PAN INDIA TAKES OVER BOLLYWOOD

The days when regional film was despised are long gone. PAN India films have gained popularity over the world as times have changed. To state the obvious Pan India films such as RRR, Pushpa, KGF 2, Kantara gave Bollywood a run for its money.

It all started with the release of Bahubali a few years ago, and since then, the desire to travel across borders and understand the pulse of the audience across states has been a new trend that barely a few have mastered. The failure of each Bollywood films is directly compared to the success of pan India film unfortunately there is no definite conclusion on to why Hindi cinema failed to mint money. As OTT options have honed the Hindi audience's taste buds, the classic super stars of Bollywood are no longer bankable.

NAKED PHOTOSHOOT OF RANVEER SINGH

Ranveer dared it all and posed naked for a magazine which eventually ran into controversy. Several FIRs were filed against the actor. An NGO official claimed that the actor's images had offended the modesty of women in general and harmed their feelings. The FIR said that despite India's "wonderful

culture," everyone's feelings had been harmed by these images.

BOYCOTT LAAL SINGH CHADDHA AND NOW BOYCOTT PATHAAN

The boycott trend in Bollywood has been consistent since pandemic. While Aamir made an honest attempt to tell an incredible story and adaptation of Forest Gump his efforts went in vain. Nationwide ban was pushed as the actor was charged for insulting the Indian army and offending their feelings. The film eventually failed to make enough money to cover its costs.

Post Laal Singh now the next superstar Shah Rukh Khan is targeted for his film Pathaan. Since some individuals objected to Deepika's attire in the song, which included a saffron bikini, many have called for a boycott of the movie.

SAJID KHAN ON BIGG BOSS SEASON 16

Sajid Khan, a sex offender, received criticism for joining Bigg Boss Season 16. While the #MeToo movement, gave strength to several victims the show

took a different tack. Sajid Khan is still a member of the performance despite several criticisms of his participation.

LEGAL ISSUES WITH JACQUELINE FERNANDEZ

It has not been a great year for Jacqueline Fernandez as her name kept cropping up in a legal issue. The actress was accused in the INR200 crore money laundering case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. Fernandez who reportedly wanted to marry him received expensive gifts form the conman.

THE KASHMIR FILES CONTROVERSY

Since its release, the film has been a contentious topic, but near the end of 2022, a new controversy arose when Nadav Lapid, the head of the jury, addressed the audience during the IFFI closing ceremony and referred to the film as "propaganda, vulgar."

BRAHMASTRA CONTROVERSY

The film Brahmastra's teaser sparked controversy after a scene showed Ranbir Kapoor

in his shoes entering a place of worship. However, director Ayan Mukerji quickly clarified that Ranbir was entering a durga puja pandal.

AKSHAY KUMAR VIMAL AD

Akshay Kumar who enjoys a huge fan base had to face back lash for advertising Vimal Pan masala. Soon after the repercussions

the actor choose to pull back from the deal.

DEATH THREATS TO SALMAN

KHAN Stardom comes with a cost, and in Salman Khan's case, that cost was death threats. After receiving a letter threatening his life, Salman sought a firearms license.

PROMINENT INDIAN CELEBRITIES WE LOST IN

The article is incomplete unless we remember some of our favorite celebrities who have passed away leaving their fans in a state of shock. Celebrities including Lata Mangeshkar, K K, Bapi Lahiri, Raju Srivastava, Sidhu Moosewala, Pandit Birju Maharaj, Vikram Ghokale were some of the great personalities who lost their lives this year.

Naked photoshoot of Ranveer Singh

Jacqueline Fernandez

Lata Mangeshkar

While the controversies are beyond control, we hope the box office surprises us in 2023 and hope the cash register keeps ringing.

Akshay Kumar

By SAMUEL J. WHITE and PHILIPPE B. WILSON

Every day we are exposed to a wide array of potentially harmful microorganisms – such as colds, the flu and even COVID. But our immune system – a network of intricate pathways within our body – helps protect us against these microorganisms and other potential diseases. Essentially, it recognises foreign invaders, such as viruses and bacteria, and takes immediate action to defend us.

Humans have two types of immunity: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity is the body’s first-line of defence, primarily consisting of physical barriers (such as skin), and secretions – including mucus, stomach acid and enzymes in saliva and sweat which prevent microorganisms getting inside the body. It also consists of cells that attack all foreign invaders entering the body.

Adaptive immunity is a system that learns to recognise a pathogen. It’s regulated by cells and organs in our body such as the spleen, thymus, bone marrow and lymph nodes. When a foreign substance enters the body, these cells and organs create antibodies and multiply the immune cells specific to that harmful substance in order to attack and destroy it. They also remember the pathogen for future reference.

There are many things we can do to support our immune system and even improve its function. Simple changes to your diet and lifestyle can all play a big role in helping you avoid getting sick.

We are what we eat

The nutrients we get from the foods in our diet play key roles in both building and maintaining our immune system.

Take for example the amino acid arginine. This is essential for generating nitric oxide within immune cells, which is an important defence molecule against organisms. Vitamin A and zinc are crucial in the rapid reproduction of immune cells. Vitamin C contributes to immune defence by supporting the cell functions of both immune systems. Similarly, vitamin E has been shown to enhance immune responses in animals and humans and to provide protection against several infectious diseases, such as flu, COVID and the common cold.

A varied diet including fruits and vegetables, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, dairy products, as well as fish, meat, or plant protein alternatives, will all contain these key nutrients which support our immune health.

The vast combination of microorganisms that live in our gut –known as our microbiome – also have significant effects on our health and wellbeing, despite their tiny size. In fact, the microbiome is often referred to as

the “second brain” due to the extensive relationship it has with the body’s organs and systems.

One particular role the microbes in our gut play is supporting immune function. They help to control inflammation, the process the immune system uses to protect us from harmful pathogens. Ensuring the microbiome is healthy can improve immune function.

There are many ways we can support our microbiome through the foods we eat. For example, research has shown a Mediterranean diet, which is rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre, has an anti-inflammatory effect in the gut,

which can help boost the body’s immune function.

This effect may be explained by a strain of bacteria known as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii which is key to immune regulation. This bacteria tends to be low in the western diet but abundant in the Mediterranean diet. You should also avoid too many refined cereals, sugars and animal fats, which can all heighten inflammation in the body which weakens the immune response.

Probiotics (supplementary blends of live bacteria) may also have benefits. Research has even shown a

probiotic

have a large impact on the immune system. It isn’t just chronic stress that suppresses the immune system either – even brief periods of stress (such as an exam) can worsen immune function. Fortunately, mindfulness meditation (which can help manage stress) may be beneficial for the immune system –though it isn’t entirely clear yet why.

Living a healthy lifestyle

Your lifestyle can also have a big effect on immune function.

For example, smoking affects both innate and adaptive immunity, causing it to both overreact to pathogens and lower its immunity defences. Alcohol has also been shown to increase susceptibility to both bacterial and viral infections.

It does this by altering the way our immune system defends against infections. Even moderate drinkers may have lower immunity.

Sleep is also crucial for maintaining immune function. Studies show that frequent, poor sleep causes inflammation in the body. This may worsen immune response, increasing infection risk and worsening infections.

Adolescents who only get around six hours of sleep are also more likely to suffer from common illnesses, such as cold, flu and gastroenteritis.

Stress is another factor known to

Exercise has also been shown to affect immune function, with research showing moderate-intensity physical activity in particular (such as a brisk walk or ballroom dancing) can improve immune response. However, it’s important to strike the right balance as long, intense exercise without sufficient rest between workouts can actually worsen immune function and make you more likely to catch an infection. And according to some data, this decrease can happen after only 90 minutes of moderate- to high-intensity physical activity.

Of course, vaccination remains the best way to prevent infection from many common diseases, such as the flu. But a good diet and lifestyle – alongside other preventative measures, such as washing your hands or wearing a face mask – help support your immune system and the effectiveness of vaccines.

ThisarticleoriginallyappearedinTheConversationandwas contributedbySamuelJ.White

AseniorLecturerinGeneticImmunologyatNottingham TrentUniversityand

PhilippeB.WilsonProfessorofOneHealthatNottingham TrentUniversity

blend of bacterial strains Lactiplantibacillus plantarumand and Pediococcus acidilactici reduced the amount of virus detected in the nose and lungs, as well as the duration of symptoms, in COVID patients.

Image: Shutterstock

The Mediterranean diet can help support the microbiome

Image: Sea Wave- Shutterstock

BRADFORD COUNCIL CHIEF ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT AFTER EIGHT YEARS SERVING THE CITY

Bradford Council Chief Executive, Kersten England took to social media site Twitter to announce her retirement, sharing an email sent to staff at Bradford Council.

Kersten England announced she will leave her role at the end of June 2023 after serving in local government for 33 years.

The screen shots of the Council chief’s email shared on Twitter read: "Dear Colleagues I write to let you know that, after 33 years in local government, 14 of which as a Chief Executive, I have decided to retire at the end of June of this year.

"But it is Bradford, where I have lived for over 30 years, working for the City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council for 20 years, eight of which as its Chief Executive, which has and always will have my heart. I know this to be an extraordinary place, full of talented, tenacious and generous people and served by 90 dedicated locally elected members.

"Over the last 8 years we ve achieved a great deal. There is renewed ambition, determination and confidence across our District.

"Winning designation as the UK City of Culture 2025 is the most direct recognition of this.

"But alongside this major regeneration and transport schemes are in delivery right across our District which will revitalise our city and town centres.

"I ’ ve always been passionate

economy' and rising wage levels. "I know how hard we work with the private sector, schools and the FE and HE sector to create the conditions for that to happen.

s in the nature of this job that the work is never finished. But I want to

start possible.”

Kersten went on to share how despite stepping down from her role as Bradford’s Chief Executive she will ‘never stop being a champion and advocate for Bradford’.

Since sharing the news, well wishers have taken to Twitter to wish Ms England well for the future.

Chief Executive of Leeds City Council, Tom Riordan tweeted: “You’ll be really missed Kersten from West Yorkshire, Yorkshire and local government. You’ve made a hugely positive difference and to have led councils through austerity, the pandemic and more is an achievement in itself. Thanks for everything you’ve done.”

Ed Anderson, Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire added: “Very sorry to hear this news Kersten but thank you for all you

have done for Bradford and the wider region. Very best wishes for your retirement.”

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford Council, said:

"I want to thank Kersten for all she has done for the district over the last eight years.

"Her personal energy, drive and belief in our place have been tremendous but after eight years in post, I know she would now like to retire to explore other interests. Even though she is retiring, as a local resident, she will continue to take a keen interest in the progress of the district and will enjoy the City of Culture celebrations in 2025 which she has played such a big part in securing for us."

However, while there were messages of good wishes, there were also some who were disappointed with Ms Englands’ leadership, particularly with Children’s Services.

Neil Terry tweeted: “Good riddance. The damage you have done to Children s Services means your legacy will be remembered for years to come.”

Waqar Hussain shared his feelings too: “Finally you see some sense. Do us all a favour and walk away from your post. You have been abysmal, thrown the council into special measures and so much for caring for the children of @bradfordmdc, far from it.”

Whatever your views on Kersten England’s leadership, Asian Standard wishes her all the best for the future.

Kersten England Bradford

Bradford Council chief Kersten England shares news of retirement on twitter

GLOBAL ECONOMY 2023: WHY THERE WILL STILL BE PLENTY OF PRESSURE ON FOOD PRICES IN THE YEAR AHEAD

By JOHN HAMMOND AND YIORGOS GADANAKIS

Shortly after Russia invaded Ukraine, the closely watched food price index of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reached its highest recorded level, stoking consumer prices across the world. In the UK, for example, the prices of many everyday items increased way ahead of inflation, with bread and eggs both up 18% in the year to December, and milk up 30%.

Such rises threatened food security, particularly in low and middle-income countries that rely heavily on Ukraine and Russia for grains and plant oils. That included many countries in Africa and Asia, which took 95% of Ukraine’s wheat exports in 2021 (roughly a tenth of the world supply).

Global food price inflation

This prompted much talk in the media about the potential for famine. Yet nearly a year after the invasion, the FAO food price index has returned to pre-invasion levels.

So why has pressure on prices reduced, and what are the prospects for the year ahead?

What happened in practice

You can’t look at food in isolation from COVID. Many people in the energy and food industries were either too ill to work or prevented from doing so because of pandemic restrictions, which squeezed supplies. When the world opened up and demand began to rise, food and energy prices went up too.

This made people particularly vulnerable to events in Ukraine. Once the war began, food-price inflation peaked because the markets were uncertain about whether production and exports would be hit, and how global supply chains would adapt.

Ukraine’s grain exports resumed after a UN deal was brokered in July to create a humanitarian corridor through the Black Sea. It also helped that the wheat harvest was larger than expected, even if large areas around the front line remain unharvested. Much of Ukraine’s corn has not been harvested either, for the additional reason that the drying

process is energy intensive and farmers struggled to afford the raised prices. Overall, Ukraine’s grain exports were down in 2022 by about 30% year on year.

Russia is normally an even bigger exporter of wheat than Ukraine, supplying about 15% of world demand. It’s harder to see what has happened to these supplies because the Russians stopped providing data, but certainly Moscow’s policy of only dealing with “friendly” countries will have affected availability for many countries too.

Countries that rely heavily on Ukrainian/Russian grains have been forced to shop elsewhere. For example Yemen and Egypt have imported more grain from India and the EU, paying higher prices than usual.

Several additional pressures on farmers have further squeezed the global food supply. Fertiliser prices have rocketed in the past two years. Russia, an important global supplier, has been stockpiling for domestic use. Elsewhere, heightened energy prices have squeezed output. In the UK, the largest nitrogen-fertiliser facility suspended production during 2022.

Average fertiliser prices for UK farmers are now 18% higher than the winter before the Ukraine invasion, and 66% higher than two years ago.

Extreme weather in summer 2022 was another problem, including heatwaves and drought in northern Europe, America and China, flooding in Pakistan and drought in Argentina. Irrigation has become more difficult in areas that depend on it, while in Europe drought conditions have reduced the supply of crops for animal feed and harvest of grass for silage. Meat and vegetable prices have both gone up as a result.

According to the UN’s World Food Programme, the overall effect of inflation, war and extreme weather has been that many people around the world have had their access to food restricted. The number of people facing severe food insecurity is up 20% since the war began.

The outlook

Wholesale gas and oil prices have at least declined from their 2022 highs, which will benefit the entire food supply chain. This is one reason why

inflation eased slightly in the autumn in many countries.

Oil and gas prices

This will have taken some of the heat out of the global food price index. Cereals, meats and particularly vegetable oil prices all fell towards

remains historically high.

For the year ahead, the area of crops planted in Ukraine is estimated to be 17% down on 2022. Farmers in other countries are planting more wheat and maize to compensate, though the overall supply will still be pressured by higher farming costs and potentially more extreme weather.

Fertiliser prices will probably stay high as supplies remain restricted. Farmers in wealthier countries may keep applying normal quantities to their crops, like on previous periods of raised prices. But in poorer countries they may cut back, threatening yields and quality and exposing smallholder communities to greater food insecurity.

In sum, many staples will likely remain in tight supply in 2023, meaning price pressures continue. Retailers will be forced to either absorb the costs or pass them on to consumers. Governments will have to consider how to both support struggling consumers but also farmers to maximise what they produce.

At the international level, there needs to be an urgent fertiliser supply agreement to minimise disruptions, prioritising access for vulnerable communities in developing countries. Longer term, farming needs to reduce its dependency on fertilisers by developing agricultural practices that optimise the cycling of nutrients.

the end of the year, though sugar and dairy prices went in the opposite direction. Overall food price inflation

This includes more efficient use of manures and extracting nutrients from sewage, and using more legume crops in rotations to take advantage of the fact that they enhance nutrients in the soil. There also needs to be more precision farming techniques to target resources within fields to where they will be used most efficiently.

These practices are well adopted in western countries, but other parts of the world lag behind – particularly developing countries. Fertilisers will always be part of the farming system, but we’ll make food production more sustainable if we can get these things right.

ThisarticleoriginallyappearedinTheConversationandis partoftheirGlobalEconomy2023series,contributedbyJohn HammondProfessorofCropScience,UniversityofReading andYiorgosGadanakisAssociateProfessorofAgricultural BusinessManagement,UniversityofReading

Fertiliser restrictions are likely to be more felt in poorer countries.

Image: Stockr

RECIPE MALAI CHICKEN CURRY

Malai is often referred to as a rich type of clotted cream originating from the Indian subcontinent and was particularly used in cooking to make curries more rich and creamy.

Malai is the perfect cooking ingredient and this Malai chicken curry from Supreme Ingredients vast recipe book, is just the perfect way to start the year. Give it a go

INGREDIENTS METHOD

Heat a pot over low-medium heat. Add oil, onions, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves and black peppercorns, cook until onions have turned golden brown. Then add chicken, garlic and ginger paste, black pepper and green chillies, mix well and sear the chicken. Turn the heat down to low, cover and cook until chicken is fully cooked through. Uncover, turn the heat up to medium, add cumin powder, cook for 1 minute then pour in cream and water. Stir well and simmer for 20 minutes. Garnish with fried onions and chopped almonds.

CROSSWORD

Deepika Padukone in Pathan

They are the sons of English league football's first turbaned referee Jarnail Singh, who took charge of more than 150 EFL games between 2004 and 2010, but none in the Premier League.

Trailblazer Jarnail still remains active as a referee in both the Combined Counties League as well as at Khalsa Football Federation (KFF) tournaments.

"For the Sikh community and all South Asians who dream of a career in the game, seeing Bhupinder officiate in the Premier League is absolutely massive," he told Sky Sports News.

"As a father, you can imagine I am very proud to see Bhupinder in the Premier League. It's every father's dream to see their children

you can do with hard work, endeavour and passion for the game.

"His hunger for it has been phenomenal in the last few years and I hope both he and my eldest son Sunny can help encourage more South Asians to take up refereeing."

Speaking to Sky News, Sunny Singh said: “We want the sport to be more diverse and inclusive. So if we can be in the limelight a little bit, just to show people that anyone can do it and make it because we have. It s only a positive, but it does add a little bit of pressure I am the role model, because at the end of the day I will only see myself as a proper role model if I make it to the top of the game, where my dream is”

Bhups is a PE teacher and England's highest ranking assistant referee, while Sunny the older brother is a prison officer in Feltham he is the most senior South Asian referee in the country and the brothers want to reach the top flight of English football.

Jarnail, who has previously gained Premier League experience as a fourth official, was beaming with pride as he attended the match at St Mary's to watch his youngest son make history.

succeed, and do better than them, and achieve more - whether that is in terms of family life, education or sport.

"Hopefully, Bhupinder's achievement highlights what

Bhups said: “My next step is to be promoted to the Premier League and that is the ultimate dream at the end of the day. We got this far in 10 – 12 years, we have time on our hands now to make it to that next step. So for me it s being an a ssistant referee on the Premier League.”

T10 SPORTS MANAGEMENT DENIES CORRUPTION REPORT

The T10 sports Management has denied reports of any corrupt practices and said that the competition is under International Cricket Council (ICC) probe for illegal practices.

As per media reports on 7 January, the ICC's AntiCorruption Unit (ACU) has received several reports regarding corrupt practices in the recent edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 which took place from November 23 to December 4, 2021.

The T10 Sports Management in a statement denied the charges and said, "As a responsible event owner, we host the tournament at a high-quality international stadium. We attract some of the world's best players, while also developing local talent and employing international level ICC and ACC match officials and referees."

"We contract the ICC to manage and investigate any allegations of corruption, which then fall under their scope to manage. We have not been notified on any anti-corruption issues and will continue to take the lead of the ICC," the statement added. The 2022 season was the sixth edition of Abu Dhabi T10. The league saw participation from some of the best players around the globe. Shakib Al Hasan, Andre Russell, Moeen Ali, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard, Sikander Raza and Wanindu Hasaranga are some of the notable names.

Defending champions Deccan Gladiators once again stamped their authority in the Abu Dhabi T10 by recording an emphatic 37-run win over debutants New York Strikers in the final of the sixth edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 at the Abu Dhabi Zayed Cricket Stadium.

Image: Shutterstock

Bhupinder Singh Gill makes history as the first Sikh Punjabi to act as an assistant referee for a Premier League game

Jarnail Singh with sons Bhupinder and Sunny Singh Gill

Image: Twitter

MMA HAS ITS FIRST CHAMPION OF GEORDIE BANGLADESHI ORIGIN, AND HIS NAME IS SHAJIDUL HAQUE

Another devastating knockout meant that Haque snatched the Cage Warriors Flyweight strap off

Creasey on Saturday 31 December 2022.

These two fighters faced off six

years ago, with Haque winning via unanimous decision on that occasion. However, that was a long time ago, and both men have matured as Mixed Martial Artists since then. As a result, many expected this fight to be different.

The opening stages suggested the same as well. Creasy had the better of the striking in the first two rounds and hurt Haque early with a good straight right.

‘Urai ' even dropped Haque in the third, although the man from South Shields claimed that ‘he slipped because of the matting in the cage after the fight.

Haque believes “that he should be in the UFC now” and that he is “the best Flyweight in Europe and has been for the last six years.” Last night he backed up that claim, and it would not be a surprise if Dana White came calling with a contract if Haque defends his title.

Saj had a magnificent year winning 4 titles defeating the Polish No1, French No1 and UK No1, Won and defended the Almighty Fighting Championship Title and now becoming the Cage Warriors World Champion. Surely UFC awaits him now

EXCITED TO PLAY WITH POLLARD, POORAN: MUHAMMAD WASEEM

Dubai , January 7: A number of players in the UAE have had dreams of playing with the best cricketers in the world and the International League T20 will make all those dreams come true when the tournament will be played this January-February.

The inaugural edition will be hosted across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah with six teams battling for the trophy.

Opening batter Muhammad Waseem, who has scored 743 runs in 20 T20s, said he can't wait to play alongside Kieron Pollard in the MI Emirates camp.

"I am feeling very happy, and I feel lucky to be a part of such a big franchise. I will try my best to prove myself during the tournament. This is a huge moment for us which I can't put in words. I will try to play my best and showcase the talent that UAE has. I can't wait to meet Kieron Pollard and play alongside him. I played with him in Abu Dhabi T10 as well."

Asked about how he started cricket, the UAE player said, "I have been interested in cricket since my childhood days. I started playing the game seriously in 2014. I played for my school and then went on to play at the district

level, which is where my passion grew for the game."

Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Vriitya Aravind, who has scored 536 runs and effected 12 catches and three stumpings in 25 T20s, said that he always wanted to play for the MI franchise, "It's an honour and a privilege to represent one of the most successful cricket franchises in the world. I saw Sachin Tendulkar play for MI (in the IPL) and I wanted to represent the franchise at some point in my life and therefore I feel lucky to get a chance to be a part of the MI Emirates at an early age. I am looking forward to playing with Nicholas Pooran since we have similar roles as a top-order batter and wicketkeeper. I think I will keep pestering him with questions."

Aravind also spoke about the moment which inspired him to be a cricketer, "I was born in India, and everyone wants to play cricket there. And I was in the country when India won the 2011 ICC Men's World Cup. That is my first memory of watching an entire World Cup and I also celebrated on the streets when India won it. I made up my mind on that day that I want to be a cricketer and play in the World Cup."

The MI Emirates will be in action when they take on Sharjah Warriors in their first match of the DP World ILT20 at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi on 14 January 2023, a release said.

Making its debut on 13 January (2023), the inaugural DP World ILT20 promises to be a high-octane competition with some of the greatest cricketing superstars on the planet set to make their way to the UAE to kick off the league. The league will be played in a 34-match format across the UAE's exemplary, world-class cricket facilities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

Franchise teams, comprising over 100 International and 24 UAE-based players, include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Knight Riders Group), Desert

Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR), Gulf Giants (Adani Sportsline), MI Emirates (Reliance Industries) and

Cricket fans across the world can catch the live telecast of this exciting cricket league on Zee's linear channels, digital platform, Zee5 as well as Zee Cinema, Zee Anmol Cinema, and Pictures, and Flix, Zee Zest, Zee

Bangla

DP World ILT20 news, updates and interactive chat can be found via www.ilt20.ae and @ILT20Official on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, while tickets can be purchased by visiting https//tickets. ilt20.ae.

Muhammad Waseem

Sharjah Warriors (Capri Global).

Cinema, Zee Thirai and on CricLife across the UAE and MENA regions.

Saj Haque with his team

Shajidul Haque MMA Champion

Image: Twitter

Kieron Pollard

BROTHERS BHUPINDER AND SUNNY SINGH GILL MAKE ENGLISH FOOTBALL HISTORY BECOMING THE FIRST SOUTH ASIANS TO OFFICIATE IN THE SAME CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH

BANGLADESHI CLINCHES MMA WORLD CHAMPION

KAMLESH PATEL TO STEP DOWN AS YORKSHIRE COUNTY CRICKET CLUB CHAIR

The Yorkshire County Cricket Club today announced that Lord Kamlesh Patel will step down as Chair at the Club's next Annual General Meeting.

Patel, who joined Yorkshire in November 2021, has overseen a significant period of change which culminated in international cricket returning to Headingley.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion have been at the heart of this change to ensure that Yorkshire Cricket is a Club for everyone. Key changes have included offering a safe space for whistleblowers to report discrimination, integrating goldstandard governance processes under the guidance of the Good Governance Institute and working to achieve accreditation with the National Centre for Diversity as read in a statement released by the Yorkshire Cricket Club.

Important steps have also been taken to ensure that matchdays at Headingley, Scarborough and York are more inclusive and offer a friendly atmosphere for all. Others

key changes to the matchday experience at Headingley have included the introduction of a texting service to report discriminatory behaviour confidentially, more familyfriendly alcohol-free areas and sensory rooms to offer a calmer space for those with sensory processing issues.

Removing cost barriers and creating opportunities to diversify Yorkshire's Pathway programme has already seen great success.

The boys Pathway programme has seen a nearly 40 per cent increase in attendees for regional observations and an increase of 60% of cricketers selected from a diverse background at County Age Group when compared with 2021. Girls County Age Group nominations have already increased by 60.7 per cent from 2021.

Kamlesh Patel, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Chair said, "It has been an honour and a privilege to work for such a prestigious organisation. I have made the difficult decision to step aside at the next AGM and enable the Club to continue on

its important journey of change under a new Chair. I would like to thank those Members who have been hugely supportive of the changes that the Board have introduced at Headingley. I would also like to thank the staff and Board Members who have all worked tirelessly during what has been a transformational period in Yorkshire's history. There is still much for the Club to do, but I have the strongest faith that Yorkshire will be back at the pinnacle of English cricket for the long-term."

Stephen Vaughan, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Chief Executive said, "Kamlesh should be extremely proud of what he has achieved at Headingley during his tenure as Chair. The structures that have been put in place are vital in ensuring that Yorkshire is a Club that people are proud to be associated with. Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity are at the heart of our Club and I am excited to work with the Board, executive team and new Chair to continue on this journey of meaningful change."

Kamlesh Patel