T’Point
Yorkshire Tales Georgina Akeroyd
Book One Yonder
Book Two T’ Point
Yorkshire Tales
A guide to everything Yorkshire From people to places, we have it all Redefining the stereotype, Unveiling the truth As we celebrate the nature Inside and out.
T’Point
T’Point
To the point.
In context-
Them in Yorkshire get t’point
Translation-
People within Yorkshire get straight to the point
By Georgina Akeroyd
Introduction In order to redefine something, you have to prove and show your worth. So on these guidelines in order to rid of the old and bring in the new stereotype, what better way to do this, than to justify from the horse’s mouth. Amongst a range of winter daytrips, sampling Yorkshire’s best, I came across a selection of charming characters from young professionals, mature beings and the in-between. Presented in this Zine is a small collection of gathered opinions. In an attempt to redefine and rid the dated presumptions, these individuals express the truth in their own no frills language. Providing a guide, recommendations, and most of all a humble opinion. Simple, honest and true to the core, this traditional take on a zine echo’s the Yorkshire nature through and through. The journey encompasses a collection of characters, creative writing pieces, and authentic photography to engage you with a deeper in the moment feel, of memories and tales I’ve been inspired by along the way.
Photographers Note It’s been on my mind a while now, to create something like this. My friends joke and play with my Yorkshire nature, as kind as they are Their inner southern-ness is always obvious. Misguided and behind a century, This is a guide for them, others of a similar judgment and for the Yorkshire folk to treasure as a keepsake. To understand the pride of a Yorkshire man, to accept us for the existing and not for the brand. It shows the real nature; pure and then some. The Buildings The People The History The View
photo
The People You will meet a collection of people Yorkshire born and bred, frank and unprejudiced. Reinforcing the enthusiasm behind my inspiration for the Yorkshire Tales series. Some having evolved with the region, others proud of their roots, but all in agreeance of the recognition being granted to such a worthy county.
John Frederick
Occupation: I left school with no qualifications at 16 and secured a part time indentured electrician apprenticeship at the coal board. After 12 years I became qualified and applied for teacher training, going on to teach at Wakefield college. Then I started buying lots of property and as I retired in my early fifties I passed it to my son. The only thing I ask for in life is health and happiness, if you have that, you have the ultimate.
Native: Born in Wakefield
Describe Yorkshire in 3 words... Simple, Accepting, and Straight talking.
What is the real Yorkshire stereotype? A true Yorkshire man works hard and is determined and a bit obsessed and eccentric. If you’re not determined and blow in the wind, you will fall by the wayside. You have to takes some knocks along the way but the person at the top of the mountain sees more than the person at the bottom of the mountain.
Would you say it’s developed from the old ‘flat cap’ stereotype? Well if they think that still, they have a sheltered blinkered outlook on life and are very naive and missing out. My outlook on life is simple, help people if you have the time and if you can, give people time that need help.
Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? Well there are good areas and bad areas. The area’s that are personal to me is around Harrogate and the Dales.
What is your no.1 rule for people travelling to Yorkshire from the South? Well my philosophy on life is that there is no person that is better than anybody else. Money does not control if you are better than the next person, it’s all personal. You can have an aristocratic lifestyle living in Yorkshire just the same as you can anywhere else in the country. I do not believe that money makes you any better.
The Buildings Architecturally striking, Leeds captures a collection of eras; each telling their chapter of the history. Surrounding the people, ignorant to detail, beauty and charm that stands impressive. You can see the varieties from high up in the rooftops, peaking chimneys, turrets and trims. Elegant arcades offer shelter from the elements, casting shadows of grandeur from above.
Carol Ann
“Don’t forget to get my lovely gloves in”
Occupation: I manage a learning centre for the disabled in Holbeck, in Leeds.
Native: Born in Harrogate, but when I left to go study in London, Yorkshire was barely developed and very similar to the well known stereotype, however when I returned years later, I was impressed with the change. It had developed into a city full of history, beautiful architecture with lots of creative culture.
Describe Yorkshire in 3 words... Open-minded, Strong-willed, and Entrepreneurial.
What is the real Yorkshire stereotype? The problem is that people are pig ignorant and think it hasn’t changed in 30 years! But we have this wonderful countryside and coast, fantastic history, villages and cities, The people are much more open minded and approachable. I’ve seen it from both sides and firmly believe we Yorkshire folk are much more accepting, I find it quite hypocritical.
Would you say it’s developed from the old ‘flat cap’ stereotype? This makes me quite angry as I think that this is the image people in the South still have of the North. I do go to London quite a lot and spend most of my time when I am there defending the Northern culture, I seem to get quite protective.
Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? I love the city of Leeds but there is more to it than shopping. It needs to be explored down all the side streets and surrounding villages, to find all the hidden gems. Saying that, my favourite place is Harrogate, not that well known outside of Yorkshire but so beautiful and endearing.
What is your no.1 rule for people travelling to Yorkshire from the South? Keep an open mind is my main advice. Get off the main drag and look at some of the buildings that are not always promoted but are equally full of historical and cultural features. Leeds has some of the most interesting pubs steeped in history. Visit the best markets in the country, we have the oldest covered market here in Leeds (Kirkgate Market).
4th September 2015 London Kings Cross: 11:05am After a lengthy wait, buried deep in a sea of impatient humans. A gust of wind announces the arrival of the train. We both release a deep sigh as it halted to a stop. A sigh of satisfaction, combined with my unfathomable anxiety, eases with my ticket out of this gloomy place, now the train is in sight. We all hoard onto the train. Thank God I booked my seat, my subconscious can’t help but feel smartly smug. Finally, after the routine battle, I’m seated on the jam-packed train; strangers to my left and window to my right. We set off immediately. The window is translucent much to my confusion. Is it the soiled air clouding my vision? All I can see is a plethora of grey, secluded and disappointing. I set myself up on the shared table in front; MacBook, phone and today’s treat, my Grande caramel mac, after all I deserve it. It tastes predominantly sweet either that or I’m still feeling particularly sour. I struggle to focus, irritated as the carriage hums with tapping keyboards. Unsettled and frustrated, the guy across from me fidgets. I try to catch his eye and offer a smile, we both could do with, but he choses to ignores it. The fire, in the pit of my stomach deepens. Why are people so hostile here? You’d think I’d be used to it by now.
Peterborough First stop, two more to go! Uniformed bodies depart the train. The mardy mood noticeably lifts. I can actually see the other side of the carriage now. Who’s left then? Some women, clearly returning from a city break, still gossiping, high-pitched and annoying, veiling lingering hangovers. An odd worn-out, mature man stealing a snooze in a rhythmic fashion. I spot the ticket guard approaching. My natural gut goes to wake the dozing fella. Wait! What if he’s offended? My conscience questioning my natural instinct. I conclude it’s best to keep myself to myself. What have I become?
Doncaster A breeze from the open doorway breaks my daze, I breathe in a wholesome breath, my insides sense a purified gasp. It’s been forever since I felt that crisp chill tingle to my teeth, captivating my mouth. The smoggy windows have subsided, perfectly timed, revealing a green ocean. The air seamlessly cleanses the trains exterior as we reach the north. My mind mesmerised. Yorkshire stone walls framing the rolling hills, they appear greener than I remember. Crowded autumnal treetops clustering together, swaying to the sweet brisk wind. Each mile closer we travel towards Yorkshire, the plainer it becomes, home is where my heart is.
Leeds: 1:16 pm I see the remnants of industrial chimney tops against the backdrop. Connecting sentiment with the tall Victorian turrets and painted trims. We slow as we arrive into Leeds. My muscles ache with fatigue, in tatters from the tense summer strain. Surrounded by native soil, they are freed in relief. I march off the train with pride. Greeted with a smile from a stranger waiting with train etiquette to board “Y’alright love”. That clarification was enough. With a smile and some soul, I’ve decided you can keep your frenzied and disengaged life.
“I see the remnants of industrial chimney tops against the backdrop. Connecting sentiment with the tall Victorian turrets and painted trims.�
Laura
Occupation: Community Dietitian at Doncaster Hospital.
Native: Born in South Elmsall , studied at Leeds Beckett University and recently moved to Barnsley.
Describe Yorkshire in 3 words... Accepting, Colourful, and Diverse.
What is the true Yorkshire stereotype? I love the whole nature of Yorkshire, everyone being so approachable, and supportive ,even people you don’t know! After going to uni I became more appreciative of the nature because it makes you realise a lot of people are not like us. So I’d say kind hearted (well most people), opportunistic and adaptable.
Would you say it’s developed from the old ‘flat cap’ stereotype? I believe that Yorkshire has grown massively and is full of potential because of the nature of the people. Being so accepting helps to encourage people to go do what they want to do and for those to feel supported enough to achieve it. My mum and dad tell me all the time how it’s changed for the better and how lucky we are, I can only imagine.
Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? I love the city of Leeds but I feel most at home in the surrounding villages, I think I became attached to places like Headingly when I lived there as a student. It brings back very fond memories and is full of stuff to do, but still feels quite village-y,even though it really is just 5 minutes from the centre of Leeds. It’s like the best of both worlds.
What is your no.1 rule for people travelling to Yorkshire from the South? Don’t judge a book by its cover, there’s more to Yorkshire that what you first think.
The History Imagine a Leeds without any history. No battles or buildings to study so deeply. War of the Roses, a bloody affair. A Victorian Hall tiled with mystery. The Arts hold no bounds; City Varieties crease with age. Traditions the norm, designs dating back. Subscriptions for books, still hidden in nooks. Expression a plenty, for all to discover. Fashion and Music to name but a few Ballet and Opera regularly overlooked. Creative and colourful, our view it’s elementary All at the centre of this cultured Century.
Barry Bell
Occupation: Unqualified carpenter, I have my own wood workshop. Although I am supposed to be retired. I used to make orthopaedic limbs for the hospital, that’s made me good with my hands I think.
Native: Born in Howarth
Describe Yorkshire in 3 words... Ooh it’s a great place. Full of crafts and new things to do, a great culture, and then you have all this lovely traditional countryside and villages as well. What more could you want?
What is the true Yorkshire stereotype? I would say all the good bits form the old one and then made even better, so people are still very much friendly and approachable, but now we have more opportunities to be creative together, it’s really grown and made its mark on the map. So open-minded and diverse, miles away from people that used to think we were all lacking in education and living on a farm. Well it definitely deserves some recognition in my eyes.
Would you say it’s developed from the old ‘flat cap’ stereotype? Very much so, it’s not like it used to be, even though I am saying this with my flat cap on! There is so much to do and get involved with, a real buzz about the place, you have something for everyone. Even for me! People are much more creative nowadays.
Where is your favourite place in Yorkshire? I love it here in Howarth, a real county village where everyone knows everyone and I can dip in and out of the busy city life as I like, knowing I can come back to a place like this makes me feel at home.
What is your no.1 rule for people travelling to Yorkshire from the South? To be accepting and to return others kindness, don’t be shocked when people approach you they haven’t picked you out of the crowd, it’s just what we do. It feels good to be friendly, you will understand if try it sometime.
Let Me Introduce You To Barry Bell The icy November sun pierced the day-glo stained glass window, tinting the traditional, sooty stone high-street. From family outings to elderly couples strolling up and down the puce cobbles. Haworth village is out to play. Walking up the vertically sloped avenue, the renowned moors peak over the Yorkshire slate rooftops. The luscious rolling hills, their greens muted by the falling rain. A traditional steam-train chugs by, churning out an endless white cloud of steam veiling the view. The Black Bull bustled, an excuse for shelter from the wetting rain. A whispered spice of parkin in the air. An undertone of muffled conversation, accompanying the mellifluous brass band, ringing in the soul of the village. The old school assembly rooms were brimming with people. Fringing this typically rectangular space, enclosing the weekly craft market and concealed by a chaotic tea room placed in the centre, with cake stands reminiscent of Calendar Girls. “Ey’up pet, Y’alreet?“ A petite man, with raised brows and a neighbourly smirk, he angelically awaited acknowledgement. “A se’, you’ll never guess what? This ‘ere flat cap ‘av got on.” Blue eyes wide with fervour peer over, inviting a response. Each line of wisdom full with life, his cheeks drawn and his hand pointing to his head. “A thought it wa’ grey yano. Grey! A cem ‘ere today n’ all I’ve got is stick since I stepped through that thee’er chuffin’ door“. Grinning with anticipation, he continued. “Pink! A sed ‘it’s not pink’ I thought they were having mi’ leg at first”. He shared an infectious titter. “A gus ‘it’s grey look, Shirley bought it us’. But they insisted it wa’ pink. A thought “al have her bloody guts for garters.” Ya see I’m colour blind ant a? She never mentioned it wa chuffin’ pink.” Coaxed towards him, his dress captivating; eccentric black corduroy jeans, teamed with a checked waistcoat, layered on top of his midnight blue stripy shirt and a pale neckerchief to finish. Radiating a tantalizing charm, his efforts unmistakable. “A med em all mi’sen a did, 72 I am.” He divulged proudly with hand gestures to match. “Got fed up of watching that thee’er box every night. A said t’ mi better ‘alf, Shirley. A can’t be doing this for rest of mi life, a can’t. So as somer’t t’ do after mi tea, for an hour or so, a started carving wood like this.” To the right of him was a stall covered in a white linen cloth adorned with wooden, hand sculpted boxes. Shades of brown; maple, mahogany, fawn, greige, umb… “All local wood though, that’s how I started“, interrupting our admiration.
“A wanted t’ do somert’ that reflected me. Somert reliable n’ consistent. Warm too. N’ from’t heart. All from God’s own country, beautiful in’t it?“ His worked leathery hands sentimentally stroked the chiselled bow on top of the trinket box. “A used to be in’t orthopaedic unit ya see. Working wi’t all’t joints. Made mi good wi’t mi hands. Keeps mi brain and eyes stimulated ya see, or so a thought. No wisecracks from ya either ab’art mi eyes before ya start, a know what you young un’s are like!“. Pun intended “It’s changed over t’ years tho. The wont as many chances like they are today tha Kno’s, Ya see Leeds is full of art ‘n’ crafts ‘n’ stuff like that. The tools just wan’t thee’re before. Non o’ that t’internet ‘n’ wirey stuff or owt, saying that a self taught mis’en this without it.” Pausing for thought, he frowns, you can almost see the cogs turning. “Listen e’a love, If tha does owt for nowt, do it for thissen. That way you’ll always love what ya do n that’s what’s important” He nodded then went on content with his day. Barry Bell stood all day neighbourly welcoming every soul. Unacknowledged yet undefeated from those who misunderstood his intentions; scrutinized as ‘uncomfortably over-friendly’, almost senseless to consideration. “There’s now’t so queer as folk.” Behind the Yorkshire armour; an endearing spirit.
The View Yorkshire is easily recognised for it’s pretty face, yet underneath the surface lies a more valuable gem. The nature of a Yorkshire person, redefined as open-minded, creative and genuine. Within the people, lives an attitude that’s accepting and an ability to see beyond the initial atheistically pleasing features, finding loveliness and innovation in the unruliest and unexpected places. Well you don’t get much more Yorkshire than a classic market. From farmers to Marks and Spencer’s we’ve seen and reared it all. Featured is Kirkgate Market, Leeds, inspired by the alternative beauty, introducing one man’s rubbish, as another’s fortune. Taking you on the journey of the market, focusing on the floristry that first struck me, rich in colour and plush in texture.
Highlighting, the end of the day stock, wrappers and petals strewn nearby, sprinkled near a heap of glitter imperfectly organised, all congregating together to tell their story of shade. The noise of the sales vibrating through the Victorian metalwork, a hustle and bustle undertone of negotiation, bargains frantically hunted.
Georgina Akeroyd
A calmness arrives in the atmosphere, as the early market day ceases. Trails of deconstructed flowers lead away from the market, remains doused in the winter rain, resting before the start of a new day.
T’Point Yorkshire Tales Georgina Akeroyd