Scallymag for Todmorden and Hebden Bridge - Autumn '14

THE

S C A LL Y A G M

®

Walsden, Cornholme, Todmorden, Hebden Bridge, Mytholmroyd, Luddendenfoot & Surrounding Areas

Diary pages

News

For pre-school and Out of School Activities

Four full pages of family news from our area

Out & About

Family Matters

Manor Heath Manchester Museum

Autumn ‘14

Do you know who you’re talking to online?

Issue 46

For Local Parents, Carers & Kids

Regular Features

Family Health Literacy News Bloke in the Kitchen Competitions

And Much More se

ea e l p ak t ne o

Viol in & Viol a TuiTion Beginner to Diploma Standard

ROBIN PENNIE Tr i n i T y C ol l e ge l on d on - l .T.C.l .

Professional teacher and performer Twenty-five years experience

t: 01706 559971 e: sandrpennie@gmail.com

page welcome header contents

contact us

Diary Pages Playgroups, Out of school clubs, Swimming,

Libraries & Soft Play Page 11 Pre-School Diary Page 12 Out-Of-School Diary Page 14 Competitions Design our next front cover Page 10 Grab yourself a free childrens book Page 7 Out & About Manor Heath Park Page 9 Manchester Museum Page 21 News New Eco Cleaning, Martial Arts & Crafting for your family. Request for reasearch paricipants and much more Page 4 Focus On: Choosing a school Page 17 Family Health Page 23 Your health Q&A Literacy Page 20 The latest news from The Book Case Bloke in a Kitchen Page 22 Pear & Almond Cake Family Matters Page 18 Who are you really talking to online?

For competition entries, to discuss and book advertising space, ideas for future articles or just to let us know what you think of the magazine, please get in touch by any of the following means:

0 Bankside House, Haugh Road, Todmorden, OL14 6BU 8 hazel@thescallymag.co.uk  07816 321439 R www.thescallymag.co.uk The Scallymag (Todmorden & Hebden Bridge) @ScallymagTod

Editor: Hazel Bregazzi Lay-out & Design: Hazel Bregazzi Publishing: Bankside House Publishing, Todmorden Distribution: Many thanks to all schools, groups and other businesses which help with the distribution of The Scallymag® Special Thanks: To all advertisers whose contribution ensures the magazine can be distributed Free of Charge Editorial & Advertising: Hazel Bregazzi, Bankside House, OL14 6BU info@thescallymag.co.uk Disclaimer: Whilst every care is taken to ensure that information contained in this magazine is true, accurate and fair, the publisher cannot take any responsibility for events arising from the use of this information. Any statements or opinions given in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. © The Scallymag® 2014 Nothing may be reproduced without permission

Congratulations To: Maximilian Misiurski

aged 4, of Todmorden, who drew our wonderful front cover picture

“Awesome Autumn”

He gets a £25 voucher to spend at Silly Billy’s Toy Shop in Hebden Bridge.

Many thanks to Robert from Silly Billy’s for judging the competition.

news

J

jingling on

o Jingles has had such an exciting year! He has recently been to Radio 2’s huge CarFest to help to entertain the hundreds of children who attended. CarFest was raising money for the BBC’s ‘Children In Need’ charity and Jo is very proud to have been asked back. The organisers all commented on how vibrant, exciting and, above all, professional Jo Jingles was.

In the regular classes, Jo has ‘taken’ the children Pond Dipping, on Picnics and even to the Car Wash (excellent fun – if a bit wet!).

“In our classes we are always creating new programmes to keep them exciting, educational and fun!” said Jo Corbett, local Jo Jingles teacher.

“Schools are increasingly booking Jo Jingles too as they see that our strong, educational basis ties in perfectly with their learning targets. Many teachers have commented that children with extra learning needs (including English as an additional

language) respond, and therefore benefit, especially well from our methods.”

Jo Jingles classes help with positive developments as well as providing quality time for parent/carer and child together. Whether you are a first time parent or not, there’s no experience so rewarding as those you share with your baby and child. Those first experiences are the building blocks for future development, both educationally and emotionally, and Jo Jingles feels very privileged that so many families allow them to participate in this very early years experience with their children.

The main aim of Jo Jingles is that the children have fun, lots and lots of fun, as do parents, grandparents and carers who are actively encourage to join in.

They are already filling the class lists for September, so why not pop along and have a trial? They are opening up new baby classes and all new customers who go to the baby classes (3 – 9 months) will get their FIRST 3 WEEKS FOR FREE! All other new customers can get 3 weeks for £10, (getting their first week free).

THERE ARE CLASSES NEAR YOU!

We have age specific classes from the age of 3 months – 4 years.

Please contact Jo Corbett on 01706 212889. www.jojingles.com/rossendale www.jojingles.com/halifax

calderdale remembers the first world war

T

he First World War affected cities, towns and villages all over the country and Calderdale is no exception. Many people who were not in active service found new ways to help the war effort and many buildings were used for different purposes.

There are sites all over Calderdale that played a key part in World War One. Throughout the centenary period there’ll be small displays popping up at significant sites supplementing the extensive new exhibition ‘For King and Country’ which opened on Saturday 1st August at Bankfield Museum, Halifax.

One of the buildings which will feature a display is Spring Hall Mansion, near Halifax. Today the Mansion is known as being a magnificent setting for a wedding, civil ceremony or naming ceremony but, you might not know that during the First World War, Spring Hall was used as a convalescent and auxiliary hospital for servicemen.

Spring Hall opened as a hospital on the 1 February 1916. Initially it had 84 beds until nearby Shaw Lodge was added and by 1 April 1917 220 beds were available. The hospital was run by Dr Shaw and his wife Mrs W. Shaw, who was in charge of administration.

It was staffed by War and Voluntary Aid Detachment nurses.

Before its closure, on the 28 February 1919, the hospital had treated 3619 patients.

Mrs Shaw received an award from the Royal Red Cross

for her work and another 20 to 30 nurses from the region were also given honours in 1919.

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Cllr Marcus Thompson, said: “There are landmarks relating to the First World War all over Calderdale.

Some are obvious, such as the war memorials which we are carefully restoring for the centenary, but others are less clear, such as Spring Hall’s story.

“Many people living in Calderdale today will have ancestors who gave their lives for their country, or were injured in the line of duty and may even have been treated at Spring Hall.

It’s a fitting tribute that stories like this one will soon be commemorated with displays, revealing the forgotten history of their contribution to the War.” To mark the centenary, Calderdale Council has a number of displays planned which will be installed at landmark sites throughout Calderdale during centenary period. The ‘For King and Country’ exhibition at Bankfield Museum in Halifax explores the region’s involvement in the war and the impact on the area and will be open until December 2018.

news New Eco Cleaning Business serving the Calder Valley

P

ennine Eco Cleaning is a new domestic cleaning service recently launched in the area. They use non-toxic, eco-friendly products and a new approach to cleaning incorporating those values of using less water, less chemicals and less waste.

“The Calder Valley is a very forwardthinking place to live, with a great involvement in sustainable, organic & eco-friendly living”, says local mum Mary Marks. “I am excited about bringing a new cleaning business into being for those interested in toxic-free, healthy lifestyles.”

J

households with babies, young children & pets.”

As an independent distributor for Wikaniko, the UK’s number one eco-friendly company, Mary cleans with Eco2Life and Earth Renewable Solutions cleaning products, both of which use a super concentrated system of naturally derived ingredients proven effective in UK trials. Pennine Eco Cleaning offers regular weekly, monthly, and one-off special/seasonal/moving cleans. A customer loyalty scheme is also offered. In addition to cleaning with the products, Mary offers them for sale in her online shop, which also includes nearly 1,000 organic, fair-trade and ecofriendly products for your home, health, bath & body, baby and pets. Customers can earn cash-back points on all products purchased online. Get in touch with Mary at www.PennineEcoCleaning. co.uk or PennineEco@gmail.com.

crafts for kids

anine, the founder of the new Queenie Beenies Crafty Cabin, has always been creative and crafty, starting out 15 years ago making crafty gifts for family and friends. She went on to sell some of her creations but found she was spending more time with the children around her, encouraging them to get crafty and creative. She passionately believes every child is unique and has that creative side just waiting to burst out. “We want to help your child express themselves in their own unique ways and styles; encouraging them to have fun, get messy and explore the world of crafts with us.” she says.

“At our new, weekly sessions in Todmorden, I make sure kids have a fun and enjoyable time while learning some important skills.” says Janine. These skills

Mary goes on to explain, “The average household stores approximately 200 different hazardous chemicals under their sinks via everyday cleaning products. Chemical cocktails so dangerous that if you drank even a teaspoon of them they would, at the very least, cause you serious harm – that is if they didn’t kill you! Yet we are conditioned to turn our house into a toxic waste dump by persistent advertising, chastising us to kill every bit of bacteria in the house. These strong chemicals leave a residue in our homes, in our water supply, in the air we breathe and we wonder why our kids get ill, why we feel so tired, why mysterious new allergies/sensitivities turn up and current ones are inflamed.”

Mary believes there is a better way.

“Non-toxic, earth-friendly cleaning is a great alternative for everyone including allergy sufferers, expectant mums,

include building confidence and self esteem, increasing fine motor skills and manipulation skills, enlightens and brightens your child’s imagination, encouraging role play and imagination and bringing parents and families together.

The sessions are running every Monday morning, 11 until 12, at Central Methodist Church, Todmorden. All children and their family are welcome

from age of 6months - 3years with parents supervision. From 4 years-12 years children can be left under Janine’s supervision.

As well as these regular sessions, Janine can also come to you to help run a child’s birthday party or can attend community events around the area. She will be at Gordon Rigg’s Garden Centre in Walsden over the Autumn and Christmas period, keeping your kids occupied while you get on with the shopping. She will also be at KidsFest in Todmorden Town Hall on 6th December doing festive craft activities for all the children to enjoy.

For more information about her planned sessions or details about her party packages, please contact Janine - www.queeniebeenie.co.uk; queeniebeenie@sky.com

news Mothers and Career: request for research participants

W

hat you do for a living can be an important part of who you are. Some people define themselves by what they do for a job.

We live through many roles in our lives: son/daughter, brother/sister, partner, father/mother, friend, working person. Women who step away from their work to raise a family full time may relish the time at home but may also miss work. So, when mothers step off the “work train”, what are their experiences and thoughts about career and motherhood? How do you move from worker to full-time mother/homemaker… and back again? What does work mean

T

in Sophia’s study is completely voluntary and you are free to withdraw at any time.

Sophia can assure you of confidentiality, and that names of individual participants will not be identified in any part of her final report.

“So far, the mums who have taken part in my research seem to have enjoyed taking some time out to talk about their experiences, and really explore their feelings about their careers and being a mum. We’ve had some really interesting discussions but it’s important to add that my study is for research purposes only and doesn’t involve therapy or coaching.”

So, if you are a full time mum to a child/children aged three years or over, and you are interested in finding out more about her research and the possibility of taking part, please contact Sophia for more information. She can be contacted on 07934 336480 or by email: sophia@careerwisdomcoaching. co.uk

new martial arts school in Hebden bridge

here is a bewildering choice when it comes to Martial arts. Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Ju Jitsu to name just a few. This is why the AEGIS system of martial arts training was developed. The acronym stands

for Attitude, Expectation, Game plan, Implementation and Study and was derived from the many different styles of martial arts, to offer a well-rounded, ultimate martial arts system for use in self defence and in life.

There are many AEGIS academies around the country and we are now pleased to report a new one has recently opened in the Salem Community Centre, in Hebden Bridge.

The school is a family run business; Darren and Henry Ogden are the instructors while Tracey is the programme director. Tracey explains; “Martial Arts training, when done well, can help you get stronger, fitter, leaner,

to you? How important is work to you?

How do you, as a mum, define yourself?

Sophia Bourne is interested in exploring this very question with mothers of young children, as part of her Masters Degree in Occupational Psychology. In her study, she aims to explore women’s experiences of both career and motherhood, through oneto-one interviews with mothers of young children.

“As a working mother myself, I am interested in career identity in mothers and, particularly, thoughts and feelings around career and motherhood. I am also interested in exploring mothers’ decisions to step away from their careers to raise their families, their thoughts around career decisions, and how this affects their identities.”

In order to explore this, Sophia is conducting research with mothers of children, aged three and above, who have taken time out from work to look after their families full time. Participation

more confident and more balanced. It is so much more than just kicking and punching; it helps you make better decisions and gives you the skills needed to lead a happier healthier life.”

The new programme of classes available at the school offers lessons to anyone from age 3 to 73. Free trials are available if you would like to give martial arts a go before committing and discounts are offered for two or more family members who join. Just ring 07903 706784 or follow the link on the website - www. caldervalleymartialarts. co.uk - to request a call back.

Ninja Tots is a special programme designed for children from age 3 to 6.

“We have carefully constructed our ‘Ninja Tots’ children’s martial arts program

specifically for ‘preschoolers’ and ‘junior schoolers’. Kids at this stage have more distinct needs in terms of cooperation, confidence, coordination and behaviour management so it is difficult to fit them into our mainstream classes safely.

In their own classes our Ninja Tots children will learn courtesy and respect, balance and coordination, focus and concentration, and cooperation and self control.” says Tracey.

The school also offer family classes, designed to get the whole family fit and healthy, while sharing in a positive activity that bonds them together. See the website for more information plus more details on their many other classes for older children and young adults. www. aegismartialarts. co.uk

news I Want to Show the Dentist my Teeth A new book about visiting the dentist

V

T

isiting the dentist can be daunting for young children – so South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has created a new, innovative and educational book to make check-ups at the dental surgery a positive experience.

‘I Want to Show the Dentist my Teeth’ tells the story of Gracie, a young girl visiting the dentist for the first time.

It was developed by the Trust’s health improvement service in Calderdale to explain to children what they can expect when they visit the dentist for routine check-ups.

The book, which is aimed at children under five, includes bright and colourful illustrations by health improvement practitioner Sally Baker, accompanied by simple language explaining what happens on the day of Gracie’s visit to the dentist.

Vivienne Harlow wrote the book with colleagues Kathryn Halstead and Catherine King from the Trust’s oral health improvement team. She said: “We produced the book because we wanted to encourage early visits to the dentist and make the experience a pleasant one. We also wanted to promote the prevention of dental problems – the book shows illustrations of healthier snacks and drinks which are kinder to teeth and explains to children the importance of brushing teeth every day.

“There are lots of very good books available but they aren’t aimed at this age group, and some include inappropriate wording or pictures which

new shop, same great service

odmorden based sewing workshop and craft party venue, cheeky sew and sew, have moved to a new premises at 2 Dale St in Todmorden.

can portray a visit to the dental surgery as a negative experience. Everything in our book has been designed to be positive.

“We’re hoping that it will also encourage parents to read with their child and see the dentist in a positive light – not as somewhere they go when they have a problem.”

A ‘spot the difference’, which encourages children to find differences between two scenes of a dentist’s surgery, is also featured in the book to engage and entertain readers.

The Trust’s health improvement service works with local communities to promote positive lifestyle changes.

The team offers support and advice on topics such as stopping smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, mental health and wellbeing, sexual health and oral health.

South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust provides a range of mental health, learning disability and community services to local people in Barnsley, Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield.

To find out more about the book, visit swyt.co/childrensdentistbook

We’re giving you the chan ce to win a c ‘I Want to Sh opy of ow the Dent ist my Teeth The first 25 p ’. eople to ema il their full na address to h me and ealthresourc es@swyt.co.u email subject k with the ‘Scallymag T odmorden’ w ill receive a copy of the b ook.

They still offer the same wide range of sewing related services, including sewing and textile courses and one to one tuition, a clothing alteration and repair service and unique creative craft parties for both children and adults. Alongside this there is now an upholstery service running at the new workshop. There are a few changes afoot; the workshop is open later in the day, until 5.30, and the sewing café, where you can drop in and use the sewing machines and workshop, now runs on Thursday daytimes and alternate Saturdays. Beginners Sewing classes still run on a Wednesday evening and Beginners Dressmaking on a Thursday evening. Day courses run on alternate Saturdays.

Owner Tansy Dyer says “We love our new workshop. It’s still light, bright and airy but easier to get to and more central with better parking. We’ve had special workbenches made so we’ve more workspace in a smaller workshop. It’s like magic!”

“Do come and see us and take a look round. We’re still the best creative venue for craft parties and we are offering more courses too.”

Cheeky sew and sew are planning an Open Day soon so people can try out some crafty sessions.

They cater for both kids and adults and are friendly, fun and creative. It’s great to just get making!

My Play Café 7 Central Street HEBDEN BRIDGE HX7 6HB 07517 539821

www.myplaycafe.co.uk for more info

out & about Manor Heath Park and Jungle Experience

Manor Heath Road, Halifax HX3 0EB

By Richard Dalby

J

ust a short distance from Halifax town centre, Manor Heath Park is a great destination for all the family. There’s plenty to see and do so makes for either a great full day out or a welcome short detour after shopping in town. It’s a lovely, well looked after park and, with the Jungle Experience also in its grounds, a pleasure to visit at any time of year.

All Photos - R Dalby

The park occupies the site of an old manor house that fell into decline after the war and was demolished in 1959.

Fortunately the park has continued in use and has become one of the very best and most loved parks in Calderdale. The area where the manor house once stood is now a sunken garden, abundant with colourful floral displays which welcome you as you enter the grounds.

The well equipped playground and a recently improved water and sand play area (bring your buckets and spades!) will keep younger children amused for hours. There’s plenty of open space for playing football or cricket or even flying a kite. There’s also some nice wooded areas on the edges of the park, perfect for exploring and letting imaginations run wild.

The walled gardens are split into ten smaller gardens and include many traditional and modern designs of planting. It’s a beautiful, calm and peaceful area to sit and relax for a while or enjoy a picnic. The gardens are obviously at their best in spring and summer but there’s also plants of interest featuring flowers, foliage and berries to illustrate how gardens can still

be attractive in winter.

Flutter-Bites Cafe next to the playground is open 7 days a week, from 9.30am – 4.00pm. The cafe offers a good choice of hot and cold drinks and snacks at reasonable prices. Toilets are handily situated next to the cafe and playground. The staff at the park are very friendly and helpful and even gave us some great gardening tips and ideas.

The Jungle Experience is a wonderful tropical oasis. It’s fairly small, but absolutely packed with fish, quail, terrapin and butterflies as well as a collection of plants from all over the world. A blast of tropical heat is especially welcome on chillier days and makes a visit to the park an all year round treat. Entry is £1.00 for adults; under 5’s go free.

Both the Walled Gardens and Jungle Experience close quite early at 3.30pm so make sure you visit in good time.

If all that doesn’t tire out even the most energetic of children, a run around the adjacent Savile Park should do the trick!

competition

Est. 2002

MAGICAL CHILDREN’S NURSERY set in 4-acre countryside site o Dedicated Baby Area - 1:2 staff to child ratio o Forest School – Mondays and Fridays o Healthy meals cooked in 5* kitchen o Free 3 - 4 year funded places available The Ark, Dean Hey Farm, Mytholmroyd, HX7 5RU www.thearkexperience.co.uk T 01422 882010 Open 51 weeks, 7am-6.30pm

10

diary pages

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

9:15 - 11:45 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

9:15 - 11:45 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

9:15 - 11:45 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

9:15 - 11:45 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

The Fun Track Out of School Mytholmroyd Community Centre, Caldene Ave. Mytholmroyd 01422 882226

9:20 - 3:30* ages 2½ to 4

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

7:30 - 9:00 3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

9:15 - 11:45 12:45 - 3:15* ages 2½ to 5

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

7:00 - 6:30 ages 4 to 14

7:30 - 9:00 2:30 - 6:00

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 4 to 11

3:30 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

7:45 - 9:00 3:00 - 6:00 ages 3 to 11

Todmorden Playgroup Todmorden C of E School Playground, Burnley Rd, Todmorden 01706 812019

Before & After School Luddenden Dene J,I & N CE School, Dene View, Luddenden Foot Andrea - 07812 905251

Friday

9:15 - 11:45 1.00 - 3.30* ages 2 - 5

Space at The Ark The Ark Nursery, Cragg Vale, Mytholmroyd 01422 882010

Thursday

9:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 4:00*

Out of School clubs

Steiner Kindergarten Steiner Kindergarten St. John’s Centre Cragg Vale Marilyn - 01422 885249

Wednesday

Colden Preschool Colden School Playground, Smithy Lane, Colden, Hebden Bridge 01422 846734

Tuesday

Mytholmroyd Playgroup The Community Centre, Caldene Avenue, Mytholmroyd, Hebden Bridge 01422 882226

Monday

The Ark Pre-School Dean Hey Farm, Cragg Road, Mytholmroyd 01422 882010

pre-schools & playgroups

received. Please phone ahead before setting out as details can change at any time.

The second spread shows the many different activities available for school age children, from Chess to Dancing, Karate to Brass bands! Again, please use the contact details provided to check details before setting out.

If you have any new or up-dated information that should be included here, please let us know – contact details are on page 3.

Heptonstall Out of School Club Heptonstall J, I & N School, Smithwell Lane, Heptonstall 01422 843619

On this first page we have the Pre-school and Playgroups that run in our area. These usually offer free sessions for children aged 3 and over for 15 hours per week during term time. Contact them directly for more information.

The Out of School Clubs listings are for older children who require care outside normal school hours or during holidays. Those

listed take all children, not just those who attend any associated school.

The bottom section shows opening times for places you might like to visit regularly with your child.

The centre spread is the Pre-school Diary.

White background is for drop-in sessions, shaded background is for bookable activities.

All sessions will require an adult to remain with the child at all times. Most activities charge a small fee; all Children’s Centre services are free, with any donations gratefully

Hebden Royd Out-Of-Schools Club Upper Rooms, St James’ Church, Hebden Royd 01422 842821

T

he heart of The Scallymag are the following indispensible diary pages.

9:45 - 1:45 ages 3 to 6

* Lunchtime supervision is also provided for children staying all day, for a small extra charge.

Mytholmroyd Library Cragg Road, Mytholmroyd 01422 883933

Walsden Library Inchfield Road, Walsden 01706 815602

Maxwell’s Fun House Hollins Mill, Rochdale Road, Walsden Todmorden 01706 813166

My Play Cafe 7 Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07517 539 821

Upsy Daisy’s Playcentre Moderna Business Park, Burnley Road, Mytholmroyd 01422 881717

Jitterbugs Play Centre Riverside Works, Todmorden Road, Littleborough 01706 378123

soft play areas

Todmorden Library Strand, Rochdale Road Todmorden 01706 815600

Library times

Hebden Bridge Library Cheetham Street Hebden Bridge 01422 842151

* See Diary Listing for Fun Swim times

Swim for all Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Swim

10:00 - 6:30

10:00 - 6:30

2:00 - 4:30

2:00 - 6:00

10:00 - 3:00

9:00 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

Monday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 7:00

Tuesday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 4:00 7:15 - 9:00

Wednesday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 7:00 8:00 - 9:00

10:00 - 5:00

Thursday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 4:00 7:00 - 8:15

10:00 - 6:30

Friday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 7:00

10:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 6:30

1:30 - 6:30

Saturday

9:00 - 1:30 2:45 - 6:30

10:00 - 4:00

10:00 - 4:00

10:00 - 12:00

sunday

9:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 3:00

9:00 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

9:00 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

10:00 - 6:00

9:00 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

10:00 - 3:00

9:00 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

10:00 - 5:00

9:00 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

10:00 - 4:00

Parties Only

10:00 - 4:00

9:30 - 6:00

2:00 - 4:30

1:00 - 5:00

11

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

MONDAY

Pre-school diary

12

Family Activity 9:00 - 10:00 (term time only) Cornholme J&I School, Cornholme 01706 548140 - FREE

Parent & Toddlers 9:15 - 12:15 The Old Library, 1 Parkside Road, Cornholme Oxana - 01706 813222

Walsden Community Playgroup @ St Peter’s 9:15 - 11:00 St Peter’s Church, Walsden Sheila 01706 812782

Midgley Under 5’s 9:45 - 11:15 Midgley School, Midgley Jo - 01422 881984

Heptonstall Parents & Toddler Group 10:00 - 11:45 Heptonstall Social & Bowling Club, Acre Lane, Heptonstall please call for details 07528 626 000

Parent S 10:00 - 1 Todmord Burnley R 01706 5

Steiner Parent & Child 10.00 - 12.00 St John’s Centre, Cragg Vale Sally - 07904 052816

TalkFirst Baby & Toddler Signing 10:00 - 11:00 Fielden Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Susan - 01706 878781

Caterpillar Music 10:00 - 10:45 (0 - 36 mths) 10:50 - 11:35 (18 mths - 4 yrs) Hebden Bridge Methodist Church, Market St/Hebble End, Hebden Bridge Angela - 01422 844551

Baby Massage 10:30 - 11:30 Todmorden or Hebden Bridge.

Please call for details Debbie - 07899 077704

Parent & Toddler Swimming 12:30 - 1:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913

Talk Firs 12:45 - 1 Todmord Todmord College, Todmord 01706 5

Central Street Parents & Toddler Group 9:00 - 11:00 Central Street Infants School, Hebden Bridge.

Pauline - 01422 842784

Mytholm Parent & Toddlers 9:00 - 11:00 Hebden Royd School, Church Lane, Hebden Bridge 01422 842821

Mytholmroyd Mini Movers 9:00 - 11:00 Mytholmroyd Methodist Church, Scout Road, Mytholmroyd Janet - 07515 356539

Luddendenfoot 0 to 5’s 9:15 - 11:15 Luddenden Foot Civic Centre, Station Road, Luddenden Foot Sophie

Lumbutts Baby & Toddlers 9:30 - 11:30 Lumbutts Methodist Church Lumbutts Debbie - 07899 077704

Mytholmroyd Toddlers 9:30 - 11:30 Mytholmroyd Community Centre, Elphaborough, Mytholmroyd 01422 882226

Centre V 9:30 - 11 The Bow Vale Par Todmord Please c

Parent & Toddler Swimming 9:00 - 10:00 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913

Steiner Parent & Child 10.00 - 12.00 Steiner Centre, Macpelah, Hebden Bridge Sally - 07904 052816

Yoga (with Creche) (by referral) 1:15 - 2:30 Todmorden Children’s Centre Todmorden Community College, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

Parent & Toddler Swimming 1:30 - 2:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913

Baby/postnatal Yoga 2:00 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Elaine - 07967 974 376

First Ballet & Tip Tap Toe 4:00 - 5:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 4 - 5 yrs

Duckling various 4:00 - 7: Todmord Ewood L 01706 8

St. Josephs Toddlers 9:15 - 11:15 St Joseph’s School, Wellington Road, Todmorden 01706 812948

The Methodist Church Toddler Group 9:30 - 11:30 Scout Road, Mytholmroyd Joyce Greenwood 01422 883792

Family Stay and Play 9:30 - 10:30 & 11:00 - 12:00 Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 264688 - FREE

Mum Zone 10:00 - 1:00 Queen Hotel, Rise Lane, Todmorden 01706 819917

Weaning Group 11:00 - 12;00 (By Invitation) Todmorden Children’s Centre Todmorden Community College, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

Lesbian Parents Group Stay and Play 10:00 - 12:00 (3rd Wed only) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 07704 568237 - FREE

Todmor 12:30 - 2 Todmord Commun Road, To Jenni - 0

Blackshaw Head Parents & Toddler Group 9:30 - 11:30 Blackshaw Head Chapel, Hebden Bridge Ann - 01706 810596

Art Stars 10:00 - 10:45 & 1:30 - 2:15 The Star Tree Studio, 42 Victoria Street, Littleborough Neela - 07778 543233

Steiner Parent & Child 10.00 - 12.00 Steiner Centre, Macpelah, Hebden Bridge Sally - 07904 052816

Thula Mama (Mums and Babies

TalkFirst 10:30 - 11:15 Jitterbugs Play Area, Todmorden Road, Littleborough Sharon - 01706 378123

Little Bear Feet 11:30 - 12:15 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 1½ - 3 yrs

Parent & 11:45 - 1 Shade J Shade, T 01706 8

Parent & Toddlers 9:00 - 11:30 Gordon Riggs, Bottom’s Mill Bistro, Walsden

Luddendenfoot 0 to 5’s 9:15 - 11:15 Luddenden Foot Civic Centre, Station Road, Luddenden Foot Sophie

Centre Vale Toddlers 9:30 - 11:30 The Bowling Pavillion, Centre Vale Park, Burnley Road, Todmorden Please call in for details

St Michael’s Angels 9:30 - 11:00 St Michael’s Church Hall Mytholmroyd Catherine - 01422 883130

Family Activities 9:30 - 10:30 (Term Time Only) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

Little Angels 9:30 - 11:30 St. Michaels Church, Cornholme, Todmorden Anne - 07587 700355

Dodnaze 9.45 - 11 Dodnaze 54 Hirst

Jo Jingles 9:30 - 10:15 (under 2s), 10:30 - 11:15, 11:30 - 12:15 (over 2s), 12:30 - 1:15 (over 3s), 1:30 - 2:00 (3 - 9 months) Todmorden Sports Centre, Jo Corbett - 01706 212889

TalkFirst 9:30 - 10:15 Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 264688 - FREE

Art Stars 10:00 - 10:45 & 11:15 - 12:00 Upsy Daisy’s Play Gym Mytholmroyd Neela - 07778 543233

Pregnancy Yoga 10:00 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Elaine - 07967 974 376

Post Natal Mum & Baby Yoga 11:00 - 12:30 Calderale Yoga Centre, 38 Hangingroyd Lane, Hebden Bridge Donna 07985 274181

Parent & Toddler Swimming 12:15 - 1:15 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913

Baby/po 1:00 Blessing Centre, H Elaine -

Stubbings Toddler Group 9:00 - 11:00 Stubbings Infant School, School Street, Hebden Bridge, 01422 842728

Old Town Playgroup 9:00 - 11:00 Old Town Primary School, Billy Lane, Old Town 01422 842859

Luddendenfoot 0 to 5’s 9:15 - 11:15 Luddenden Foot Civic Centre, Station Road, Luddenden Foot Sophie

Baby Stay and Play 9:30 - 11:30 Todmorden Health Centre, 01706 548140 - FREE

Family Activity 10:00 - 11:00 (term time only) Ferney Lee School, Ferney Lee Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

The Woods (Forest School 10:00 - 12:00 Eastwood, Todmorden Emily

Rhyme, 10.30 - 1 Hebden Centre, H 01422 2

Ante-Natal Clinic 9:00 - 2:00 Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden By appointment only via your midwife

Steiner Parent & Child 10.00 - 12.00 St John’s Centre, Cragg Vale Sally - 07904 052816

Rock ‘n’ Rollers 11:30 - 12:30 Dance 4 All, Methodist Hall, Hebden Bridge Emily - 075903 720214

Dramasaurus 2:30 - 3:15 (age 2/3) 3:40 - 4:25 (age 4/5) Heptonstall Social & Bowling Club, Acre Lane, Heptonstall Mel - 07554 368232

Ducklings Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Campaigners - Eagles

Todmor

5:45 - 7:15 Lumbutts Church, Lumbutts, Todmorden Les or Pat 01706 814754

7:00 - 8: Todmord Ewood L Deborah

Mini Movers Disco/Cheer 9:00 - 10:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113

Pre-School Ballet & Tap 9:15 - 10:15 Sarah Hitchon School of Dance, The Conservative Club, Rochdale Road, Todmorden Sarah - 07929 576785

Caterpillar Club 9:00 - 11:30 (term time only) Scout Road Academy, Scout Road, Mytholmroyd 01422 883327

PEEP Group (For families and children with additional needs)

9:45 - 10:45 Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge Amanda - 01422 264688 FREE

Fun Swim 1:30 - 2:45 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Ducklings Swimming various levels 9:00 - 1:30; 3:15 - 6:30 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Dads & Male Carers Event 10:00 - 12:00 (1st Sat. of month Todmorden College Hall, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

UNEARTH – Self Discovery Through Play 11:00 – 1:00 (3rd Saturday Only) Gibson Mill, Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge Julie - 07850 4290566

Little Bear Feet 9:00 - 9:45 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 1½ - 3 yrs

Melody Movements 9:00 - 9:45 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 3 - 4 yrs

only)

Harmony Singing)

10.00 - 11.30 Central Hebden Bridge Liz Powers 01422 847702

& Outdoor Play all year round - please dress accordingly)

(ages 4-6 yrs)

First Ballet & Tip Tap Toe 10:00 - 11:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113

- Widths

Ninja To 11:30 - 1 AEGIS A Commun Central S 07903 7

Sling Lounge Library (baby

Support Drop-In 12:00 den Children’s Centre, Road, Todmorden 548140 - FREE

Queenie Beenie’s Crafty Cabin 11:00 - 12:00 Central Methodist Church, Todmorden Janine - 07746 308152

st (baby signing) 1:30 den Children’s Centre den Community , Burnley Road, den 548140 - FREE

Ladies Fitness & Pilates 1:45 - 2:45 (term time only) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE Limited crèche

Vale Toddlers 1:30 wling Pavillion, Centre rk, Burnley Road, den call in for details

Stay & Play 10:00 - 11:30 Todmorden Children’s Centre Todmorden Community College, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

gs Swimming levels :00 den Sports Centre, Lane, Todmorden 839090

Pregnancy Yoga 5:00 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Elaine - 07967 974 376

Ninja Tots 5:30 - 6:15 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784

rden Family Support 2:00 alternate weeks den Fire Station nity Room, Stansfield odmorden 01706 839787

Luddendenfoot 0 to 5’s 1:15 - 3:15 Luddenden Foot Civic Centre, Station Road, Luddenden Foot Sophie

Baby Stay & Play with Baby Clinic 1:30 - 3:30 Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

Mid-Week Movers 3:00 - 5:00 (Term Time Only) Todmorden Community College Hall, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

& Toddler Swimming 12:45 Junior & Infant School, Todmorden 812913

Tiny Tots 4:00 - 5:00 Hebden Dance Place, Hope Baptist Church, Hebden Bridge Miss Julie - 07581 165057

Ducklings Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Todmorden Swimming Club

e Parent & Toddlers 1.15 e Community Centre, Grove, Hebden Bridge

Blackshawhead Arty Toddler Group 9:45 - 12:00 Blackshawhead Chapel, Hebden Bridge Lorraine - 01422 844971

Breastfeeding Group 10:00 - 11:30 (alternate weeks

Under 25s Group 1.30 - 3:00 (alternate weeks

Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 264688 - FREE

carrier hire)

Baby Stay and Play 1:30 - 3:00 Maxwell’s Fun House, Walsden Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge OR My Play Cafe, Central 01422 264688 - FREE Street, Hebden Bridge Debbie - 07899 077704 1:00 - 3:00 (Once a month. Please call for dates)

Crafty Creatures Storytime 3:30 - 4:15 (please call for dates) Cornholme Primary School, Greenfield Terrace, Cornholme 01706 548140 - FREE

for dates)

Ducklings Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Toddler Tuesday

Bumps & Babes

support group for multiple births

10:00 - 11:30 The Methodist Church, New Road, Hebden Bridge Nicola - 01422 843129

- please call for dates)

gway, Birchcliffe Hebden Bridge 07967 974 376

Buggy 4 Fitness 1:30 - 2:30 Calder Holmes Park, Hebden Bridge Sharon - 07825 706983

Dramasaurus 2:30 - 3:15 (age 2/3) 4:00 - 4:45 (age 4/5) Roomfield Church, halifax Road, Todmorden Mel - 07554 368232

Rattle and Roll 11.15 (please call for dates) Vale Children’s Hebden Bridge 264688 - FREE

Aquatots 11.00 - 11.45 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Mature Parent’s Group 1:30 - 3:00 (1st Fri. of month only) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140 - FREE

ostnatal Yoga

Tatty Bumpkins 4:00 - 5:00 Zion Housing Co-op Studio, Hebden Bridge Clare - 07790 761702

Crafty Creatures Story Time St Mary’s Family Service 3:30 - 4:15 (term time only All Children Welcome - PLEASE CALL FOR DATES) 4:05 onwards Todmorden Children’s Centre, Cornholme J&I School, St Mary’s Church, Todmorden Burnley Road, Todmorden Cornholme 01706 819300 01706 548140 - FREE 01706 548140 - FREE Young Parents’ Group 1.45 - 3.15 (alternate weeks - call

Icky Sticky Kids 10.00-11.30 Open 10:00 - 5:00 Holme Street Arts Centre, Flying Saucers, Butlers Wharf, Hebden Bridge Hebden Bridge Nichola - 07973 234928 01422 846666 10% off Pottery Painting plus a free coffee (excludes holidays)

- Widths

7:00 - 8:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Deborah - 07551 266862

Yoga for Pregnancy 7:00 - 8:30 Todmorden Donna 07985 274181

Roomfield Playgroup 1:00 - 3:00 Roomfield Baptist Church, Halifax Road, Todmorden Rebecca - 07780 386874

Pregnancy Yoga 7:30 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Elaine - 07967 974 376

- please call for dates)

Dainty Dolls 4:00 - 5:00 Hebden Dance Place, Hope Baptist Church, Hebden Bridge Miss Julie - 07581 165057

Melody Bear 4:00 - 4:45 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 3 - 4 yrs

Ducklings Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Ninja Tots 5:30 - 6:15 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784

rden Swimming Club

ots 12:15 Academy, Salem nity Resource Centre, Street, Hebden Bridge 706784

SUNDAY

:00 den Sports Centre, Lane, Todmorden h - 07551 266862

Lesbian Parents Group Sunday Socials 2:00 - 4:00 (last Sun only) Various Locations - call for more info.

07704 568237

Family Fun Swim 10:00 - 12:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

NB: Shaded background indicated these events are bookable. You must call beforehand.

White background shows drop-in events open to all.

13

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

THURSDAY

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

MONDAY

out of school diary

14

Boyz Break Dance 4:00 - 5:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Modern Jazz Dancing 4:00 - 7:15 Sarah Hitchon School of Dance, The Conservative Club, Rochdale Road, Todmorden Sarah - 07929 576785 3 + yrs

After School Swimming 4:30 - 6:15 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ yrs

Mini Movers Street Crew 5:00 - 5:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 4 - 6 yrs

Hebden Bridge Chess Club 6:00 - 7:15 Trades Club, Holme Street, Hebden Bridge John Kerrane 01422 842426

Judo Excellence 6:00 - 7:00 Above Purdy Pine, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Tony - 07932 081793 5 - 7 yrs

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Move & Groove Disco/Cheer 4:00 - 5:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn - 01706 839113 Age 4 - 6 yrs

Football Coaching 5:00 - 6:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 8+ yrs

Kidz Latino & Salsa 6:00 - 6:45 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Monday Club 6:00 - 7:30 Mount Zion Baptist Chapel, Meet at Colden School 5 to 11yrs, Elva Hulme 01422 842726

Todmorden Tai Kwon Do 6:30 - 7:30 Ferney Lee School, Todmorden Keith Raistrick 07789 074198 6+ yrs

After School Swimming 3:30 - 6:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ yrs

Ballet & Tap 4:00 - 6:30 (various classes) DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 5+ yrs

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Tod Harriers Junior Training 5:00 - 6:30 Todmorden High School, Ewood Land, Todmorden Ben Crowther 07817 108921

Calder Valley Fell Runners - Junior 5:45 - 6:45 Mytholmroyd Community Centre, Mytholmroyd Alastair 07812 593660 8+ yrs

1st Old Town Brownies 6:15 - 7:15 Hope Baptist Church, New Road, Hebden Bridge Dinah Newsome 01422 843202 7 - 10 yrs

Climbing Fun 4:00 - 5:30 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

Boyz Tap 4:30 - 5:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Junior Ballroom & Latin 5:30 - 6:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Todmorden Community Brass - 5-Note Beginners Band 6:00 - 6:45 The Bandroom, Wellington Road, Todmorden David White 01706 815820

Family AEGIS Class 6:30 - 7:15 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784 7+ yrs and adults

Gymnastics Club 4:00 - 5:15 Calder High School, Brier Hey Lane, Mytholmroyd Tracey 07970 730224 Beginners

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Climbing’ Skool Academy 5:00 - 6:30 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

Beginner Ballet & Tap 5:00 - 6:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 Age 7 - 11 yrs

6th Todmorden Rainbows 5:00 - 6:00 St Josephs School, Wellington Road, Todmorden Tammy - 01706 813731 5 - 7 yrs

Pro Games 5:30 - 7:00 (By Referral.

Alternate weeks only) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548187 - FREE

Dancing - Various classes 4:00 - 8:45 Fielden House, Fielden Square, Todmorden Sarah Hitchon 07929 576785 10 + yrs

Move & Groove 4:30 - 5:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 Age 4 - 7 yrs

7th Todmorden Rainbows 5:00 - 6:00 Roomfield Baptist Church, Todmorden Katie - 07769 151276 5 - 7 yrs

Disco Team Class 5:00 - 5:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Pro Games (By Referral Only) 5:00 - 7:00 (alternate weeks) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 548140

2nd Luddenden Rainbows 5.45 - 7.00 every fortnight Kershaw Youth Centre Kershaw Drive, Luddendenfoot Kay - 07814 745340 5 - 7 yrs

After School Swimming 3:30 - 4:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ yrs

Dancing - Various classes 4:00 - 8:00 Fielden House, Fielden Square, Todmorden Sarah Hitchon 07929 576785 10 + yrs

Climbing Fun 4:30 - 6:00 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

Dramasaurus 4:50 - 5:35 (age 6/7/8) 5:40 - 6:25 (age 9/10/11) 6:30 - 7:15 (age 12/13) Roomfield Church, Halifax Road, Todmorden Mel - 07554 368232

Football Training 5:00 - 6:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 8+ yrs

8th/26th Calder Valley Cubs 6:00 - 7:17 Central Methodist Church, off Bramsche Square, Todmorden Dave Payne 01706 816568 8 - 10 yrs

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Football Training 4:00 - 5:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5 - 8 yrs

Junior Street, Disco & Cheer 4.30 - 6.00 (various classes) DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Hebden Dance Place 5:00 - 6:00 Hope Baptist Church, Hebden Bridge Miss Julie - 07581165057 6 - 8 yrs

1st Mytholmroyd Rainbows 5:30 - 6:30 St Michaels Church Hall, Mytholmroyd Lisa Thwaite 01422 886274 5 - 7 yrs

Ballet & Tap 6:00 - 7:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Helen O'Grady Drama Academy 4:00 - 7:00 Holme Street Arts Centre, Hebden Bridge Wendy 01706 810164 5 to 11 yrs

Swimming various levels 4:00 - 7:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Climbing’ Skool Academy 4:30 - 6:00 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

Baby Ballroom 5:00 - 5:30 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 Age 4 - 7 yrs

Campaigners - Kids Zone 5:45 - 7:15 Lumbutts Church, Lumbutts, Todmorden Les or Pat 01706 814754 6 - 10 yrs

Todmorden Community Brass Training Band 6:30 - 7:30 The Bandroom, Wellington Road, Todmorden Maurice 01706 816588

Dancing - Various classes 4:00 - 7:30 Fielden House, Fielden Square, Todmorden Sarah Hitchon 07929 576785 10 + yrs

Junior Tennis 4:00 - 5:00 Todmorden Tennis Club, Hallroyd Road, Todmorden Andrew 01706 815265 4 - 10 yrs

Dramasaurus 4:30 - 5:15 (age 6/7/8) 5:20 - 6:05 (age 9/10/11) Heptonstall Social & Bowling Club, Acre Lane, Heptonstall Mel - 07554 368232

8th/26th Calder Valley Beavers 5:30 - 6:45 Central Methodist Church, off Bramsche Square, Todmorden Dave Payne 01706 816568 6 - 8 yrs

Calder Valley Karate 6:00 - 7:30 The Girl’s Gym, Calder High School, Mytholmroyd Andrew Nightingale 01422 847877 8+ yrs

Todmorden Swimming Club - Widths 7:00 - 8:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Deborah - 07551 266862

Football Training 8:30 - 12:30 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Ballet & Tap 9:00 onwards Sarah Hitchon School of Dance, The Conservative Club, Rochdale Road, Todmorden Sarah - 07929 576785 3 + yrs

Gymnastics Club 9:30 - 12:30 Burnley Road School, Mytholmroyd Tim Wild 01422 372321/07931 337487 5+ yrs

1st Colden Rainbows 10:00 - 12:00 Alternate Saturdays Colden School Portacabin, Colden, Hebden Bridge Sandra McNeill 01706 812291 5 - 7 yrs

Border Gymnastics 9:00 onwards Ferney Lee School, Ferney Lee Road, Todmorden Paul 01706 816755 5+ yrs

Swimming various levels 9:00 - 1:30 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Junior Badminton 9:30 - 10:30 Calder High School, Brier Hey Lane, Mytholmroyd Mary Smith 07970 734639 6 - 11 yrs

Judo Excellence 10:00 - 11:00 Above Purdy Pine, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Tony - 07932 081793 5 - 7 yrs

Hebden Bridge Saints Saturday Soccer Club 11:00 - 12:00 Luddenden Dene School, Dene View, Luddendenfoot.

Nick Farrar 01422 882378 5 - 8 yrs

UNEARTH – Self Discovery Through Play 11:00 – 1:00 (3rd Saturday Only) Gibson Mill, Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge Julie - 07850 4290566

20th Pennine Calder Beavers 9:00 - 12:00 (first Sat of Month) Ferney Lee School, Todmorden Rachel Ormerod 07766 890668 6 - 8 yrs

Creative Dance 9:15 - 1:15 Dance 4 All, Riverside School, Hebden Bridge Penny Alexander 01422 884634 5+ yrs

Rugby League Training 9:45 - 11:15 Littleborough Community Campus School, Calderbrook Road Carol Locket 01706 378348 7 - 9 yrs

Todmorden Judo Club 10:00 - 12:30 4 Whiteplatts Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Sean Nuttall 07812 187270 5+ yrs

Climbing Fun 11:00 - 12:30, 2:30 - 4:00, 5:30 - 7:00 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

Family AEGIS Class 12:30 - 1:15 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784 7+ yrs and adults

Cornholme Recorder Choir 3:50 - 4:35 The Old Library, 1 Parkside Road, Cornholme

Junior Dance Classes (all types)

11:00 - 3:00 DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113

Judo Excellence 11:00 - 12:00 Above Purdy Pine, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Tony - 07932 081793 8+ yrs

Luddendenfoot Boys Brigade Anchors & Juniors 6:45 - 8:00 Luddendenfoot Civic Institute, Station Road Heather - 01422 885542 5 - 11 yrs

Todmorden Swimming Club - Lengths 7:00 - 8:00, 8:00 - 9:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Deborah - 07551 266862 For strong swimmers

Judo Excellence 7:00 - 8:00 Above Purdy Pine, Valley Road, Hebden Bridge Tony - 07932 081793 8+ yrs

Hippodrome Youth Theatre 7:30 - 9:30 Hippodrome Theatre, Halifax Road, Todmorden Helen 01706 839424 10+ yrs Entry by Audition ONLY

20th Pennine Calder Cubs 6:30 - 8:00 Ferney Lee School, Ferney Lee Road, Todmorden Chris 07774 817235 8 to 10½ yrs Todmorden Judo Club 7:30 - 9:00 Todmorden Cricket Club, Burnley Road, Todmorden Sean Nuttall 07812 187270 5+ yrs 1st Walsden Brownies 6:00 - 7:15 Walsden Junior School, Walsden Donna Scholfield 01706 839042 7 - 10 yrs

7th Todmorden Brownies 6:00 - 7:15 Roomfield Baptist Church, Todmorden Jennifer Jackson 01706 815342 7 - 10 yrs

18th Hebden Bridge Cubs 6:15 - 7:45 Top Floor, Salem Mill, Hebden Bridge Mark Rafferty 07432 115 696 8 - 10½ yrs

2nd Mytholmroyd Brownies 6:30 - 8:00 Mytholmroyd Methodist Church, Scout Road, Mytholmroyd Angela Trowell 01422 885378 7 - 10 yrs

Tai Kwon Do 6:00 - 7:00 Mytholmroyd Community Centre, Mytholmroyd Helen 07901833249 6 - 14 yrs

2nd Todmorden Brownies 6:15 - 7:30 St Joseph's School, Wellington Road, Todmorden Fiona Monaghan 01706 819703 7 - 10 yrs

18th Hebden Bridge Beavers 6:15 - 7:15 Top Floor, Salem Mill, Hebden Bridge 6 - 8 yrs

Todmorden Tai Kwon Do 6:30 - 7:30 Ferney Lee School, Todmorden Keith Raistrick 07789 074198 6+ yrs

2nd Hebden Bridge Brownies 6:00 - 7:15 Hope Baptist Church Hall, Cheetham St. Entrance, Hebden Bridge Christine 01422 843725 7 - 10 yrs

Woodcraft Folk (Elfin & Pioneers) 6:30 - 7:45 Salem Mill (Top Floor) Salem Street, Hebden Bridge Julie 01422 846214 6+ yrs

1st Heptonstall Brownies 6:30 - 7:30 Heptonstall Junior School, Heptonstall Sandra McNeill 01706 812291 7 - 10 yrs

Family AEGIS Class 6:30 - 7:15 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784 7+ yrs and adults

Todmorden Swimming Club - Widths 7:00 - 8:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Deborah 07551 266862

Swimming various levels 3:15 - 6:30 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 5+ yrs

Hebden Bridge Saints Team Trials Please phone for times and venue details Graeme 01422 884527

SUNDAY

Fun Swim 1:30 - 2:45 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090 Junior Hippodrome Youth Theatre Alternate Sundays 10:00 - 12:00 Hippodrome Theatre, Halifax Road, Todmorden Emma 01706 817518 8 -10 yrs Entry by Audition

Mini Rugby 10:30 - 12:00 Littleborough RUFC Rakewood, Hollingworth Lake Harry Hanson 0161 624 7880 6+ yrs

Family Fun Swim 10:00 - 12:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

UNEARTH – Self Discovery Through Play Women Only 11:00 – 1:00 (3rd Sunday Only) Gibson Mill, Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge Julie - 07850 4290566

Climbing Fun 12:30 - 2:00 Climbing’ Skool, Vale Street, off Stansfield Road, Todmorden Georgina 01706 819100

15

16

focus on:

T

choosing a primary School

he law of England and Wales states that “The parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him to receive efficient full-time education suitable; a) to his/her age, ability, and aptitude, and b) to any special educational needs he/she may have, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise.”

The freedom to educate children at home is part of the education provision of our society, as is the option to pay for private education. But 93% of children in England attend free State Schools and, if your child turns 5 between September 1st 2015 and August 31st 2016, now is the time to be looking at how you intend to educate your child, probably by deciding which school you would like them to attend and applying for a place.

How do I choose the best school for my child?

There are a number of things you should consider when making this decision: •

•

•

Does your child need special attention?

Are they particularly bright or have particular behaviour patterns? Will the school offer support for Special Needs?

Does your child have specific areas of interest or are they particularly keen on sport? Does your chosen school have the equipment or structure to support these interest, such as bands, choirs, sports teams, computer suites or out-of-school activities?

Do you require wrap-around care?

Does your chosen school provide breakfast clubs or after-school care?

How much do they cost?

T

• • • • •

How big is the school? How big are the classes and what age range is taught in each class?

Does the school suit your family’s religious beliefs? How do they handle religious education?

How would your child get to school? Is there a safe walking route or are school buses available?

Does the school have an active PTA? Would you like to be involved in this side of school life?

Does your child have a preference?

Would they be happier if they stayed with their friends?

Open Days and Visiting Most Primary Schools have Open Days or will be happy to arrange for you to visit. Go prepared with an idea of what you are looking for. Some suggestions are: • A happy school with high morale • A warm and welcoming atmosphere • Cheerful and friendly children (and staff) • High quality and varied work, displayed with pride • Relaxed staff • Enthusiastic children who ask, as well as answer questions • An air of concentration and hard work, but don’t expect silence • Any other resources you or your child consider important, such as a good library, computer suite, sports facilities, arts and science equipment.

Choosing a secondary school

he process of choosing your secondary education route is much more limited than at primary stage, but there are still choices you can make.

In Calderdale there is space for up to five schools on the common preference form, including schools situated in other local authorities, but your child will only be offered a place at one school. If your child qualifies for a place at more than one school, your order of preference will be taken into account.

You can begin the process as early as you wish but secondary school open days are aimed at year six pupils and usually occur sometime between early September and mid October* with the common preference form required to be submitted by the end of October. *The exception in Calderdale is the two grammar schools, which have their open days in June and the entrance exam in early October.

Open days Make the most of this opportunity. It is your chance to poke around and try to get a feel for the school.

• Look at the work on display. Is it good quality? Is the display still neat or getting a bit tatty?

• Are there any photos of school trip or exchange visits? Are they inspiring?

• Find a chance to look at the toilets.

Their condition can say a lot about the school!

• Speak to the staff. Are they friendly and approachable? Do they want to chat to your child as well as you?

• There will probably be some pupils available to show you around. Ask them lots of questions; What is security like (do mobile phones get nicked)? What is truancy like (are many kids bunking off)?

• Listen to the speeches carefully and compare one school with another. Try to establish what is important to each school.

• Are there many after school clubs? A broad selection is not only great for your child but shows extra commitment from staff.

Other important points: •

• •

•

•

Read the Ofsted reports. They are all available on line (but note the date of the last inspection - things can change quickly).

Browse the school website. Read the sorts of letters that are being sent home.

Take a close look at the exam results, also available online. Find out what happens to pupils when they finish school? What proportion are going into further education?

Speak to parents of current pupils and find out about any grievances or try to pick up on any reputations the school has.

Look out for pupils, in uniform, after school. How do they behave? Are they generally happy?

17

Who ar

D

o your children use Facebook, Twitter or other social media sites to keep in touch with friends and family online? Talking to people online that they know is something that everyone is doing, however people that they don’t know can also use social media to become their “friend”. They may feel the pressure of having lots of “friends” online, however it’s easy for someone to pretend to be someone else on the internet and they could end up having conversations on social media, with people who aren’t who they say they are.

Top Tips

New Term

Mini Movers Street Mini Movers Disco & Cheer Mini Movers Ballroom & Latin

Ages 4-6

18

Whether your child uses Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat or any other social networking site, there are things you can do to make sure that they stay safe when online. Here are our top tips to pass on to your children.

1. Don’t post or give out personal information, such as your name, email, phone number, home address, and email address or school name, to people who you don’t know in real life.

2. Never share images, send pictures or do anything on a webcam that you wouldn’t want your family or friends to see.

3. When you share photographs online, including on profile pages, make sure that the location you are in can’t be identified. For instance make sure that the name of the road/ house place you live at or local areas/landmarks and or car registration numbers can’t be seen by people you don’t know.

4. Keep your online and phone privacy settings set to high. If you don’t know how to do this ask an adult who you trust.

5. Don’t accept friend requests or chat to people who you don’t really know. Remember ‘friends’, who contact you, might not be who they say they are! People can use fake names, profiles and photos to make you think they are someone they’re not.

6. Don’t agree to meet up with anyone who you have only spoken to online and never meet someone in secret on your own who you don’t really know. If anyone suggests that you meet them, always tell your parent/carer, a teacher or an adult that you trust.

7. Remember to be careful about accepting e-mails, IM messages or opening files from people or names you don’t know or trust. These might contain viruses, pornographic images or nasty messages and might allow people you don’t know to access your personal information 8. Make sure you know about the safety features on any networking site. Some, for example, have a ‘panic button’ which you can press if you see something that shouldn’t be there.

9. If you see something online that makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, or if someone asks you to do something that makes you feel the same, leave the website or stop the chat immediately and tell an adult you trust. This can be a parent, carer, relative, teacher, or see our “Who can help” section.

family matters

re they really talking to?

Being online makes it easy for people to lie and pretend to be someone else.

Some people use social media to make contact with children and young people with the intention of “grooming” them.

They might attempt to gain their trust by using a fake profile picture and by pretending to be the same age as you or have similar interests.

People who try to groom children and young people want them to believe their lies so that they can get information about them:

• • •

their age, where they live, who else might use the computer that they use or • who else has access to their mobile phone.

Once they have lots of information about the child and have got their trust and friendship, they often move conversations towards sexual experiences and interests, even asking them to send sexual photographs or videos of themselves.

Some might move towards wanting to meet up. Others might try blackmail, for instance, they might threaten to share any images/pictures or videos that might have been sent already, with other friends and family, if your child doesn’t continue doing what they ask them to do.

Signs to look for & things to think about

Who can help?

Attention & flattery - Someone you don’t know, other than online, says lots of really nice things about you and how you look on your profile page. If someone starts doing this ask yourself ‘what do they really want’?

Sexy talk – Someone talking sexy or ‘dirty’ with you; about what sexual things that they might like you to do, or that they might say they would like to do to or with you. Be careful if someone is very flirty with you or tries to get you to talk about sex or look at pornography – ask yourself why are they doing this?

Private chats – The person you have been talking to might ask you to start having private chat so that no-one else can see what you are talking about. If someone asks you to do this, ask yourself why do they need to talk privately with you?

Sexy pictures – You might be told everyone does it, but ask yourself why do they really want a picture or film of me?

What will they do with it? Will they share it with someone I don’t know? Remember if you share a photo via the internet it can be shared with anyone without your knowledge or permission. If you are unsure don’t press send! Pictures and film can be used to threaten you and make you send more pictures or do other things that you are uncomfortable with. Don’t share anything you wouldn’t want your friends and family to see.

Secrets – If someone online asks you to keep secrets, think about why they would want you to do this? If it is because they don’t want other people knowing about them being in contact with you, ask yourself why? Real friends wouldn’t mind your parents /carers knowing that you are chatting to them.

If you or your child has been the victim of online grooming, or sexual abuse, there are people who can help.

West Yorkshire Police has specially trained officers who understand, will listen to you and will help to make it stop.

Calderdale Safeguarding Unit: 01422 337041 If you would like to talk to someone in confidence you can also contact: Childline: 0800 1111 (this number won’t appear on a telephone bill). Available 24 hours a day.

ISIS - an independent Leeds-based organisation working with girls and young women against sexual exploitation. Their expert help and support is confidential and free. Tel: 07710 304308 www.isis-at-genesis.org.uk BLAST - supports boys and young men who have been, are being, or are at risk of being sexually exploited. Tel: 0113 2444209 Text: 07808 863662 www.mesmac.co.uk/blast Calderdale Safeguarding Children Board – www.calderdalescb.org.uk

All information courtesy of West Yorkshire Police

19

literacy Information kindly provided by;

The Book Case 29 Market Street, Hebden Bridge 01422 845353 it’s being released ildren’s books y ch m w e ne su is ly is ve r th With all the lo d classics, so fo ol of e e th m of so e r m be so to remem er th easy to forget ge to s ad I put our he years ago!) teenager and was young (15 he n he w om fr our favourites

Mr Magolia ke

by Quentin Bla

Cosmic rell

by Frank Cott Boyce

omin Burglar Bill ales from Mo T anet Valley

by Allan and J son Ahlberg

by Tove Jans

it was my I’m not sure if n that enjoyed in 1977 w book in husband or so it was A relatively ne First published er th he r W r t! he os ot ith our y of the maste this the m y that comparison w this is the stor or st g in ym of s e rh hi anges is is on the jolly choices but th burglar who ch f by heart am Li s. ite st finds a ur fir vo we still know of fa he the r all time ays when or ou w r, te la de d ca ol year burgled over a de by and then is voices, is an extra tall 12 ba lly si r fo k es ic tr iti d Janet ight to opportun mself! Allan an vourite who uses his he hi fa e im e dt ac be sp a l ated many specia this was rote and illustr his way onto a w s. th ur on fo m y lt’ with n’s books for man fight as the ‘adu classic childre A d. ar on bo er and, with its other children some togeth ith w ters and y or st er onderful charac this is a funny, clev w on n re , for child forting morality great insights adult, com an looking re be u’ to yo ns if ea eat book what it m gr e ac sp y picture resting and some inte for a longer stor facts as well! book.

Best Sellers The Fault in our Stars was selling well, and with the release of the movie based on the book it’s not surprising that is top of our best seller list. Despite the subject matter of life-limiting illness, it’s been incredibly popular with teens.

Everyone caught the cycling bug this summer, and Monsieur Albert

1

20

2

Rides to Glory is a sweet and quirky book about an unusual entrant in the TDF. Incredible Book Eating boy is another best seller from the hugely popular Oliver Jeffers. The Minecraft Handbooks from Egmont have been a huge hit with young fans of the game.

There are four in the series, but our best

3

4

Fault in our Stars

Monsieur Albert Rides to Glory

Incredible Book Eating Boy

John Green

Peter Smith

£7.99

£11.99

loved My son and I ey have Th s! in the Moom issued and recently be re cture book updated in a pi ger readers, format for youn n was an but Tove Jansso talented extraordinarily ren and writer (for child original adults) and the ed at slightly novels are aim The nine older children. ok are a tales in this bo tion to her great introduc e from Philip world. To quot simple stories Pullman,’These profound and resonate with ions that are complex emot se in literature like nothing el adults’ for children or

seller has been this guide to combat.

Enemy is the latest in a suspenseful zombie series by Charlie Higson, which has been a big hit with older teens.

Finally Hot Dog, Cold Dog, is a lovely large format board book, bright and cheerful and sturdy enough for the very young.

5

6 Hot Dog, Cold Dog

Oliver Jeffers

Mincraft Combat Handbook

Enemy Charlie Higson

Frann PrestonGannon

£6.99

£7.99

£7.99

£7.99

out & about

Manchester Museum

I

The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL www.museum.manchester.ac.uk

f we have a family day planned, and want to head into Manchester, we usually go to MOSI. However, for a change, we decided to try Manchester Museum, located at Manchester University.

All Photos - H Bregazzi

Our first problem was getting there.

We always take the train to Manchester but the University is quite a way (maybe 30 minutes walk) from Victoria station and not on the tram system so, having checked the advice on the website before we set off, we headed for Shudehill Bus Station to catch a bus to that end of town. There are plenty of buses pass the museum but we suggest you consult the Transport for Manchester website for more details (www.tfgm.com). Bus fares within the city are quite reasonable (£1 for adults, 50p for children).

The museum itself has free entry and is quite large. You need to allow a good couple of hours to get round it all; more if you want to stop and study something in particular.

It is what I would describe as a ‘traditional’ museum. Thousands and thousands of objects and artefacts in glass cases. All nicely presented and well looked after, with good information (if you want to read your way around), but not much in the way of hands-on stuff for children. There were doodle sheets, trails and activity sheets available - these can also be printed from the website before you visit which is a great way to get some enthusiasm flowing but if you’re looking for buttons to push

and ‘interaction’ we found it lacking.

The main galleries each housed part of the museums vast collections.

There were galleries about ancient worlds, fossils, nature’s library, rocks and minerals, etc. Stan the T-Rex was a favourite, as was the newly refurbished vivarium, housing a large collection of endangered reptiles and frogs (no huge spiders you may be pleased to know).

If your child has a particular interest in nature, dinosaurs, rocks or ancient Egypt, for example, this could be a very educational tour but, personally, I found it a bit ‘dry’.

There was a ‘Discovery Centre’ on the ground floor where children’s drawing and other activities were taking place. This is open in school holidays and at weekends with no need to book.

It was very busy the day we were there though. There are also lots of other planned family events listed on the website.

There are well placed buggy parks in the museum, along with lockers so you don’t need to lug all your stuff around with you. There is a cafe with a children’s menu but it was quite expensive and quite busy. There is a picnic area if you prefer.

Overall, not a bad way to spend a day with the family, especially if they are likely to be inspired by the exhibits.

Maybe, if we lived closer, regular ‘snapshot’ visits would be better, especially for younger children with a low boredom threshold. However, unless there is a particular school project in the offing, I think we will stick with MOSI in the future.

21

bloke in the kitchen Pear and almond cake

T

By Richard Dalby

his simple to make, delicate cake looks really impressive. It’s the sort of cake you might find in a fancy Parisian cafe (at fancy Parisian cafe prices). Beautiful when served warm or cold with lashings of cream or equally perfect with a good quality vanilla ice cream. Firm Conference pears will work a treat here.

Ingredients For the caramelised pears: • 3 large pears (reasonably firm, but not rock hard) • 25g unsalted butter • 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar Main cake ingredients: • 150g unsalted butter, softened • 125g caster sugar • 2 medium eggs • 75g ground almonds • 75g self raising flour • A good pinch of ground cinnamon

Method Preheat the oven to 170C/325F/gas mark 3. Grease a 20cm diameter spring form cake tin and line the base with baking parchment.

For the caramelised pears 1. Put a saucepan over a medium heat and add 25g of butter. . When it’s sizzling add a tablespoon of sugar and stir well until it dissolves. . Add the pear quarters and fry in the buttery caramel for five to 10 minutes until they start to brown and soften (the time taken will vary greatly, depending on how ripe the pears are).

4. Put to one side to cool a little.

The Cake Mixture 1. Put the remaining butter and sugar in a mixing bowl and cream together until light and fluffy. The butter and sugar needs to turn very soft and, ideally, go paler - almost white. . Beat in the two eggs, one at a time. . Tip the ground almonds into the cake batter then sift in the self-raising flour and fold in gently.

4. Add a pinch of ground cinnamon and give a final stir.

5. Scrape the mixture into the prepared tin. Arrange the pieces of pear on top of the cake. Finally, pour the melted butter from the pear pan all over the top of the cake mixture.

6. Bake for about 45 minutes or until a knife pushed into the centre comes out clean. Place the tin on a wire rack to cool.

7. Serve warm or cold, with cream or ice cream.

22

family page header health Physio & Therapies in Todmorden offers treatments for a wide range of family health issues. If you have any questions, queries or concerns you would like to ask an expert about please get in touch by any of the methods shown on page 3.

Q Our teenage son has

recently had a growth spurt and now he is walking bent and hunched like an old man - what can we do to help him?

A Regular trips to the shoe

shop and trousers that seem to shrink in the wash are features of living with teenagers. In their teens, children put on an amazing growth spurt to reach their adult height. Girls usually do this more gradually from 8 to 14, but in boys it often occurs more suddenly between 13 and 16 and they can grow taller by as much as 9 cm in a year!

This phenomenal growth starts at the outside of the body and works in. Hands and feet are the first to expand so

needing new shoes is often the first sign of trouble. Next the arms and legs grow longer, but even here the ‘outside in’ rule applies and the shin bones lengthen before the thigh and the forearm before the upper arm. Finally the spine grows and right at the end the chest and shoulders of boys broaden out and in girls their hips and pelvis widen.

Growth spurts happen to all kids, but they can wreak havoc on their athletic life and posture. Their bodies go through periods of rapid vertical growth punctuated by periods of “filling out” as the muscles catch up with the bones. Particularly in boys there are great periods of time where the bone growth

They have a wide range of specialists including Physiotherapists, Podiatrists, Nutritionist, Counsellor, Hypnotherapist, Clinical Psychologist, Homeopath and other Therapists to answer your questions.

out-strips the muscle growth and during this time they can look hunched and awkward. Add to this that due to the rapid upward growth they are having to deal with a changing centre of gravity and it’s no wonder teenagers often appear clumsy.

The good news though is that there are definite things that help!

• Good nutrition throughout this time is essential as growing bodies need all the fuel they can get to help with the rapid growth.

• Regular sleeping habits will help the body adjust to the changes it is going through and allow it to continue its repairing functions also, so don’t be surprised if they seem to be permanently asleep!

• It is important to maintain activity level, despite the temporary clumsiness, so encourage them to keep up with sports and explain that the lack of co-ordination will improve.

• Stretching is more important than ever to help ensure that the muscles can

•

lengthen and keep up with the sudden bone growth.

As well as stretching pre and post sport they often benefit from stretching on a daily basis and may need help initially with this to ensure correct technique.

Core strengthening exercises are key to keeping stability, especially around the spine, as they shoot upwards. Pilates type exercises may seem dull to a teenager, but all the football academies recommend this type of training as they recognise the importance of deep muscle strength in their players.

If you have concerns about any teenager with muscular or joint issues associated with growth spurts visit one of our Physiotherapists for an MOT - during an hour appointment we will check muscle lengths and joints and teach correct stretching individualised to your child and the sports and activities they take part in.

Safe Hamstring stretches

The most common tight muscles are the hamstrings - the muscle at the back of the thigh. When these tighten it can affect the spine as well as the legs leading to an inability to straighten up properly. The safest form of hamstring stretch is NOT to touch your toes as you are more likely to stretch your back than your hamstrings. Instead lie on your back. Raise your left leg with a straight knee until you feel a slight pull in the back of the thigh keeping your bottom on the ground. Hold this for 10 seconds and as the tightness subsides raise your leg a little further (keeping your knee straight) till you feel the pull again.

Hold for another ten seconds and then try to raise it a little higher for a final ten seconds. Repeat on the other leg and do each stretch three times on each leg.

23

Alison Grant architect

Making buildings individual, accessible and sustainable

Need more room?

Don’t want to move?

I can help you create the space you need.

extensions loft conversions alterations energy solutions restorations

Contact Alison for creative, practical and affordable advice

5 Northfield, Hebden Bridge, HX7 7NW

Tel 01422 847 927

Web www.alisongrantarchitect.co.uk