Scallymag for Todmorden & Hebden Bridge - Spring '15

THE

S C A LL Y A G M

ÂŽ

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

Diary pages For Pre-school and Out-of-school activities

Out & About Bolton Abbey Hesketh Farm Park

Spring ‘15

News

Keeping you up-to-date

Family Matters

Family Motoring Parental Responsibility

Issue 48

For Local Parents, Carers & Kids

Regular Features Family Health Literacy News Bloke in a kitchen Competitions

e s ea e l p ak t ne o

competition

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

page welcome header contact us

contents Diary Pages Playgroups, Out of school clubs, Swimming,

Libraries & Soft Play Pre-School Diary Out-Of-School Diary Competitions Design our next front cover Out & About Bolton Abbey Hesketh Farm Park News CVSRT fund raising, New Folk Festival for Tod Focus On: Comic Relief Family Health Your health Q&A Family Matters MOTing your car Parental responsibility and the law Literacy The latest news from The Book Case Bloke in a Kitchen Honey & Almond Cheesecake Over to you Getting over PND

Page 11 Page 12 Page 14 Page 2 Page 7 Page 9 Page 4 Page 16 Page 23 Page 18 Page 20 Page 19 Page 21 Page 17

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: Sophie Timmons

aged 9, of Wardle, who drew our watery front cover picture

“Under Water World”

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

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

news School Cuts Fees by 10%

F

rom September 2015, Hipperholme Grammar School is introducing a new fee structure; reducing the fees at the Senior School by an average of 10%.

The School has a long tradition of providing an excellent education for children in the local community and across West Yorkshire.

The School is proud of its recent academic success, bucking national trends in results at both GCSE and A- level and wants to ensure that as many families as possible can access the education it provides.

Fees are already ‘all-inclusive’, including lunches, books, stationery and examination costs, to enable parents to plan their finances more easily.

Headmaster Jack Williams said, “In an improving economic climate we want to give more parents the confidence to invest in their children’s education and long term future.

“Hipperholme Grammar School offers a small school, family ethos, high standards and excellent provision. We are aware that many parents would like their sons and daughters to be able to come to our School. Our hope is that the new fee structure will now make that feasible for many more families and we would welcome parents and children to come and see for themselves at our upcoming Open Days in March.”

The Foundation offers a range of Scholarships including Academic, Music, Choral and Sports, in Year 7 as well as a generous Sixth Form Scholarship scheme. All applications are welcomed.

For more information please contact Sue Oliver, 01422 202256, s.oliver@ hgsf.org.uk, www.hgsf.org.uk.

kayak for cvsrt

C

alder Valley Search and Rescue Team is a charity providing a life saving emergency service to the people of the Calder Valley and beyond.

The Team attends an average of 60+ callouts each year and is staffed entirely by 60 unpaid volunteers. It costs around £35,000 a year to keep the team operational, all of which is raised through donations. They receive no direct government funding. So this is why ‘16 Up The Creek’ will be canoeing 122 miles down the River Thames in May. 16 Up The Creek is a group of 16 local people with eight canoes and five days to complete their mission of covering the 122 miles and 42 locks, from Buscot to Teddington. They will set off on 23rd May and hope to reach their

F

goal by 27th May. Karen Hickton, the driving force behind the challenge, told us; “We wanted to do something that reflect the energy and motivation that CVSRT require everyday on call out so we figured paddling the equivalent to a marathon a day for 5 days would do it.

“We need supporters to help us fundraise, to spread the word and help us make this into a big event for CVSRT. We need sponsors, both personal and business as well as volunteers who can offer support on land or even to be there on the finish line. Let’s take the magic of the Valley to London!”

If you would like to offer your support, Karen can be emailed at admin@gullsedge.co.uk. You can also follow the event on Facebook/gullsedge or to donate directly please visit www.mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/ 16upthecreek

parties in the pool

rom April 2015 Todmorden Sports centre will be available for Pool Parties!

The pool is offering an hour’s private pool time (including changing time), with inflatables, each Sunday between 2.30 and 3.30. A party room can also be booked in the centre to complete your party.

More details are available from the venue on 01706 839090.

news It makes sense!

A

group of parents have recently formed a new voluntary group called Grow Big with the aim of providing new developmental activities for children locally.

A networking evening was held in October ‘14 to develop an early years multi-sensory story-telling project for children living in disadvantaged areas in Calderdale.

A mobile pod is set to visit children in nurseries and primary schools throughout this year. Children will not be asked to sit and listen to a story, they will experience the story. That means they will see it, hear it, feel it, smell it, taste it and act it out. The story sessions will weave in elements of art, music, physical exercise and role-play.

Rachel Stewart, founder of Grow Big, explains why she has set the group up; “My motivation developed during my time off work with my two young adopted boys. Now I am a mum I want to do something really worthwhile by helping children who are disadvantaged in some way using the skills I have developed in the public sector”.

The group has set up a blog to encourage parents to start a conversation about what projects the group should develop.

The first pilot project will be grant funded but the group is looking at ways of generating its own income in the future.

The group has started Friends of Grow Big; a scheme to make connections with interested people and potential volunteers who have a wide range of knowledge and skill sets. This could be generic skills around research, business planning and accounting or more specific knowledge around parenting, early years and the needs of disadvantaged children. To become a Friend of Grow Big or to find out more about how you can get involved contact info@growbig.co.uk or visit www. growbig.co.uk

True cost of Burglary

B

urglars know the price of everything and the value of nothing – that is the message being highlighted

by West Yorkshire Police as part of their latest burglary campaign.

The campaign aims to make people think about the true cost of burglary, as this can be both emotional and financial.

Being burgled can be devastating for victims. Not only is it upsetting and inconvenient to lose the items that you have worked hard to pay for but it can also lead to sleepless nights, feelings of anger and the loss of treasured memories and personal items.

Following the crime prevention tips below can help to secure your home and deter burglars:

Top tips to keep your home secure: •

•

•

• •

•

•

Keep your doors and windows locked even when you’re in – burglars will try doors to find one that is unlocked.

You should keep doors and windows locked, even when you are in the house. When you get home, try to change your habit if you don’t usually lock your door behind you.

Make your home look lived in; use timer switches or leave your television on when you’re not home.

Always remember to switch on your burglar alarm if you have one.

Keep valuables out of view – burglars will look through windows to see if there is anything worth stealing.

If you have a garage, use it to store your car – burglars will look at your car to judge whether to break in the house for the keys or whether your house might contain items they would want to steal.

Cancel the milk and newspapers when you go on holiday and find a trusted neighbour, friend or relative to move your post and open and close blinds and curtains.

• •

•

•

• •

•

Door chimes and burglar alarms will deter a burglar from entering your property.

Being a victim of sneak-in burglary can have both emotional and financial effects. High value goods are costly to replace if stolen, and items such as phones and cameras often hold information with sentimental value such as photos, which cannot be replaced.

Keep doors and windows locked when in the garden having BBQs, gardening, hanging out the washing, etc.

Don’t leave garden tools or furniture outside as they can be used by burglars to enter your property.

Dispose of packaging for expensive items properly; don’t advertise what is in your house.

Register your property on www. immobilise.com so that if it is stolen and recovered by the Police it can then be returned to you.

Download free tracking software onto mobile phones and laptops.

For more information about home security call 101 and ask to speak to your local Crime Prevention Officer or follow them on Twitter using #wypburglary.

news get your dancing shoes on!

Singing, Dancing, Music, Mirth & Merriment

17th & 18th April

The Young'Uns

The Britannia Coco-nut Dancers

Red Hippo

Hadrian Clog

Esther Ferry-Kennington, one of the brains behind the festival, told us; “We see folk music very much as a family business and so we’re offering an under 16’s ticket for just £10 for all the events over the weekend.”

Friday night will see a family ceilidh at the Fielden Centre with great tunes for you to dance to, helped by the EarthQuakers Ceilidh Band. Central Methodist Church will be home to the kid’s club on Saturday. There will be craft activities led by Alison Duddle of Horse + Bamboo, Sue Coe of Ryburn 3 Step will be teaching a Longsword Dance, a tradition which originates in Yorkshire, and there will also be a clog dance workshop for the whole family. You will be able to enjoy a cup of tea and a cake and browse the craft stalls at our festival café.

The streets of Todmorden will be filled with Morris dancers of all ages, shapes and sizes! All the venues will be open to children and young people and they look forward to welcoming everyone to the festival. Individual event tickets are also available and are on-sale now via the website - www.todfolkfest.co.uk.

Kate Locksley Cat's Cradle Thieving Magpie

T

he first Todmorden Folk Festival will be swinging into town on 17th & 18th April this year.

Bo Weavil

Oakenhoof

Bella Gaffney

Ruth Bibby

Plus Many More!

Ruth Bibby

out & about

Bolton Abbey

B

olton Abbey Estate is owned by the Duke of Devonshire and is situated a few miles east of Skipton, about an hour’s drive from here.

It is quite a large estate but long and thin, mainly covering the banks of the River Wharf.

We visited on a beautiful summers day and parked in one of the four car parks available throughout the estate, at the southern Bolton Abbey end of the estate. This car park is quite large and well maintained and actually situated in the tiny village of Bolton Abbey. There are toilets, a visitors/village shop, a couple of other shops and a cafe here, but the main attraction is just over the road, through a hole in the wall and down some steps to the river’s edge and the Abbey itself.

Three quarters of the abbey is in ruins but great to explore. However, bear in mind that the church part of the abbey is still the village church with regular services being conducted.

When there isn’t a service going on it is open and free to look around. There is a quiz/I Spy sheet and clipboard for children, though my two found some of the questions a bit tough!

Right next to the abbey are the famous stepping stones across the river; open for all to try but extreme care is required if the river is high! There is a bridge alternative.

After exploring the abbey and the church we walked from here to the Cavendish pavilion. This takes about 30 minutes along a good footpath. There are some steps and some steep drops so it may be a struggle with a pushchair, but there is a second, huge car park by the pavilion so you can drive if necessary.

The Cavendish pavilion is a cafe, serving a selection of hot and cold food. It is not the cheapest, though they did offer children’s portions of the hot meals of the day, at slightly lower prices.

Worth noting though, is that picnicing is encouraged; we even saw people barbequing (in specified areas only) so taking your own food would be a much cheaper option.

The Cavendish pavilion is fairly central to the estate so from here you can continue northwards towards the famous ‘Strid’ (a narrow and dangerous gorge the river is forced through) and on past the aqueduct to Barden Tower.

But we chose to cross the river here and walk back towards the abbey along a woodland path.

In the summer months this path is turned into what they call the ‘Welly Walk Adventure Trail’. Aimed at children from toddling upwards (not all activities are suitable for all) there are rope bridges, mazes, tunnels, tree climbing etc. The climbing had a small fee but the rest was free to enjoy. The trail is open from mid May to the end of August each year.

Dogs are welcome on most of the estate trails. Areas where they are not are well signed. Beware though, this is also a working farm and some fields have cows in them. Cycling is also popular but not allowed on the woodland paths.

Entrance to the estate was just £8 per car, irrespective of how many where in the car. It drops to £7 out of the Summer season. Overall a very enjoyable day that the kids loved, and we have more to go back and see very soon.

Photos: H Bregazzi

Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 6EX www.boltonabbey.com

feature

Y

cyclists return for an encore

ou’d be forgiven for thinking you had a case of of deja vu when plans for a major cycle race in Yorkshire were revealed in January.

Photos: Courtesy of Welcome to Yorkshire

Last year’s Grand Départ, which saw the world-famous Tour de France kick off right here in Yorkshire, was a phenomenal success. So much so that in May, cyclists and enthusiasts will once again descend on West Yorkshire for our very own Tyke-tastic Tour de Yorkshire.

Some of the most challenging climbs will also figure in this race, with the final stage on Sunday May 3 taking part right on our doorstep – but this time in reverse, with the longest continual climb at Cragg Vale becoming the longest descent.

Stage one begins on Friday May 1st in Bridlington and finishes 174km later, up the coast in Scarborough.

Riders from all over the world will pass through spectacular coastal scenery and the iconic North York Moors landscapes along the way, taking in Flamborough Head, the North York Moors and Robin Hood’s Bay with the ultimate race to the finish line on the seafront at Scarborough. The last section of this stage will be particularly tough, especially the climb out of Robin Hood’s Bay, which is 1.5km long and has an average gradient of 10.3 per cent.

Stage two, on Saturday May 2nd, is one for the sprinters and will see the race start outside the imposing Selby Abbey. The route takes in

Stage 3

much of the Wolds and from Selby will take the peloton towards Market Weighton, through North Newbald and on to Beverley, where they will turn north to Malton, then on to Stamford Bridge.

As part of the legacy of the Tour de France to get more women cycling there will also be a dedicated women’s event on a circuit through York.

Then, on day three, Sunday May 3rd, the race returns to Calderdale and some of the roads raced in the 2014 Grand Départ. Starting in Wakefield, riders will travel south to Barnsley before heading to Holmfirth where they pick up the Grand Départ route in reverse, racing to Ripponden before riding the iconic Cragg Vale – which in the Tour de France was the country’s longest continual climb and now becomes the longest continual descent.

The riders will then make their way to Hebden Bridge, Oxenhope and through the famous cobbled streets of Haworth, one of the most iconic images of the Tour de France in Yorkshire. After a steep climb at Goose Eye the riders will once again see Ilkley, with the famous climb up the Cow and Calf before a sprint point at Arthington and then what is expected to be a hugely popular finish line in Roundhay Park in Leeds.

The race will be shown live on television in the UK and across Europe and a huge television audience is expected, once again shining a spotlight on Yorkshire.

It is hoped the race will become an annual event.

Thierry Gouvenou, Tour de France’s sports director, who designed the race route, said: “Yorkshire offers so much with its huge variety of landscapes. For this first edition we have three quite different stages, each with their own challenges and, seen as a whole, a very exciting addition to European racing. This first edition will suit a strong all-rounder rider. In the following years we will change the routes, taking in new places and offering something new each time”.

Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, which has been key to organising the event, added: “Before the Grand Départ had even finished people all across Yorkshire were asking when we can have more cycling! The Tour de Yorkshire will bring back many of the world’s top cycling teams and there will be an opportunity for ordinary people to ride the same roads on the same day in the sportive.

This is a free event to watch so there is an opportunity for everyone in the county to be part of Tour de Yorkshire in one way or another.”

Welcome to Yorkshire is also organising a month long Tour de Yorkshire Festival to showcase the country’s rich and diverse cultural offering. The Yorkshire Festival, which accompanied the Tour de France Grand Depart, will be held in 2016.

Bt Kate Wobshall

page out &header about

Hesketh Farm Park,

Bolton Abbey, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 6HA. Tel : 01756 710444 www.heskethfarmpark.co.uk

W

e visited Hesketh Farm Park for the first time nearly five years ago. We had a lovely day out then and as we were on our way to a weekend in North Yorkshire, decided to stop on the way and revisit.

Photos: J Boon

It is set in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, just one mile from Bolton Abbey. It is only an hour’s drive from Rossendale and the farm is easily found from the A59 by following the brown tourist signs.

This is a family owned business and a working farm with cattle, sheep, pigs and much more.

There is ample parking, with separate disabled parking right next to the entrance. In my opinion, certain farm parks have been getting rather expensive for a family day out; however Hesketh Farm Park is definitely not.

Adults are £5.50, children £6.00, under twos £3.00 and under ones are free.

Family tickets are also available.

The great advantage of this farm is that there is loads to do both inside and out, which given the recent weather is a huge bonus. There are a number of information boards which tell visitors the time of the next activity, whether it be donkey feeding, egg-collecting or guinea pig handling. In case you have

missed the boards, the staff also ring a bell and shout to the children, Pied Piper style, en route to every attraction.

We had a great time and enjoyed collecting freshly-laid eggs from the hens, bottle feeding calves and lambs and petting rabbits and guinea pigs.

We were also able to see a new born lamb that had arrived just a few hours before we got to the farm! Lily and Eliza enjoyed following the giant tortoises who freely patrol the farm and also brushing the huge pigs with long handled brushes.

When they had had enough of the animal side of the farm they enjoyed the pedal tractors (three different sizes and tracks available depending on the age of your child), the outside activity playground and newly built sandpit complete with buckets and spades.

Inside there is a straw maze, another play area with a climbing frame and slide and a cafe selling a range of home-made sandwiches, snacks, cakes and drinks. If you would rather take your own picnic there are plenty of seating areas for you to use. The whole site is pram and wheelchair accessible and baby change facilities are available.

We had a lovely day at Hesketh Farm Park and I was pleased that it was still clean and well managed with a variety of activities and helpful staff. We will certainly be going back again.

By Julia Boon

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

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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

9:30 - 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 - 3.45 7:00 - 8.15

Wednesday

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

10:00 - 5:00

Thursday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 9.00

10:00 - 6:30

Friday

9:00 - 12:00 1:30 - 7:00 8.00 - 9.00

10:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 6:30

1:30 - 6:30

Saturday

9:00 - 1:30 3.00 - 6:30

10:00 - 4:00

10:00 - 4:00

10:00 - 12:00

sunday

9:00 - 12.45 2.30 - 4.00

10:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 5:00

10:00 - 3:00

9:30 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

9:30 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

10:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

10:00 - 3:00

9:30 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

1:00 - 5:00

9:30 - 4:00

9:00 - 6:00

9:30 - 6:00

1:00 - 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) Ferney Lee School, Ferney Lee Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - 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

Centre Vale Playgroup 9:30 - 11:30 Fielden Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden Please call in for details

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

Heptons Toddler 10:00 - 1 Heptons Club, Ac please c

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

Ladies F 1:45 - 2: Todmord Burnley 01706 3 Limited

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

Childminder Drop-In 9:30 - 11:30 Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01422 845800 - FREE

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

Parent & 9.30 - 11 Hare & H Todmord Janet - 0

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 399970

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

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

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

Ninja To 5:30 - 6:1 AEGIS A Commun Central S 07903 7

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 845800 - 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 399970 - FREE

Lesbian Parents Group Stay and Play 10:00 - 12:00 (3rd Wed only) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - 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

Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 - 11.00 Hare & Hounds, Burnley Road, Todmorden Janet - 01706 818820

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

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

Dodnaze Parent & Toddlers 9.45 - 11.15 Dodnaze Community Centre, 54 Hirst Grove, Hebden Bridge

Blacksh Group 9:45 - 12 Blacksha Hebden Lorraine

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

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

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

Baby/po 2:00 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 399970 - FREE

Cragg Vale Toddler Group 9:30 - 11:30 (term time only) The Ark Day Nursery Sports Hall, Dean Hey Farm, Cragg Vale, Mytholmroyd Cathy 07720715418

The Woods (Forest School

Aquatot 11.00 - 1 Todmord Ewood L 01706 8

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

Todmorden Swimming Club

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 399970 - 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)

10:00 - 12:00 Eastwood, Todmorden Emily

- Widths

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

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

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

stall Parents & Group 11:45 stall Social & Bowling cre Lane, Heptonstall call in for details

Parent Support Drop-In 10:00 - 12:00 Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

Good Health Drop-In 10:00 - 11:00 Hebden Bridge Town Hall, Heben Bridge 07938 790856

Baby Stay and Play 12:45 - 1:45 & 2:15 - 3:15 Hebden Vale Children’s Centre, Hebden Bridge 01706 399970 - FREE

Fitness & Pilates :45 (term time only) den Children’s Centre, Road, Todmorden 399970 crèche

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

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

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

& Toddler Group 1.00 Hounds, Burnley Road, den 01706 818820

BATS 9:45 - 11:30 Lumbutts Methodist Church Lumbutts Debbie - 07899 077704

Stay & Play 10:00 - 11:30 Todmorden Children’s Centre Todmorden Community College, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

Bumps & Babes

support group for multiple births

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

Sling Lounge Library (baby carrier hire)

1:00 - 4:00 (Fortnightly. Please call for dates)

My Play Cafe, Central Street, Hebden Bridge Debbie - 07899 077704

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)

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

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

Baby Stay & Play with Baby Clinic 1:30 - 3:30 Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

Mid-Week Movers 3:00 - 5:00 (Term Time Only) Todmorden Community College Hall, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

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

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

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

Pregnancy Yoga 5:30 Blessingway, Birchcliffe Centre, Hebden Bridge Elaine - 07967 974 376

Good Health Drop-In 10:00 - 11:00 Hebden Bridge Town Hall, Heben Bridge 07938 790856

Family Activities 2:00 - 3:00 (Term Time Only) Todmorden Children’s Centre, Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 399970 - FREE

Baby Sing & Sign Please call for Dates, Times & Locations 01706 399970 - FREE

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

Family Fun Swim (U 11s) 10:00 - 12:00 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

Family Fun Swim (U 14s) 1:00 - 2:15 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

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

07704 568237

hawhead Arty Toddler Breastfeeding Group 10:00 - 11:30 (alternate weeks - please call for dates) 2:00 Todmorden Children’s Centre, awhead Chapel, Burnley Road, Todmorden Bridge 01706 399970 - FREE e - 01422 844971

gway, Birchcliffe Hebden Bridge 07967 974 376

St Mary’s Family Service All Children Welcome Todmorden Children’s Centre, 4:05 onwards St Mary’s Church, Todmorden Burnley Road, Todmorden 01706 819300 01706 399970 - FREE for dates)

Toddler Tuesday

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

ostnatal Yoga

Young Parents’ Group 1.45 - 3.15 (alternate weeks - call

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

Good Health Drop-In 10:00 - 11:00 Hebden Bridge Town Hall, Heben Bridge 07938 790856

Magic Carpet 3:30 - 4:30 (term time only) Cornholme J,I & N School, Greenfield Terrace, Cornholme 01706 399970 - FREE

Todmorden Swimming Club - Widths

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

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

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

SUNDAY

ts 11.45 den Sports Centre, Lane, Todmorden 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

Good Health Drop-In 3:30 - 4:30 Hebden Bridge Town Hall, Heben Bridge 07938 790856

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

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

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

Campaigners - Kids Zone 5:00 - 6:30 Lumbutts Church, Lumbutts, Todmorden Les or Pat 01706 814754 6 - 12 yrs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good Health Drop-In 3:30 - 4:30 Hebden Bridge Town Hall, Heben Bridge 07938 790856

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

Ballet & Tap 4:00 - 6:30 (various classes) DC Dance, Victoria Road, Todmorden Dawn 01706 839113 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 6:30 - 7:45 Stubbings Infant School, School Street, Hebden Bridge Dinah Newsome 01422 843202 7 - 10 yrs

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

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

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

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

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

After School Swimming 4:00 - 6:00 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ 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 399970

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Good Health Drop-In 3:30 - 4:30 Hebden Bridge Town Hall, Heben Bridge 07938 790856

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

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

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

After School Swimming 4:00 - 5:30 Shade Junior & Infant School, Shade, Todmorden 01706 812913 4+ yrs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Family AEGIS Class 6:30 - 7:15 AEGIS Academy, Salem Community Resource Centre, Central Street, Hebden Bridge 07903 706784 7+ yrs and adults 2nd Luddenden Rainbows 5.45 - 7.00 every fortnight Kershaw Youth Centre Kershaw Drive, Luddendenfoot Kay - 07814 745340 5 - 7 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 Anastasia 07900 715170 8 - 10½ yrs

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

1st Walsden Brownies 6:00 - 7:15 Walsden Junior School, Walsden Donna Scholfield 01706 839042 7 - 10 yrs

18th Hebden Bridge Beavers 6:15 - 7:15 Top Floor, Salem Mill, Hebden Bridge Matthew Speak 01422 846340 6 - 8 yrs

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

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

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

8th/26th Calder Valley Cubs 6:00 - 7:15 Central Methodist Church, off Bramsche Square, Todmorden Dave Payne 01706 816568 8 - 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

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

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

Family Fun Swim (U11) 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

Family Fun Swim (U 14s) 1:00 - 2:15 Todmorden Sports Centre, Ewood Lane, Todmorden 01706 839090

15

focus on: wear your red nose with pride

I

t’s hard to believe that, on 13th March this year, Comic Relief is celebrating its 30th anniversary and the muchloved Red Nose Day has been going since 1988.

Red Nose Day comes along every two years and combines two very British things: having a laugh and helping others. Be it at school, work or home, people across the land put on Red Noses and pull out all the stops to raise as much money as possible. Then, on the day itself, they tune into BBC One for some top entertainment from their favourite comedians and to see where all of their hard-earned cash is being spent.

Red Nose Day is an event which is special to many people, as the money raised helps poor and vulnerable people living incredibly tough lives both in the UK and across Africa. It was first broadcast in 1988, with a “Mega

16

Night” of seven-and-a-half hours of live television on BBC One. There had never been anything like it before and it was Comic Relief’s breakthrough moment.

The power of the idea was clear when 3.4 million Red Noses were bought in the build-up, with some stockists selling out in just four days.

At least another million noses were reportedly also improvised with ping pong balls! An estimated 20 million people took part in fundraising activities for Comic Relief and over 30 million watched the television show. The first ever Red Nose Day – as it was quickly dubbed – raised over £15 million, nearly eight times what had been anticipated.

Since then Red Nose Day has raised much, much more and has helped to change the lives of people around the world. Comic Relief cash has helped to achieve some huge advances both abroad and in the UK. For example, since the year 2000 the number of people dying from malaria across Africa

has fallen by a third and in 2012, thanks to the Time To Change campaign, 1.5 million people in England said that their attitude towards people with mental health problems had improved.

This year the charity is encouraging you to turn your face funny with face paint, get sponsored to do something hair raising (dye your hair or beard), bake something or join the danceathon.

There will be nine different styles of red noses available plus just twelve golden noses hidden amongst them with fantastic prizes for those lucky enough to find one. There will also be the usual designer Tee-shirts, red noses for your car, mugs, deeley boppers and nail wraps plus lots more fun stuff.

Tools and fundraising kits are all available from the website - www. rednoseday.com.

To find out more about the work they do and the projects they fund go to comicrelief.com.

page overheader to you KNITTING MY WAY OUT OF POST NATAL DEPRESSION

P

ost natal depression (PND) is something that happens to other people.

That’s what I used to think until one day it happened to me.

confident, self-assured, career-minded individual.

I hadn’t suffered with PND after the birth of my first son, Jonathan, in 2003, so there was no reason to suspect that anything was amiss this time around.

Florence was very much a wanted It’s such a stealthy child and I only fell condition that I didn’t pregnant with her after even realise I was seeking help from the suffering from it and Assisted Conception for months refused to Unit at Calderdale Royal accept that I was.

Hospital.

But with hindsight, I However, within can see as little as two three months of giving years ago, I was a very birth, I became pregnant different person from with my second son, the one I am now.

Benjamin, now two. As There were times a result I suffered with when I couldn’t severe pelvic girdle pain function, I’d be which restricted my incapable of the movement. smallest tasks – those As a partially sighted were very dark days person, I already found it for me. difficult to get out and You see, prior to developing PND about with Florence but the pain after the birth of my daughter, Florence, endured during Benjamin’s pregnancy now four, I had always been a very made this problem all the more acute.

My husband, Gary, and I have no family living nearby so there were no grandparents to lend a hand when things got tough. the home of hand knitted garments and beautiful, locally sourced, spun and hand dyed yorkshire yarns Post natal depression soon Save 10% on your first order using code WELCOME set in and when Benjamin was born it got so bad that I eventually had no option but to seek medical help.

The hardest part in all of this was admitting that there was something really wrong. I blamed myself for it all.

It’s only now that I can look back and realise that none of it was my fault – PND can happen to anyone.

Apart from a supportive husband, who thankfully has an understanding employer, the other thing that has helped me through one of the most difficult times of my life, is picking up my knitting needles again.

Many recent studies have demonstrated that crafts such as knitting or crochet, can help to alleviate the symptoms of stress and depression and this has certainly been the case with me.

I’ve found that it has enabled me to focus my mind and concentrate on the many positives in life. It brought back a sense of confidence, a semblance of self-esteem, a feeling of self-worth – things that if you’ve ever suffered with PND, you genuinely believe are lost forever.

I’m not the same confident, selfassured, career-minded individual I once was. She is gone for good. But in her place is a better person altogether.

Seeking medical help and turning to fibre crafts as a way of therapy gave me the ability to believe in myself again.

As a result, I recently set up a new business, Baa Baa Brighouse, an online knitting and Yorkshire yarn store.

This has led to knitting groups, workshops, involvement in Brighouse Arts Festival, visits to trade shows and meeting so many new people.

It’s certainly not been an easy road to travel but Baa Baa Brighouse has allowed me to stand tall again and feel proud of what I’ve achieved – as a mother and as a business woman. I fought PND and I won. You can too.

By Elaine Jinks

Yan Tan Tethera Yarn Club

Receive exclusive hand-dyed yarns every month, Join Now!

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www.baabaabrighouse.co.uk

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01484 722662

17

family matters family motoring

A

s spring will soon be upon us we thought we would offer a few tips to help you through the MOT season, we hope this can help save those pennies which we all welcome.

Garages usually associate Spring with MOT season. Many MOTs become due in March and April but not many people know that they are able to have their MOT carried out up to 28 days before their due date without affecting the renewal date for next year, giving 13 months MOT instead of 12.

Before you attend your MOT carry out a few checks on your vehicle; • Check that the windscreen wipers clean the windscreen properly. If not they could be old or fraying which could lead to a scratched windscreen. A scratched windscreen could mean an MOT fail. If your windscreen is scratched or chipped, check your insurance; a lot of policies cover windscreen replacements without affecting your no-claims bonus, or they can fix cracks by injecting it with a gel sealant.

• If you can, check all the lights on your vehicle and make sure they are clean and clear. Don’t forget to include the number plate lights.

• Give your horn a good blast to check that is working well.

These are basic checks that can often be the difference between a pass and a fail.

If your vehicle does fail the test though you will need to check with the tester what their policy is. Some testing stations will give you 14 days (that’s 10 working days) to re-test it. Some may allow you to take the vehicle to be repaired by a mechanic of your choice, without penalty, but others may charge for the re-test if you do this.

CHECKPOINT CAR CARE, situated in Moderna Business Park (just opposite Upsy Daisy’s) is run and owned by Sean who has been mechanicing for well over 20 years and is well versed in the art of anything engine or vehicle!

Checkpoint are able to carry out most MOT failure work, from full braking system replacements to welding. We can also replace your worn tyres, balance them if needed and carry out tracking checks with our up-to-date, 4 wheel, laser alignment tracking gauges. Checkpoint are also happy to take your vehicle back to the testing station for its retest.

We welcome anyone to call for advise on the checks suggested above and, if necessary, we offer a free local collection and delivery service.

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pageliteracy header Information kindly provided by;

The Book Case 29 Market Street, Hebden Bridge 01422 845353 5th

rch Thursday Ma y w stories a D astic brand ne Book orld choice of fant

World Day titles, and their distributithiothnethgoroalugh

er okshops all ov Hundreds of bo e th in taking part the UK will be books ce t lebration of worlds bigges ays, w al s is March. A and reading th the is t e of the even the cornerston ld Book or W e special th of n io at ic publ

Elmer’s Parade by Dave Mckee Ages 2+

Elmer is very excited because today is the fancy dress parade. But some of the animals are missing! Can Elmer find them in time for everyone to join in the fun?

Go on a World Book Day adventure with this brand new tale.

Our favourites of the WBD books this year...

Best Mates By Goth Girl and The A Pirates Guide to Michael Morpurgo Pirate Queen by Land Lubbing by Ages 9+ Chris Riddell Jonny Duddle

A collection of six magical and heart-warming animal stories, specially for World Book Day, by the nation’s favourite storyteller. From dogs to cats, and from horses to dolphins and whales, it’s all here in this timeless treasury.

Best Sellers The bestsellers over Christmas this year were dominated by some big names in children’s fiction with Goth Girl from Chris Riddell just stealing first place from comic turned children’s

1

2

Goth Girl and the Fete Worse than Death

d schools w bookshops an e UK and ery child in th of reaching ev ren!).

14 million child Ireland (That’s ribute nt co blishers Authors and pu ide a ov pr resources to their time and

’s W teens. This year for toddlers to stories w s include ne Book Day book e lik s ildren’s writer , and from great ch ee ck rgo, Dave M Michael Morpu Chris Riddell.

Ages 7+

Ages 5+

Ada attends World Frock Night – a lavish ball where everyone dresses up in their finest costumes. Hers is definitely spectacular and she thinks she might be in with a chance at the grand prize. But, as usual, nothing goes to plan, and an unexpected guest at the ball will prove to be Ada’s biggest challenge yet …

Are you a swashbuckling sea dog who has always been curious about the ways of landlubbers? Join Jim Ladd and the piratically notorious Jolley-Rogers family as they navigate the weird world of the shore. Visiting for a holiday or just looking to keep a low profile while you find a place to bury your treasure? This is any pirate’s survival guide to life on land.

author David Walliams. Gigantosaurus has been a hit with dinosaur-mad little ones, and the classic Paddington Bear has shot into the best sellers following the success of the film. Not surprising the latest in the Diary of A Wimpy Kid

3

4

Awful Auntie

series has been selling well and, finally, it is great to see the Sleeper and the Spindle in our best sellers. This is a gloriously dark and beautifully illustrated fairytale book for older children, very much recommended.

5

6

Diary of A Wimpy Kid, The Long Haul

The Sleeper and the Spindle

Gigantosaurus

Paddington Bear

Chris Riddell

David Walliams

Jonny Duddle

Michael Bond

Jeff Kinney

Neil Gaiman

£9.99

£12.99

£6.99

£6.99

£12.99

£12.99

19

family matters

P

PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

arental Responsibility means all of the rights, duties, powers, responsibilities and authority which by law a parent of a child has in relation to that child and their property.

If you have Parental Responsibility for your child you must provide a home for them and protect and maintain them. You will also be responsible for disciplining them, agreeing to your child’s medical treatment and choosing and providing your child’s education. You are entitled to be kept informed about their education and development. It is important that you make sure that your child’s school has your contact details and that you request copies of school reports and regular updates about your child.

A Mother will automatically have Parental Responsibility for her child from birth. Usually a Father will have Parental Responsibility if: • He is married to the Mother at the time of the birth • He is named on the child’s birth certificate If you do not automatically get Parental Responsibility then you can apply to the court for it. An unmarried father can get Parental Responsibility if: • He enters into a Parental Responsibility agreement with the mother of the child • He obtains a Parental Responsibility or a Residence Order from the court

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For same sex couples, if they are civil partners at the time of fertility treatment the second parent will automatically get Parental Responsibility. If they are not civil partners, the second parent can get this by: • Applying for Parental Responsibility if a parental agreement was made • Becoming a civil partner of the other parent and making a Parental Responsibility agreement • Jointly registering the birth More than two people can hold Parental Responsibility for the same child. Every person who holds Parental Responsibility for a child should agree about issues concerning that child. If one parent wanted to change the child’s name or surname, they could not do so without the consent of the other parent or an order from the court.

If you are taking your child abroad you should have the written consent of anybody else that hold’s Parental Responsibility for that child. You should inform them of who the child is going away with, where they are going and for how long. If there is a dispute about taking a child abroad you can apply to the court for a Specific Issue Order.

At Makin Dixon Solicitors we understand that problems can often arise within families and those who share Parental Responsibility for a child can come into conflict when making important decisions about the child.

We offer a wide range of comprehensive services to deal with situations that arise in relation to Parental Responsibility and children matters. We can assist with drafting Parental Responsibility agreements and assist in obtaining Parental Responsibility orders from the court.

We offer free Legal Aid Assessment for every client and, should you not qualify, a wide range of fixed fee packages. Call us today on to book an appointment with an experienced Family Law solicitor. Your local office is 32 Halifax Road, Todmorden (01706 839787) or 2 Clare Road, Halifax (01422 363184).

Bloke page in a Kitchen header Honey and almond cheesecake

By Richard Dalby

T

his is a wonderfully light and fresh tasting cheesecake, just the thing for welcoming in the Spring. The great thing about this recipe is that, from a few simple ingredients, you can make something so easy and amazingly tasty. There’s some biscuit bashing with a rolling pin involved so I’m sure the kids will have lots of fun helping out.

Ingredients 125g (4oz) plain digestive biscuits 25g (1 oz) butter / margarine 500g (1lb 2oz) soft cheese / mascarpone cheese 100g (3½ oz) honey 2 large eggs 3 tablespoons of flaked almonds Fresh raspberries and sifted icing sugar to decorate

Please note: If the soft cheese is a little salty you may wish to add a few teaspoons of white sugar which will balance the flavours out nicely. If using mascarpone, the honey will provide all the sweetness you need.

Pre-heat the oven to gas mark 4 / 350°F / 180°C 1. . .

4.

5.

6.

7.

Place the biscuits in a strong plastic bag, and crush with a rolling pin.

Melt the margarine/butter in a saucepan and add the biscuit crumbs. Stir until evenly mixed.

Pour the crumb mixture into a 20cm (8 inch) deep, non-stick, loose-bottomed cake tin, pressing the crumbs down firmly with the back of a spoon then chill in the fridge for 10 minutes.

Beat the soft cheese, honey and eggs with a whisk until smooth. Pour in the prepared tin, over the biscuit crumb base, then place on a baking sheet and scatter over the almonds.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until slightly golden – it will still feel a little wobbly but will set as it cools. Don’t take the cheesecake out of the oven but turn it off and open the oven door then leave the cheesecake until completely cool. This will help to stop the surface cracking.

Chill for a couple of hours before serving.

To serve, decorate with the raspberries and dust lightly with sieved icing sugar.

Photos: R Dalby

• • • • • • •

Method

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22

family page header health

Q With Christmas over, the rest of

the winter is stretching ahead with no end in sight. I feel lethargic, have difficulty waking in the mornings, crave carbohydrates and feel less productive and creative than normal - what is wrong with me?

A You could be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It was recognised and named by Dr Norman Rosenthal from The National Institute of Mental Health in Maryland, USA. As many as 6% of the population may have this winter depression and another 14% may experience a milder form of the condition. It affects women more than men and often starts in your 30’s. SAD is more common in northern latitudes, and those who work long hours in buildings with no windows may experience symptoms all year round.

The latest theory about the cause of SAD relates to an area of your brain near the visual pathway that responds to light by sending out a signal to suppress the secretion of melatonin.

Melatonin is a hormone produced especially at night in the brain and it promotes sleep. Brain studies in people with SAD show them to have poor function of the nerves leading to this area, resulting in an excessive production of Melatonin and hence they have decreased energy and a tendency to oversleep.

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.

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

There are a number of simple lifestyle changes you can make to help improve your symptoms of SAD. These are listed below.

• try to get as much natural sunlight as possible – even a brief lunchtime walk can be beneficial • make your work and home environments as light and airy as possible • sit near windows when you’re indoors • take plenty of regular exercise, particularly outdoors and in daylight, if possible • eat a healthy, balanced diet.

• if possible, avoid stressful situations and take steps to manage stress - counselling and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help.

• talk to your family and friends about SAD so that they understand why your mood changes during the winter – this will help them to support you more effectively For some people with SAD, using light therapy can help improve their mood considerably. Light boxes are special lamps that come in a variety of designs, including desk lamps and wallmounted fixtures. They produce a very bright light. Light intensity is measured in lux – the higher lux, the brighter the light.

Make sure that you choose a light box that is medically proven to treat SAD and produced by a fully certified manufacturer. The Seasonal Affective

Disorder Association www.sada. org.uk can provide you with a list of recommended manufacturers. The additional light encourages your brain to reduce the production of melatonin (the hormone that makes you sleepy) and increase the production of serotonin (the hormone that affects your mood).

It’s thought that light therapy is best for producing short-term results. This may mean that it will help relieve your symptoms, but you’ll still be affected by SAD next winter.

Regular physical exercise has been proven to increase the brains production of other hormones - Seratonin which is acknowledged as one of our ‘happy chemicals’ - it calms us, relieves depression and eases tension and Endorphins; our body’s natural painkiller.

Exercise can give you back control of your body and this is often the first step to feeling in control of other events.

Any type of exercise is useful as long as it suits you and you do enough of it. Exercise should be something you enjoy, otherwise it will be hard to find the motivation to do it regularly.

Diet is important too. Seratonin and Endorphin release is promoted by eating oily fish, lean meat (especially turkey) and bananas. Avoid foods high in saturated fats, like burgers and chips, as fat inhibits their production.

Some research indicates that St Johns Wort is beneficial in the treatment of SAD. This is thought to be because it contains Hypericin, which prevents the destruction of Seratonin.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and Counselling can be helpful too.

CBT starts with the idea that the way we think and behave may affect the way we feel. Changing the way you think about situations and what you do about them can help you feel better. If you have CBT or Counselling you’ll have a number of sessions with a specially trained therapist, usually over several weeks or months.

At Physio & Therapies we can offer you advice about Exercise, Nutrition and Counselling so why not give us a call on 01706 819464.

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