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Friday January 27, 2017
12 MONTHS GUARANTEE
No. 774
NHS bosses talk tough with MPs
STUMPED!
Local community rallies to support of popular restaurant that is being forced to remove three illuminated palm trees by council planners Shama Restaurant owner Billy Mohammad (left) and restaurant customer Richard Spreadbury, who started the petition to save the eye-catching palm trees
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By James Morris News Reporter james@thepressnews.co.uk
A PETITION to save a restaurant’s illuminated palm trees has attracted over 1,200 signatures as planning officials look set to remove them. Kirklees Council has demanded that the Shama Restaurant at White Lee remove the three highly-visible trees which are situated in the car park. Owner of the family-run restaurant on Leeds Road, Billy Mohammad, installed the trees and lights just over a year ago to brighten up the area and to combat fly-tippers who had dumped large amounts of waste in the car park. He was informed by planning officers that he required permission for the trees and so applied retrospectively – only to have it turned down. Mr Mohammad has also been unsuccessful in an appeal against the decision, meaning he must remove the trees before February 28. But customers have rallied around the Shama and a petition set up by one local has attracted over 1,200 signatures asking for the council to let the trees stay. Mr Mohammad admitted he did not realise he needed planning permission originally, but criticised the council for their hard-line stance. He said: “I hold my hands up, I didn’t apply for permission because I was not aware that I needed it. I only found out when the planning officer turned up and told us. “The application and appeal have both been unsuccessful and it feels a bit like they are slapping our hands because we didn’t do it right the first time around.” Kirklees’ planning committee rejected the application from Mr Mohammad as they deemed the trees to be “harmful to the character and appearance of the surrounding area and street scene.” The business then lodged a formal appeal which the Planning Inspectorate dismissed in November. Mr Mohammad said that he had been taken aback by the level of support from the local community since the petition was set up online. “It is amazing to see this many signatures,” he said. “We put the trees up because of the ...
Continued on page 2
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ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
Trees for the chop From page one
Deaths
CASTLE GEORGE ERNEST
CARR THOMAS DERRICK
On 22 January, aged 79, of Birstall. Husband of the late Maureen. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Thursday 2 February at 1.15pm.
On 16 January, aged 91, of Dewsbury. Husband of the late Margaret (Madge). Requiem Mass at St Paulinus R C Church, Tuesday 7 February at 10am, followed by burial at Dewsbury Cemetery at 11.15am.
CHAPLIN PETER On 22 January, aged 60, of Liversedge. Service at
Dewsbury Crematorium, Monday 6 February at 1.15pm.
CLARKE NIGEL On 21 January, aged 48, of Birstall. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Wednesday 1 February at 10am.
DISKIN NEE HALMSHAW MAUREEN On 22 January, aged 86, of Thornhill. Wife of the late James. Requiem Mass at St Paulinus RC Church, Dewsbury, Thursday 9 February at 11.30am, followed by interment at Dewsbury Cemetery.
ELLIS MARGARET On 16 January, aged 85. Service at Birstall Methodist Church, Tuesday 31 January at 2.30pm, followed by committal at
Dewsbury Crematorium at 3.15pm.
HOLMES BRENDA MARGARET (NEE WATSON)
HALLAS FORMERLY LARAMEE NEE KERSHAW IRENE
On 20 January, aged 87, at Holme House Care Home. Funeral details to follow.
On 21 January, aged 90, of Lower Hopton. Wife of Bill. Service at St Mary’s Church, Mirfield, Thursday 9 February at 1.45pm followed by committal at Dewsbury Crematorium.
HOLMES BRIAN
HILL (NEE POWICK) WINIFRED
On 18 January at home, aged 71. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Friday 3 February at 1.15pm.
MEDLOCK MAURICE
On 17 January, aged 89, of Ossett. Wife of the late Thomas. Funeral enquiries to George Brooke Ltd., Tel 01924 454476.
On 22 January, aged 82, of Mirfield. Husband of Marjorie. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Tuesday 7 February at 12.30pm.
HIRST FRANK
MORRISON DONALD
On the 24 January, aged 86, of Mirfield. Husband of the late Jennie. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Friday 3 February at 9.30am.
On 19 January, aged 61, of Ossett. Husband of Karen. Service at Back Free Church, Isle of Lewis, followed by interment in Gress Cemetery.
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PICKERING NEE DENVERS JILL ELIZABETH On 22 January, aged 55, of Dewsbury. Wife of the late Robert. Service at
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POLLARD DENNIS MOSBY
On 14 January, aged 49, Partner of Ruth. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Friday 3 February at 12.30pm.
PRESTON BETTY
STUBLEY BARRIE
On 14 January, aged 88. Wife of the late Ronald. Service at All Saint’s Church, Roberttown, Wednesday 1 February at 2.15pm, followed by committal at Dewsbury Crematorium.
On 23 January, aged 74. Husband of the late Jacqueline. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Wednesday 8 February at 2pm.
SHALES FORMERLY MADDEN NEE PICKERING EILEEN FRANCES
On 20 January, aged 88, of Mirfield. Wife of the late David. Service at Huddersfield Crematorium, Monday 6 February at 3.15pm.
On 19 January, aged 76, of Batley. Requiem Mass at St Mary’s RC Church, Batley on Friday 10 February at 10am, followed by private interment at Batley Cemetery.
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On 19 January, aged 68. Wife of the late Alan. Service at Batley Cemetery Chapel, Tuesday 7 February at 1.45pm, followed by interment.
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WALKER GODFREY (GOUGH) On 23 January, aged 80, of Birstall. Husband of Jean. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Wednesday 1 February at 2.45pm.
fly-tipping that was going on in the car park. “We had tyres, bags of rubbish, even a mattress dumped there and it was a nightmare to get rid of. “So we thought we would do something a bit different with the palm trees and to tackle the problem but at the same time to drum up a bit of business and they certainly got people talking. “We thought the council would be behind us for running a successful business.” The petition was set up by customer Richard Spreadbury, who is keen to see the trees remain. He said: “Driving up and down the road every day they bring a smile to my face. “They are interesting. But the council don’t see it this way. “Surely the council have got bigger things to be dealing with than these palm trees.” A Kirklees Council spokesman said: “The Inspector supported this council’s concerns at the harmful appearance of the features and their effect on the predominantly residential character of the surrounding area. “Please note that a petition cannot reverse a decided planning application or an appeal decision.” People can access the online petition at
https://you.38 degrees.org.uk/ petitions/save-thesharma-s-palmtrees.
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Friday January 27, 2017 Issue No: 774
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ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
MPs asked to spread word over A&E future By James Morris HEALTH bosses have asked North Kirklees’ two MPs to help clear up ‘misunderstandings’ over the future of Dewsbury Hospital. The Mid-Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust this week sent an open letter to Batley & Spen MP Tracy Brabin and Dewsbury & Mirfield MP Paula Sherriff, asking them to make it clear to constituents that the accident and emergency department at Dewsbury is not closing. Both Labour MPs have recently spoken in Parliament, demanding that the government stop the proposed changes planned for later this year. The trust plans to focus serious emergency care at Pinderfields Hospital in Wakefield. But on Tuesday health bosses took the unusual step of writing to both Ms Brabin and Miss Sherriff asking them to publicly clarify their recent statements. The letter, signed by Jules Preston, chairman of the Mid-Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “We are taking the unusual step of sending an open letter to you both as our local MPs in the hope it will help to clear up some of the misunderstanding in the communities you serve about the changes planned at Dewsbury Hospital. “We are doing this because we recognise MPs who are elected to serve a community have a responsibility not only to reflect back to us what their constituents are saying to them but also to inform the public. We are therefore asking you to help us make it clear to local people there is not, and never has been, a plan to close the A&E department at Dewsbury: IT IS NOT CLOSING.” The trust says that Dewsbury Hospital will continue to have an A&E department which will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which will be led by a consultant and will have senior specialist doctors working in it. Consultants will be in the department during the day and during the early evening when A&E attendance is at its highest. Currently, around 70 per cent who attend Dewsbury emergency department are treated without needing to be admitted to a hospital bed. The trust says that these patients will still be treated in the same way. However those who are seriously ill and require a stay in hospital will be taken to Pinderfields. The letter continued: “All of this will be familiar to you as we have provided written information and discussed it when we have met. “It is true Dewsbury Hospital is changing. These changes cannot easily be described in a
is their own,” said Ms Brabin. “I will continue to voice my opposition regarding the 30-40 per cent reduction of capacity at Dewsbury A&E as I feel this is the wrong decision and know my constituents who have talked to me in person and via email, agree. “This is all in the context of the national NHS crisis, which is why I’ve raised local issues at the highest possible level, including to the Prime Minister. “I have expressed my gratitude to chief executive Martin Barkley for his candour and honesty in our regular meetings and would once again like to place on record my complete admiration for all the front line staff working across the trust.” Dewsbury MP Paula Sherriff echoed her fellow MPs thoughts. She said: “I am keenly conscious of the need to accurately inform the public about changes to services and so I stand by my message to local people; they need to know that vital services will be lost following the department reconfiguration. “My concern is that we’re set to lose 30-40 per cent of capacity at Dewsbury A&E and the most seriously ill patients will be transferred to the already overburdened Pinderfields Hospital as services are centralised there. “As a local MP I regularly meet with bosses at the Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust and North Kirklees Clinical Commissioning Group to discuss these and other issues affecting Dewsbury Hospital. “So whilst I welcome this further opportunity to highlight this issue, it’s a little odd to be told again of the reconfiguration plans in this way.”
CLARITY REQUIRED: MPs Tracy Brabin and Paula Sherriff (inset) have been contacted over by the Trust over the future of Dewsbury Hospital A&E single sentence but it is definitely not true to say Dewsbury A&E is closing. “I hope you will help us to dispel any rumours suggesting it is. “Your support will help ensure local people know Dewsbury Hospital will still have an emergency department which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “This will help people make the right choice about where to go.” Batley and Spen MP Tracy Brabin denied she had ever said the A&E department at Dewsbury would be closing. “Of course I am happy to help the trust clear up any misunderstandings about the changes in services but the primary responsibility to communicate the changes effectively
Mirfield station set for new car park A STATION plagued by parking problems could be set to get more than 200 new parking spaces. Mirfield Railway Station is one of several which have been promised a chunk of funding from West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) earmarked for small commuter stations across the region. One scheme underway has already drawn up plans for 115 spaces, while another could see a further 89 spaces created. Presently, commuters unable to park at the station are forced to park on either side of Station Road, causing problems for local residents. Coun Martyn Bolt said Kirklees Council was waiting to hear back from Network Rail, who own the land surrounding the station, before the schemes can be given the green light. It is expected the spaces will cost around £1.69 million. Coun Bolt said: “Sadly, Network Rail haven’t co-operated with us as fully as other rail companies and we are waiting to hear back. We are hoping the plans will be able to move forward soon.”
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Labour duo meet minister BOTH of North Kirklees’ MPs met with the Secretary of State for Health this week to discuss their concerns surrounding Dewsbury Hospital. Tracy Brabin and Paula Sherriff attended a meeting with Jeremy Hunt on Wednesday to talk about the planned changes at the hospital. The Labour MPs covered topics including individual constituents’ cases to the NHS on a national scale. Issuing a joint response, Ms Brabin and Miss Sherriff said: “The meeting with Jeremy Hunt couldn’t have come at a more pertinent time. “Our NHS is currently in the midst of a national winter crisis that has been described by the Red Cross as a ‘humanitarian crisis’. “We know that locally our hospitals are struggling to cope with the added pressures. “We have both received a high level of complaints from patients and their families who have raised very serious concerns with regard to their treatment at both Dewsbury District Hospital and Pinderfields General Infirmary in recent weeks. “We were very clear with Jeremy Hunt regarding our concern about the future of our local services as the NHS comes under increasing financial pressure from central government.” As reported in The Press in previous weeks, Dewsbury Hospital came under intense pressure over the festive period, with some patients reporting waits of up to 19 hours for a bed. Both Batley MP Ms Brabin and Dewsbury MP Miss Sherriff said that they were disappointed there was no solution suggested. They said: “Although Mr Hunt appeared to sympathise with our situation it was very clear that the Government are not prepared to offer any immediate solutions to our concerns and that no more money would be made available for our cash starved services. “Dewsbury District Hospital is due to see further reductions in services over the coming months and our concern remains for the safety of our constituents once these changes have been implemented.”
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ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
£12,000 grant joy
News In Brief OAP in hit and run DEWSBURY: Police are appealing for witnesses after an elderly man was injured in a hit-and-run accident. The pedestrian - a man in his 70s - was knocked down at 11.54am on Wednesday. The incident happened on Longcauseway in the town centre where a car, believed to be a black Audi A3 hit the man before leaving. He was taken to Leeds General Infirmary with serious injuries. Anyone who saw the collision, or has any information is asked to contact PC 5894 Felicity Davis at SRANS West on 101 quoting log 556 of January 25.
LITTLETOWN Junior, Infant and Nursery School have won the second round of Tesco’s Bags of Help government grant scheme. The money raised from the 5p carrier bag charge is used to fund local projects which improve green spaces in the community. The school have been awarded a grant of £12,000 which will help them transform the school’s play area and fund a greenhouse where they will grow vegetables all year round. Pictured are some of the pupils from the school with Simone Rosley and Melanie Cropper – community champions from the Tesco stores in Cleckheaton and Batley.
Girlfriend stab threat BIRSTALL: A man has denied threatening to stab his ex-girlfriend. Ricky Margach, 31, also pleaded not guilty to charges of criminal damage and assault when he appeared before Kirklees Magistrates’ Court. The alleged offence occurred between December 31 and January 14. During this time, Margach, of Priestley Square, Birstall, allegedly broke into his exgirlfriend’s home, damaged her belongings and wrote a message on her mirror. The case was sent to Leeds Crown Court.
Violent attack charge LIVERSEDGE: A man has appeared in court charged with a violent attack. Lewis Stephens, 35, is accused of unlawfully and maliciously wounding Aiden Lister with intent to do him grievous bodily harm. He is also alleged to have stolen a mobile phone belonging to the alleged victim. Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard the offences occurred at an address on Second Avenue on the Windy Bank Estate on March 17. The case was sent to Leeds Crown Court by District Judge Michael Fanning. Stephens, of Hare Park Avenue, Hightown, will first appear there on February 16.
North Kirklees baby death stats shock NORTH KIRKLEES has been named as the worst area in the country for infant deaths. According to figures from NHS England there were 13.2 deaths per 1,000 births in the district in 2014. The rate applies to children who were stillborn or died within four weeks of their birth that year. Nearby Huddersfield had a lower rate at 8.4 deaths per 1,000 births but was still among the highest in the country. The national average of infant mortality stood at 7.1 deaths per 1,000 births in 2014. Across England, 4,726 babies died within four weeks of their births out of 661,501 births. Nationally there was a decrease of 2.74 per cent com-
By Steve Martyn pared to the rate of 7.3 per 1,000 for 2013. Factors such as poverty, poor accommodation, poor diets, smoking, alcohol and drug use are blamed for high infant mortality rates. Kirklees health chiefs said that baby deaths had reduced significantly since 2000. Public Health Kirklees, a council department which manages broad health issues in the borough, including infant mortality, said it was closing the gap. A spokesperson for the organisation said: “Kirklees has had a higher infant mortality rate than the average for England for many years, but the gap has narrowed considerably in recent years.
“Public Health continues to work in partnership with key services to support, in particular those from vulnerable communities, to help reduce risk factors. “In addition, the local authority also commissions key services such as the national award winning Auntie Pam’s, which provides a community-based, peer-led resource. “The council monitors infant mortality on a rolling three-year average, as this is the most effective way to compare statistics like these because of the low numbers involved. “Overall we have seen a decrease in infant mortality rates, with the rate for the last nine years being around five in every 1,000 live births.”
Brabin will vote in favour of Article 50 BATLEY and Spen MP Tracy Brabin has confirmed she will vote in favour of triggering Article 50 following this week’s Supreme Court ruling. The court this week confirmed MPs would have to vote whether or not to trigger Britain leaving the European Union. The Labour MP was a keen supporter of the Remain campaign, as was her predecessor Jo Cox. However, Ms Brabin said she would acknowledge that Batley and Spen voted to leave the EU and support the government in its efforts to leave. Ms Brabin said: “When deciding how to vote on the submission of Article 50 it’s
Vegan event DEWSBURY: Hundreds of people are set to descend on Dewsbury Town Hall this weekend for the inaugural West Yorkshire Vegan Festival.
especially hard for us in Batley and Spen as we know Jo campaigned relentlessly for Remain. “I too voted remain. But democracy has spoken. “The people went to the polls and made their decision to leave the EU. As a politician who asks people to vote for me, I don’t believe it’s my right to block the sovereign will of the people, locally or nationally. “We must now move past the titles of ‘remainers’ or ‘leavers’ because at the end of the day, everyone who cast their vote last June did so with the vision of making our country better.”
The first staging of the event tomorrow (Saturday) will see dozens of stalls, hot and cold food, talks, films and a vegan bar all on offer to visiters. The event is organised by Farplace Animal Rescue charity to help raise funds
for the shelter. It will be held from 10.30am-5pm with entry costing £2 in advance for adults or £2.50 on the day. Advance tickets can be bought at www.westyorkshireveganfestival.com/ tickets.
ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
Kirklees reveal tax bombshell A special teenager TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular teenager who died just two days after her 14th birthday. Ellie Bramham (pictured above) passed away on January 11 due to complications linked to type 1 diabetes. A number of flowers were laid at BBG Academy in Birkenshaw, where the year nine pupil studied. Last week her fellow pupils released balloons in her memory. BBG Academy head teacher Saira Luffman said: “Ellie was a very funloving, bubbly character with a great generosity of spirit. She played a big role in academy life. “She will be remembered by many for her love of making everyone laugh and for her infectious smile. Ellie will be sorely missed at BBG. Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this very difficult time.” A JustGiving page has been set up to help pay for Ellie’s funeral. A message on the site said: “On January 11 our beautiful niece Ellie Bramham sadly passed away only two days after her 14th birthday. “She suddenly became ill due to type 1 diabetes, which was brought under control at hospital but the strain on her was too much and she died of multiple organ failure. She was such a beautiful and happy girl with her whole life ahead of her and had such a bubbly personality. She always had everyone laughing. “It is truly devastating for the whole family and everyone who knew her, but especially for her parents who have lost their child. “So I am setting up this fund page to help them and to give those who wish to the opportunity to contribute towards a special send off for Ellie and to support her parents through this tragic time.” Donations on the site have now passed £6,000. Ellie’s funeral will take place on February 3 at St Peter's Church in Birstall. BBG head Mrs Luffman said pupils will wear purple ribbons for Ellie at the service. A fundraising evening has been arranged to raise money for a memorial bench. The psychic and pamper evening will be held at Birstall Wellbeing Centre on February 10. The psychic evening is for over 16s only and includes supper and a demonstration. Tickets cost £10 with all proceeds to go towards the bench which will be situated in the faith garden at Oakwell Hall.
By James Morris RESIDENTS in Kirklees are set to face a hike in council tax – with some set to pay up to 10 per cent more. The rise is set to come in over the next two years as the cash-strapped council tries to boost its budget after government funding was slashed. A report – to be considered next week by councillors – will ask for a two per cent increase in its general spend, with an additional three per cent rise for social care proposed by the government. This will then be replicated the following year – meaning five per cent increases each time. However the council has admitted that the hike will still not balance the books and more of its cash reserves will be needed. In past years reserves have been used to boost council finances, but usable reserves have now fallen from £93 million to £42 million, with a further £26 million already earmarked for use. Kirklees have admitted they still face further budget savings of £50million by 2020/21. This comes on top of huge cuts that have already been implemented by the council – meaning £104 million worth of savings will have been made by 2020/21. Some of these have been made through cuts to areas such as museums, grass cutting, street cleaning and household waste sites. There are also plans to make
Coun David Sheard
changes to children’s centres around the district and a consultation has been launched that could see some of Kirklees’ care homes privatised. Leader of Kirklees Coun David Sheard (Lab, Heckmondwike) blamed the proposed increases on a lack of funding from government, resulting in savings having to be made. He said: “We have reduced services across all sectors – some more visible than others, for example changing the way we collect waste to save money. “But we continue to face our most serious ever financial challenge so many more services will be reduced, removed or taken on by other people or organisations. “Past decisions taken in good faith are also now costing us. “We were told that if we froze our council tax, a zero per cent rise for our residents, we would receive the cash we would have gained from a two per cent increase. “That money has not been added into the base budget, it was to come
through a grant and now that grant has been cut. It is costing us £14 million every year. “Withdrawing revenue support grant will cost us £33 million over the next four years. “We have made significant savings – over £120m – through efficiencies and transformation, with further savings budgeted – but even after these are applied the scale of the financial challenge is massive. Kirklees is still the eighth worst funded council nationally, and the second worst funded metropolitan council in the country per head of population.” It is expected that around 1,000 more council jobs will be cut over the next four years as services are stripped back to the bare essentials. Coun Sheard admitted the cuts would see a reduction in services. “We will continue to invest in our priorities of making sure those most vulnerable are supported and we have obvious pressures in some areas like children's services where the right thing to do is to continue to invest,” he said. “But we must focus on our top priorities and do fewer things ourselves, with partners, volunteers or community groups taking on other services they want to keep.” The council’s cabinet will make a recommendation on Tuesday (January 31) before the full council meets on Wednesday February 15 to discuss the budget and make a final decision.
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News In Brief Drunken taxi rage HECKMONDWIKE: A man who damaged a taxi while he was drunk has been warned over his future conduct. Adam Tomlinson, 38, became angry when Mohammed Naeem picked him and a friend up and asked for the £13.80 fare up front. They asked to be taken to a cash machine before Tomlinson became aggressive and punched the dividing screen, smashing it in the process. District Judge Michael Fanning told Tomlinson, of Princes Street, Heckmondwike, said: “It’s a mystery as to why you behaved in this particular way. “Taxi drivers put up with these type of situations and it must not have been pleasant for the person working in that situation.” Tomlinson pleaded guilty to criminal damage when he appeared at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court. He was fined £220 and ordered to pay £300 compensation to Mr Naeem.
Crown court date CLECKHEATON: A woman has appeared in court charged with attacking a man. Leanne Thornton, 22, is accused of unlawfully and maliciously wounding Jamie Coleman with intent to do him grievous bodily harm. The alleged incident happened on Richmond Street, Cleckheaton, on November 1. Thornton, of Clarence Street, Cleckheaton, is further accused of assaulting Mr Coleman on December 22. Her case was sent to Leeds Crown Court where she will first appear on February 21.
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Celebrating excellence STUDENTS from Batley Girls’ High School attended an awards ceremony to celebrate their achievements. A-Level and GCSE pupils were at the celebration evening which saw a number of them recognised with special awards. Keynote speeches were made by Humeera Shameem, who is a systems integration engineer at Cummins Turbo Technologies, and Erin McNeill, who is an Ogden science officer at the University of Leeds. Both speakers told of their own educational and career journeys. Co-Heads Ann McCall and Julie Haigh said: “This was a wonderful event and testament to the hard work of all our students and staff. “We would like to congratulate each and every member of our school community for another set of outstanding A-Level and GCSE results.”
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Friday January 27, 2016
BACK IN PRINT Now on sale, the updated edition. Reserve a copy in office hours on 01924 470296, order via www.thepressnews.co.uk or call in at our office, 31 Branch Road, Batley
LIFE IN BLACK AND WHITE Danny Lockwood
A beautiful paradox of a country LOCKY’S AFRICAN DIARY
that I’ve either been taking a few ’VE seen some places in wrong turns or my my time. Taken more travelling companthan a few (probably ion likes to live unwise) walks on the wild dangerously. side and emerged relatively So far, I’m leanunscathed. ing towards the I’ve never seen anywhere latter because like South Africa, however. although he drives You would choose to walk like Douglas Bader home through Savile Town at with two broken midnight with a semi-naked arms, he does nymph on your arm and a know his way around. can of Special Brew in your These are very hand while singing Rule much first impresBritannia at full voice, before sions but South you would even drive down Africa is a contrasome streets in this country. diction, a paradox, Eight days in, and I’m no where blacks closer to understanding this Locky at Isandlwana, where Zulus massacred the poorly-led British force the wield the power of big, beautiful and completely state and whites day before being repelled at Rorke’s Drift in 1879 wild land than I was while wield the power of sitting in the departure property and Woodman Inn visits here lounge at Manchester he’d be amazed if I didn’t more than he does Dewsbury wealth. For now at least. come back and say it was the Airport. The government of ‘eccenA vastly travelled and greatest country I’d ever vis- market and swears by the tric’ ANC President Jacob place. ited. trusted colleague said the As such I can only assume Zuma is tireless in contriving A tea-time regular at the day before departure that ways of redressing that economic balance, even if it bankrupts the nation (and when I say ‘eccentric’ Zuma I actually mean ‘lunatic’ Zuma). Our first host was a conK I TC H E N S - B E D R O O M S - B AT H R O O M S tractor barred from bidding for public work unless his business is 30 per cent owned by blacks. This is now a nation of quotas, and it threatens to bring the country to its knees, be it from industry to sport. He prefers to divert his efforts elsewhere not least because the ANC government is a notoriously bad payer. I read today of a council smaller than Kirklees paying close to a million quid for a Christmas tree and some lights. Friends and relatives tend to benefit. Such barefaced corruption in a country where you can’t park your car on the street without someone ‘guiding’ you into a parking spot for whatever coppers you can spare and where most traffic lights have someone at your window offering some service or other. Don’t lower the window, folks. There’s a huge dose of generalisation in there, clearly. A week or so might be enough time to get to know
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Blackpool reasonably well, but not one of the most remote, complex and psychologically scarred democracies on our beguiling planet. E’VE travelled about 1,000 miles from Johannesburg, via the Zulu/Boer battlefields, the outskirts of Durban and East London. From what I’m told, if you’re ‘doing’ South Africa, this is like a UK tour beginning with Brixton, Bradford and the Gorbals in Glasgow. We head for the famously picturesque Garden Route and Cape Town tomorrow – if the howling storms let up sufficiently to travel (Locky trips off for some winter sun and typically comes home with a half inch of rust). The locals have been uniformly polite, hospitable, delightful. Our white hosts however have lasted all of five minutes before asking “so what do you think of South Africa?” They are all white aquaintances because social segregation appears to remain almost total. Again, I stress this is a first impression. Such as I’ve witnessed a glimmer of hope it was while popping into a Virgin Active gym in an upmarket area and seeing quite a decent mix. If opportunity, ambition and just a bit of time are all South Africa needs, I reckon they’re on a better path to community cohesion than Dewsbury and Batley. You can sense the trepidation in their “how have you found us?” question because South Africans are fiercely proud of their country – or rather the country they grew up in. Virtually everyone is downbeat about the turbulent socio/political changes – but they would be, because there’s a huge social and economic gap to close and they’re the ‘haves’. That painful journey has a long way to go.
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HE breathtaking beauty of the verdant Zulu homelands of KwaZuluNatal was followed by a journey through the Transkei,
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with the mountain kingdom of Lesotho in the distance. You feel like you’re riding on top of the world. It was a million figurative miles from the schizophrenia of Johannesburg, where abject poverty and opportunistic criminality lives hipto-hip with fabulous wealth that cowers behind razor wire, CCTV, security guards and solid steel gates. I’ve read about it, seen it on the news, but was no less staggered. It really is the norm. My nature is to lightly scoff at meek scaremongers who tell you to steer clear of troublesome neighbourhoods. Heck, I’ve done south central Los Angeles, downtown Philadelphia at 3am, been Mr Whitey in Harlem. I’ve even walked from Dewsbury to Thornhill Lees at 2.30am. But when the grizzled old bloke at the gun shop, surrounded by enough munitions to take over some smaller African nations, tells you to stay the hell out of this place or that, it’s probably best to heed his advice. When everyone – everyone – says you don’t walk out at night, or even drive at night in some towns, then there’s a reason. The thing is, that’s not new to the ‘new’ South Africa. I don’t even think there’s a racial overtone for the most part. The white folks have the money, the tourists especially, and the man with nothing – whatever his colour – has nothing to lose. It’s not rocket science. As for those welcoming, hospitable, generous and doughty souls who have asked me what I think so far? A big, bold, colourful and dramatic land that is everything I’d heard and imagined. A great place to visit – but not a place I’d consider living, not for a minute. Not so far at least... PS: And now my South African adventure really begins! For reasons best kept private, I’m on my own in a strange town with no transport. No worries though – I’ve spotted what looks like a decent pub...
Let’s get on with it now, Mrs May LOSER to home it was no surprise to see our Supreme Court side with the EU Remoaners and rule that the Theresa May must submit a bill to Parliament before invoking Article 50. At least that draws a line under the legal shenanigans without even more lawyers having a feeding frenzy by
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stringing the legal charade out even longer. Just get on with it now Prime Minister and draw out all of the anti-democrats lying in wait. The sooner their ambush is sprung – and it will be – the sooner we’ll know who real the enemy is, because believe me, it isn’t Brussels.
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Aaron Smith found dead in prison last month
Josh killer dies By Staff Reporters A MAN who was jailed for life after murdering a Mirfield man has died in prison. Aaron Smith was sentenced to a minimum of 22 years behind bars for the murder of Josh Hirst in 2012. Twenty-year-old Josh was attacked by Smith in Grove Street, Mirfield, in August 2012. The victim had his throat cut by Smith after he had been out celebrating his girlfriend’s birthday. Smith and Joe Church, of Redlands Close, Mirfield, were both given life sentences while a third defendant was cleared of murder and manslaughter. The Press understands that Smith, who was serving his sentence in HMP Bristol, died in custody on December 19 last year. The details of Smith’s death have not been made public but it has been confirmed that an investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman is underway. During the case, which was heard at Leeds Crown Court, the jury heard how Josh was
Josh Hirst
Aaron Smith
stabbed in a ginnel before staggering to his parents’ home, but he had suffered massive blood loss and later died in hospital. Church and Smith fled the scene covered in blood to a house in Waterloo, Huddersfield, where they attempted to destroy evidence. After the pair were sentenced, Josh’s parents issued a statement describing the attack as “evil and cowardly.” A Prison Service spokesman said: “HMP Bristol prisoner Aaron Smith died in custody on December 19. “As with all deaths in custody, the independent Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate.”
Police demand review of violent Batley bar POLICE have called for a licence review into a Batley bar that has seen a number of recent violent incidents. Officers have asked Kirklees Council to conduct a review into Le Choix Bar’s licence. Police described the Bradford Road bar as a “drain on resources” after they were called to incidents including knife crime, theft, three assaults in one night, a serious assault, a man
being glassed and four assaults over two nights. An application has been made and a hearing, where the police and bar owners will give evidence, is pending. The move comes just a month after West Yorkshire Police urged Kirklees to reject a bid by the bar to install Mohammed Shabir as its new licensee due to his previous convictions for violence. Councillors agreed with the
police and told Le Choix to find another suitable licensee, or designated premises supervisor, which is a requirement at all bars. During the meeting which saw councillors reject Mr Shabir’s application, West Yorkshire Police licensing officer Richard Woodhead described the bar as “a drain on the resources of the night time economy, both for the police and the ambulance service.”
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They shoulder some of the blame Dear Sir, In recent weeks we had the misfortune to attend Dewsbury’s A&E. The treatment received, and the attitude of the staff was first class. I would have listed it among any A&E in the country. Admittedly there were no people with toothache or ingrowing toenails there. We were dealt with remarkably quickly and we left with nothing but praise for the hospital. There are problems within our National Health Service, but the present government is only half to blame. Although our local MPs are fighting constantly to highlight the
Our sporting heroes From: John Appleyard, Liversedge Dear Sir, I can’t help Mike Popplewell in his quest to find information on Dewsbury’s pre-war wrestling star Eric Fisher, but one wrestler from our area who seems to get overlooked is Birkenshaw’s Peter Preston, the first professional wrestler to defeat Mick McManus on television. Mike also comments that the Spen Valley Fame Trail is a bit sparse when it comes to sporting nominations. Two which spring to mind who are not on the trail are Dickie Lockwood from Heckmondwike, who captained
Letter of the Week: S Crossley, Batley problems, are they truly concerned or just point-scoring? We need to remind our two MPs that it was Labour that created the main problem with the part-privatisation of Pinderfields. They allowed a private firm to come in and make millions, then sell it off and make more millions. This is the main reason why Pontefract and Dewsbury hospitals started on the slippery slope.
the English rugby union team in 1894 and cricketer Wilfred Barker, born in Cleckheaton and raised in Gomersal. He played both for Yorkshire and England. In 1935 he made his England debut against South Africa, and I believe he was the first cricketer from the Spen Valley to play for England.
We never heard his views From: Steve Cass, Mirfield Dear Sir, What a damp squib UKIP’s Aleks Lukic turned out to be. When he concluded his open letter to Labour’s Tracy Brabin MP (Forum, 23/12/16) with the words “I haven’t even mentioned (Tracy Brabin’s) com-
The first thing our two MPs should do is say sorry on behalf of the Labour Party for putting the City and its profits over the welfare of its electorate. Secondly, instead of cherrypicking, tell the whole story. When you talk to the professionals in the NHS, not the pen-pushers that sit behind the disks, they all say the maternity unit is a timebomb; sooner or later there will be a real
ments on local segregated communities. I could write another whole letter about that!” I’d assumed he was going to ‘write another whole letter about that!’ and I was looking forward to reading what he had to say – seems I assumed wrong. The topic underpinning Ms Brabin’s appearance on Batleybased Radio IMWS (Indian Muslim Welfare Society) was the recently-published Casey Review ‘into the integration of minorities in Britain - a study of segregation in British society’. And I found it odd that with the exception of a sideways reference Mr Lukic had nothing to say about it or about Ms Brabin’s opinion of it. Doesn’t UKIP have an opinion on such matters? There’s a video of Ms Brabin’s Radio IMWS performance on YouTube; if any of
LATEST PLANNING APPLICATIONS PAH Highway Consultants Ltd, discharge conditions 5 (landscaping treatment), 12 (boundary treatment), 13 (crime), 14 (habitat) on previous permission 2015/91956 for erection of 36 apartments in two blocks, former Maccess office site, Spen Lane, Gomersal. Umair Azad Yasin, extensions and dormers to front and rear, 21 Pioneer Street, Thornhill Lees. A Bhamjee, single-storey side and rear extension, 3 Pickles Street, Batley. Jamila Akhtar, work to tree(s) within a conservation area, Swiss Cottage, 8 Park Road, Westborough. T Ramm, discharge of condition 3 (materials) on previous permission 2016/92676 for erection of detached dwelling, 35A Prospect Lane, Birkenshaw. L Smith, single-storey front and side extension, 720 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw. CKCS Ltd, discharge condition 9 (noise) on previous permission 2015/93179 for erection of four dwellings, 4-6 Lumb Lane, Roberttown. D Harker, discharge conditions 5 (parking layout), 6 (noise), 9 (drainage) on previous permission 2015/91564 for erection of single-storey industrial unit, Greaves Road, Dewsbury. C Ratten, work to TPO(s) 04/88, 3 Crowlees Gardens, Mirfield. Virgin Media, discharge condition 3 (noise) on previous permission 2016/93834 for installa-
tion of new ACU plant to serve digital media equipment, including relocation of existing condenser unit, the installation of four new condenser units and new acoustic fencing, Bath Court Enterprise Centre, Bath Road, Heckmondwike. Williams & Co, compliance of conditions on previous application 2005/90817 for erection of three industrial units – one detached unit and two semidetached units and associated external works and landscaping, Bretton Park Way, Bretton Street, Dewsbury. N Smith, change of use from paper shop to hot and cold food takeaway, 9 Fourth Avenue, Hightown, Liversedge. The Co Operative Food, installation of replacement below ground fuel storage tanks, Gomersal Filling Station, 231 Oxford Road, Gomersal. S Hanif, two-storey side extension, 37 Forge Lane, Norristhorpe. S Mahmood, single-storey front and side extension, 120 White Lee Road, White Lee, Batley. N Saddington, variation condition 2 (plans) on previous permission 2015/92391 for single and two-storey extension, 24 Jackroyd Lane, Upper Hopton. Mrs K Bi, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 6m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is
3.4m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 2.35m, 38 Lee Street, Ravensthorpe. Devonshires Solicitors LLP, compliance of conditions on previous permission 97/93446 for conversion of retail/commercial building into 19 flats (within a Conservation Area), 2-12 Nelson Street, Dewsbury. Devonshires Solicitors LLP, compliance of conditions on previous permission 2006/93752 for change of use and alterations to convert existing gymnasium to 15 apartments (within a Conservation Area), 8-10 Nelson Street, Dewsbury. HSBC Corporate Real Estate, Listed Building Consent for erection of replacement signs (within a Conservation Area), HSBC, Market Place, Dewsbury. Leonard Cheshire Disability, pitched roof to conservatory and installation of replacement conservatory windows and doors, Kenmore Cheshire Home, 100 Whitcliffe Road, Cleckheaton. I Dandekar, front and rear dormers (within a Conservation Area), 68 Halifax Road, Dewsbury. Parkcare Homes No 2 Ltd, discharge condition 4 (parking layout) on previous permission 2016/93712 for change of use from dwelling (C3) to residential care home (C2) and conversion of detached garage to ancillary accommodation, The Old Vicarage, 142 Boothroyd Lane, Dewsbury.
I Debey, formation of living accommodation above double garage and erection of porch to front, 21 Spinners Way, Lower Hopton. J Exley Ltd, change of use of warehouse to two flats and conversion of one flat into two (Listed Building), Park Works, 644 Bradford Road, Batley. Harbour Landmark Living Ltd, variation of condition 2 (plans) on previous permission 2015/93723 for demolition of existing dwelling and erection of three dwellings, Sunny Bank Walk, Mirfield. Mahmood Hussain, two-storey side extension, 19 Pennine Road, Dewsbury. P Akhtar Paras, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 4m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 4m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 3m, 11 Carlton Avenue, Staincliffe. C/O John Hanwell (Kirklees Forestry), dead or dangerous tree(s) to TPO SP1/51, land opposite 2 Cedar Way, Gomersal. Anwar Din, single-storey side extension (within a Conservation Area), Aysgarth, 11 Northfield Road, Dewsbury. J Exley Ltd, Listed Building Consent for change of use of warehouse to two flats and conversion of one flat into two, Park Works, 644 Bradford Road, Batley.
danger to a mother and baby. Anyone that supported this will have it on their conscience, although they will probably not be using the NHS.
your readers are at all curious about what makes Tracy tick they should regard it as required viewing. Although I suppose my suggestion should come with a health warning: The proliferation of PC clichés, hypocrisy, and double standards on show is bound to raise the blood pressure. Tracy Brabin’s self-contradictory ramblings on the matter of segregation are begging to be taken to task – a perfect target for the new broom that UKIP claims to be. Or perhaps not. If Mr Lukic can’t stand the heat, maybe he should vacate the kitchen. Ms Brabin says “integration is a two-way street,” and says ‘white flight’ and a ‘white’ unwillingness to integrate with ‘Asians’ and ‘Muslims’ are important factors in the increasing segregation in Britain. She talks thus to the ‘Indian Muslim Welfare Society’ radio station! What is it about these loony-lefties that prevents them from seeing the irony of their own position? Tracy, your cognitive dissonance is showing. I wonder what efforts Ms Brabin has made herself to integrate with Muslims and Asians? Whatever they are, I doubt they match her efforts to ingratiate herself with them. One thing that stuck in my mind throughout Tracy’s performance was that whereas she’d refer to members of one community by way of the colour of their skin, she’d refer to members of the other by way of their religion or by way of their ethnicity. That’s racist isn’t it?
Efficiency is two-sided From: Christine Hyde, North Kirklees NHS Support Group, Dewsbury An open letter to Councillor David Hall, following the full council meeting on January 18 because I am not in his constituency. Dear Coun Hall (Conservative), I’m sorry you thought, at the
Another point which our politicians are not addressing, and those in the know tell us, is that immigration may be a factor in the overloading of our hospitals. On a final note, part of the social care cashflow problem will be solved when Kirklees ramps the community charge up, and they will. That means that only half of the community will be paying as the other half are exempt, and we know why that is. I, for one, don’t mind paying my share, as long as we all do.
council meeting on Wednesday, that your NHS patient records needed to be delivered by yourself from your consultant to your GP. You could have exercised patient choice and not taken them. Your GP would have got them nevertheless. However, due to cuts since 2011, consultants who used to have a PA each, now share, for efficiency’s sake, so some things take longer. Because ‘efficiency’ is a double-edged sword. Efficiency for money is not efficiency for human beings. Illness makes us reside in the ‘being’. Other people, like nurses, have to be the doers for us. When ‘efficiency’ cuts mean not enough doctors and nurses, we lose our ‘being’ on a hospital trolley in the corridor, like in Worcester Hospital. Was your statement assigning ownership of the health service to the Conservative government an admission? We were robbed of OUR National Health Service by the Coalition’s Health and Social Care Act 2012 and any vestige will disappear this year with the secretive Slash, Trash and Privatise (STP) agenda unless people stop it. Maybe we should broadcast that more widely. Thank you.
Difficult fight for our MPs From: John Sheen, Dewsbury Dear Sir, How much more can Dewsbury and Batley take? Paula Sherriff and Tracy Brabin have fought vehemently in the House of Commons to bring the plight of medical services within our region to the attention of the Health Secretary. Unfortunately, and as always, their concerns were received with utter contempt. Both the Health secretary and indeed the Prime Minister answered by saying “local decisions are in the hands of the clinical commissioning group”. Yes, but when Government control a massively depleted budget the ‘local’ CCG have little option but to ration valu-
able services. We continue to blame our CCGs and indeed our council for the unprecedented cuts to valuable services. Kirklees Council have to save £140million by 2020. £106 million has been shaved off the budget to date and a further £67million has to be saved. However, back to the “health” of our region. When you read about the Mid Yorkshire Trust spending £16 million on consultancy fees, more than nine other major hospitals combined, to save £37million, it beggers belief. The Government continue to be oblivious, and to put it bluntly “fiddle while Rome burns”, their failure to keep up with patient demand, in true funding terms, has resulted in unacceptable and life threatening decisions being made. The ‘new’ Pinderfields Hospital has over 500 fewer beds than the old hospital Dewsbury has lost. Its children’s ward and 34 out of 40 maternity beds have been transferred to Pinderfields. This leaves six beds where 56 per cent of births are classed as high risk. Even now patients are still being brought to Dewsbury due to overwhelming pressures. This state of chaos continues while the Mid Yorkshire plan is still in place to massively reduce services at the Dewsbury facility. While ever the Westminster elite continue to remain at arms length of a problem of their making, our members of Parliament will continue to fight a difficult battle.
Council has no vision From: R Spreadbury, Liversedge Dear Sir The council wants the Shama restaurant on Leeds Road, Heckmondwike, to remove the trees which it says are jarring and unsympathetic. Can someone please advise of a sympathetic tree?
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From page 8 Then we can all pour our hearts out to it and save the NHS the cost of counselling Too jarring? With this in mind, I do not give Tracy Brabin’s plans for Batley and Spen to become a thriving centre of arts and culture much of a chance. I assume that these guardians of our civic heritage, environment or whatever they think their mission in life is, would find Las Vegas too “jarring” for their jollies and would much prefer a fortnight in Staithes. The council has absolutely no vision. The planners have too much absolute power.
A very kind act From: Jean Hodge, Dewsbury Dear Sir, Could I please, through your paper, thank the kind young man who moved our cat from the middle of Groves Hall Road on Friday January 20, after he had been knocked down and killed. He was a young boy’s pet, and to the person who ran him over and left him in the road, you are a disgrace to humanity. Rest In Peace ‘Bonnie’.
Can we fully go back to imperial system?! From: Ivor Bushell & Doug Stones, Dunbottle Debating Society, Mirfield Dear Sir, Baa Baa Brexit Sheep have you any wool? Yes Sir, yes Sir imperial sacks full: 2 stones = 1 tod, 61/2 tods = 1 Wey (182 pounds), 2 weys = 1 sack (31/2 cwt), and so forth. Our Imperial system has never really gone away; our road signs have always displayed dis-
Friday January 27, 2017
£1000s pour in to help Zach
Extra
By Steve Martyn
tances in miles; our traffic speed restrictions have always been signed up in mph, and the great British pub has fiercely hung onto its cherished pint. In fact, all UK brewers use Firkins (9 gallons), Kilderkins (18 gallons), Barrel (36 gallons). Anything larger was the Hogshead at 54 gallons, a Butt of ale was 108 gallons; all imperial measurements. The metric system since the early seventies has been taught more commonly in schools, so will we be going back to pounds and ounces and feet and inches? Well, who knows? Our new-age students think that Rod, Pole and Perch is a fishmonger from Warsaw, or would they go the full five-and-a-half yards and Google the answer till the penny drops? Our local industry was the woollen trade, where yardages were in skeins, hanks and spindles. Woven cloth was measured in all sorts of amalgamated systems; nails, quarters, ells, cuts and heers – just dependant on what you were weaving and who the mill owner was. Confusing yes, but it worked ok. Our engineers built canals, road and rail bridges, tunnels and constructed industry across the globe. They didn’t have to calculate their measurements in Euro Polywombles, or Brussels Bogdroffs, no, it was done the old way; the old way is still around today and, thankfully, we’ve hung on to it. The only thing I’ve got to do now is get a new Manchester screwdriver and have my adjustable spanners converted back to Whitworth. Imperial is the best; mine’s a pint and proud to sup it too!
BATLEY V BEARD
A FUNDRAISING campaign in aid of a terminally-ill fiveyear-old has passed the £25,000 mark. ‘Zack’s Memory Fund’ was originally set up to help Zack Barrett and his family create as many memories as possible after the youngster was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour in November. The page was initially set up with a target of just £500, but thousands of pounds more was quickly raised and Zack’s family have now decided to look into trials being developed which could treat the tumour. Zack’s mum Katie, dad Ryan and identical twin Leo were given the news that the youngster had just 18 months to live with radiotherapy treatment. The trials, which are at a very early stage, are not available on the NHS and so the family, who are originally from Mirfield, have focused
INCREDIBLE RESPONSE: Zack Barrett (centre left) with his family their fundraising on potential treatments. ‘Zack’s Memory Fund’ has now been changed to ‘Zack’s Fight’ to reflect the change of focus. Writing on the fundraising page, Katie said: “We are looking into different treatments for Zack. Unfortunately these trials can be very expensive, but if we have a chance of helping our boy we must look into these as without it we all
Help needed to identify violent robbers A 50-YEAR-OLD man was robbed walking home from a takeaway in Dewsbury and left with a facial injury Police would like to speak with anyone who has information about the incident on Springfield Terrace on Thursday, January 19.
The robbery took place at about 9.45pm after the victim was approached by two men and a woman while walking home from a nearby takeaway. He was grabbed, forced to the ground and then assaulted by the men. They then made off with his wallet and a quantity
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mid 20s, 5ft 11ins tall and skinny with short dark hair wearing dark clothing. The woman is described as white, in her early 20s with a small build and dark hair. DC Simon Thomas, of Kirklees CID, said: “This is a serious offence in which the victim has been targeted and assaulted by two men, leaving him with a facial injury. I would like to speak with anyone who saw the incident or who saw one of the suspects in the car park of the Bath Hotel pub a few minutes before the robbery.” Anyone with information should contact Huddersfield CID on 101, referencing crime number 13170029690.
Police assault appeal A MAN accused of assaulting a police officer has appeared in court. Thomas Bolam, 49, appeared at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court charged with assaulting a police officer with intent to resist arrest. He pleaded not guilty to the charge. The alleged attack happened at Nab Lane in Birstall on November 20. Bolam, of Withens Road, will appear before magistrates again for his trial on March 29.
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Friday January 27, 2017
NHS petition
News In Brief Bank closure OSSETT: Yorkshire Bank is set to close its Ossett branch as part of plans to axe 39 branches this year. The bank blamed changing customer habits, with an increase in online banking, for the closures. Around 200 jobs are expected to be lost nationwide. Wakefield MP Mary Creagh described the news as a blow for Ossett, following the news that the town’s Post Office could be shut under franchise plans. She said: “Advising customers to use the banking services at their local Post Office branch is a kick in the teeth for the residents of Ossett, who last week, were told that Towngate Crown Post Office may close.”
TAKING A STAND: MP Tracy Brabin (second right) and actor Bhasker Patel (first right) join NHS campaigners in Cleckheaton
An elementary tale HECKMONDWIKE: An evening for Sherlock Holmes fans will be held at Heckmondwike Library. ‘An encounter with Sherlock Holmes & Arthur Conan Doyle’ will see David Stuart Davies present the story of the great detective. The event, which is part of Huddersfield Literature Festival, will be held on Thursday (February 2) at 7pm. Tickets cost £2 and are available from Heckmondwike Library or the Huddersfield Literature Festival website.
Poppy thanks party MIRFIELD: The Old Colonial pub hosts a thank-you party tomorrow night (Sat) for all the locals who helped with the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal and Mirfield’s civic Remembrance Day parade. There is free food on offer at the event on Dunbottle Lane, which starts at 8pm.
LOCAL activists showed solidarity with the health service when they gathered in Cleckheaton town centre last Saturday as part of a Labour campaign day. Labour Party and GMB trade union members held a street stall, leafleted and talked to the public about what they see as a crisis in the NHS. They also collected hundreds of signatures for a petition calling on neighbouring Calderdale Council to stop attacking the terms and conditions of foster carers, many of whom are members of the giant GMB trade union. The petition will be presented to the council when they meet next month. Batley & Spen MP Tracy Brabin was on hand to show her support for the NHS and to add her name to the petition, along with Emmerdale star Bhasker Patel.
Care homes pledge By Steve Martyn PLANS to privatise two care homes in North Kirklees will not result in any closures or patients moving, according to council bosses. Kirklees has begun consulting on the possibility of transferring the running of Ings Grove House in Mirfield and Claremont House in Heckmondwike over to private firms. The move, which is being discussed by the council’s finance committee, is expected to save cash-strapped Kirklees officials money. A final decision will be made by
the Kirklees cabinet later this year. Coun Viv Kendrick, cabinet member for adults, confirmed that the council had no intention to close any homes or move their residents elsewhere. She said: “There is no intention for any of the homes to close and none of the current residents will need to move. “The council is proposing to work with other organisations to understand how these homes can help meet the local shortage of nursing home care. “We are also looking at how the homes can support our local hospitals - by providing care that reduces the need for people to be
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Andrew Aldwinkle said: “The council has sprung this on staff and residents at the last minute without any consideration of the impact. “For some staff this is not the first time they have been through this process. “While we recognise the pressure on council budgets, it is immoral that services such as these are seen only in terms of financial profit or loss. We call on the council to put a halt on the proposals and to protect these essential front line services.” Coun Kendrick said she was willing to meet with the GMB to discuss the issues.
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admitted to hospital or enables people to leave hospital earlier and receive their care in a more homely setting. “We are at the start of a consultation process with residents, families and staff and are making them aware of the proposals that are being considered. “Any final decision will be taken by cabinet later in the year and will take into account the views expressed.” The GMB union, which represents public sector workers, has accused the council of taking residents and workers by surprise with the consultation. GMB organiser for Kirklees
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ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
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Friday January 27, 2017
Our top homeware destination Advertising Feature THE YEAR 2016 saw some big changes at The Mill Outlet, with new furniture and homewares departments adding to an extensive existing offer. Oswaldtwistle Mill opened their extensive home furniture and lifestyle centre, adding a substantial choice and product range for customers, plus an outdoor living department exclusively for wicker and patio furniture. Another opening in 2016 was the delightful Gift Tree Department which, amongst other things, offers a fantastic range of wedding and celebration gifts. Along with Batley Furniture Outlet, The
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Furniture Bank, Susan Moore’s Lighting Gallery, Rectella and many others, The Mill Outlet now finds itself in the top league of the region’s homeware destinations. Customers visiting The Mill may browse furniture for bedrooms, living and dining rooms, and accessorize with occasional furniture, lighting and mirrors, cushions and rugs. The new Garden Centre completes the full offer with indoor and outdoor plants, plus pet products and outdoor furniture. The Mill was delighted to receive the coveted TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for consistently good reviews in 2016. Keep up with news at The Mill by signing up to their mailing list at www.themillbatley.com. You’ll get automatic free entry into a monthly prize draw. Check the News & Events page for upcoming free family events, plus details of the 1940s Music & Dance Mondays. Like their Facebook page /themillbatley to keep up with current offers.
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ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
Update your space
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THE CHILLY and uninviting months that we’re currently enduring invariably mean that we spend more time inside out of the cold. This creates an ideal opportunity to update your interior design to something a bit different. However, this doesn’t have to cost the earth. Here are some of the biggest interior trends this winter that you can try without costing a fortune…
Winter colour trends Dark, moody colours combined with pops of colours are going to be big this year. Various shades of grey are a great way to provide a tranquil feel to a space, allowing for a perfect base to experiment with. For a richer colour scheme, midnight blues are a great choice, while adding bursts of bright pastel hues create an array of eyecatching focal points within the room. For those who are looking for a lighter colour scheme, natural tones are a popular choice. Chalky hues create a calming and relaxing environment especially when combined with organic and synthetic materials that mimic nature such as winter branches, fur rugs and tweed throws.
Strategic pops of colour A few years ago, the trend was to make a
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Available from Batley Furniture Outlet, on the second floor of The Mill Outlet bold statement by painting vibrant colours to walls to make them stand out, but the trouble with this is that it can look dated quickly. This year we are seeing the trend of adding strategic pops of colour in smaller quantities with the use of coloured accessories and furniture. Colourful furniture, throws and cushions can add the right amount of colour into a room without making it look gaudy, and the best thing is that you can change the theme of the room more easily to reflect your mood, the season and your taste without having to get the paint rollers out. Maybe have a look in charity shops for bright pops of colour from clothes that you can use to make something.
Refined upcycling Upcycling has been a popular hobby over the past few years as people look to repurpose dated or tired furniture to fit into modern life. Paint manufacturers have been getting in
on this trend too and now offer a wide range of furniture paint in a vast array of colours. The chalk paint trend isn’t going away any time soon it seems – and many paint manufacturers are now jumping on the bandwagon and meeting consumer demand for chalk paints. Re-upholstering furniture is also a cheap way to change the look and feel of a piece without breaking the bank; these can also be customised to add a bit of character and individual flair while creating an eye-catching focal point to any room. Local auctions and car boot sales are sometimes the best places to find a furniture bargain. Also look at buying your own fabric when having your furniture upholstered; this is usually cheaper than paying for the labour and fabric together from one source.
Retro-inspired tech There has been a resurgence of retro technology over the past few years, especially
when it comes to vinyl players, typewriters and retro games consoles, but technology brands on the whole seem to be going for a retro theme as well with their new products. Gone are the days of hard lines and impersonal gadgets; the latest technology has the same fundamental ideas as the first domestic electronics of the 50s and 60s – that it should be part of the furniture and seamlessly blend in. We are already seeing a range of technology giants opt for softer lines in their electronics and encompassing retro design ideals with cutting-edge smart technology and this trend is expecting to continue into next year. There are certain times of the year that technology and electricals go down in price such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday and before major sporting events like the World Cup and the Olympics; these times of year are great for bagging yourself a bargain on technology.
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ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
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‘Sinister’ stalker escapes jail A STALKER who set up recording equipment in the Thornhill bedroom of his ex-girlfriend has been spared jail. Mark Bowers, 31, was handed a 12-week suspended sentence when he appeared at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court charged with pursuing a course of conduct amounting to stalking. The court heard how Bowers drove past the home of Charlene Medlock on a daily basis and used MP3 players left in her home to record her conversations after the couple’s 13year relationship ended. He also set up numerous Facebook accounts in an attempt to communicate with Miss Medlock. Their relationship ended in May last year. Bower, who shares a daughter with Miss Medlock, moved into his mother’s home on Partridge Crescent, Thornhill, when they split. However he then began stalking the mother of his child, who lived on the same street as his mother, after he became suspicious that she was having an affair. Bowers said that he suspected she had been cheating and so he set up the recording equip-
By Staff Reporters ment in the hope she would declare her love for him to others. Emma Covington, prosecuting, said: “The defendant drove past her house on an almost daily basis. He set up false Facebook accounts as a means of trying to contact her and send her messages. Then she found an MP3 player in the property that had been recording her in the bedroom.” Robert Dawson, mitigating, said that his client had shown remorse for his actions. “He’s somebody who has had difficulty coming to terms with the ending of a long relationship. His conduct is inappropriate and what’s worrying is the leaving of recording devices in the house. “He collected them later and did this three times to listen to them. The motivation behind that was he wanted to hear that she still had feelings for him. It was a serious intrusion of privacy and he apologises through the court to the victim.”
Bowers pleaded guilty to the charge. District Judge James Hatton told the court that convictions for stalking are so rare, there are no proper guidelines in place when it comes to sentencing. He told Bowers: “It’s an incredibly serious offence and one that causes this court a great deal of concern. Your behaviour displayed towards the victim is worrying to say the least. “There are sinister undertones to anybody who thinks it is appropriate behaviour to put recording devices in their ex-partner’s address to glean personal information from them, somehow hoping that she will reveal that she still has feelings for you. “Your relationship is at an end and you have to move on from that – your behaviour dealing with the breakdown is criminal and sinister.” The judge sentenced Bowers to 12 weeks in prison suspended for a year. He must complete 80 hours of unpaid work and was banned from contacting Miss Medlock for five years.
Jobless drug addict robs next-door neighbour via shared loft A MAN addicted to class A drugs broke into his neighbour’s home in Batley to fund his habit. Paul Bailey, 42, climbed through the loft space the houses shared in Beaumont Street, Mount Pleasant. Police officers quickly linked Bailey to the crime scene after he left pieces of loft insulation strewn around. Alex Bozman, prosecuting, told Kirklees Magistrates’ Court that the incident occurred between December 19 and Christmas Day
while the owner was in India. Bailey, now of Huddersfield, entered the property via the loft hatch and carried out an untidy search, stealing a silver watch and £50 in cash. The female victim returned home to find a wardrobe open with items thrown over the floor. When officers initially questioned Bailey he claimed he had been the victim of a crime also, telling them his television was missing. Mr Bozman told the court: “An exami-
nation of the address showed that it was possible to gain access into the neighbouring property. “Mr Bailey said he’d lost his job and needed some money to buy drugs. “He was aware of the access and thought that the neighbours were away because he’d not heard any noises in the preceding weeks.” Bailey tested positive for cocaine and opiates on his arrest. He pleaded guilty to burglary.
Bob Carr, mitigating, said: “He found himself in desperate need of heroin, he was rattling and had no money whatsoever. “The easiest option was to go next door to see if they had anything valuable to sell. There was no sophistication whatsoever and it was bound to lead to him. It doesn’t take Sherlock Holmes to discover who is responsible.” Magistrates adjourned sentencing until February 1 to allow a full probation report to be prepared.
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£350 million ‘mystery’ bid for Fox’s Biscuits BATLEY-BASED Fox’s Biscuits could be snapped up by a mystery buyer after it was revealed that it is the target of a £350m takeover bid. The historic Batley firm is currently owned by food group Boparan Holdings who have confirmed that they have received an approach. Boparan Holdings did not name the potential buyer, but it is reportedly the Burton’s Biscuit Company, which has previously shown interest. Fox’s Biscuits was established in 1853 and now employs 2,000 people at three sites – Wellington Road in Batley, Uttoxeter in Staffordshire and Kirkham in Lancashire. As well as Fox’s well-known brands it also produces own-label biscuits for supermarkets. Present owner Ranjit Boparan took over Fox’s in 2011, when he bought Northern Foods. Fox’s Biscuits is the trading name of Northern Foods Grocery Group. In a statement to the Luxembourg Stock Exchange Boparan Holdings said it had “received a preliminary approach for Fox’s Biscuits (the trading name of Northern Foods Grocery Group Limited). “The group’s expectation is that any formal offer for Fox’s Biscuits/NFGG would be at a valuation in the region of £350m.” There was speculation last year that Burton’s was interested in buying Fox’s Biscuits. Burton’s employs 2,000 people and lays claim to being the only major food manufacturer in the UK to focus solely on biscuits.
Friday January 27, 2017
Happily bigger after A BATLEY bridalwear boutique celebrated re-opening in expanded premises with a well-attended open evening. Ever After Bridal Wear’s elegant store on Commercial Street now extends into the shop next door, where the new area focuses on prom wear, mother of the bride, bridesmaids and holy communion dresses and accessories. The former kitchen showroom has been completely transformed, with an archway leading through into the original boutique that is now dedicated solely to bridal wear. The work involved meant that Ever After, founded by owner Sallyanne Hendry in 2013, had to temporarily close for most of December. The store officially re-opened with a special evening with music, a fashion show and refreshments on Friday January 6, attended by brides-to-be, wedding bloggers, suppliers and even Tracy Brabin MP popped in. There are new changing rooms – one of which is for the use of mothers of the bride, to help to give them a more exclusive appointment. Sallyanne said: “The shop looks a lot different now, and after a lot of hard workwe’re really pleased with it. “We’ve invested to give all our customers a better experience and we’ve been
Ever After owner Sallyann Hendry and family cut the ribbon on their new expanded premises really pleased with the response so far.” Ever After has become a popular choice for brides from across the region, as well as shoppers and passers-by who love the beautiful window displays which change regularly. The business is thriving thanks to excellent reviews online from satisfied customers, who have noted Ever After’s relaxed, friendly and
no-pressure approach. The three-strong Ever After team also exhibit at many local wedding fairs during the wedding ‘season’. For more information visit www.everafter bridalwear.co.uk, or search for Ever After Bridal Wear on Facebook to receive news of special offers and new arrivals.
Web TALK with Andrew Firth Our new Mother Prom of the 2017 Bride is here range First holy communion and Bridesmaids!
Where falling in love is just the beginning...
Welcome to the first 2017 edition of Web Talk, helping Kirklees website owners to prosper online
Make sure your site’s secure HE New Year has brought a significant update from Google, referring to changes it is making to its Chrome Browser, currently the most popular way for UK users to access the internet. In this month’s Web Talk we’ll cover the implications that this has for website owners. Google Chrome website security update This month Google are due to launch the latest version of the Chrome Browser, and the biggest update concerns website security. When users access a webpage that is prefixed http://, there is no security in place (secure pages are always prefixed https://). If the page does not capture any log-in or payment credentials, then historically it didn’t need to be secure, but during the course of this year this is changing. Google Chrome will begin to notify users that the website they are on is not secure as they roll out updates to their browser. The first change will be that websites that capture users’ details that do not have a secure certificate (this means they are http:// rather than
T
https://) will be flagged as ‘not secure’ to Chrome users. This should not affect websites that have been professionally built, as website security has always been an essential part of data capture, so the first update will not affect many websites (unless browsed through the Chrome Incognito mode where all nonhttps:// pages will be flagged as not secure). There has been a lot of scaremongering where non-secure website owners have been contacted to pressurise them into panic-paying for expensive certificates ... but here are the key points for website owners. How does this affect your website? If your site is not https and you have a log-in or payment facility, by the end of January 2017 your website should be made secure to avoid the warnings. If you do not have a log-in facility or take payments, don’t worry, you don’t need to panic if your website is non-https, but you do need to plan to update the security over the next few months.
Updating your website to https:// will involve adding a secure certificate (this is something that your hosting company can organise) and then redirecting your http:// pages to new https:// pages. This is a relatively simple and low-cost exercise that can be undertaken by your website provider. If you are concerned about the security of your own website, our support team will be more than happy to discuss website security with you – contact support@ascensor.co.uk. To read more on this and other subjects, please visit the blog at www.ascensor.co.uk/blog • To read more on this and other subjects, please visit the blog at www. ascensor.co.uk/blog. For more information contact andrew@ascensor.co.uk Twitter: @andrewjfirth Connect on LinkedIn: andrewjfirth Ascensor are a Digital Agency providing website design, ecommerce and search engine optimisation.
ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
Ossett loses Post Office THE POST office in Ossett could be set to close after new franchise plans were announced. The branch, on Towngate, is one of 37 sites across the country the Post Office said it was “seeking partners” for. Wakefield MP Mary Creagh said she was “disappointed” by the news that the premises may shut. She said: “Towngate Crown Post Office is essential to the local community, and a large number of elderly and vulnerable people rely on its services.” The Post Office said it will be seeking ‘partners’ for 37 of its directly-managed branches, in addition to 93 previously announced in the last calendar year, nearly half of which have now relocated into retail stores. The Communication Workers Union (CWU) slammed the announcement made last week. General secretary Dave Ward said: “The latest round of closures is further evidence that the Post Office is in crisis and that the board of the company, backed by the Government, is simply pursuing a strategy of slash and burn. “The CWU will not accept this and we will be stepping up our political and industrial campaign to fight for the future of the Post Office.”
Abuse investigation By Steve Martyn A FAILING care home is being investigated by Kirklees Council for alleged “financial abuse” of vulnerable residents. An inquiry has been launched against Blossom Care Home in Ravensthorpe following allegations that three residents were the victims of financial abuse. According to a recent report published by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the home’s management failed to notify the government health watchdog about the investigation. The report said: “Information we received from the local authority highlighted there had been allegations that three people living at the home had been financially abused. “The local authority confirmed
there was an ongoing formal enquiry in relation to these allegations. “However, the CQC had not been notified by the registered provider about these allegations of abuse.” The Church Street home was rated as inadequate – the lowest rating – following an inspection in November. This came eight months after the home’s first inadequate rating. Inspectors gave Blossom Care Home its lowest rating for safety, effectiveness, responsiveness and management. Staff were however praised for their caring approach to residents. The CQC found that only three of the home’s 12 residents had a personal fire evacuation plan and it had been served with an enforcement notice from West Yorkshire Fire Service.
Actress Amy Harvey
Paula Sherriff, MP for Dewsbury and Mirfield
Management also came in for criticism in the report. Inspectors noted: “Staff had not received regular supervision or appraisals of their performance. “Staff training was not managed and delivered effectively and regularly and regular staff meetings did not take place.” The CQC said that residents enjoyed the food on offer, but did note that one diabetic resident was given a sugary dessert. A spokesperson for Blossom Care Home said: “The company has appointed a consultant/agent with experience in the sector to help in addressing the issues highlighted. “We are working closely with the regulator and all our partners and remain confident to achieve better grades in the not so distant future. “Good care for our residents remains our priority.”
LA actress opens up to Branch FM DEWSBURY-BASED community radio station Branch FM recently had the chance to interview Yorkshire actress and writer Amy Ginsburg Harvey. The actress has recently filmed in Albuquerque, Los Angeles, Prague and London. She spoke about her time on the set of her latest project, a film called ‘Antidote’ which has now finished shooting. She also told the station about her family history, which includes two grandparents who survived the Holocaust. Amy also explained how she became a Christian and spoke about being a Christian in LA.
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News In Brief £157 groceries theft DEWSBURY: A man stole more than £150 of groceries from a supermarket after his credit card was declined. Kirklees Magistrates' Court heard Anthony Taylor, 32, had filled his trolley with £157 of groceries at Asda in Dewsbury on December 12 when his payment did not go through. When his card was declined, Taylor, of Westgate, Dewsbury, left the store with his goods before he was stopped by staff. He pleaded guilty to theft from a shop. He told District Judge Michael Fanning: “I didn’t know how to handle the situation. I was stressed, I made a bad judgement call.” Taylor was handed a 12-month conditional discharge.
£2m raised for Jo causes BATLEY & SPEN: A charity set up in memory of murdered Batley and Spen MP Jo Cox has raised almost £2m since her death. The foundation established by her husband, Brendan Cox, in the aftermath of her death has seen £1.95m in donations pour in. It raises funds for causes such as the White Helmets rescue organisation in Syria and projects tackling loneliness in the UK. The news was tweeted on the foundation’s official Twitter page.
Cleck’s hew home store CLECKHEATON: Discount retailer Home Bargains is set to open a store in the town, taking over the former Netto store. The site on Northgate was vacated by Netto last year after Sainsbury's brought their nationwide joint venture with the budget supermarket to an end, despite only opening a few months before. Home Bargains will open on February 18, the company confirmed.
‘Politically speaking’ Cuts to government services aren’t just a ‘local matter’ N THE last few weeks it seems I’ve had more and more people telling me of their poor experiences of government services. I’m frequently told ‘It’s a local matter’. It seems to be a recurring phrase, popular amongst government ministers when replying to concerns about cuts to services. From broadband to health services, schools to social care, nothing seems to be immune to responsibility being hastily passed down to a local level. Of course I continue to meet with local service providers, NHS trusts and local authority bosses, school headteachers and college principals, to work with them to get the best outcomes on local issues. But the truth seems to be that, up against successive reductions to national funding, many of these services are stretched to breaking point. We’re told that six years of cuts to health and social care services, to funding for schools and colleges, to community services that are the backbone of our towns and villages, are to be resolved by local restructuring, streamlining and ultimately, though less commonly proclaimed, the privatisation of public services. I’ve taken to calling the Government out on this. This week, I’ve written to the Prime Minister calling on her to see for herself the condition of NHS services in Kirklees.
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Having had no reply from Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt following the same invitation, (he neatly dodged the offer, passing my letter to a junior minister for response), I’m appealing to the Prime Minister to take off the blinkers and see for herself the reality of the sustained underfunding of our local NHS services. When the Red Cross declares the struggles of our National Health Service a ‘humanitarian crisis’, I would hardly call this a simply local matter. A&E services up and down the country are being cut. Hard-working but overstretched NHS staff are reporting patients left on trolleys, stuck on chairs and working conditions that are frankly degrading
and dangerous. But the chronic underfunding of services does of course impact at a local level. Here in Kirklees, people have told of their shocking experiences and, despite the determined lobbying of local NHS campaigners fighting against the downgrade of services at Dewsbury and Huddersfield Hospitals, we’ve been let down time and time again by the Health Secretary. So, should the Prime Minister read my letter, I hope that she will make the connection between national policy and local experiences and consider taking up my offer to see first-hand the consequences of her Government’s decisions. It might be ‘a local matter’ but she must intervene to provide the assurances and resources needed to overcome the very real challenges faced by our NHS. If anyone has a story to tell with regard to either of the hospitals that they would like me to highlight on their behalf, please contact the office at The Old Dewsbury Reporter Building, 17 Wellington Road, Dewsbury, WF13 1HF, by email to paula@paulasherriff. org.uk, or on 01924 565450.’
Paula
Based in Batley town centre, we are a local independent publisher committed to delivering high editorial standards and advertising/promotional reach across the North Kirklees area
Office Administrator As an integral part of our small team we are looking for an enthusiastic, articulate and hard-working individual to join our busy office. The successful applicant will require experience of SAGE and possess excellent organisational skills. Previous experience in admin/office work is advantageous along with an eye for detail and competency working with documents and numbers. A professional telephone manner and the ability to liaise with customers face-to-face are essential. We are looking for a friendly, positive person with a go-getting attitude who will be expected to use their own initiative and help out where required. Working hours and salary upon application. Closing date Friday 10th February To apply for the above position, in the first instance please email your CV to Lucy Tissiman, Commercial Manager, lucy@thepressnews.co.uk
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Friday January 27, 2017
Ramblers’ corner • FORTHCOMING walks with the North Kirklees Group of the Ramblers – non-members are always welcome. Please call the walk leader for more details SATURDAY FEBRUARY 4 AROUND TO MIRFIELD Meet at 11am at Cleckheaton Town Hall (BD19 3RH, SE191254) 8 miles – moderate Contact: Noel Tel: 07780 328561 noelmirfield@hotmail.co.uk
What’s great about Batley? A BID to find out what people really love about their town has been triggered by the Batley History Group as part of their Valentine Day celebrations. Investigator-in-chief Simon Roadnight will be in Batley Library at lunchtime both today (January 27) and next Thursday (February 2) to record what people feel. Simon is hoping to record a wide variation of conversations around the subject and merge them into a show which will be screened near Valentine’s Day itself. There’s no age limit for people wanting to express their opinions – the first interviewee was a young schoolboy and the latest an 80-year-old pensioner. Simon knows that people love many different things about the town and its people but he wants people to express their own individual choices. “It’s a way of helping them to show just how much they love the town,” he said.
MONDAY FEBRUARY 6 AROUND OAKWELL COUNTRY PARK Meet at 1pm at Oakwell Hall top car park (WF17 9LG, SE217271) 4 miles – moderate Contact: Kathleen 01924 471 473 Kathleenoshea5@aol.com
Barn-storming display OAKWELL Hall’s annual ‘Art in the Barn’ exhibition and sale of work is currently running in the Visitor Centre Barn, at the top of Nova Lane, Birstall. More than 35 local artists are showing in the exhibition which runs until Sunday February 12, and can be viewed during Visitor Centre opening hours of 11am-4pm (Tuesday to Friday) and noon-4pm (Saturday and Sunday). The visitor centre is closed on Mondays. Among the exhibitors is Margaret Bates, 79, from Huddersfield, whose paintings are being sold in aid of Kirkwood Hospice. An artist for many years, Margaret specialises in landscapes and still life and, over the years, has captured scenes in and around Huddersfield and on the East Coast. Margaret has a life-limiting illness and is currently receiving support from Kirkwood’s community nursing specialists. She has donated 70 framed paintings to the hospice in appreciation of the help she and her husband Robert have received. A selection of the donated paintings are on display in ‘Art in the Barn’ and are for sale at £20 each. Some of the other exhibitors are also selling cards to raise money for Kirkwood Hospice. Further information is available by contacting Oakwell Hall Visitor Centre on 01924 324761.
ALL IN A GREAT CAUSE: A selection of paintings by Margaret Bates being sold to raise money for Kirkwood Hospice
Heated opinions to fore in play Review by Susan McKill ‘THE Vertical Hour’, by David Hare, opened at the Artspace at Dewsbury Arts Group this week. Nadia Blye knows exactly what her stance is on Iraq! An American war reporter turned Yale professor of international relations, and haunted by memories of her time in the Balkans and Iraq, she travels to the Welsh Borders with her English boyfriend Philip Lucas to meet his equally opinionated father, Oliver. Nadia’s encounter with Oliver forces decisions on her that will affect the rest of her life. This Dewsbury Arts Group production, directed by Martin Clarke, is compelling and challenges your
perceptions of what is and what should be. Sophie Starmer as the feisty Nadia Blye and Mark Bailey as Oliver Lucas, the charming womaniser, gave superb performances, as did Matt Bailey, as Philip Lucas, who has a strained relationship with his father and blames him for the misery he brought to his mother. Nick Bailey as Dennis Dutton and Lacey Telford as Terri Scholes (Nadia’s students) complete the strong cast. The play runs until this Saturday, January 28, and tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/dewsburyartsgroup or call 03336 663366.
COMPELLING: Matt Bailey, Sophie Starmer and Mark Bailey in ‘The Vertical Hour’
Ramblers head to Skipton and Wakefield NINE members of Dewsbury & District Rambling Club completed a 7.5-mile walk starting at Kildwick (nr Skipton) on Saturday, January 21. The route took in Kildwick Hall and Farnhill Moor plus farms at Moorgate and White House Cottage. Then it was off to the Leeds/Liverpool Canal via Low Bradley Village. Six walkers then enjoyed refreshments at the White Lion Pub. Tony Glover was the leader. On Sunday January 22 a group set off from Anglers Country Park, walking to New Crofton and Walton. The 10-mile walk was led by Phil Allan.
ThePress
Hello pop pickers! Veteran DJ Tony Blackburn is back spinning tunes at the BBC
Ann and Tony Blackburn course being in the BBC fold for many years.”
FORMER Coronation Street and Wild At Heart actress Lucy-Jo Hudson says she agreed to appear on the new Strictly-style dance show on ITV simply because: “It looked a lot of fun and that was the appeal, I mean I got to dance on a huge stage with lights and smoke. I really did feel like a pop star, which was amazing.”
SHE PLAYED Emma Peel in 60s spy series The Avengers, but Dame Diana Rigg will grace our screens in a more sedate role this autumn. A source tells me that Diana will play the part of a lady-inwaiting in the next series of Victoria, the ITV drama starring Doctor Who actress Jenna Coleman as the monarch. I will keep you posted...
V
SHERIDAN SMITH, who is reprising her role as Fanny Brice for a national UK tour of the hit musical Funny Girl, is to star as a strong and complicated female lead character in Clean Break, a new six-part ITV drama series which will air this coming autumn. FORMER Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips tells me that Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber wants to revamp Starlight Express for the musical’s 35th birthday in 2018. They worked together on the original roller skating stage show in 1984 and have been in discussions about rebooting the musical in celebration of its anniversary. I HEAR that recently departed EastEnders actress Rita Simons, who played Roxie in the soap, is already in talks about this year’s Strictly Come Dancing. A source revealed to me: “She loves the show and has visited many times, so it would be a natural move for her after of
JOHN PRESCOTT, Johnny Ball and Eve Pollard are among the celebrities who will explore what it means to be an OAP in Britain for Channel Four. The former Deputy Prime Minister, who is claiming he is doing it to try and put Hull on the map in its big cultural year, also declined to reveal just how much the TV company are paying the multi-millionaire for his trouble of appearing on camera.
POINTLESS host Alexandra Armstrong recently claimed a Palace source had told him that HM The Queen is a huge fan of his daily quiz show. Odd as no-one from the Palace can or will confirm this statement, so one wonders if maybe ratings are slightly down for the quiz and this is a great way of reminding people it’s on. Or maybe Her Majesty IS a fan... HUGH BONNEVILLE will always be Lord Grantham from Downton Abbey fame, and he tells me while filming the new movie Paddington 2: “I think that will be the thing I am most remembered for, and it’s a great thing to be honest. Like all actors I think my best work is yet to come, although again who knows, I may just end up an extra in some obscure TV show. It does happen, you know...” MEZZO-SOPRANO Katherine Jenkins will make her stage debut opposite leading opera singer Alfie Boe in a
IRE WIN SH
Yorkshire Windows
Dewsbury’s Favourite Window Company
Maycon Pictures
ETERAN broadcaster Tony Blackburn has returned to BBC radio, announcing: “Good Lord, I’m back.” Tony told me that: “I have had a difficult year personally, but I’m pleased to be returning to the BBC and can’t wait to get behind the mic again.” He has many fans, including Sir Roger Moore, who tweeted: “He’s back!” Tony, who spun the first-ever record on Radio One back in the 60s, says: “I am still as passionate today about music as back then. Just a big kid in a studio really.”
OPEN 24 HOURS 7 DAYS
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Hear Ann across the BBC radio network
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Friday January 27, 2017
new version of the classic musical Carousel. The pair will lead a five-week run – comprising 41 performances – at the London Coliseum, home of the English National Opera, from April 7. HOLLYOAKS star James Sutton is said to be leaving the Channel Four soap later in the year, but fans fear not, I am assured that his character will not be killed off. “I can’t say for sure,” James told me. “But I do know it’s an ending that could go either way, so who knows, I may just return for a third time.” FORMER Coronation Street actress Michelle Keegan has left viewers baffled with her Essex accent. The soap queen took on the role of Tina Dean opposite Lorne MacFayden in Tina and Bobby, a three-part series about Bobby Moore which follows football’s first power couple. But many watching the show claimed she went back and forth between Northern and Essex accents, with one saying: “It ruined the show for me as her acting was also not that great too.” Can the soap star survive a public backlash? ONE YEAR after she won The Great British Bake Off, Nadiya Hussain has released her first novel. Part of a trilogy based on her own childhood and entitled The Secret Lives Of The Amir Sisters, the novel was ghostwritten by Ayisha Malik with ‘thoughts’ by Nadiya ... and yet she claims she is the author. GARY BEADLE, who played Paul Trueman in EastEnders for three years, tells me that filming Death In Paradise in Guadeloupe was “just like a wonderful holiday. I mean the place is magical, and yes you do have to make your own luck in the acting game, but then jobs like this are really the icing on the cake. I just hope we keep on going as I love spending six months here filming.”
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Friday January 27, 2017
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Useful Numbers Citizen’s Advice Dewsbury Tel 01924 487860 Kirklees Council Switchboard Tel 01484 221000 Police (non emergency) Tel 101
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Friday January 27, 2017
Plumbing & Heating
Situations Vacant
Public Notices
Dewsbury Rams RLFC currently looking to recruit
CASUAL SPORTS ASSISTANT/S CHECK FOR CARBON MONOXIDE
Any gas appliance serviced £45+VAT then £15+VAT for each of others. Combi boilers fitted with For All 7 year guarantee Your Heating Choose Experience & Plumbing T: 01924 689776 Needs M: 0758 1552797 301 Norristhorpe Lane, Liversedge www.ecoheatingyorkshire.co.uk
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To work on the new 3G Facilities, and to assist in the maintenance, running and supervision of the 3G Practice Pitch and the two 3G MUGA pitches at the Tetleys Stadium. Hours will be mainly evenings and weekends Applicants will be subject to DBS checks
Interest in sport will be an advantage, possession of sports coaching qualification would be a distinctive advantage. £7.20 per hour. Applications to Angie Burkinshaw, General Manager, info@dewsburyrams.co.uk Dewsbury Rams RLFC, Tetleys Stadium, Owl Lane, Dewsbury, WF12 7RH
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Public Notices
GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE DURA BEDS LTD of KELVIN BUSINESS PARK, GRANGE ROAD, BATLEY, WF17 6PB is applying to change an existing licence as follows To add an operating centre to keep 17 goods vehicles and 7 trailers at UNIT 5, SOOTHILL BUSINESS PARK, SOOTHILL LANE, BATLEY, WF17 5NL. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who would believe their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at The North Eastern Traffic Area, Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to making representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner's Office.
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Friday January 27, 2017
Marketplace Albion eye win at Railway
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WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
Turn your unwanted items
into cash £££s 1) Ring Adele on 01924 470296 (9.30am-4.30pm). Have your advert ready and you can pay by credit or debit card (30p surcharge). 2) Call into the office at 31 Branch Road, Batley WF17 5SB and pay by cash, cheque, credit or debit card (30p surcharge). 3) Post your advert and include your name and a contact number, along with cheque for payment. ADVERTS must be no longer than 50 words. (We cannot accept the following items: Motor vehicles, caravans, livestock. All listings will stay in marketplace for a maximum of two months. If you wish to amend your listing, or cancel when sold, contact or call 01924 470296.
NEW Hotpoint tumble dryer, good working condition, little used, £25. Call Mrs Kelly 01924 405259. (2077) Baled, dry wood, ideal for wood burners/home use. Free to collect from local area. Tel 07580 135488. (2078) Breville electric kettle, modern dome shape, cream colour, good working order, £7. Tel 01924 444000. (2079) CHILDREN’S GOODS/TOYS Three wheeler, ride-on buggy with charger. £100 ONO. Tel 01924 467057. (2072) Red Tomahawk Mongoose twowheel bike, suit 69yr old. Very little used, stabilisers availablem £50 ono. Tel 01924 476050. (2066) Tonka toys, tipper truck and crane with grab, £26, will split. Tractor/ loading shovel, rideon, suit 4/5 yearold, good quality, German-made, £27. Tel Mirfield 01924 492544. (2059) Early Learning Centre baby’s wooden toddle truck with coloured bricks. Excellent condition £10. Tel 01924 407400. (2054) BEDROOM FURNITURE Metal framed foldup occasional
bed/mattress, £20. Tel 07519 288925. (2070) Four drawer, 6ft x 6ft 6” super king size bed (frame with separate to make two single beds), six months old quality mattress. (Free to buyer – DIY headboard, three fitted valanced sheets and mattress cover). Buyer to dismantle and collect £50. Tel 01924 469652. (2064) COLLECTIBLES Bradford Exchange collection of Marilyn Monroe plates by artist Chris Notarile, in mahogany frames, complete with certificates of authenticity. In good condition £10 each. Tel 07719 954892. (2061) COMPUTING Medion (E1210) 10” everywhere netbook, complete, boxed, good condition £25. Tel Mirfield 01924 491306. (2074) DIY Aluminium extension ladder, 20ft, 24 rungs in total. Ideal for DIY, £25 ono, buyer to collect. Tel 01924 462494. (2047)
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
By Mike Popplewell
ITEM bands
sport@thepressnews.co.uk
Cost per item
Up to £7: £8 - £25: £26 - £50 £51- £100 £101-£200 £201-£500 £501-£1450 £1,451 plus 540623. (2060) FASHION Two red ladies’ handbags (large), in red, 12” x 10” and 15” x 12”, both excellent condition, still in wrappers £20 each. Tel 01274 861904. (2071) FURNITURE Dark blue leather two-seater settee and two chairs; wood trim on arms, good condition, £150. Tel 01924 381651. (2076) Open dark wood book case with three shelves, £20 ono. Tel 01924 499643. (2063) Comfortable threeseater settee and chair, excellent quality from M&S. Westcott chenille hessian, neutral colour £150. Tel 01924 442711. (2055) Shackletons ‘Sherbourne’ twoseater sofa, armchair and large storage footstool in beige. Two years old, excellent condition. £300, buyer to collect. Tel 07703 183220. (2046)
ELECTRICAL 2 x 3 light pendant ceiling fittings in pink, £10 each, two matching wall lights £10 each. Tel 07521 540623. (2060)
GAMES Table-top casino board in carrying case, for blackjack and poker, with 400 casino chips, cards, dealing shoe and dice. New, £25. Tel 01274 876814. (2065)
2 x 3 light chandeliers in glass and brass £10 each. Tel 07521
GARDEN Ride-on grass cutter 40” cut, double cutters. Vanguard
£1 £2 £3 £4 £5 £7 £9 £11
14hp, £350 ono. Tel 01924 278949. (2053) Old stone sink, suit garden ornament, £35. Tel 079615 64984. (2050) HOUSEHOLD 36-piece Royal Doulton ‘Yorkshire Rose’ tea service, £20. Tel 01924 264330. (2075) Large yukka plant, 3ft, minimum £35. Tel 07961 564984. (2050) Tom Gower painting, £40, Tel: 079615 64984 (2050) SPORTING/FITNESS Gym workout bench, hardly used. Ideal Christmas box, was £100, now £55. Tel Mirfield 01924 498341. (2057) Ridgeback 401GS mountain bike, 18 gears, 18” frame size. Good brakes, excellent condition £40. Tel 01924 407400. (2054) British Eagle Zancara 21” bicycle. Polished aluminium frame, 21 speed, good condition. Approx. 10 years old, £50. Tel 07910 405324. (2051) Falcon Futura Cycle, full suspension, 18 gears, suit teenager, £25. Tel 07910 405324. (2051) WANTED WANTED: Timber to recycle for garden project. Tel 07790 568986. (2052)
Football Correspondent OSSETT ALBION go into their North East Regional League game at bottom club Harrogate Railway with their survival in the Southern Division once again under threat. Following their 4-1 defeat at home to second-placed Westella and Willerby, Albion are in a group of five clubs with just five points between them, one of them with two games in hand, and a win for Railway would leave Albion just two points off the bottom. Against Westella and Willerby there was a determined first-half display when Nikki Swift set up a goal for player of the match Jenna Wraith, taking them into the break just 2-1 down, but the visitors stepped it up in the second half and ran out comfortable winners. Farsley Celtic, with 10 wins out of 10, remain well clear of Westella and Willerby at the top, but at the other end of the table the final run in looks like being being a right royal battle to avoid the drop if Railway do get the better of Albion on Sunday. Ossett Town and Battyeford’s desperate relegation battle in the West Riding County
League Premier Division shows no sign of getting any easier. Second-bottom Town’s hopes of getting a much-needed morale boost from their scheduled game at home to fellow strugglers Brayton Belles were dashed last week when the game was postponed and next up is a visit to third-placed Hepworth United. Meanwhile Battyeford’s game against Hemsworth was also postponed and this week they go to clear leaders Leeds Medics and Dentists. In Division Two Dewsbury Rangers dropped to fourth when their game at home to Ossett Town reserves was postponed, but they still have games in hand on the top two and a home game with Silsden Development could see them snatch the win that would keep them in the promotion race. Ossett Town’s reserve side, like their first team, are more concerned with avoiding relegation but a visit to joint leaders Leeds City this week is unlikely to bring them much reward. Third-placed Lower Hopton should get the better of Durkar Devils in their Division Three clash this week but a 4-3 defeat at the hands of Ilkley Town in their last outing looks to have put paid to any promotion hopes.
NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL EXTRA
Reds bounce back Evo-Stik First Division North
GOOLE AFC OSSETT TOWN
0 3
at Victoria Pleasure Ground OSSETT TOWN bounced back from a disappointing run of results to beat Goole AFC 3-0 in the Evo-Stik First Division North. Loanee striker Marcus Day opened the scoring for the Reds in the second minute but the visitors were unable to add to their lead until deep into the second half. Second-bottom Goole threatened to cause an upset as they tested the Reds’ defence, which has shown signs of frailty in recent outings. But when Day bagged his second of the match in the 81st minute the game was all but over. Alex Peterson’s penalty in stoppage time put the finishing touch to a much-needed win for the Reds if they are to mount a serious title challenge this season. They sit third after the victory, six points behind leaders Lancaster, having played one game more. Black’s men welcome Glossop North End tomorrow (3pm).
Albion boost survival hopes Evo-Stik First Division North
OSSETT ALBION MOSSLEY at Queens Terrace OSSETT ALBION have climbed to 17th in the Evo-Stik First Division North standings following a narrow 2-1 win over Mossley. Adam Muller fired Albion in front inside 10 minutes and Ross Hardaker netted what proved to be the decisive goal on the stroke of half-time, which gave the hosts a two-goal cushion. In the second half Mossley halved their deficit just after the hour mark through Thomas Pratt but the Unicorns held on for a valuable three points. Albion hope to distance themselves further from the drop when they travel to face Scarborough Athletic tomorrow (3pm).
RACING WITH TOP TIPSTER MIKE SMITH
Cheltenham ground staff battle frost HELTENHAM ground staff have deployed frost covers on the main track ahead of Festival Trials Day tomorrow (Saturday). Eight of the nine races on Saturday’s superb card, which now includes the re-scheduled Clarence House Chase, will take place on the covered-up New Course. The Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap is staged on Cheltenham’s cross-country circuit, on which only vulnerable parts have been protected by frost covers. Willie Mullins has another strong hand this weekend with Un De Sceaux on course to run in the Clarence House, while Vroum Vroum Mag, who already holds six entries at Cheltenham including the Champion Hurdle and the Gold Cup, is bound for the olbg.com Doncaster Mares’ Hurdle on the same afternoon. After a year off the track Fuagheen makes his comeback in the Irish Champion Hurdle on Sunday.
C
Meanwhile the quality on show in Cheltenham’s bumper fixture will include Gold Cup favourite Thistlecrack in the BetBright Trial Cotswold Chase. The brilliant King George VI Chase winner is unbeaten in four starts over fences, and his rivals could include 2015 Hennessy winner Smad Place and Many Clouds, who won the Grand National the same year, plus Vezelay, from France. Harry Fry is in a rich vein of form and Unowhatimeanharry, hot favourite for the Stayers’ Hurdle, is set to complete his Festival preparation in the galliardhomes.com Cleeve Hurdle, whilst the exciting pair of Finian’s Oscar and Messire Des Obeaux could clash in the 2m 4f Neptune Novices’ Hurdle. If the ground turns out to be good, I like the each-way chances of Thomas Crapper in the 1.10 even though he might end up a few pounds out of the handicap along with the Philip Hobbs-trained Wait For Me (4.35) who has the
potential to be much better than his rating. Doncaster has a good supporting card where Ziga Boy can pull off a repeat win in the Sky Bet Chase at 3.40, whilst Happy Diva (2.30) is a mare firmly on the upgrade. My biggest bet, however, will be today (Friday) on imposing Frankel gelding Fashion Business in Lingfield’s maiden at 2.50. • CARRIGILL’S nap this week is Coologue in Doncaster’s Sky Bet Handicap Chase (3.40), and if their selection does not finish in the top four punters will receive their money back as a free bet. AUGUR’S BEST BETS: Fashion Business. Friday Lingfield 2.50 CARRIGILL’S NAP: Coologue. Saturday Doncaster 3.40 AUGUR’S ONE TO WATCH OUT FOR: The Fresh Prince. Expect trainer Oliver Sherwood to find a race in the next few weeks for this improving prospect.
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ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
RUGBY UNION
Cleck RUFC stay positive despite agonising defeat National League Three North
CLECKHEATON RUFC ROSSENDALE
17 19
at Moorend CLECKHEATON RUFC came incredibly close to pulling off a sizeable upset against second-placed Rossendale in National League Three North, but the visitors snatched a try late on and with it a 19-17 victory. Cleckheaton can be buoyed by the fact that they matched their highflying opponents try for try, but lost out on successful conversions. A last-gasp penalty could have still taken the spoils for the home side but unfortunately for them it wasn’t to be. The first half was a tightly contested affair with Cleckheaton’s forwards, led by the rampaging Richard Piper and Ryan Piercy, making plenty of headway against Rossendale’s defence. Tactical kicking from Matt Piper, as had been evident on his return against Ilkley two weeks ago, also helped Cleckheaton play in the right areas of the field. Rossendale were lucky to keep all their players on the pitch midway through the first half after Niall Jackson took a high shot in the middle of the park. It was a decision which left the hosts feeling aggrieved. Cleckheaton were on the attack following the incident and before the away side could completely clear their lines, good work from the forwards committed Rossendale’s defence to Cleckheaton’s left flank and Jack Bickerdike and Neil Chivers quickly sent the ball to the right, where Josh Hall crossed for the first try of the match. But the difficult conversion drifted wide. In a close, hard-fought encounter
the scoreboard wasn’t troubled much in the first half. But, on the stroke of half-time, Cleckheaton were unlucky not to edge further in front when Hall’s 40m penalty kick hit the crossbar. Unfortunately for the hosts Rossendale regrouped for the second half and began to show that they are worthy of their league position. Cleckheaton’s lead was looking vulnerable and their cause wasn’t helped by the fact that Lee Queeley received a yellow card for an illegal tackle. The away side continued to exert the pressure and Jack Ward forced his way over from close range. James Bramhall added the extras for the visitors to give them a 7-5 lead. But Cleckheaton responded in tremendous fashion and battled their way downfield. They won a lineout on the visitors’ 22m line and a perfect throw from Ben Thrower was caught and set by the pack before fast hands across the entire back line put Ollie Depledge in at the corner, with an acrobatic dive that saw the winger just get the ball to ground a splitsecond before his body went into touch. But crucially the conversion was missed. The Moorenders’ joy at re-taking the lead was short lived as Curtis Strong gathered for Rossendale and, using his two very handy assets of power and pace, pushed over one Cleckheaton tackler before racing around the other for a well-taken try. The conversion gave Rossendale a 14-10 advantage. But Cleckheaton were not done yet and Richard Piper, who had led from the front all game, powered his way over with a number of defenders hanging from him to hand the lead back to the hosts. Ronan Evans, on the field from the subs’ bench, added the conversion to give Cleck a 17-14 lead with
SPEN VALLEY FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Savile United and Palestino earn valuable wins in Memorial Cup IN THE Spen Valley Memorial Trophy Palestino kept up their good form to overcome Marsh 51. A Jamie Chadwick brace set the visitors on their way to victory, but goals from Abdul Qayum, Zubair Khan and Paddy Mumbly sealed the win. Mark Wigley netted Marsh’s consolation. Meanwhile in last weekend’s only other Memorial Trophy fixture Savile United cruised to a 50 win over Dewsbury West Side Reserves.
DEWSBURY BRIDGE CLUB RESULTS: TUESDAY JANUARY 17: 1 D Hannam and J Paxton;
2 J Sheth and M Watson; 3 A Cooper and J Bragg.
Uzair Kola, Abdul Jabber Ibrahim, Faisal Adam, Toseef Suleman and Abdul Karim Mahmood were all on the scoresheet for United. Elsewhere in the Premier Division Mohammed Raaj, Qendrim Emini, Dhanyal Hussain and Mahine Malik all struck for Athletico in their 4-3 win over Girlington. But Mohammed Qasim, Kamran Khan and Adil Tanvir all found the net for Girlington to make sure the visitors worked hard for their victory. And finally a Haroon Laher double for Inter Batley helped his side earn a 3-3 draw at George Healey. An own goal was responsible for Inter’s third. In reply Healey found the net through Simon Moore, Reece Scholes and Ben Aparicio.
Lee Queeley breaks out of defence for Cleckheaton Gerald Christian less than 10 minutes remaining. Rossendale slowly worked their way up field and, in desperation to stop the forwards getting quick ruck ball, Paul Turner handled the pill on the floor. The referee had no choice but to sin-bin the Cleckheaton prop and Rossendale opted for a scrum from which they duly scored. The conversion was missed giving Rossendale a two-point lead. But Rossendale were not over the line. They had to watch nervously as a crucial Cleckheaton penalty evaded the posts. It was a good performance all round from Cleckheaton and they need to take the same game to Sandal, whom they travel to meet tomorrow (2.15pm).
WR COUNTY AMATEUR FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Littletown cruise to four-goal win LITTLETOWN FC comfortably beat Woodkirk Valley 6-2 at home in the Heavy Woollen District FA Cup. A Joe Jagger brace followed by strikes from Callum Wheatley, George White, Andy Brewitt and Admilo De Castro sealed the win for the Beck Lane side. Next up for in-form Littletown is a trip to strugglers Overthorpe Sports Club in the West Riding County Amateur League Premier Division (2pm). Meanwhile Lower Hopton’s run in the Heavy Woollen District FA
Cup came to an end when they lost 2-0 at home to Wyke Wanderers. Lower Hopton play host to DRAM Community FC in the Premier Division tomorrow (2pm). Elsewhere Overthorpe Sports Club didn’t improve their chances of survival when they lost 5-0 away at Salts in their latest Premier Division outing. A depleted squad, which wasn’t helped by Danny Marshal sending off, conceded goals from Salts’ Deroy White (two), Harry Naylor, Jonny Cunnington and Ross Barraclough.
HEAVY WOOLLEN SUNDAY MORNING FOOTBALL LEAGUE
FISHER REGAIN TOP SPOT ST JOHN FISHER climbed back to the top of the Heavy Woollen Sunday League last weekend after strikes from Steve Wales and Dominic Riordan helped them to a 2-1 win at fourth-placed Mirfield Town, who had Gibril Bojang on the scoresheet. Previous leaders Birstall Cricket Club went down 62 at home to Woodkirk Valley. Jonny Downey, Scott Love, Mark McDermott, Christy Woods and an own goal accounted for Woodkirk’s tally, with Jonny Beverley and Joe Lyttle replying for the home side. Championship leaders Linthwaite maintained their 100 per cent record
with a 4-1 win over thirdplace Slip Inn Hounds. Connor Beaumont, Paul Day, Dan Walker and Bradley Riley netted for Linthwaite. Joe Jagger hit a magnificent seven goals as fourthplaced Hanging Heaton Cricket Club demolished second-placed Clifton Rangers 8-3, Tom Wigglesworth bagging the other. Andy Bates netted four as Overthorpe Sports Club enjoyed a 7-2 win at The Yorkshireman, with Tom Ramsden (brace) and Elliot Brooke also finding the net. Wellington Westgate won 4-3 at Battyeford who had a Nigel Saddington double plus one from
James Lister as their consolation efforts. In the only game played in Division One, leaders Scholes Athletic increased their lead to eight points with a 2-2 draw with Ravenswharfe. Ash Barnes and Gareth Jones hit Scholes’ goals, while Danny Craven and Sam Hewitt replied for Ravenswharfe. Overthorpe Sports Club Reserves are the new leaders in Division Two after thrashing bottom side Wike Horse 7-1. Tom Hirst led the way with a hat-trick, with Dominic Simpson (two), James Goodall and Michael Hutton completing the scoring.
Previous leaders Wire Works went down 3-1 against Linthwaite Reserves, who had Ben Boulton, Ben Green and Lee Johnson on the scoresheet. Michael Pell hit Wire Works’ consolation. Westgate 23 remain third after doubles from Josh Parker and Logan Hall, plus goals from Steven Swift and Jack Clough saw them win 6-5 at Clifton Rangers A. Saville Arms booked their place in the Heavy Woollen Challenge Trophy semi-finals as they beat Dewsbury United 6-0 thanks to a brace from Saul Lee. Strikes from Lewis Tolson, Kieran Corley, Patrick Davies and Jordan Walton completed Saville’s one-sided victory.
ThePress
Friday January 27, 2017
27
RUGBY LEAGUE
Bulldogs brush aside Keighley Pre-season friendly
BATLEY BULLDOGS
38
KEIGHLEY COUGARS
12
at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium MATT DISKIN was justifiably satisfied with another impressive pre-season showing after watching his Batley side run in seven tries against a Keighley outfit hotly tipped to press for promotion from League 1. Diskin paid Keighley plenty of respect in naming a strong 22-man squad including Dane Manning, back from Halifax for a second stint with the Bulldogs, and James Brown who also missed the festive clash through injury. “Offensively we took our opportunities well, although we still need to fine tune a few things,” commented the Batley boss. “But the most pleasing thing was that we looked very good structurally in defence. “It’s hard to get fluency into our play when we are making that many changes but we were very clinical with the opportunities we had.” Batley, playing up the slope, made an enthusiastic start and, after forcing successive sets, it was little surprise when new club captain Dom Brambani put Michael Hayward
over with Patch Walker adding the first of three conversions from wide. James Davey’s short pass enabled Alex Bretherton to easily brush off the challenge of full-back Liam Darville and score again minutes later and Davey was again the creator when Macaulay Hallett claimed Batley’s third try to give them a 16-0 lead. The Cougars kept their shape and refused to panic but a classy Davey shimmied through the line then side-stepped the full-back for a superb solo try to increase Batley’s advantage. Just before half-time a Matty Beharrell grubber kick bounced awkwardly and Andy Gabriel, pounced to grab a try back. Within 90 seconds of the start of the second half James Brown helped restore the gap when he barged over from close range, Cain Southernwood this time converting with Walker off the field. Manning powered over three minutes later, then Manning and Brambani danced through the Keighley defence to put Joe Chandler, a former Cougar, over. They were finally rewarded when Scott Law crossed from a Mike Emmett pass. Southernwood kicked two secondhalf goals for Batley, while Beharrell and Adam Brook landed the Cougars’ two conversions.
NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL
MAN OF THE MATCH: Dom Brambani
MATCH STATS: BATLEY BULLDOGS Michael Hayward Shaun Squires Sam Smeaton Macaulay Hallett Dave Scott Patch Walker Dom Brambani Tom Lillicrop James Davey Alex Rowe Alex Bretherton Dane Manning Brad Day SUBS: Cain Southernwood Trae O’Sullivan James Harrison James Brown Danny Bravo Brad Hill Alistair Leak Danny Cowling Joe Chandler
7 6 6 6 6 6 6
BATLEY BULLDOGS Keighley coach Craig Lingard, back on the ground where the end terrace is named after him for becoming Batley’s record try-scorer, acknowledged: “I learned a lot about my players, I think you often learn a lot more in defeat than you do when everything goes well. “We know we have to work on, mental toughness and preparation, because we gave the opposition too much respect.”
Northern Counties East League Premier LIVERSEDGE FC 3 3
at Clayborn LIVERSEDGE pulled off an impressive second-half fightback to earn a point against Staveley Miners Welfare in the Northern Counties East League Premier Division.
Beth Holt is held up, Amy Ratcliffe powers her way through the Odsal defence (inset) and Bethan Oates makes a break (right) Dave Jewitt
WARLA Women’s Plate THORNHILL TROJANS 58 ODSAL SEDBERGH
7 7 7 6 7 6 7 7 6 6 5 7 8
Tries: Hayward (12), Bretherton (14), Hallett (19), Davey (34), Brown (42), Manning (45), Chandler (54) Goals: Walker 3/4, Southernwood 2/3
KEIGHLEY COUGARS Tries: Gabriel (39), Law (76). Goals: Beharrell (1/1), Brook (1/1) Ref Rating: Harry Neville 70/100 / H/T: 22-6 / Pens: 7-9 / Sin Bin: None / Sent-Off: None / Weather: Overcast / MOTM: James Davey (Batley) / Attendance: 725 / Match Rating: 3/5.
WOMEN’S RUGBY LEAGUE
Adam Lee fired Staveley ahead at Clayborn to ensure the visitors went into the interval leading 1-0. But after the restart Lee struck again to the hosts and give his side a deserved two goal cushion. Liversedge were sloppy in defence and Welfare capitalised once more when Tyla Bell found the back of the net to make it 3-0 and give the visitors what appeared to be an unassailable lead. But Jonathan Rimmington’s side who had been poor for the first hour turned the game on its head. First Stephen Wales fired home to reduced his side’s deficit to two goals, before completing his brace with still over 10 minutes left to play. With suddenly just one goal separating the two sides Staveley looked nervous and vulnerable at the back. It allowed Joe Walton the chance to equalise late on and keep Liversedge’s slim hopes of a play-off place alive this season. The draw means Sedge remain seventh ahead of their trip to face Rainworth Miners Welfare tomorrow (3pm).
7 7 7 8 7 8 7 8 7
KEIGHLEY COUGARS Liam Darville Davey Dixon Josh Casey Adam Ryder Andy Gabriel Adam Brook Matty Beharrell Scott Law James Feather Brad Nicholson Josh Lynam Josh Tonks Mike Emmett SUBS: Brendon Rawlins Emmerson Whittel Nathan Conroy Neil Cherryholme Vinny Finigan Harry Aaronson Callum Dunne
Sedge fightback Trojans ladies cruise to victory stuns Staveley STAVELEY MINERS WELFARE
7 7 7 7 7 8 8 7 9 8 8 8 7
4
at Overthorpe Park THORNHILL TROJANS LADIES thrashed Odsal Sedbergh 58-4 to keep alive their hopes of reaching the WARLA Women’s League Plate final. The impressive Amanda Wigglesworth demonstrated the best of what Odsal had to offer in terms of
attacking threat by crossing for a try, but with home advantage the Trojans quickly took control. Hannah Butcher was prolific for the hosts crossing for four tries while Anna Simpson contributed to the total with a brace. Other Trojans to cross in the 11-try annihilation were Beth Lockwood, Emileigh Archer (player of the match), Amy Ratcliffe, Chelsey Holder and Beth, while Vicky Brook and Bethany Oates were on target with the boot with five and two goals respectively.
Holders Thornhill scrape through BARLA National Cup WATERHEAD
6
THORNHILL TROJANS
8
at Waterhead Park THORNHILL TROJANS began the defence of their BARLA National Cup title with a narrow 8-6 first-round win away at Waterhead. The resurgent Oldham-based side went into the game on the threshold of a new phase in their history and have been boosted with the return of a number of players to bolster their ranks. Thornhill, playing their first game of the new season, may not have played their most attractive rugby, but battled hard in their title defence. The Trojans gave run-outs to new recruits Tom and Jack Gledhill who have joined from Shaw Cross Sharks. Former Mirfield Stags player Jonathan Hellings also made his first team debut following a series of strong performances in the Trojans’ 11-a-side team. Chris Mitchell was another first team debutant after making the jump from the Trojans ‘A’ team. The Overthorpe Park side looked to make an early impression on this game and set about the visitors from the off. Danny Ratcliffe looked impressive as he lead the Thornhill team around the field. But Waterhead stood firm and absorbed the early pressure. In a relatively quiet first period the main talking points were the number of high shots in the tackle which halted the game on numerous occasions as players from both teams required treatment. One recipient of a high challenge was Liam Morley, but it didn’t stop the heavily bandaged Trojan from breaking the deadlock between the two sides in the 34th minute. Morley’s touchdown was converted by George Woodcock for a 6-0 half-time lead. As the second half got underway Waterhead looked to up the tempo and sensed they were capable of turning the game around. But Thornhill were awarded a couple of successive penalties following a period of sustained pressure. The first was for a shoulder charge in back play and the second was for a high tackle. The second penalty was close to the Waterhead posts and the Trojans opted to go for goal – George Woodcock adding the two points. By now the Waterhead team were still playing with enthusiasm by the bucket-load and refused to give in. The Trojans knew they weren't safe and the next time they were awarded a penalty they went for goal, but Woodcock’s kick drifted agonisingly wide. The visitors did come close to scoring in the second half when man of the match James Craven made a raid for the try line however Waterhead’s cover defence managed to bundle Craven into touch. The hosts then powered forward on a run but a brilliant last-ditch tackle from Woodcock stopped the initial raid. But Waterhead pressed on and Jamie Mayall reached over to plant the ball down for the four pointer. Mayall converted his own try to go within two points of the defending champions. The game suddenly came to life and Thornhill’s defence was severely tested. The home side looked to have scored out wide but Craven pulled off a marvellous tackle to prevent the ball from being grounded. The former Bulldog effectively saved the day for the Trojans as shortly after the referee blew for full-time. In terms of warm-up games the Trojans could have asked for nothing more ahead of their 2017 National Conference League Division Two campaign. Thornhill host Lock Lane in the first round of the Challenge Cup tomorrow (2pm).
‘TOP EIGHT IS A MUST’ But Rams boss Morrison is hoping for more from his side in 2017 By Joe Link Sports Reporter joe@thepressnews.co.uk
DEWSBURY RAMS head coach Glenn Morrison has revealed that finishing outside the top eight in the Championship this year is not an option as his side prepare for their fourth and final warm-up game at Leigh on Sunday, before their league campaign kicks off against Rochdale on February 5. The Rams have lost all three of their friendlies so far against Batley, Wakefield and The Yowies touring side but the Aussie coach, entering his fifth year in charge at the Tetley’s Stadium, is hopeful for an impressive performance in what could prove their toughest pre-season outing. Newly-promoted Leigh racked up 50 points against Wigan last weekend and their head coach Neil Jukes has promised a game to everyone who didn’t feature against the 2016 Grand Final winners. That means the Rams are likely to face a strong Centurions side consisting of the likes of Micky Higham, Dayne Weston and Willie Tonga, while new signing Lachlan Burr, from Bradford, can also expect a run at Leigh Sports Village. “You want to play strong sides,” said Morrison. “You learn much more about players and how the squad is performing as a whole when that is the case. “Leigh have a squad full of inter-
nationals so no matter what team Neil (Jukes) puts out I’m sure we’re going to be challenged across the field. “But the Championship is really strong this year so we need to prepare by playing quality sides. “We’re desperate to compete and improve on eighth last season, but that won’t be easy when you’re playing teams with the spending power of Hull KR. “But we turned Bradford over last year who were spending a lot more money so we’ll be fighting hard in every game we play. “But finishing in the top eight is a must for us.” Dewsbury are still awaiting the results of a scan on Josh Guzdek’s knee injury and the full-back is expected to miss out on the first couple of games of the new season. That opens the door for a number players to impress Morrison and stake a claim to fill in at full-back when the season gets underway. Captain Paul Sykes is a likely option but Morrison is keen for the veteran utility back to play in the halves this year. “I’m not sure who will be play at full-back yet but I’m pretty sure Josh will be out for a few more weeks,” added the Aussie coach. “Paul (Sykes) has been filling in there recently, but I do want him to get game time in the halves as well, so someone new is going to fill in at full-back and they'll have a chance to stake a claim. “We’re a bit thin on the ground at the moment though so we’re not going to be at full strength when we face Leigh on Sunday.”
Dewsbury’s injured full-back Josh Guzdek in action against Leigh last April at the Tetley’s Stadium
Diskin’s in-form Bulldogs take on Castleford in final warm-up game ahead of the new season BATLEY BOSS Matt Diskin admits he has been encouraged by the way his side have adapted to new structures in pre-season and has warned their Championship rivals that his squad has “plenty more room for improvement”. Diskin has a 100 per cent record as head coach at Mount Pleasant following wins over Dewsbury on Boxing Day and Keighley last weekend, but Batley’s toughest warm-up match comes tonight (Friday, 7.30pm) against Castleford, in what will be the Bulldogs’ third and final pre-season outing before their Kingstone Press Championship campaign kicks off away at newly-promoted Toulouse on February 5. “I’m suited with how our defence has improved of late, it’s been something we’ve been
working hard on,” said Diskin. “It showed that we’ve been working on it against Keighley, they didn’t really trouble us all game last weekend, but against Castleford we’ll need to step it up another gear if we can. “Structurally we have also been strong but hopefully against Castleford we can be a bit smarter now we have another game under our belts. “There are definitely still areas for improvement. Physicality is something that comes from the inside and we’re trying our best there, but there is lots more room for improvement which is really encouraging.” This time last year John Kear’s acquisition of Dom Brambani and Pat Walker from Sheffield Eagles proved decisive as the legendary rugby league
coach looked to boost his options at half-back. The duo went on to become integral members of the Bulldogs squad which upset the odds to reach the Super 8s Qualifiers last term and Diskin acknowledges that the halfbacks will be key for Batley
again throughout 2017. “I thought Brambani did really well against Keighley, as did Cain (Southernwood) and Pat (Walker),” added the Bulldogs chief. “Dom needs to help himself by giving himself a little bit more depth so he’ll have more time on the ball which will help him create a few more opportunities for himself and others.” Diskin was also impressed with off-season recruit Dane Manning and James Brown, who both returned to first team action following lengthy lay-offs against Keighley and could feature again tonight at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium against Castleford. Diskin added: “Dane (Manning) and James (Brown) were excellent considering it was their first game back.
“They were a little rusty but that is understandable, they could have also been a bit smarter on occasions, but they were never going to be perfect on their returns.” Meanwhile Batley’s new captain Dom Brambani is eager to get the new season underway as excitement builds ahead of the opening weekend of fixtures. He said: “We’ve been showing steady improvement and we’re building nicely to the first game against Toulouse. “We’ve been working on a lot of of new structures this year with Disko (Matt Diskin) coming in, but the boys are really buying into them and we’re looking sharp. “The boys have trained really well in pre-season and we’re looking fit which is good.”