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Friday April 27, 2018

12 MONTHS GUARANTEE

No. 839

50p

Dad’s tribute to tragic son James, 14

Keeping it civil at Oakwell

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With an election looming, are council candidates

PLAYING POLITICS

WITH PARKING?

By Zoë Shackleton News Reporter zoe@thepressnews.co.uk

A WAR of words has broken out between election candidates over parking charges in North Kirklees towns.

Incumbent councillor John Lawson (Lib Dem) hit back after Labour hopeful Tom Kowalski said there were categorically no plans to introduce parking charges in Cleckheaton.

Currently, parking is free in Cleckheaton, Heckmondwike, Batley and Birstall – but Coun Lawson claims the ruling Labour party are planning to bring in charges after Kirklees Council released its budget for the year.

Mr Kowalski accused the Lib Dems of scaremongering when they launched a petition to fight plans to review parking charges. More than 6,500 people have since signed it.

He said: “It is time to set the record straight on this: there is no proposal to introduce parking charges in any of Cleckheaton’s car parks.

“The Lib Dem election material

Labour candidate Tom Kowalski

Lib-Dem incumbent John Lawson (right) with fellow Cleckheaton councillor Andrew Pinnock would have residents believe that it has already been decided that these parking charges will be introduced.

This is simply untrue.

“Also, the petition against these charges is scaremongering and risks damaging business confidence

in the town.

“The fact the Lib Dem election posters say ‘no parking charges’ shows how little they have to offer the electorate.”

The section in the council’s budget dedicated to parking tariffs out-

lines a review into “how car parking and parking tariffs contribute to the vibrancy and attractiveness of the district’s towns and villages and their contribution to the economy.”

Coun Lawson, who is standing for re-election on May 3, said: “Kirklees Labour seem now to be denying their plans for parking charges that

they voted for in the council’s budget on February 14.

“The public budget document shows that there is to be a ‘review’ of parking charges.

“This review will result in more than £250,000 being raised in parking charges, so higher charges are

Continued on page 2

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ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

Candidates clash over parking Deaths BIRKETT (FORMERLY BRADBURN) (NEE HEYWOOD) JOAN On April 16, in hospital, of Ashworth Grange, for-

CHIPPENDALE IVY

merly of Dewsbury, aged 86, wife of the late Brian.

Funeral service will be held at Trinity Church, Batley Carr, on Thursday May 10 at 1.45pm.

On April 13, peacefully, of Liversedge, aged 79, wife of Barry. Funeral service will be held at St James Church, Heckmondwike, on Thursday May 3 at 1.30pm.

COOKSON DOREEN On April 24, peacefully at home, of Cleckheaton, aged 86, wife of Eric.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Tuesday May 1 at 3.15pm.

EVANS (NEE MALLINSON) SHIRLEY On April 17, peacefully at Eden Court Nursing Home, Birkenshaw, aged 83, formerly of Batley, wife of the late Harry.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Tuesday May 8 at 2pm.

FISHER MARGARET ANN ‘MAGGIE’ On April 21, at home, of Chickenley, aged 56, daughter of the late Kenneth and Joan Fisher.

Funeral service will be held at St Paul’s Church, Hanging Heaton, on Friday May 4 at 11am.

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Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Wednesday May 2 at 1.15pm.

HARSLEY (NEE DRANSFIELD) MARGARET On April 11, peacefully at Fieldhead Park Nursing Home, of Mirfield, aged 88, wife of the late Geoffrey. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Tuesday May 15 at 10.30am.

OLDFIELD BRENDA On April 13, peacefully at Fieldhead Park Nursing Home, of Mirfield, aged 87, loving mum, grandma and great grandma.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Tuesday May 3 at 3.15pm.

PERRIN BRIAN ANTHONY On April 17, peacefully in hospital, of Batley, aged 69, much-loved dad and granddad. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Tuesday May 1 at 11.15am.

ROWBOTTOM DIANE ELIZABETH On April 3, at Pinderfields Hospital, of Liversedge, aged 68, mother of Nigel, Mark, Sarah and Frederick. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Wednesday May 2 at 11.15am.

SENIOR GARRY On April 22, peacefully at Linson Court Nursing Home, of Liversedge, aged 77, husband of the late Pauline. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Friday May 4 at 2.45pm.

STOREY FRED On April 13, suddenly in hospital, of Liversedge, aged 85, husband of Molly. Funeral service will be held at Norristhorpe UR Church on Friday May 11 at 10.30am.

SYKES (NEE NICHOLSON) IRENE ELIZABETH On April 19, in hospital, of Thornhill Lees, aged 78, mother of Paul,

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TANNAHILL JOHN FERGUSON On April 14, peacefully in hospital, of Soothill, aged 89, husband of the late Jean. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium today, Friday, at 2.45pm.

WALSH (FORMERLY WILCOCK) (NEE SCOTT) DOROTHY On April 20, surrounded by family at home, of Ravensthorpe, aged 81, wife of the late John.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Friday May 11 at 12.30pm.

WOOD CHRISTOPHER BARRY ‘WOODY’ On April 14, suddenly at home, of Gomersal, aged 53, husband of Angela.

Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Thursday May 3 at 2pm.

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Suzanne, Carol, Samanatha, Lisa and the late Claire. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Wednesday May 2 at 10.30am.

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From page one real. The public document also refers to a review of parking charges in small towns and villages. Cleckheaton (and Batley and Birstall) are in this category.

“On the basis of this public information local Lib Dems know there is a real threat to our town’s free parking.

“Free parking helps sustain our town and keep it vibrant. We are determined it will stay that way and that there will be no parking charges.”

Labour’s deputy leader Coun Shabir Pandor (Batley West) maintained that there was no mention of introducing parking charges, despite Coun Lawson saying there is evidence in the budget showing the council “do indeed have plans to end free parking in Cleckheaton and elsewhere.”

Mr Kowalski added: “The truth is that the council’s officers are reviewing the parking charges paid across Kirklees car parks, since these have not risen since 2007.

“The officers will report back in the autumn and it is likely that a modest increase to current parking charges will be the result.

“There is no suggestion that this review will recommend introducing parking charges in Cleckheaton and the Labour Party is not proposing any such change.”

Get on your bike for memorial ride KIRKLEES-BASED charity Streetbikes is inviting people to join a community cycling event in Liversedge next month.

The John Radford Mixed Ability Memorial Ride and Cycling Festival takes place on Saturday May 5 (9am4pm) and is open to all ages and abilities.

The event is being held in memory of cyclist John Radford, who died in Huddersfield aged 70 after being injured when he was knocked off his bike in July 2013.

Starting from the Princess Mary Athletics Stadium off Bradford Road in Littletown, there will be a road ride in the morning, a ride on the nearby Greenway in the afternoon and rides around the athletics track available from

10am until 3pm.

Two-wheeled and adapted bikes will be on hand to borrow, along with helmets.

Everyone who takes part will also receive a medal.

Entry is £4, to book a place call 07873 773417.

For more details visit www.streetbikes.org.uk.

ThePress Friday April 27, 2018 Issue No: 839

31 Branch Road Batley West Yorkshire WF17 5SB Tel: 01924 470296 Fax: 01924 472561

www.thepressnews.co.uk @ThePressLatest /ThePressNews Publisher: Danny Lockwood Editor: David Bentley Reporter: Zoë Shackleton Sports Reporter: Ben McKenna Graphic Designer: Craig Moore Sales Manager: Lucy Tissiman Sales Executives: Nicola Finch, Janet Black, Rachael Hall Accounts administrator: Angela Hall

The Press abides by the principles of the Independent Press Standards Organisation and at all times attempts to report fairly and accurately and correct mistakes or errors as soon as possible.

In the first instance, contact the editor, otherwise we will be happy to give details of the Independent Press Standards Organisation.

ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

TRADERS’ CHIEF CALLS FOR PROACTIVE POLICING TO TACKLE CRIME AND NUISANCE

‘If you see a police officer in Birstall you know a crime has already been committed...’

By Zoe Shackleton TRADERS in Birstall say they are at their wits’ end and claim nothing has been done to increase police patrols in the area.

David Exley, vice chairman of the Birstall Chamber of Trade, has now written to Kirklees Police Chief Supt Steve Cotter to again voice members’ concerns following a spate of crime and anti-social behaviour.

The Press reported on March 23 that Mr Exley had contacted Batley & Spen Inspector Mohammed Rauf (who has since moved on) about criminal activity in Birstall.

But now he has taken matters further, saying Birstall is “still without any police presence” and taken his campaign to the district’s highest-ranking officer.

Despite Mr Exley’s concerns, police say they have been “conducting a proactive anti-social behaviour operation since January, following reports from local residents about a number of issues and concerns.”

In his letter this week Mr Exley said: “I am not asking for extra policing, I am asking for some proactive policing, not reactive policing like we have now.

“At the moment if you see a police officer in Birstall you know

a crime has already been committed. I assure you there appears to be little or no police presence at any other time.

“I would also like it noted that I am not criticising any of your officers, as I know from personal experience that they do a very good job once a crime has been committed.

“I am explaining the need to try and prevent crimes and also allow residents and shoppers to feel safe doing their everyday, mundane tasks like just going shopping.”

Mr Exley said there had been various incidents with nuisance motorbike riders terrorising

Two arrested after car hits garden wall TWO people were arrested after a car smashed into a wall in Heckmondwike.

The vehicle crashed into the garden wall at an address on White Lee Road early on Wednesday morning before a man got out of the car and assaulted two people.

A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: “Officers were called shortly before 5.50am following reports that a vehicle had collided with the garden wall of a

property. It was further reported that a man had got out of the vehicle and assaulted two members of the public present.

“A 19-year-old woman, believed to be a passenger in the vehicle, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of

Royal wedding castle treat for pooch Archie

Shoplifter with 84 offences on record

A DOG-LOVER has spent over £5,000 having a replica of Windsor Castle built for her pooch as an ode to the royal wedding.

Susan Crossland, 53, of Mirfield, has had the two-metre high, hand-painted version of the castle built in her back garden for 10-year-old Lhasa Apso dog Archie.

A team of seven took 244 hours to complete the structure, commissioned and designed by The Russell Beck Studio in south London.

Mrs Crossland said: “I love royal weddings and I love the royals. I just thought it might be a bit quirky to have something nice for Archie so I had him a Windsor Castle made and he absolutely loves it.”

A SHOPLIFTER with 84 offences on his record has been handed a suspended jail term.

Gareth Paxman, of Hare Park Avenue, Liversedge, appeared before Kirklees magistrates on five charges of shop theft, two of assault and one of using threatening behaviour.

He tried to steal a packet of biscuits from Haigh’s Farm Shop in Mirfield on January 9, then attempted to conceal the goods and became aggressive when challenged by staff.

The 28-year-old was then caught stealing whisky from Morrisons in Heckmondwike on February 10, and £140 worth of goods from the

obstructing a police constable in the execution of their duty.

“A 29-year-old man was arrested nearby on suspicion of assault by beating and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Both remain in custody at this time.”

Cleckheaton Tesco on February 3, 4 and 5.

Paxman also stole socks and sweets from Poundstretcher in Heckmondwike and targeted a Boots in Brighouse.

He was aggressive when caught at each location and security had to detain him at the Poundstretcher.

Paxman, who tested positive for the misuse of cocaine, was sentenced to 26 weeks behind bars, suspended for 18 months.

He was ordered to pay £50 in compensation to each security guard and £140 to Tesco.

He must also pay £200 for prosecution costs and a £115 victim surcharge.

motorists, youths throwing bricks at a female motorist and elderly women having their bags snatched.

A police spokesman said: “A PC and three PCSOs have been completing dedicated patrols throughout the whole of the area, focusing on the problem areas and have been proactively dealing with reports of anti-social behaviour, thefts, criminal damage and illegal off-road bikes and quads.

“The local community has assisted police with providing vital information, including dash cam footage of off-road bikes.

Because of this, the riders were identified and were handed section 69 warnings and court summons for the offences committed.”

He added: “Councillors and members at the Birstall Chamber of Trade have been updated by the ward officer of that area with ongoing policing activity.

“The newly appointed local neighbourhood policing inspector Dorian James is meeting with a member of the Birstall Chamber of Trade shortly to address any other concerns.”

News In Brief Knife robber faces more time in jail BATLEY: A robber who has already been in jail for stabbing a shopkeeper in the arm faces more time behind bars after robbing a man at knifepoint.

Kamran Zafran was on licence from a fouryear prison sentence – imposed in May 2015 for the attack on a shopkeeper during a robbery – when he robbed the victim on July 31 on Healey Lane, Batley.

The 20-year-old pleaded guilty at Leeds Crown Court to robbery and having a weapon or a bladed article with a point, namely a knife.

Zafran, of Arncliffe Road, Healey, was remanded in custody for probation reports before he is sentenced on May 17.

Station parking victory MIRFIELD: Coun Martyn Bolt and the Friends of Mirfield Railway Station action group are celebrating after securing the funds needed to improve the station’s car park.

The money from regional transport budgets will initially increase the number of parking spaces by 24 adjacent to the exisiting car park. Work starts on Monday (April 30) and up to 100 spaces could be created in the next few years if Network Rail resolve land issues.

Man, 39, found dead BATLEY: The body of a 39-year-old man was found at a property on Norfolk Street last Friday morning.

Police have begun an investigation and a spokesman said: “Police were called on Friday April 20 at around 11.40am for a concern for safety. Officers attended an address on Norfolk Street in Batley and discovered a body of a man inside.

“The 39-year-old was pronounced deceased at the scene. A 26-year-old woman is assisting police with their investigation.”

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ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

We won’t create world peace by sitting around having a cup of tea, but it’s a start ... and you have to start somewhere

News In Brief Social care sessions KIRKLEES: Council officials are hosting public drop-in sessions so residents can have their say on potential changes to adult social care.

They want as many people to participate in the consultation so that they can properly review the funding and support users receive, plus the way payments are made and used.

People can ask questions or share concerns at Dewsbury Customer Service Centre on Wednesday May 9 (9am to 5pm).

Residents can also complete a form on the council website (www.kirklees.gov.uk) or email kirklees@publicperspectives.co.uk for a paper copy. People have until May 17 to respond.

Kim steps into key role for events honouring her sister, Jo Cox

K

IM LEADBEATER is under no illusions that bringing people together once a year will solve all the world’s problems – but she hopes it will go some way to tackling division within communities.

Press reporter Zoe Shackleton sat down with the sister of murdered MP Jo Cox to discuss future plans now she has taken on more of a leadership role within the Jo Cox Foundation. Kim became an ambassador for the foundation in February after Mrs Cox’s husband Brendan stepped down – and she has spent the past few weeks travelling up and down the country promoting this year’s Great Get Together (GGT).

Thousands of people across the UK came together for events last year which were held over the weekend marking a year since Mrs Cox was murdered on June 16, 2016.

And Kim admitted that this year’s plans look set to be bigger and better than last year. “I think it shows that appetite for an opportu-

Win a new iPad KIRKLEES: Residents could be in with a chance of winning an iPad by registering for a My Kirklees Account, which provides access to a range of council services online 24-7.

Anyone who registers for an account before midnight on Monday, April 30, and links it to either a council tax, rent or benefits account, as well as signing up for paperless billing, will be automatically entered into a free prize draw for a new iPad. Register at https://my.kirklees.gov.uk.

Playcamp bookings KIRKLEES: Booking for this year’s Kirklees Summer Playcamp is now open.

Children aged between nine and 12 will get the chance to stay at Woolley Edge Scout Camp for four days and three nights on a number of different dates, supervised by experienced volunteers.

Kids can get involved in games in the woods, archery, a waterslide and other activities. Subsidised places for children from lowincome families are also on offer.

To book or for more information, visit www.kirkleessummerplaycamp.com.

Club takes to Tracks PROBUS: The next meeting of Batley and Dewsbury Probus Club will be on Tuesday, May 1. A feature called ‘Tracks of my Years’ will be presented at the Batley Older People’s Centre from 10.30am.

Visitors and potential members welcome.

For further information call 01924 471337.

nity for people to come together in a positive way and I think sometimes all people need is a platform to do that,” said Kim. “It’s not to pretend that there aren’t issues that need to be dealt with in terms of communities, but we can either moan and complain about that or we can get on and try to do something about it.

“That’s what Jo was like, and that’s what the GGT is all about. It’s not pretending everything is perfect and we’re not going to create world peace by sitting around having a cup of tea, but it’s a start and you have to start somewhere.”

Kim and her team have made the decision this year to celebrate what would have been Mrs Cox’s 44th birthday by holding the GGT from June 22-24.

She said: “We want to remember Jo’s life, we want to remember how she lived rather than how she died, and that felt like the right thing to do (changing the date of the weekend).

“Our main priority at the minute is the GGT, to make that another fantastic weekend which is partly locally

Women join the drive for community cohesion WOMEN came together to promote community cohesion at a coffee morning organised by the Spen Valley branch of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association (AMWA).

Deputy Mayor of Kirklees Gwen Lowe spoke about the importance of relationships between people from different backgrounds while Rashda Ahmad, outreach co-ordinator for the AMWA, gave a presentation about the work of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community.

Guests at the event in Batley included Judith Greenwood from the Batley Cemetery Support Group and Tahera Mayat (Friends of Batley Station).

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about remembering Jo but it’s also about trying to create something positive from such horrific circumstances – which we did so successfully last year across the country.”

Locally there are various events including the Big Batley Iftar on Saturday, June 9, which is being held earlier than most celebrations because it has to be done during the Muslim month of Ramadan.

Everyone is invited to that event, as they are to a commemorative rugby game on Sunday, June 17, when Batley Bulldogs take on Sheffield Eagles.

The Jo Cox Foundation and Bulldogs are subsidising costs so spectators can enjoy the game free of charge in memory of Mrs Cox. The Run for Jo is taking place on Sunday. June 24, at Oakwell Hall, followed by a big screen showing of England’s World Cup football game against Panama to encourage people to stay all day and enjoy each other’s company.

To get involved and for details on local events, go to www.greatgettogether.org.

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Man’s attack on girlfriend ‘stupid in the extreme’ A MAN who was high on drugs and alcohol pushed his girlfriend down some stairs at a nightclub in Batley.

Jordan Gettings and his partner of four months were arguing at the TBC club on April 7 after he accused her of cheating.

The 20-year-old admitted the assault – pushing her in the back and causing her to fall down six steps and suffering pain to her head and jaw.

He said he became jealous when he thought she was

touching another man. Gettings, of Syke Ing Close, Chickenley, admitted drinking eight pints, several shots and taking cocaine.

Judge Michael Fanning said Gettings’ violence was “stupid in the extreme” and that he could have killed her.

He must complete a 12-month community order with 15 rehabilitation days and 70 hours of unpaid work, as well as paying £85 in court costs and an £85 victim surcharge.

ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

Maisy’s teddy bears’ picnic shocks vets!

By Steve Martyn VETS were shocked when they made an unusual discovery in a dog’s stomach.

Jane Dickinson, of Roberttown, feared her eight-year-old St Bernard Maisy had cancer after she had an unusually full stomach and scans showed she had a mass on her spleen.

But when vet surgeon Nick Blackburn, of Paragon Veterinary Referrals in Wakefield, carried out an operation to remove Maisy’s spleen he found four teddy bears in her stomach.

Nick said: “It’s fair to say this was not something we were expecting to find!

“We all know certain dogs enjoy chewing things they shouldn’t, but managing to devour four

News In Brief M&S reunion raises cash to fight cancer

full teddy bears is quite a feat.

“I know Jane was worried about Maisy as she is quite old for a St Bernard, so we were naturally delighted the operation was such a success and we were able to return a happy, healthy dog to the Dickinsons.”

Maisy has since made a full recovery from the operation.

Jane said: “When Maisy went in I did think ‘is she coming out?’

But she is loving life now – it’s like she’s got her youth back.

“The teddies weren’t even hers!

We have two chihuahuas and she will play with their toys but I’ve never seen her trying to chew them. Her eating habits had been completely normal.

“I didn’t even recognise one of the teddies but my brother also keeps chihuahuas and it turns out it belonged to his dog.”

OAKWELL HALL TRAVELS BACK IN TIME FOR ENGLISH CIVIL WAR SPECTACLE

BIRSTALL’s Oakwell Hall stepped back in time for a Civil War re-enactment.

The Civil War Society took over the Grade-I listed building to give visitors a glimpse of what life would have been like living there in the 1640s, at the time of the battle of Adwalton Moor, which took place less than a mile away.

A military display featuring the society’s ‘Colonel Robert Overton’s Regiment of Foote’ was the highlight, as well as music from period instruments and various activities for adults and children.

Pictures: Mike Clark

Councillors dump Man admits to Costa Hecky plan breach of order HECKMONDWIKE won’t be getting a new Costa coffee shop after councillors turned down revised proposals at a planning sub-committee.

The shop was due to be built on the edge of the Northgate Retail Park but had previously been deferred twice due to concerns over highway safety and its distance to neighbouring properties.

A revised proposal, which included reducing the overall height of the building by 50cm, was dismissed at the Heavy Woollen Planning Sub-commit-

tee. Costa was looking to build near the entrance to the retail park, off Albion Street but residents said it would be “unbearable” if the development went ahead.

Coun Michelle Grainger-Mead (Con, Liversedge & Gomersal) said: “The plans are not sufficient to convince me that the visual amenity is that much better than it was previously.

“I don’t think the traffic system will be improved.

“Quite frankly, it’s pretty much the same as it was last time round.”

A 20-YEAR-OLD man who assaulted his pregnant girlfriend breached the community order he was given as punishment.

Joshua Beaumont was made to complete 20 days of rehabilitation activities and was sentenced to 10 weeks behind bars, suspended for a year, because of the attack.

But he missed two appointments on November 29 and December 13 and didn’t show up for a hearing at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court in January this year.

Probation staff didn’t hear from him

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after he was absent from the appointments and he didn’t tell them he had moved from his former home in Cleckheaton.

Magistrates heard that Beaumont, who suffers from mental health problems, lost his accommodation and missed correspondence from his probation worker.

Beaumont, of Firthcliffe Place, Liversedge, pleaded guilty to breaching the order, which was extended by three months, with three rehabilitation activity days added on.

DEWSBURY: Staff from the town’s former Marks & Spencer store raised more than £1,000 at a reunion event.

The get-together of workers from the store on Northgate, which closed in 2007, began after former colleague Susan Gilchrist and spouse Barry Hanson died of cancer – and staff wanted to use this year’s event to raise money for cervical cancer and World Cancer Research Fund UK. They made £1,100 from raffles, quizzes and bingo, and enjoyed a magician and a pork pie supper at Hanging Heaton cricket club.

Fun day fundraiser MIRFIELD: The family and friends of a mum who died of cancer earlier this year have organised a charity event to raise money for Kirkwood Hospice.

Sarah Green passed away in February and a family fun day will be held in her memory on Saturday June 9 at Battyeford Playing Fields off Huddersfield Road.

There will be a dog show, stalls, refreshments, live music and much more from noon to 8pm.

All proceeds from entry (adults £2, children £1) will go to the hospice under ‘Sarah’s Wish’ – a fund set up by Sarah’s family to raise money in her memory.

We have recently had an OFSTED inspection and received GOOD in all areas.

Below are a few quotes from the OFSTED inspector.

“All groups of children achieve well during their time in the nursery” “Staff successfully help them to develop in independence, confidence and self-awareness” “Relationships with parents are strong” “There is a clear direction for future developments and staff work well as a team” We have spaces for children from birth onwards, collection and drop off to our local schools and school club during the holidays.

Feel free to contact on 01924488808, text on 07909850309, Or visit our website http://childsplay-dewsbury.co.uk/ for more information

ThePress

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Friday April 27, 2018

NOW ON SALE The fully 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

My bike’s ready for the knackers yard ORMAN TEBBIT never actually told the feckless unemployed to get “on yer bike” and look for work in the aftermath of the 1981 Brixton riots. He was actually referring to how his own father dealt with the cruel depression of the 1930s.

Still, why let the facts get in the way of a good headline, eh?

For reasons soon to become apparent, my mind tended towards politicians and bikes during last Saturday’s pleasant afternoon – before the fluffing rains returned and the central heating went back on.

I can’t recall ever picturing politicians of any party in the altogether, although the Tory MP Penny Mordaunt filled her cossie handsomely in the reality TV show Splash (she’s let herself go a bit since becoming a cabinet minister).

I have actually fantasized

N

Coun Martyn Bolt (in the ‘quiet’ lime jacket) and friends, out on rural traffic-slowing duty about Diane Abbott in straps and chains – but only in the context of being dragged over broken rocks behind a team of wild horses.

But by about 3.20pm last Saturday, as my lungs wheezed, thighs cramped, and sweat obscured my prescription sunglasses – or it

could have been streaming tears – I could think of little except Mirfield councillor Martyn Bolt’s scrotum.

I should probably explain, before anyone brings their breakfast back up.

I see more of mad keen cyclist Bolty outside my house than I ever do around

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Dewsbury and Mirfield – and we live 45 miles apart.

He and his lycra-clad pals flashed past the Farmer’s Market on the village green a couple of weeks back. Before that we had a quick natter as they waited patiently at the traffic lights before crossing the river Derwent, heading off into East Yorkshire.

It’s that time of year. At weekends particularly the roads of the (mostly) pancake flat Vale of York are festooned by middle aged blokes dressed up as Power Rangers.

I get it, the exercise thing – especially in the company of like-minded people who are too uncoordinated to partake of a proper leisure activity like golf.

I have a bike, but not one of these three grand, carbon fibre/titanium machines that weigh less than Kate’s newborn prince.

Mine has thick black tyres.

It had 24 Shimano gears, but only about half a dozen now work – and then only when they feel like changing, usually when I’m stood up on the pedals on an incline, at which point they slip and I almost sacrifice my manhood in the name of ‘fitness’. The back brake is ok-ish.

Which brings us to Bolty’s b*****s.

Saturday was lovely. Buds and blooms on the trees, spring properly in the air. I got the bike out.

Now, I’d rather set off in a pink tutu than all that fluorescent, skin-tight pervy gear these people favour. Sensible shorts, trainers and polo shirt for Locky, thanks.

On my head, just a lathering of Factor 30 (we men with fashionably short hair have to be careful). You see, I don’t want drivers to mistake me for ‘a cyclist’. I’m just a bloke pootling about on his bike.

Treat me with caution like the ordinary Joe I am, not a

OME of you will go to the polls next Thursday to decide the make-up of Kirklees Council for the year ahead.

Most of you won’t bother.

It’s a toss up which lot will whine and moan most about Labour’s appalling, systematic neglect of Dewsbury and Batley particularly, but north Kirklees generally. But actually do something about it?

No doubt you’d get worked up but can’t be bothered, because nothing ever changes.

It won’t if you don’t make it.

I presume the nine Dewsbury and six Batley Labour councillors are happy as Larry about plans for a £45 MILLION cultural quarter in Huddersfield.

Our libraries and museums?

No big deal. Just so long as they can rely on useful idiots to tick a box every three or four years and keep them in the well-heeled, stress-free manner they’re accustomed to.

But getting stuff done? Let me ask you – has your car hit a pothole recently? There are more potholes than cars it seems. But does the council care? Well, not enough that they haven’t paid out nearly £1m in motorists’ claims in five

S

hi-vis enthusiast with an attitude that the road is as much his as the car owner.

My destination was a distant village pub with a nice outside seating area, past which Mrs L would be driving later. The bike could go in the back and I could be transported home, suitably refreshed, in comfort.

I worked up a right sweat and a thirst, I can tell you, because those bike tyres needed pumping up and the six gears are down to three.

And so of course the bloody pub was shut, wasn’t it? And the wife wasn't answering her phone, was she? And the ride home was into a stiff headwind for good

years – with £2m outstanding.

Still, that’s no surprise given that there’s a £76 million backlog in the Kirklees highway maintenance budget. There’s plenty of money for idiotic road humps up Grange Road in Batley though, playing havoc with industrial traffic.

The councill will blame Tory cuts for the pothole chaos, because it’s all they do. I can only presume that where Huddersfield is concerned, Jeremy Corbyn’s sent them cuttings from his money tree.

PS: He hasn’t – you Labourvoting Dewsbury and Batley stooges are paying for it! My, how they must laugh at you.

ICE to see Beardy Sheardy, still nominally the leader of Kirklees Council, getting a serving from a Labour MP, Wes Streeting.

Coun David Sheard (Heckmondwike) took sarcastic issue with the MP over rampant anti-semitism within the proHamas, pro-Hezbollah Labour party. Streeting replied: “If that’s your attitude to tackling racism in our party then you’re not fit to hold public office.”

Couldn’t have said it better myself...

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measure, obviously.

About halfway back, crossing the Pocklington canal and contemplating whether to throw the flaming bike in it and walk home, my mind turned to councillor Martyn's nether regions.

He and his mates do 100 miles or more at a time, all the time. I can only imagine the fellas must all have leather knackers.

I felt like my entire undercarriage had been daubed with Fiery Jack – and I’d have more chance getting Diane Abbott to apply ice and TLC than the wife. The bike’s back in the garage. I’m still sitting on a big cushion, whimpering gently.

Customs union? It’s a liars’ game I F YOU are at all mystified by the whistles, bangs and smokescreens filling the Westminster air about Brexit and a possible customs union between the UK and EU, allow me to explain.

It’s an ambush, in short.

Labour are using the spurious notion of staying in a customs union in a cynical attempt to sow dissent in government, bring down Theresa May and force a general election.

They’re also kidding the public, but what’s new?

Tory EU quislings like MP Anna Soubry are at least honest in pursuing it ‘within’ Brexit – because it would in effect render Brexit meaningless.

Remaining in a customs union would mean open border immigration, being bound

by EU tariffs and law (without being able to forge our own trade deals) – all, while having no say whatsoever in what the power-mad EU Commission decide.

It. Is. The. Worst. Possible.

Outcome. For. The. UK. Is that clear enough? And remember folks – that EU Parliament you vote for is a folly; it can’t make laws, just rubber stamp the diktats of Jean Claude Juncker and his unelected EU Commission.

Having reached some Brexit accords, the EU’s keen eyed Michael Barnier has sniffed

weakness in Theresa the Appeaser again and started playing silly beggars. The EU plan is still to sabotage Brexit at all costs.

Consider this. Switzerland is landlocked by EU countries. It is not in the customs union but has agreements giving it wide access to the single market. It suits the Swiss (who fairly pay for it) and suits the EU. But they are loathe to let the UK have such a deal because at best thwarting Brexit, or at worst punishing us for it, is their be all and end all.

May needs to keep her nerve and prepare to walk away. It’s the only way to stop this infernal scheming.

ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

Dealer had 120 packs of drugs

Burglars flee with coffee shop till

A DRUG dealer from Mirfield who was caught with 120 packages of heroin and crack cocaine is back behind bars.

David Lewin already had previous convictions for drugs-related offences when he was jailed for four years in 2007 over conspiracy to supply the same Class A drugs.

But he had stayed out of trouble until officers saw him selling the narcotics from a vehicle on Tunnacliffe Road in Newsome on May 18 last year.

Police had been conducting a planned operation when they searched 36-year-old Lewin to find 80 packages of crack cocaine (8.7g), 38 packages of heroin (6.3g) and two smaller packages (0.3g).

Leeds Crown Court heard that they also found a lock knife in his pocket and £1,425 in cash.

Lewin, of Calder View, Lower Hopton, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs, possessing a

BURGLARS targeted another Dewsbury town centre business over the weekend.

Cloggs Coffee Shop on Tithe Barn Street was broken into overnight between Saturday April 21 and April 22.

Suspects forced entry to the front door window and stole a till before fleeing the scene.

Officers were at the premises at 8.30am on Sunday and are continuing their investigation with CCTV enquiries.

Anyone with any information about the incident should call police via 101 quoting crime reference number 13180190197.

knife in a public place and acquiring, using or possessing criminal property.

Despite Lewin’s mother and expartner saying he had turned his life around since he was last convicted, Judge Penelope Belcher sentenced him to 40 months in prison.

He must also pay a £170 statutory surcharge.

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Food for Life brings together schools, nurseries, hospitals and care homes to promote healthy, tasty and sustainable food.

Their latest programme, ‘Better Care’, aims to demon-

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Field Lane Junior and Infants School children visited residents at Linson Court Care Home to build a hen coop together.

Teacher Katie Drewery said: “My class has been involved in the project for a few months and there have been so many surprises.

“I have seen the children listen with genuine enthusiasm to the stories of residents, even retelling them back at school and at home.

“Others have sat with some residents, as simply being there is just as important as talking.

“It has been a wonderful project for the children in my class, who enjoy talking and listening to others.”

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ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

We need a more a diverse council It is election time yet again. Will the same people go out to vote and the same others not?

Will the voters vote for the same people they have done over and over again, without questioning if that person is worth it?

Councillors are supposed to oversee the work and behaviour of council officers.

However, if the councillors do not have the same educational and intellectual capability, don’t have the guts to challenge wrongdoing at a senior level or are not willing to take on hard casework, then how can these people be the right ones to represent our inter-

Conservatives bring change From: Beth Prescott, Earlsheaton It is that time of year where, next week, we will head to the polls to vote in the local elections.

Letter of the Week: Ms A Rawat, Batley ests? Don’t just keep voting Labour because that’s what you’ve always done. Consider the above questions and give somebody elese a chance. Someone cleverer, with guts and moral integrity.

Are there such candidates out there with these qualities? They need to let us know.

People are fed up of the Labour-led council constantly increasing Council Tax without delivering better services. The local elections are an opportunity to send a signal that we have had enough.

A vote for the Kirklees Conservatives on May 3 is a vote for lower council tax

I am fed up of Labour always winning in this area. It will take a long time to come but I would like a more diverse council membership who can challenge each other to work harder and represent us better.

I know that for now, this is not happening.

and better value for your money.

The Kirklees Conservatives are committed to fighting for desperatelyneeded road repairs, to tackling crime and to ridding our streets of constant litter.

The Kirklees Conservatives will fight for investment across ALL of

Paula Sherriff, MP for Dewsbury and Mirfield

‘Politically speaking’ I won’t stand by and watch cuts A LITTLE over a year ago, Theresa May called a general election, saying that she wanted to ‘guarantee certainty for the years ahead’.

She claimed to be giving the country the ‘strong and stable leadership it demands’.

Sadly, here in Dewsbury, Mirfield, Denby Dale and Kirkburton and across the country, we’ve seen nothing of the sort.

A disastrous election campaign saw the Tories lose 13 seats, and with them their majority. They have only managed to survive in Government via a grubby deal with the DUP, whose support they bought.

In our area, local people continue to tell me of the struggles they face gaining the support they need from our overstretched and underfunded public services.

Over the last year we have had the worst-ever NHS performance, the highest levels of recorded crime in a decade, and confirmation that under the Tories working people will face the longest fall in living standards since records began.

From potholes to housing and social care, we’re seeing the impact of cuts to local councils that amount to a 49.1 per cent reduction over the period 2010-11 to 2017-18.

The government’s much vaunted funding to help tackle the local roads repair backlog is woefully lacking – the Local Government Association states that this amounts to just one per cent of what is actually needed.

And our social care system has been revealed to be ‘at the point of

crisis’, with a £2.5bn funding gap predicted and the situation expected to get ‘worse and worse’, by wellrespected think-tank, The King’s Fund.

I’ve been working hard to keep up the pressure in Parliament, speaking out against cuts to our police and schools – and remorselessly pursuing Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt over the downgrade of our local hospital services.

I won’t stand by and let our public services be eroded through Tory inaction and broken promises.

Y DETERMINATION to stand up for our area is always renewed when I see local groups and organisations who are working hard to promote our communities, so I was pleased recently to meet with the fantastic organisers of

M

Dewsbury Soup.

They’ve set up a brilliant new initiative in the town which aims to help local projects and organisations win funding.

I know from my work as the local MP that many local community voluntary groups and organisations have great ideas for projects but often have difficulty finding the right funding.

So the concept of Dewsbury Soup is great. Come along, make a small donation of £5 (or more!), help yourself to a bowl of soup to eat and listen to pitches of ideas looking for funding. The most popular pitch with the audience, decided by a vote, ‘wins’ the total sum of the donations.

The ideas can be anything, but the only stipulation is that the idea must benefit the Dewsbury and North Kirklees area.

The first ‘Dewsbury Soup’ event will be taking place on May 16. I encourage everybody to go along and I especially encourage any local groups looking for funding for their projects to submit their pitch. To register and find more information go to www.dewsburysoup.org.uk.

As always, if readers feel there is anything I can do to help you or your family, please do not hesitate to get in touch with my constituency office – 01924 565450 or email paula@paulasherriff.org.uk.

Paula

Kirklees.

Recently, the Labour group have again pledged millions of pounds for Huddersfield – £45 million for a ‘cultural quarter’ – but nothing for our area.

Investment in arts and culture is vital, but let’s spread the investment out across all areas rather than throwing money at Huddersfield and ignoring everywhere else.

Dewsbury and Mirfield deserve that investment too.

Things cannot carry on as they are. We deserve better.

In order to secure change, we need to vote for that change.

On May 3, send a clear message that we want lower taxes, value for money and councillors who will fight for investment in Dewsbury and Mirfield.

On May 3, vote for that change in our area. Vote Conservative. I will be.

More double standards From: John Appleyard, Liversedge Once again we are to witness the double standards of the elite in this country, when the Queen again welcomes Bahrain’s King Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa to the Royal Windsor Horse Show on May 12 despite his regime’s human rights abuses.

This unelected despot continues to brutally crush demands for democracy.

The UK Government should be putting pressure on Bahrain to stop its human rights abuses.

Instead in the face of increasing oppression, the UK government has pursued a policy of whitewashing and

appeasement in order to protect arms sales and the military relationships.

Thanks for your support From: Tim Wood, The Old Colonial, Mirfield Many thanks to those who attended our our fundraising quiz and supper raising monies for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

The evening was well attended and we managed to raise £450 on the night for a vital part of our emergency services which relies heavily on public funding.

So a big thank you to all concerned, in particular Mr and Mrs Hunter and staff from the ‘Game of Stones’ team who co-ordinated the event.

LATEST PLANNING APPLICATIONS L Westcott, change of use, erection of extensions and alterations to barn to form dwelling, The Barn, Haigh House Farm, Judy Haigh Lane, Thornhill Edge.

L Burgess, detached garage, adjacent to 32 Industrial Avenue, Birstall.

Mr & Mrs McHale, first floor side extension (within a Conservation Area), 68 Lower Lane, Gomersal.

S Afsar, formation of vehiclular access, 800 Huddersfield Road, Ravensthorpe,.

S Khalid, two-storey rear extension, single-storey front extension and detached garden store, 29 Old Mill View, Thornhill Lees.

Mr Earnshaw, erection of three dwellings, Green Lane Motors, 14 Wormald Street, Millbridge, Liversedge.

SA Kothia, first floor Juliet balcony, 45 Old Mill View, Thornhill Lees.

H Haythorne, alterations to convert part of integral garage to extend living accommodation, 4 Granville Court, Eightlands, Dewsbury.

M Baig, formation of wider vehicular entrance, Albion Mill, Bradford Road, Batley.

AJ Foam Ltd, rear extension to existing unit (modified proposal), Unit B, HLB Business Park, Grange Road, Batley.

A Ul-haq, discharge condition 8 on previous permission 2015/92068 for outline application for residential development, adjacent to 26 Track Road, Batley.

S Gulam, two-storey rear extension, 6 South View Terrace, Ravensthorpe.

Ngong, two-storey extension to rear and sides, 53 Sycamore Way, Birstall.

SAR Architects, outline application for erection of 8 apartments, adjacent to 5 Hartshead Court, Hightown.

Ansa Fiaz, two-storey and single-storey extensions, 34 Trueman Avenue, Heckmondwike.

Mr I Ghiloni, demolition of existing building and erection two-storey workshop and office (B1 Use) and detached garage, land at Holly View Farm, Field Head Lane, Birstall.

Mr & Mrs Roy, single and two-storey rear extension, 45 West End Drive, Moorbottom, Cleckheaton.

Colin Brown, works to trees TPO 10/02, 75 Towngate, Mirfield.

Ralph Sutcliffe, single-storey rear extension, 6 Sands Lane, Mirfield.

Mid Yorkshire Hospital NHS Trust, standby generator and fencing, Dewsbury and District Hospital, Halifax Road, Dewsbury.

E Hudson, certificate of lawfulness for proposed erection of rear dormer window, 6 Victoria Terrace, Gladstone Street, Cleckheaton.

Matthew McKirgan, formation of car park, Whitcliffe Mount School, Turnsteads Avenue, Cleckheaton.

Samirah Hussain, two-storey and single-storey rear extension and alterations, 11 Hill Top Estate, Heckmondwike.

Tahir Zaman, change of use of fourth floor plantrooms and erection of rooftop shelter to create cafe and shisha lounge and advertisement consent for installation of two non-illuminated signs, Yorkshire House, South Street, Dewsbury.

Haroon Passwala, two-storey side and rear extension and dormer to front, 7 Gregory Street, Soothill.

ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

Dad’s emotional tribute to his tragic son James

By Staff Reporters A MIRFIELD father has paid an emotional tribute to his 14-year-old son who died last Wednesday.

James Hick collapsed on his way to school at Mirfield Free Grammar and was helped by passers-by.

He was taken to hospital but passed away that afternoon.

Floral tributes have also been left at the scene on Southway in the London Park Estate. Messages included, “Fly high young man.

RIP” and “Taken way too soon”.

James’s father Michael posted a heartbreaking message on Facebook, which read: “There are no words to describe how we are feeling right now.

“James, you are amazing and

your mum, me and your brothers miss you like crazy. Just want you back.

“I knew I could leave you to look after your mum and brothers if I wasn’t around. I don’t know what to do now.

“Thanks to those that have given and sent wishes and those that tried to help.

“The MFG, teachers and particularly the children from there have been exceptional.

“You had so much ahead of you that we won’t be able to share and you were definitely loved, I hope you knew that.

“I know we were embarrassing at times but we sure had some good times and these should have been your happy memories in years to come.

Centenary war badges available NEW badges commemorating the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War are now available in Mirfield.

The Royal British Legion fundraising pins can be obtained for a suggested donation of £3 from Poppy Appeal officer Tim Wood, land-

“Deep down, you were still the little boy we all fell in love with.

We don’t know what to do without you, you helped to fill our home and car and now life feels empty.

“So very proud of the young man you were growing up to be.

You certainly were popular, more than we ever realised.”

James had four younger brothers and a JustGiving page has been set up to raise £10,000 for funeral costs. More than £6,000 has been raised.

James played football with Battyeford Sporting Club and young footballers from Crossley Fields – James’s former school – and Crowlees stood for a minute’s applause before their game on Saturday, as did Ossett Town under-16s and Drighlington under-

News In Brief Man ‘stole pensioner’s £200 coin collection’ DEWSBURY: A man has been accused of stealing a pensioner’s coin collection worth £200.

Mark Wilkins allegedly broke into the 87year-old’s house on Leeds Road on January 29 while the victim was out.

Kirklees magistrates heard that DNA evidence was found at the scene, as well as blood and a footprint.

Wilkins, 48, of Southerland Crescent in Leeds, was charged with burglary and has been remanded in custody until his Crown Court trial on May 10.

16s. James was also a talented bowler at Almondbury Bowling Club and Almondbury Liberal Club and members will hold a minute’s silence and release balloons tomorrow (Saturday).

Police have launched an investigation and a post mortem is to be carried out.

Jilted boyfriend who smashed up wrong car must pay compensation

lord at the Old Colonial pub on Dunbottle Lane.

Featuring the Remembrance poppy, the pins are a tribute to the millions who served during the conflict and those who died.

Anyone interested in the badges can contact Tim on 01924 496920 or call into the pub.

All the money raised goes directly to the Royal British Legion.

A MAN smashed the windows of what he thought was the car of his ex’s new boyfriend – but later realised it was the wrong vehicle.

Mark Dransfield was dumped by his girlfriend and admitted to police that “jealousy got the better of me” when he hammered through the windows of the victim’s Volkswagen Polo outside his Gomersal home on February 25.

Dransfield, of Thornton Street, Cleckheaton, caused £1,500 worth of damage to the car and confessed to police: “She dumped me. I got

Huws Gray open day shows best in business L-R: Paul Reddick, Gareth Bates, Pete Murray, Andy Wagstaff, Daniel Harbridge, Pete Morton, James Tillotson

Advertising Feature HECKMONDWIKE-BASED builders merchants Huws Gray are at the top of their game – and they celebrated with a successful open day this week.

The Welsh company acquired former builders merchants James Wilby and their Walkley Lane premises and have been incredibly busy since opening back in April last year.

Customers and traders flocked to the open day, marking a year since opening, on Tuesday to see the latest products on the building trade market.

Suppliers were on hand to showcase their goods, while people got the chance to meet the

team and grab some special offers.

Huws Gray stocks everything you could need from tools and workwear to cement, bricks, roofing and flooring – and all from the best in the business.

Whether you’re fixing up your own home or need materials for bigger projects, Huws Gray has it all.

Specially-trained staff will make sure you walk away with the best product for you, and they can help fit, trim and shape to suit your needs.

Open from 7am to 5pm through the week, and 8am to 12pm on Saturdays, there’s no excuse not to pop down and meet the team.

You can also get in touch with merchants on 01924 400052 and they can talk you through everything you need to know.

angry and thought it was her boyfriend’s. I drove past, jumped out and smashed the windows.”

The 34-year-old had previously been in court five years ago for assault and this time admitted a criminal damage charge at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court.

He was ordered to pay £250 compensation to the car owner, £85 in court costs and a £20 victim surcharge. Dransfield was also given a conditional discharge and must not commit any further offences for the next year.

‘Baby shower’ advice DEWSBURY: Dewsbury Library will be hosting a ‘baby shower’ with a difference.

Instead of coming away with physical gifts, soon-to-be and new parents can receive advice and guidance from midwives and health visitors, as well as take part in sensory story sessions.

The event is at the library on Saturday May 12 from 10.30am to 1pm. There will be two workshops, including baby exercises and stress-busting techniques for new parents. Free places can be booked at www.ticketsource.co.uk.

Maypole procession GAWTHORPE: The annual Gawthorpe Maypole Procession takes place next weekend.

The procession starts at 2pm on Saturday, headed by May Queen Izzy Wainwright and her maids of honour.

The Yorkshire Imperial Brass Band will also be playing and there’s a fancy dress competition to get involved with.

For more information, visit www.gawthorpemaypole.org.uk.

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ThePress

10

Friday April 27, 2018

Local historian Mike Popplewell looks at the people & places that have shaped the history of the district...

The OTHER Burnley’s Mill...

HARLES BURNLEY is not a name that would be familiar to many people in the district, but he was part of a family who contributed much to the community before his rapid health deterioration and sad demise 127 years ago next week.

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The housing development on Burnley’s Mill Road, off Spen Lane in Gomersal is a perpetual reminder of the almost extinct textile trade that once flourished under the industrial dynasties of North Kirklees and provided the mass employment that was the lifeblood of the district.

At one time the site of this development was the home of Burnley’s Mill where Thomas Burnley, of the adjacent Pollard Hall, established Gomersal Mills, his yarn manufacturing company, run successively by his sons James and Thomas and later his grandson Thomas.

Young Thomas was also a strong churchman and was a trustee of Grove Chapel in Gomersal.

But, these were not the only Burnleys in the district, for Charles’ Batley-born father John Burnley had his own textile business at Grove Mills in Heckmondwike.

As both families were staunch Congregationalists and both involved in the textile industry, there is likely to have been some family connection between John (born 1800) and Thomas (1797).

Although the Gomersal Burnleys were to outlast the Heckmondwike blanket manufacturers at Grove Mills, John Burnley’s enterprise was perhaps the more dramatic.

Though originally working in partnership with Joseph Brook, as Burnley, Brook and Co, their premises at Grove Mills, on the High Street in Heckmondwike, were to provide the setting for one of the many dynastic pairings that formed part of the social fabric of the town.

After Joseph’s retirement John brought his sons George and Charles into the business and operated as John Burnley and Sons, blanket manufacturers, and both sons were destined to marry into the betterknown Firth family.

Charles, whose life was perhaps more dramatic and certainly more tragic, married Sarah, who was the sister of both Sir Charles and Sir Thomas Freeman Firth, and George married Catherine Firth, daughter of Matthew Firth and Elizabeth Popplewell.

Matthew and his brother Luke were key figures in the life of Upper Chapel and involved in textiles, like most of the family, but it was their connection with their aunt Mary that was the uncanny coincidence for son-in-law George as his wife Catharine was a relative of Robert Dex – the first owner of Grove Mills.

Charles prospered in business with his brother George, but it failed to survive the tragedy of 1891 that

saw him and his wife pass away separately but almost simultaneously.

There had been a scare for Charles four years earlier when he broke his arm above the elbow when, after changing trains at Llandudno Junction while on holiday, he slipped between the platform and the train carriage.

This was undoubtedly a shock but his health began to seriously deteriorate not long after.

On Monday May 4, 1891 The Yorkshire Evening Post reported: “A painful sensation was caused in Heckmondwike this morning by the announcement of the death of Mr Charles Burnley of Messrs John Burnley and Sons, woollen manufacturers, which occured about 7.30 at his residence, Ings House,

Liversedge.

“The deceased gentleman, who was 63, had been an asthma sufferer for sometime but it had not stopped him attending to his business engagements until little more than a week ago when he developed heart disease and other complications.

“Mr Burnley, who was a gentleman widely respected for his rare business ability and integrity, never took an active part in public affairs, but will be much missed in the neighbourhood, especially amongst the poor, to whom he has been a genuine friend.

“He leaves a widow and three daughters, the former being the sister of Alderman TF Firth.”

Further tragedy was to follow.

Charles was taken from their home at Ings House to the Upper Chapel at Heckmondwike and was duly interred in the burial ground at the back of the Sunday School, but the shock of the occasion clearly proved too much for Mrs Burnley and she dropped dead at the funeral.

She was buried at Upper Chapel the following week.

George carried on the business for a while but, in 1908, work finally ceased at Grove Mills.

George married and had several children – he even had a grandson named Charles, born in 1904, but Charles died in 1963 and the memory of the Heckmondwike Burnleys appears to have been consigned to historical oblivion.

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ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

Man told psychic: ‘You’re a fraud’

News In Brief ‘Not guilty’ to assault

Court bans him from further contact after text and Facebook harassment

NORTH KIRKLEES: A Gomersal man appeared at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court accused of assaulting his girlfriend by punching her in the face and throwing a shoe at her.

Leon Knowles, 25, of Craven Lane, denied two charges of assault by beating and was remanded in custody until his trial on June 6.

By Staff Reporters A CLECKHEATON man who harassed a psychic, accusing her of being a fraud and bombarding her with text messages, has been banned from contacting her again.

Michael Coleman, 48, admitted at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court to sending the victim unwanted texts and voicemails and posting insulting messages about her on the Cleckheaton Matters Facebook page. The pair met a few times according to the victim and she

told Coleman she had had communications with his dead father – who died earlier this year – and he was upset by that.

The woman, 50, said she was concerned about how Coleman spoke to her, describing his behaviour as “strange”.

She blocked his number and

stopped replying to his Facebook messages after he had messaged her while she was in Germany.

The victim then reported Coleman to the police when he posted on Cleckheaton Matters, saying she was a “con artist and a fraud” because she allegedly claimed disability benefit.

He was given a warning not to contact her but he did so, and also messaged her daughter.

Coleman had been in court a few weeks previously for breaching bail conditions to not contact the victim – whom he believed he was in a relationship with.

He was given an indefinite restraining order, barring him from contacting the woman or going to her home. He must also complete 80 hours of unpaid work and pay £85 in costs as well as an £85 victim surcharge.

Drug addict who burgled hospital jailed A DRUG addict was jailed for 21 weeks after burgling Dewsbury & District Hospital.

Kirklees magistrates were told that Carl Keenan, 36, had 87 offences to his name, including 11 for burglary, when he appeared in court over the incident which happened on October 15.

Keenan, of Manor Way, Batley, admitted trespassing into the diabetes and endocrinology department but said he was only cutting through the hospital to pick up his methadone prescription from a nearby chemist.

While nothing valuable was taken, CCTV footage showed Keenan walking in at 7am and lifting the hatch which separates the main waiting area and office.

There was no footage of him in the office but he was seen climbing back out of the hatch.

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Library movie club CLECKHEATON: There’s a movie extravaganza at Cleckheaton Library tomorrow (Saturday). Entry is free to the film club, which starts at 10.30am with a showing of Mary Poppins. Pixar’s Ratatouille is at 1pm and refreshments are available. Book tickets at www.ticketsource.co.uk/kirkleeslibraries.

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Nigel’s pride in the job shines through A MIRFIELD builder received a national accolade for his work on a new apartment complex.

Nigel Smith, of Darren Smith Homes, beat off competition from 16,000 site managers for the National House Building Council’s ‘Pride in the Job’ awards crown.

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MP calls in on young carers...then focuses on nursery provision BATLEY & SPEN MP Tracy Brabin and Minister for Loneliness Tracey Crouch met with a group of young carers to discuss the everyday challenges they face.

Youngsters Megan, 17, Jack, 12, Jameal, 13, and Ben, 14, are members of Barnardo’s Kirklees Young Carers service – which brings young carers together to help fight loneliness.

They talked about problems of isolation for young carers and the support they have had from the children’s charity when they met the two MPs at Batley Library and Windybank Community Centre in Liversedge.

Megan, who cares for her dad who has multiple sclerosis, said: “It was really interesting to meet the MPs. They asked me about my social life and if it is stressful being a young carer and they were really nice. I told them how tiring it can be when you are a carer and how much being a carer affects my social life.”

The group praised the benefits of being able to take a break from their caring roles and spend time with other young carers at Barnardo’s groups and outings.

Ms Brabin said: “Being a young

carer is such a huge responsibility and it is important to raise awareness about the numerous challenges they face.”

■ MS BRABIN also visited a Heckmondwike nursery to learn more about local early years education.

Earlier this month, the Shadow Minister for Early Years helped Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn launch a consultation on plans for a National Education Service.

The flagship programme would provide free adult education and bring back an education maintenance allowance for 16- to 19-yearolds.

Ms Brabin discussed details about Hamond House Day Nursery with manager Kirsty Bradley and how new government implementations are working within the nursery.

Hamond House operates two successful centres in Heckmondwike.

Ms Brabin said: “Visiting early years settings has to be one of the most pleasurable aspects of my job.

“It was great to see a nursery with such strong links to the community thriving and the children having such fun.”

Above, Batley & Spen MP Tracy Brabin, right, with young carers Ben, Jack, Megan and Jameal and Coun Habiban Zaman, Liz Robson from Barnardo’s and Minister for Loneliness Tracey Crouch

Left, Ms Brabin with youngsters at Hamond House Day Nursery in Heckmondwike

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Friday April 27, 2018

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ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

OSSETT

YOUR

TOWN

YOUR VOICE

By Richard Taylor, of Ossett Town Centre Partnership

Plenty going on in coming weeks HE OSSETT Civic Dinner took place as planned on April 14 at Ossett War Memorial Community Centre.

Just short of 100 people sat down to dinner, after which they were entertained by two guest speakers. The first was David Medley, one of Wakefield’s Mace Bearers. As well as bringing the mayor and mayoress he brought the Ossett mace and mayoral chains, from when Ossett was an independent borough.

David gave a very interesting talk about these treasures and delighted the audience by informing them that the current Wakefield MDC mayor’s chain is made of nine carat gold, whereas Ossett’s is made of 18 carat!

The second speaker, Darren Norgate described his police work in Ossett and the surrounding districts. His particular area of expertise is the small video cameras carried by each police officer – these have improved law enforcement.

After the dinner Civic Trust awards were given to Lynda and Andy Price for taking on the upkeep and running of Spring Mill Golf Course and development of the tea room there.

Other wards went to Stuart Brook for all his voluntary work at the golf course, Lynne Lightfoot of Spinning Yarns for her attractive window displays, Howard Lawton for putting Ossett on the map by bringing John Bishop and now Billy Pearce to perform at the town hall, Jenna Fan for founding and running the Local Vocals, a community choir, NewSpring Church for providing space for local community groups to meet, and PCSO Tracey Laverick for all her voluntary hard work in running the Brick House Youth Club.

Ossett Beer Cart Festival Crowds will gather in Ossett on June 2 to see Wakefield

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Morris Dancers heave a cart laden with heavy barrels of beer around the town.

More than 100 dancers from around the country take part in the fourth annual Ossett Beer Cart festival.

They parade from the cricket and athletics club to the town centre, before carrying the first barrel into the town hall.

The Beer Cart event, which runs from Friday until Sunday, also includes a beer festival on Friday and Saturday, (all proceeds to Wakefield Hospice), an open air market throughout the weekend and Morris Dance performances on both Saturday and Sunday.

This is a fantastic event – not to be missed.

Ossett Gala, on July 14, promises to be bigger than ever. A great feature is the number of charity stalls, all raising money for good causes.

With fairground rides and food and drink stalls it makes for a good day out.

Two weeks later on July 28, we have ‘Big Screen Saturday in Ossett’, organised by Ossett Town Centre Partnership.

The five feature films, that will be shown on a big screen in Ossett Precinct from 10am until 9pm, have been announced.

We will show: 10.30 - the new Peter Rabbit film, 12.30 - Paddington 2, 14.30 - Top Gun, 16.30 - The Greatest Showman (singalong), finishing with 19.00 - Mamma Mia (singalong) (times are approximate).

There will be some fairground rides and lots of food and drink stalls, along with 200 chairs. You can use these chairs or bring your own chairs, picnic tables, rugs – a fantastic family day out.

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Put your town first – vote for change ADVERTORIAL FEATURE Why voting for Aleks Lukic can make a real difference for Dewsbury Aleks Lukic, Independent Candidate for Dewsbury East, tells us why he thinks residents should elect him as their local councillor on Thursday Q: What is your background, and why are you standing in this election?

A: I was born in Dewsbury and I am a Dewsbury resident. I have lived in our town and the surrounding areas for all my life, apart from while I was university.

After graduating I became a computer science teacher, working in Heckmondwike.

During this time I got involved in politics when I realised that we needed to get out of the EU as soon as possible! I joined UKIP and campaigned to put pressure on the Government to give us the EU referendum, and then I was a local co-ordinator of the Vote Leave campaign in Dewsbury and Batley and Spen.

I am proud of what we achieved in UKIP, but it became clear that that it was not going to be a serious party anymore. I left UKIP just over a year ago and I also left my teaching post at the end of 2017, so I now work in IT for the NHS. I am standing in this election because Dewsbury needs a change. I think that the

‘We need to get control of OUR money’ Aleks Lukic is demanding more local control over how money raised in Dewsbury is spent.

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n the last 3 years Kirklees Council has opened the new Huddersfield Sports Centre at a cost of £36 million and created a Huddersfield property investment fund worth up to £25 million.

During that time the council has closed both Dewsbury Museum in Crow Nest Park and Thornhill Lees Library.

Labour councillors have now pledged to spend tens of millions more on a ‘cultural quarter’ for Huddersfield, raising further concerns that Dewsbury is not getting its fair share of funding.

Mr Lukic said: “Kirklees Council have refused to tell me how much they raise from us in Dewsbury, but I estimate that we are paying over £25 million in Council Tax and Business Rates every single year.

“The schools and police are funded separately, there are additional charges for some council services, and the council’s income has been topped up by grants. So where has Kirklees Council been spending all our money, for all these years?

“The reality is that Dewsbury has been getting the crumbs from the table, but if I am elected on Thursday then I will challenge this unfair practice.

They cannot be allowed to get away with it any longer. I have a simple proposal that even Kirklees Council can understand: the money we raise here in Dewsbury should be spent here in Dewsbury.

All £25 million of it!”

PICTURED: Dewsbury Museum in Crow Nest Park – abandoned by Kirklees Council, while Huddersfield gets a brand new sports centre

Aleks’s survey of Dewsbury East residents got a fantastic response – and voters have been eager to support the campaign of a man who cares for the town.

In nearby Morley, Independent councillors have shown that REAL CHANGE can work for towns and for local people.

In the audience at BBC Question Time – raising people’s real concerns

way to start changing things locally is to elect an independent councillor, a strong voice who can and will put our town before party politics.

Q: What does it mean if you become an independent councillor?

A: It means that I would not have to follow a party line. I would always speak and vote in the interests of Dewsbury residents, and I could support other councillors from all parties when they are trying to make positive changes for our town.

When the local authorities are not working well for Dewsbury, then I would be free to speak out against them and put pressure on them to improve things.

Q: How has your campaign been going so far?

A: We organised a Residents’ Survey which went to every household in Dewsbury East to find out what people think about local issues.

I wasn’t sure how many households would send it in, but I have been amazed to receive well over 500 replies.

The passion that everyone has shown is a real credit to Dewsbury.

Since then I have been meeting as many people as possible and letting residents know about my plans to help local services and the local economy. I am getting great feedback and support from all kinds of people including Labour, Conservative, and UKIP voters.

Q: What are the main issues that residents are talking about?

In terms of local issues, most of the issues being mentioned have been around for a long time.

The decline of the town centre, the anti-social behaviour and crime, the litter and fly-tipping, and the pressure on public services.

Many residents have given up faith in Kirklees Council and West Yorkshire Police to do anything that will change all this.

Residents are also very concerned about the potholes and the general state of the

roads.

They are not impressed by Labour’s new plans to spend tens of millions of pounds on a so-called ‘cultural quarter’ in Huddersfield, when our local roads and services are in such a poor condition and we are getting massive hikes to our Council Tax bills.

National issues are also being mentioned which have a great impact on our local area.

The Conservative Government has done nothing to control immigration, and so we have huge pressure on the NHS, school places, and housing.

Residents who have lived here all their lives then often find themselves and their families at the back of the queue for these vital services.

The Conservatives have also continued their obsession with spending tens of billions on foreign aid, having funded what David Cameron called ‘fantastically corrupt regimes,’ while our

services in Dewsbury are left to struggle for the funding they need.

Q: How would you improve things in Dewsbury Town Centre?

We need to make the shopping experience in the town centre much more enjoyable, convenient and comfortable.

Local shoppers have more options than ever before – they can go to the surrounding towns and cities, they can go to the White Rose Centre, they can even stay at home and find what they need on the Internet.

Considering all of this, it is ridiculous that the Labour Party are planning to increase local parking charges.

This is a short-sighted proposal that will drive even more shoppers out of the town centre and continue the spiral of decline.

I propose the exact opposite, that we should make car parks free for shoppers on

weekday afternoons and on Saturdays. This will increase the footfall, which will encourage more businesses to open and so Kirklees Council will benefit in the long run from receiving more business rates.

We also need Dewsbury to get its fair share of policing, including proper enforcement of the Alcohol Exclusion Zone in the town centre.

Residents, especially women, have told me that they feel threatened by people who are openly drinking

in the streets and engaging in other anti-social behaviour.

If the dire condition of The Arcade does not change soon, I want Kirklees Council to explore a compulsory purchase order so that we can get the units let out rather than having it continue to sit empty.

The council also needs to use its powers much more effectively against untidy land within and surrounding the town centre.

The council has been too lazy and unconcerned when it comes to Dewsbury, they

have been far more concerned about what goes on in Huddersfield.

Q: Why should residents in Dewsbury East vote for you?

If we carry on with business as usual, then things will not improve. All we will get is even higher Council Tax bills and the continued decline of our town.

If people continue to vote Labour or Conservative at local elections then they can expect no action on these longstanding issues, we will just be left with more empty

Exclusive: Dewsbury East says ‘get on with Brexit!’

ROM the 561 replies to Aleks Lukic’s survey, 71% agreed with the statement that the Government ‘should get on with Brexit and leave the EU without a deal if they demand a bad deal’.

In the result, which Mr Lukic has revealed for the first time, just 11% disagreed and the remainder were unsure.

Mr Lukic said “I have focused on local issues at this election, but the time has now come to show that Dewsbury’s resolve over Brexit remains as strong as ever.

“Since we voted to leave the EU in June 2016, the Conservative Government has sent £18 billion more of our own money to the EU and there is talk of paying a ‘divorce bill’ of £50+ billion.

“Theresa May has already caved in on immigration, so now we are set to have uncontrolled immigration from the EU until at least 2021.

“The Tories will continue to allow foreign boats to fish in our waters, and there is also a danger that they will keep us in a customs union with Europe so that we wouldn’t be able to make our own free trade deals after Brexit.

“This is not what we voted for at the referendum, but Conservative and Labour

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words and unkept promises.

My message to residents is this: if you give me your backing then the Kirklees leadership and management will soon wish you had supported someone else, because I will not let the authorities rest until we get the change we need and deserve.

The Labour Party in Kirklees will realise that they need to work much harder for Dewsbury from now on. Otherwise they will risk losing all their councillors!

Q: Do you really stand a chance of winning this election?

Definitely. I have worked tirelessly throughout this campaign and I stand a very good chance, from what residents are saying to me.

People are ready for a change, they just need to know that they have the power to bring that change about.

If they support me in enough numbers and vote for change on Thursday, then change will come.

Local independent councillors are popular across the country, because they have the freedom to put their residents first.

Just a few miles away from here, the Morley Borough Independents have been

incredibly successful.

They have five out of six councillors for Morley on Leeds City Council and they have done great work for their town. If we vote for change, we can achieve the same success for Dewsbury.

What Aleks Lukic stands for: Putting Dewsbury first Making town centre safe and bringing shoppers back Giving local people a voice

Dealing with crime and anti-social behaviour Fixing our potholed roads Phone 07944 196000 (evenings/weekends) email: Aleks@AleksLukic.co.uk Follow: facebook.com/DewsburyLukic

Dewsbury town centre – your current councillors have presided over years of steady decline while barely lifting a finger...

politicians will only go along with it and I suspect there will soon be even more concessions to Brussels.

“We need local politicians who will stand up to this nonsense and demand that the referendum result is delivered

in full so that we take back control of our borders, our laws, our money and our trade.

“The message from Dewsbury East is clear: leaving with no deal is better than accepting a bad deal!”

... although they have recently been fully behind a brand new £45 MILLION ‘cultural quarter’ for – guess where? – yes, Huddersfield!

Promoted by Aleks Lukic of 6 Boundary Terrace, Dewsbury, WF13 4PN.

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ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

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ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

19

‘What does a tickle look like?’

Your chance to find out as town celebrates a famous resident with a day of activities, crafts and fun

Win a £15 gift voucher!

MANY MOONS ago, there was a six-yearold called Adam Hargreaves who asked his daddy: “What does a tickle look like?”

Luckily for Adam, his dad Roger's dream was to be a cartoonist so he had been practising his drawing.

Roger thought for a bit, then drew a little round orange man with a small blue hat, a cheeky grin and long, wriggly arms.

The arms were so long he could make breakfast without getting out of bed and he wanted to make people laugh. His name? Mr Tickle.

The first of the Mr Men had been born.

Today Mr Men and Little Miss is an international brand, and around the world a Mr Men book is bought every two and a half seconds.

Creator Roger Hargreaves grew up in Cleckheaton, the son of a launderer and drycleaner.

The house where he first lived, High Lees on Halifax Road, close to the Pack Horse pubs, is the site of the first plaque of the Spen Valley Civic Society’s Fame Trail.

Now, the Spenborough Chamber of Trade is working with Cleckheaton Library to promote his literature and volunteers have organised a special ‘Mr Men Day’ on Saturday, May 5.

Running from 12pm to 4pm, families are

HIS week you can win a £15 Tesco gift voucher, courtesy of our friends at Cleckheaton’s Tesco branch, simply by having a bit of Mr Menrelated fun!

We’ve hidden a number of tiny Mr Men characters in the adverts on these two and the next two pages.

And if you can spot them all, you’re in with a chance of winning the £15 prize.

All you have to do is search the adverts over the four pages and add up the number of Mr Men contained within the ads.

Email your answer (a number) to

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invited to come along to Savoy Square in Cleckheaton town centre to get involved in lots of crafts, activities and stories.

Cleckheaton-based engineering firm Flexitallic are manufacturing special cut-out shapes of Mr Men characters that will be on display in the town to celebrate Roger Hargreaves’ links.

competitions@thepressnews.co.uk.

Or post your answer to: Tesco Mr Men Competition, The Press, 31 Branch Road, Batley, WF17 5SB. Don’t forget to include your name, full postal address and a daytime telephone number.

Closing date for entries is Friday May 8 and one winner will be drawn at random from the correct entries received.

Usual Press competition rules apply. Good luck!

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Friday April 27, 2018

Cleckheaton celebrates its links with Mr Men creator From page 19 This year marks the 30th anniversary of Roger's death, and the chamber of trade wanted to honour of the man whose characters continue to entertain generations of young readers, as well as promoting reading and forging links with the town’s underthreat library.

A spokesman for Spen Chamber of Trade and Commerce said: “We are just trying to acknowledge a local author and promote the reading of

his books, putting Cleckheaton on the map as well.”

The fun family event is mostly free and there will be hands-on tasks and fun reading and listening activities.

For details of the Cleckheaton event visit the chamber of trade’s Facebook page.

In 1988 Roger died of a stroke aged 53, leaving his widow Christine and four children – Adam, his brother Giles and twins Sophie and Amelia (the Little Miss Twins).

HARRINGTON FAMILY LAW SOLICITORS Wish the organisers of the

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Adam, the boy whose childish question had started the phenomenon, began writing and illustrating the characters himself.

And in 2004 Christine Hargreaves sold the business for £28million.

There are now more than 50 Mr Men characters including Mr Messy, Mr Topsy-Turvy, Mr Uppity and Mr Muddle and a TV series in the 1980s cemented their place in British life.

Mr Tickle and Mr Bump are still the favourites, holding off challenges from newer characters!

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Friday April 27, 2018

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 APRIL 28 LIVERSEDGE CIRCULAR Starts at 10.30am Royds Park gates, Bradford Road, Cleckheaton (WF15 6LW, SE198245) 6.5 miles – moderate Contact: Geoff 01422 379921 geoff.terry11@btinternet.com

SATURDAY MAY 5 TO THE WOODS Starts at 10.30am at rear of War Memorial Gardens, Bailiff Bridge (HD6 4DX, SE147253) Contact: David Parkinson 01274 879794 david.parky@tiscali.co.uk

Angela talks from London to Nepal

Comical but thought-provoking

A CURIOUS woman who has travelled around the world by using public transport will be divulging some of the adventures she encountered when she gives a talk to members of Batley History Group meeting in Batley Town Hall on Monday (April 30).

Angela Mason was born in Leeds but moved to Driffield after marrying 30 years ago and worked for both Yorkshire Television and educational units teaching English and mathematics to young adults with learning disabilities.

But six years ago, when her eldest daughter Karen was 34, they both decided to start travelling around the world and, to limit the cost of doing so, opted to travel thousands of miles by using buses, trams, trains and other forms of transport.

It meant they encountered lots of interesting people and enjoyed plenty of adventures as they travelled around the world. And Angela has built on the intriguing experiences by compiling illustrated talks to explain the things they learned, saw and heard.

The first talk is called From London to Kathmandu, and Angela believes the adventures depicted along the route will fascinate members of the history group and anyone else who would like to join them.

The talk starts at 7.30pm and a charge of £2 for members and £4 for non-members will be made.

THE CAST of ‘Neighbourhood Watch’ by Alan Ayckbourn, are in final stages of rehearsals at Dewsbury Arts Group.

The play is centred around a mixed bunch of residents who live on the Bluebell Hill development.

Brother and sister Martin and Hilda Massie have just moved there, hoping to enjoy a quiet Christian existence.

However their peace is soon shattered by a young trespasser in their garden.

The residents of the development decide to get together to form a neighbourhood watch group.

But does this well-intentioned scheme make a safer community?

Comical and thought provoking, the show opened last night (Thurs), at the Artspace on Lower Peel Street, Dewsbury, with performances also tonight and tomorrow (Fri-Sat) and from May 1-5.

For tickets visit www.dewsburyartsgroup.info or call 0333 6663366.

Memorial lecture SPEN VALLEY Historical Society’s next meeting is on Wednesday, May 9, when The Mabel Ferrett Memorial Lecture on the Luttrell Psalter will be delivered by David Cockman.

Meetings are held in the Catholic Church Parish Hall on Dewsbury Road, Cleckheaton, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments served from 7.15pm.

The cost is £2 per meeting for members, £4 for guests and membership is £10 per year.

For more information email scooper@thecooper sonline.org.uk.

Canals and abbeys THE DEWSBURY and District Rambling Club set off from Mirfield on Saturday and walked along the canal, up to Whitley before returning down through Hopton Mills.

David Lodge and Tony O’Driscoll then led another walk on Sunday from Markington to Markenfield and Fountains Abbey.

A walk is planned for this Sunday (April 29) at Pen-y-ghent, meet Cynthia O’Driscoll at Wellington Road car park at 8.30am.

WHAT’S ON AT The

Woodman Hartley Street, Batley Carr saturday 28th april

tony fletcher is back at the woodman as

elvis 8.30pm onwards ~~~~~~~~~~~

bank holiday sunday

karaoke Tel: 01924 463825

A healthy debate as Mikron tie up at Inn WA T E RWAY S - b a s e d theatre company Mikron’s new show Get Well Soon comes to Dewsbury next month to wish the NHS a happy 70th birthday.

‘Get Well Soon’ is being shown at the Leggers Inn on Tuesday May 1 as the troupe come to Dewsbury in their 47th year of touring.

Always firm favourites at the Leggers, Mikron regularly travel to their shows on their antique narrow boat, Tyseley, and delight audiences nationwide with their fun and fresh shows.

All is not well at St Monica’s Hospital.

They’re on life support; facing bugs, bed-blockers and a battle to save A&E.

Hospital boss Simon talks the talk, but can he walk the walk? His dad’s had a stroke and his daughter’s in revolt. Now hungry businesses, with an eye on profits, are after a slice of the action…

Can Simon find a cure for his family troubles?

Can Nurse Danuta save the day with her pastries and proverbs?

With tunes, transfusions and titters, join Mikron as they make a surgical strike on the state of the NHS. Playwright Ged Cooper is writing for Mikron for the first time and has had a great time getting her teeth into Get Well Soon.

“I love Mikron’s theatrical style; lively and

accessible, with a social conscience,” she said.

“You laugh a lot at a Mikron play, but then you go away and think, so I was thrilled when they asked me to write about the NHS on its 70th birthday.

“I had so many ideas whirling round my head; I feel so strongly about the NHS, a uniquely British achievement, that to research and write about it was an honour and privilege – and great fun!”

Starting at 7.30pm on May 1, no tickets are required but a cash collection will be taken after the show.

For more information visit www.leggersinn. co.uk.

This show lifted me up where we belong!

An Officer And A Gentleman Leeds Grand April 24-April 28 Review by Zoe Shackleton AS SOMEONE who has never seen the film An Officer and a Gentleman, I was completely in the dark when I went to see it on stage at Leeds Grand this week.

I knew the essence of the early 80s storyline – a soon-to-be officer (Zac Mayo played by Jonny Fines) in the navy falls in love with a factory girl (Paula Pokrifki – Emma Williams) while all her best friend (Lynette Pomeroy – Jessica Daley) wants is to marry a navy boy.

The heart-warming love story is juxtaposed with a gritty back-

drop of characters who hail from disadvantaged backgrounds and just want to make ends meet.

Each person has a different story to tell, and the musical takes you on a journey through

their struggles, helped by a perfectly-weighted soundtrack of 70s and 80s music.

It epitomised society in that era, with women unable to move up the hierarchy in the factory

and Lynette believing the only way to make a name for herself is by tying down an aviator.

Fines and Williams are perfect as the protagonists, and Daley’s storyline as Lynette who catches the eye of officer Sid Worley (Ian McIntosh) is touching.

With music like Heart of Glass and the infamous Up Where We Belong, it reduced me to tears by the end as the actors performed incredibly emotional solos.

I’m going to have to watch the original Richard Gere film now, because I fell in love with this adaptation.

My mum, who loves the movie, said the music made this performance even better than the film.

One of the best musicals I have seen in a very long time.

Friday April 27, 2018

ThePress

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Friday April 27, 2018

A truly impressive version Evita – The Alhambra Theatre, Bradford Until Saturday April 28 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk Review by Janet Black THIS is a sensationally good production of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s greatest musical, with magical performances from the leading roles, stunning sets and emotional and stirring music from the wonderful orchestra.

The story of Eva Peron is one a lot of us are familiar with and the songs from the show have, over the years, become familiar and very often big hits in the music charts.

The story is fast-paced and the two lead actors have played their roles before in the West End. Evita tells the story of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, and follows Eva’s journey

from humble beginnings through to extraordinary wealth, power and iconic status which ultimately led her to be heralded as the ‘spiritual leader of the nation’ by the Argentine people.

It stars two of musical theatre’s most outstanding leading performers, Madalena Alberto returning to her role of Eva, a role she received critical acclaim for in the 2014 West End revival.

Joining her in the role of Che, fresh from the recent West End production, is Gian Marco Schiaretti, who also played the title role in Disney’s production of Tarzan.

With more than 20 major awards to its credit, an Oscarwinning film version starring Madonna and Antonio Banderas and featuring some of the most iconic songs in musical theatre including Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, On This Night Of A Thousand Stars, You Must Love Me and Another Suitcase In Another Hall, this smash hit show delivers a magical theatrical event that will truly impress.

Batley & Birstall Civic Society “Something’s Going On” We would like to hear from any members of the public who have any photos or memorabillia etc, of local pubs from the past to the present

Please Phone Anne

07761 964556

Hear Ann across the BBC radio network

Cannon & Ball and the stars of Last Laugh In Vegas see final show shunted to ITV3 ... fans ask why?

E HAVE all loved seeing some of our greatest variety stars in Last Laugh In Vegas, from the ever-brilliant Cannon & Ball to Anita Harris and Mick Miller. While ITV tried to push the show into the realm of reality TV, it appears that the audience had other ideas and embraced the show 100 per cent, but many asked why the final show was shown on ITV3 and not ITV as the other shows had been?

Well, I can reveal ITV thought this would deliver them a bigger audience as the demographic for ITV3 is the over-50s, clearly not thinking all ages go to see our variety stars. Never mind, the show was a ratings hit and now more are planned.

Congratulations to all who took part.

W

JAMES NORTON will depart Grantchester after the fourth series, ITV has confirmed.

The actor, who has been tipped as a contender to play James Bond, has starred as the charismatic, crime-fighting clergyman Sidney Chambers in the series based on the novels by James Runcie since it started. He will return alongside Robson Green, who plays Detective Geordie Keating, for one final series.

VICTORIA WOOD is to be the subject of a major new official biography, but fans will have to wait until October 2020 until the book is released. It will be written by journalist Jasper Rees with ‘the exclusive authority and full cooperation of Victoria Wood’s estate’.

IT’S NOT quite clear if Sony are going to press ahead with a third Bradley Walsh album

Here for your plumbing & gas needs IF YOU need a trustworthy and competent gas and heating engineer at a fair price, then look no further. “l’m based in Birstall and have been running CR Gas & Plumbing Services for almost ten years after working as a British Gas engineer for 15 years.

“I will take care of all of your heating and plumbing needs, from breakdowns to servicing, from boiler exchanges to fitting appliances and everything in between.

“

l’m Gas Safe-registered and I cover all of West Yorkshire, with no call-out charge and free quotes and estimates.

“A major local lettings agency trust me to service all of the properties on their books and most of my work

comes from word of mouth after l’ve done a great job for a customer. ‘‘I’m a local Birstall lad who’Il do quality work at a great price — just ask my clients! Call me today on 07921 151177.

Clarke Rothwell, Owner

never be totally sure, but the best thing is I do enjoy the show and above all we try to change someone’s life, and give them a great start in the biz too.”

Ann with Cannon & Ball ©Maycon Pictures after the shock surprise success of his first. So far insiders are saying nothing, but even though his second did not sell as well, Sony claim they are “more than happy with it”.

MACKENZIE CROOK is developing a new adaptation of Worzel Gummidge, it has been revealed. The scarecrow character was last seen on screen in the late 1980s, with the last of six hit series starring Jon Pertwee. Reports confirm that Crook, the actor, director, and writer behind similarly rural comedy Detectorists, is working on a new TV sitcom starring the character.

LES DENNIS is to star in a new play about a washed-up comedy star. In the piece, entitled End Of The Pier, the former Family Fortunes host plays a forgotten entertainer called Bobby who is now resigned to a life of solitude, and second-rate panto performances. Les reveals: “When I was starting out I met a lot of these comics, but when you’re young you don’t really relate, but the story is very touching and moving.”

HE MAY have been axed from the show when The Voice UK was on the BBC, but Tom Jones is hopeful it won’t happen again. He said: “You can

FAMED for some of the biggest hits of the 80s and the TV show The Hitman and Her, Pete Waterman tells me he won’t ever return to a TV talent show as a judge. He said: “I think I am there looking for an artist that I can produce, but really it’s just a TV show with a lot of drama, and that is not what I really signed up for.”

THE GREAT British Sewing Bee judge Patrick Grant is hopeful that the show could come back on another channel at some point. “I don’t see why not, I mean we did really well but the powersthat-be decided otherwise, but we could rise up again for sure,” he said.

IT’S NOT even summer yet, and now we have former Treasure Hunt presenter Anneka Rice staking her claim that she too would love to be part of the Strictly Come Dancing machine in 2018. She told me: “I love the show and everything about it, plus as everyone knows I do love a challenge, so wait and see.”

CORONATION STREET is still losing viewers despite all the hype and terrible storylines the soap is currently pushing.

But as ever TV bosses are hopeful that fans will begin to embrace it all over again, and I heard: “We are bringing in older actors and adding in more comedy, but it takes time as we film so far in advance.”

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NEW 36-hole golf trolley battery and charger. Nearly new, £20.

Tel 07505 115934.

(2124) Jay-Be foldaway bed with headboard. Never been used, £40. Tel 01924 441997.

(2125) Camping trailer (Camel make SWTT71) 4ft x 3ft with new plastic cover. In good condition, £120. Tel 07788 940454.

(2126) BEDROOM Modern wood wardrobe (H) 66” x (D) 21 1/2, £25 ono.

Tel Batley 01924 479647. (2104) Complete bedroom unit includes two wardrobes and 4 top boxes £85 ono. Tel 01924 470866. (2103) DIY 80 Aluminium tiles, silver, 4 1/4 inch square. 50 plain, 30 patterned. Still packaged from new, £8.

Tel 01924 472043.

(2118)

TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING (GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PROCEDURE) ORDER 1995 NOTICE UNDER ARTICLE 6 OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMISSION PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AT Land off Ingham Road, Thornhill Lees, Dewsbury, WF13 0AH NOTICE is hereby given that application is being made to Kirklees Metropolitan Council by Dr T H Gowda for planning permission to build new dwelling house planning application number 2017/94303 Any owner of the land (namely a freeholder or person entitled to an unexpired term of at least seven years under a lease), or Agricultural tenant who wishes to make representations to the above mentioned Council about the application should make them in writing not later than 21 days of this notice to the Council at PO Box B93, Civic Centre, Huddersfield, HD1 2JR STATEMENT OF OWNERS’ RIGHTS The grant of planning permission does not affect owners’ rights to retain or dispose of their property, unless there is some provision to the contrary in an agreement or in a lease.

STATEMENT OF AGRICULTURAL TENANTS’ RIGHTS The grant of planning permission for non agricultural development may affect agricultural tenants’ security of tenure.

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ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

29

FOOTBALL

Ossett officially Utd OSSETT UNITED are now officially recognised by the FA and will begin their venture in the Evo-Stik East division next season.

A club statement released this week confirmed that the merger between Ossett Albion and Ossett Town was fully ratified by the FA. The Press reported at the beginning of February that a shock merger between the two clubs could receive the go ahead in time for next season.

“We have been fully ratified by the FA and we are delighted to formally announce that Ossett United will be playing in the Northern Premier League East next season,” confirmed a club statement.

“Thank you to all involved in making this happen.”

United will remain in the same division as Albion and Town but that division has been renamed from the Evo-Stik North to the Evo-Stik East, to account for changes in the league structure.

Current Albion boss Andy Welsh has been named as first-team manager of Ossett United.

Welsh took charge of Albion in November, when they sat rock bottom of the league table.

However, the newly-named United boss has guided the Unicorns well clear of any relegation trouble.

“I am delighted to be offered the role and look forward very much to such an exciting project,” said Welsh.

“Recruitment and pre-season plans are already at the top of my agenda and I will be working hard to build a team who can deliver the expected results next season. For now I must concentrate on the job in hand.”

Welsh guided Albion to the team of

Albion emerge victorious in final-ever home game Evo-Stik North

OSSETT ALBION BAMBER BRIDGE

4 0

OSSETT ALBION produced a performance befitting of their final home game at Dimple Wells, as they are set to move to Ingfield as part of their merger with Ossett Town.

After a slow start on Saturday afternoon, when Bamber struck the post, Albion worked their way into the game before taking control.

Just before the half-hour mark Scott Metcalfe open the scoring as Marcus Day’s effort rebounded to the Albion midfielder and he made no mistake with the finish.

Ten minutes later a deep corner from Aidan Chippendale was head-

ed home by Tom Corner to double the Unicorn’s lead.

At the beginning of the second half Albion’s cause was helped when Bamber Bridge’s Macauley Wilson was sent off.

With a man advantage Albion created numerous chances but were unable to convert.

In the 72nd minute the ball broke to Adam Priestley before he burst into the box and squared it to Chippendale to roll into the net.

Priestley then rounded off the scoring as he made the most of a defensive mix up and headed the ball home.

On Tuesday evening, Albion lost only their second game since the beginning of March with a 1-0 defeat at Colne. A goal from Harry Pratt on 30 minutes proved to be the decisive moment.

Town beaten again AWARD WINNER: Andy Welsh (left) receives the club of the month award the month award in March and was last week awarded the club of the month award for April.

Phil Smith, chief executive at Ossett United, says that the club also interviewed Town boss Lee Ashforth but he feels that Welsh is the best fit for the job.

“We discussed the expectations and the plans for the club with Andy Welsh and Lee Ashforth in great detail. Both managers showed

extreme understanding of the job requirements and what we were asking of them,” said Smith.

“We looked at many different facets of both managers backgrounds, ability and results and ultimately we are satisfied that we have chosen the right person.

“We wish Lee Ashforth all the very best and he has been nothing short of professional and honest during this period.”

CRICKET with Mike Popplewell

Evo-Stik North OSSETT TOWN TADCASTER

0 2

OSSETT TOWN’S latest defeat means that the Reds have only picked up three points from a possible 30.

Town’s losing run has now stretched to six games with their only win since the end of February coming in a 2-1 victory over Colne last month.

Town will consider them-

selves unlucky not to have taken something from Tuesday’s game as they saw three of their efforts cleared off the line.

The visitors took the lead as Alex Peterson’s back pass to Leigh Overton was held up by the water that had remained on the pitch.

Casey Stewart reacted quickly and powered the ball past Overton to give Tadcaster an early lead.

With 25 minutes played Tadcaster doubled their

lead as Billy Whitehouse’s cross was glanced into the net by Casey Stewart.

On Saturday afternoon, Town lost 3-0 away at third-bottom Radcliffe Borough.

Jordan Bowe put the home side in front on 14 minutes before Louis Myres doubled the lead on 29 minutes.

James Daniels sealed the win for Radcliffe as he scored the hosts’ third 12 minutes from time.

RACING PREVIEW WITH MIKE SMITH

Fingers crossed for fixtures Blaklion to get back on track T

THE All Rounder Bradford Premier League has had a chaotic start due to the wet weather and prospects for this weekend are not looking the best but some cricket, at last, would be very welcome.

The league have announced rearranged dates for the postponed Week One fixtures with the Premier Division first and second team games being played on Sunday, August 19.

Championship One first and second team games will be on August 12, Championship Two first and second team games are on July 22 and Conference first and second team games on July 29.

Solly Sports Heavy Woollen Cup first round games, normally played on the first weekend of the season, will now get underway on Sunday with 12 of the 14 games due to be played.

The remaining games, Ossett v Altofts and Treeton v Wakefield Thornes will go

ahead on May 6.

Holders Woodlands, from Oakenshaw, will go to Kirkburton while key games in the district are at Hanging Heaton, who entertain Rastrick and new look Spen Victoria, at home to Whitley Hall.

Gomersal face a tough trip to Huddersfield League side Scholes while the Bradford League side Scholes are at Methley, East Bierley go to Wrenthorpe and Crossbank Methodists are preparing for the long trip to Cawthorne near Barnsley.

Before all that, there is the league season to get underway and Premier Division Champions Hanging Heaton entertain Heavy Woollen Cup holders Woodlands in the match of the day.

Cleckheaton will go to New Farnley and East Bierley are at Farsley but Scholes mark their return to the top flight with a game at home to Townville.

In Championship One,

Gomersal are at home to Morley, in a game that always has the feel of a derby clash, while promoted Hartshead Moor are at home to an Undercliffe side who have a great Bradford League tradition.

Relegated Batley begin their fight to regain Premier status with a game at home to Hunslet Nelson and Ossett make the lengthy trip to Yeadon.

Spen Victoria open their new Championship Two season with a classic derby game with Liversedge at Spen Lane, Hopton Mills are at home to Altofts and relegated Birstall find themselves with a free week and a further delay to the start of their season.

Adwalton could be the team to watch in the Conference, they are at home to Azaad, while Crossbank Methodists open with a derby clash at home to Heckmondwike and Carlinghow.

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL LOWER HOPTON have one last chance to top the West Riding County Women’s League Second Division when they take on bottom-club Ossett Town Development on Sunday, who are yet to earn a single point this campaign.

A 1-0 win over a previously 100 per cent Middleton Athletic in their final game of the season leaves them three points off the top.

However, they need a clear six-goal win to stay in the title hunt – although it would still need a shock last-day Middleton defeat to hand them the final top spot.

Ossett Town have missed out on the First Division title, they will finish behind Farsley Celtic while an 8-0 defeat at the hands of Farsley sees Dewsbury Rangers finish the season pointless in this division.

Town have one game left to play, against Clifton, but it has yet to be arranged.

In the North East Regional League Southern Division Ossett Albion have finished their season in sixth place, out of eight, but they can still be overtaken if Malet Lambert win their last three games.

HE LAST big handicap chase of the season at Sandown could signal a change in fortune for the Twiston-Davies stable.

Form figures of the entries for tomorrow’s (Saturday) bet365 Gold Cup show plenty of horses going there after a non-completion last time out and who will need to live up to the name of the 2002 winner, Bounce Back.

Not least among them is top weight BLAKLION who got no further than the first, where he was brought down, when a leading fancy for the Grand National two weeks ago.

Fourth in last year’s National, Blaklion underlined that’s he’s a natural over those big fences when winning the Becher Chase before finishing a well-beaten second in the Grand National Trial at Haydock on desperately heavy ground.

Much better was expected of him, following a wind operation, at Aintree, and despite his big weight he’s on a mark to be competitive back over conventional fences.

MISSED APPROACH who’s disputing favouritism with Blaklion has a good record over long distances but has been put up 8 lb for his Kim Muir Cheltenham win which encourages me to return to Blaklion’s trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies who also has the well-treated BIG-

BADJOHN at the other end of the handicap.

He too had a mishap over the National fences last time when unseating at the Chair in the Topham but there’s every reason to think extreme distances will suit last year’s Reynoldstown Novices’ Chase winner especially off his current mark.

In the Grade 2 chase at 2.25, TOP NOTCH has been given time to recover from a below par performance at Ascot in February when fourth behind Waiting Patiently, and he looks a solid chance and has track form having won the Scilly Isles here last season.

Superstar chaser ALTIOR won’t be much of a price in the Celebration Chase at 3pm but he’s the best two miler around and should form the basis of any multiples over

the weekend, while BALLYMOY can take the opening novice handicap hurdle.

Across the water the Punchestown Festival comes to a close with Willie Mullins and Gordon Elliott fighting out the trainers’ title once again. It may go right to the wire and APPLES JADE could help the current leader Elliott.

I will be backing SPADES ARE TRUMPS whether he turns up today (Friday) or tomorrow but he’d be more interesting if sneaking in at the bottom of the weights for the Ballymore Handicap Hurdle.

Closer to home two Mark Johnston trained progressive types catch the eye in DOMINATING who is entered at Ripon and KING’S PROCTOR who can land the opening novice stakes at Haydock.

Another Yorkshire-based trainer David Barron can soar in the Listed King Richard III Stakes at Leicester tomorrow (Saturday) with last year’s Bunbury Cup winner ABOVE THE REST. •CARRIGILL’S NAP (Stake returned as a free bet if selection does not finish in the top 4): TOP NOTCH, Saturday, Sandown, 2.25.

•AUGUR’S BEST BET: BIGBADJOHN, Saturday, Sandown, 3.25.

30

ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

RUGBY LEAGUE

Thornhill continue encouraging start

Celtic claim third win DEWSBURY CELTIC OLDHAM ST ANNES

28 12

DEWSBURY CELTIC claimed their third win from five games as they came from behind to defeat Oldham St Annes at Crow Nest Park.

Celtic scored 22 unanswered points in the second half as they continued their positive start to the campaign.

Saints took a third-minute lead with a try from Kieron McGinnity and led 12-6 at half-time.

Paul Foulstone gave Celtic a 6-4 lead with a converted try before Saints hit back with a Matt Whitehead penalty.

Sam Akeroyd then added a try as Whitehead converted but the second half was all Celtic.

Two tries in three minutes from Sam Whitlock and Billy Yarrow plus two Foulstone goals saw the home side take the lead at 18-12.

Tries from George Senior and a

NCL Division One

THORNHILL TROJANS 34 LEIGH MINERS RANGERS 30 THORNHILL TROJANS overturned a 14-point deficit as they came from behind to defeat Leigh Miners Rangers at Overthorpe Park.

The Trojans trailed for the majority of the contest but displayed grit and determination to snatch victory with two minutes remaining.

The visitors dominated the early stages and sailed into an early lead with three tries before the 10-minute mark.

Joe Digby, Rob Crompton and Louis Brogan all crossed for Leigh Miners, Josh Ward added all three conversions to put the away side in control.

Thornhill hit back with their first try of the game as the ball was worked to Joss Ratcliffe and he dived over the whitewash for a try in the corner.

Leigh responded by extending their lead to 20 points. Brad Hargreaves broke through the Trojans’ defence and rounded several defenders on his way to the tryline.

Thornhill reduced the deficit just before the half-time interval as Liam Morley dotted down near the posts.

Joel Gibson converted.

James Craven narrowed the gap five minutes into the second half as he gathered a high kick from Danny Ratcliffe and nipped past the defender to plant the ball down.

Leigh restored their 14-point lead as Adam Thomasson took a high kick

second Yarrow try and Will Copley conversion brought home the points.

Celtic host Millom at Crow Nest Park tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon, looking to claim their thirdstraight win (2.30pm).

Elsewhere, Celtic are still raising funds for their trip to Australia with a ‘Find the Joker’ competition.

Entries cost £1 and can be bought from behind the bar at the Dewsbury Nash or from the Open age or Under-18 players at the club.

The draw to find the joker will take place tomorrow evening at 6.30pm, at the Dewsbury Nash.

Next Sunday (May 6) Celtic will be raising more money with a fancy dress walk from Kirkwood Hospice to Dewsbury Nash on Park Parade.

The money raised will be split 50/50 between Kirkwood Hospice and the Celtic Oz Tour.

Anyone interested in sponsoring the walk should contact the club via Facebook or alternatively, visit the bar in the Nash.

NCL Division Three

Maroons in fine form Bruce and the former landed both goals for 12-0.

The last 10 minutes of the half saw the Warriors reduced to 11 players as Liam Brown and Scott Malpas were sin-binned.

Dewsbury capitalised with a Sam Thornton try and an Ineson goal to make it 18-0 at half-time before a penalty added two more points.

A Lee Coates try got Hunslet on the board before he was sent off for dissent and the Warriors added another try through Liam Brown.

Oliver Ayers added a try with 20 minutes to go.

Ineson scored an eight-point try with Daryl Gaunt and Luke Adamson sin-binned late on.

NCL Division Two

HUNSLET WARRIORS 12 DEWSBURY MOOR 36 DOUBLE TAKE: Joss Ratcliffe scored twice as Thornhill came from behind to beat PHOTO: Dave Jewitt Leigh Miners at Overthorpe Park on Saturday afternoon on the last tackle and touched down.

From the restart the Trojans restored some hope as George Woodcock set off on a fine run before sending Danny Ratcliffe over underneath the posts.

He then crossed for his second, outsmarting the visiting defence to reduce the deficit.

Gibson was sin-binned for dissent prior to Ratcliffe’s scoring, leaving the kicking duties in Morley’s hands

and he made no mistake in adding the extras.

With only minutes left on the clock Morley gathered a high ball and offloaded to Joss Ratcliffe who dived over in the corner for his second and the match-winning try.

And to add to the drama, Woodcock’s conversion attempt hit the post before dropping over the bar, giving the Trojans a four-point lead as the referee blew for full time.

DEWSBURY MOOR moved to fourth in the NCL Division Two table with their fourth win from five games.

The Maroons are two points behind Stanningley in first place but currently have two games in hand over the division leaders.

Dewsbury Moor’s man of the match was Aiden Ineson after the half-back racked up 24 points.

The Maroons started quickly with two tries in the opening 10 minutes from Ineson and Cameron

Johnson leaves head coach role as Sharks lose again NCL Division One

YORK ACORN SHAW CROSS SHARKS

34 12

SHAW CROSS SHARKS lost for the fourth successive game in NCL Division One after defeat away at York Acorn.

It was the first time that Paul March took charge of the side after Zach Johnson departed the club last week.

Johnson had only been in permanent charge since the beginning of this season after he took temporary control at the end of last year – helping the Sharks steer clear of relegation.

The Sharks had only won one of their four league games under Johnson this season and it is believed that a disagreement with club hierachy led to his departure.

March has now been placed in charge of the first-team squad for the forseeable future.

A slow start gave the Sharks an uphill task as York started brilliantly with four tries inside the first 25 minutes.

The first came after just five minutes, as a Joel Johnson offload sent Joe Budd away to score.

York almost had a second soon after that, but Ryan Chalkley managed to get back and pounce on the loose ball, preventing a certain score.

The hosts didn’t have to wait too

long for more points though, as three tries in a six-minute spell put York in a commanding position.

Reece Rushworth broke from 30 metres out and ran clear to score the home side’s second try.

Soon after Matt Chilton slipped in Jordan Potter who ran a great line to find a gap and burst through the Sharks’ defence.

Josh Thompson got the fourth, as the ball was moved left following a series of offloads from impressivelyquick hands to make it 22-0.

The Sharks never let their heads drop, however, and they fought back into the game with two tries before half time.

The first was from Matthew Tebb, who managed to dive under the defence and force his way over the

line.

Then Ricky Whiteman made a speedy break down the right edge and moved the ball back inside to Cam Benson for a second try.

Danny Flowers kicked both conversions on his return, and the Sharks were beginning to play with real confidence.

Unfortunately they couldn’t carry that momentum into the second half, but continued to play positively in what became an increasingly tough midfield battle.

York extended the lead with two scores in the second period, the first coming from Nick Caldwell from his own kick and chase seven minutes in.

With a couple of minutes left to go Chilton broke clear and passed

inside to Budd to score his second try and Acorn’s sixth, confirming a fourth league defeat for the struggling Sharks.

• SHAW CROSS SHARKS UNDER10s travelled to Castleford Panthers last week for what turned out to be an evenly-matched contest.

Bailey Woods collected opposition man of the match while parents player was awarded to both Phoebe Wilson and Ellis Peake.

The coaches’ award for most improved went to Finlay Gaal, the award for strong defence was picked up by Liam Littlewood with the allround performance going to Charlie Tilford.

Tomorrow the Sharks play host to Normanton Knights.

HEAVY WOOLLEN FOOTBALL

Linthwaite go two points clear at the top of Premier Division LINTHWAITE moved two points clear at the top of the Heavy Woollen Sunday League Premier Division after defeating previous leaders Navigation 3-1 with Paul Smith netting for the visitors.

FC Walkers Hounds lie in fourth place following a 6-5 win at Birstall Cricket Club,

who scored through Reece Scholes (two), Johnny Beverley, Ash Peel and Troy Bagshaw.

AFC Chickenley had Shaun McDaid and Shaun Horan on target as they drew 2-2 at Roberttown Rovers.

Deighton WMC moved closer to the Championship title after they beat second-

placed Mount Pleasant 5-2 to go five points clear at the top.

Mount replied through Muhammad Omar and Muhammed Luqmaan Vania.

Hanging Heaton Cricket Club are in fourth spot after Joe Jagger hit four goals in a 7-1 win against Scholes Athletic. Tom Ramsden, Rob

Mallender and Connor Secker netted the others.

Ravenswharfe won a tough game against bottom side Overthorpe Sports Club 4-1 thanks to strikes from man of the match Robert Stenhouse, Duane Fascione, Tom Padgett and Jake Kilburn.

Overthorpe’s reply came from Tom Hirst, his first since

returning from a serious injury. Elsewhere Wellington Westgate won 6-2 at home to Wire Works.

With Division One leaders Snowdon not in action, Battyeford blew the chance to go level on points after they could only draw 2-2 with lowly Wike Horse, who scored through Barry

Downes and Kieran Frood.

Birstall St Patricks consolidated their fourth-place position with a 3-1 win at Inter Batley thanks to strikes from Joe Ratcliffe, Kieran Cooper and Tom Williams.

Bunn Darboe fired a brace for St Ignatius but they went down 4-2 at bottom side Clifton Rangers Athletic.

ThePress

Friday April 27, 2018

31

BETFRED CHAMPIONSHIP

Rams lose six in a row Betfred Championship

DEWSBURY RAMS HALIFAX RLFC

16 48

at the Tetley’s Stadium DEWSBURY RAMS lost their sixth consecutive game in the Betfred Championship after suffering a heavy defeat against Halifax.

Halifax built on a narrow half-time lead to run out convincing winners in the end.

The visitors scored 24 points in as many second-half minutes to settle the tie, after the Rams had shown glimpses of a comeback.

Dewsbury forced an early knock-on and had the first territorial opportunity, but the hosts were unable complete their set.

Halifax poured forward in response and Conor McGrath dived over on the fourth tackle, but play was brought back for an earlier infringement and the visitors had the penalty.

But on the next set the ball was thrown out of play. Gareth Moore kicked what appeared to be a 40/20 as Dewsbury brought the ball out, but the touch judge on the North Stand side ruled a scrum in favour of Fax. The visitors made the most of the letoff and Chester Butler coasted through a gap from Quentin Laulu-Togagae’s flat pass and crashed over. Steve Tyrer added the goal.

The Rams posted an instant response when Moore scooped up a Fax pass to ground and fed the ball inside for Dale Morton to finish. Paul Sykes’s goal levelled things up.

The hosts went close to taking the lead when Macauley Hallett latched on to Moore’s grubber, but the ball had just trickled dead.

Dewsbury continued to apply pressure in the minutes that followed, but couldn’t find a way through as the Halifax defence stood resolute.

A break through midfield from Ben Johnston and his pass inside to Brandon Moore handed the lead back to Fax, and Tyrer’s goal made it 6-12 with just over 15 minutes of the first half remaining.

Halifax went further in front in the 28th minute when the ball was worked right for James Saltonstall to spin and dot down. Tyrer added the conversion.

The Rams won possession back from the kick-off, but threw a forward pass as they looked for a way over their opponents’ line.

James Glover hacked dead Scott Murrell’s grubber as Halifax chased a fourth score, and from the drop-out they were over thanks to Ben Kaye’s dummy and dash from close range.

The Rams put themselves back in the game just before half-time when Dom Speakman sold the dummy and crossed, and Sykes’s goal made it 12-22 at the interval.

Dewsbury forced the error from the restart, but a forward pass and a penalty to Halifax for talking back to the referee wasted the Rams’ opportunity.

On the next set, McGrath dived over in the corner, but Fax were also pinged for a forward pass.

The comeback was on when Speakman’s delayed pass put Sykes through a gap on the last tackle, but Fax kept their hosts at arm’s length when Butler powered over for his sec-

CONSOLATION: Dale Morton’s levelling try on 13 minutes proved to be of little worth against Halifax on Sunday

ond try shortly after.

Tyrer’s goal made it 18-28 with just under half an hour remaining.

The end-to-end nature of the game continued and both sides looked capable of adding to their tallies.

Dewsbury were reduced to 12 men just shy of the hour when Lucas Walshaw was sin-binned for holding down following a break from Saltonstall.

Shortly after, Sykes was helped from the field with a knee injury.

Grady went close to connecting with Johnston’s grubber as Fax looked for

the decisive score, and moments later Tyrer slipped his marker to dive over.

Tyrer’s goal made it 18-34, before Laulu-Togagae snapped up a speculative kick from Rams’ Moore on the last tackle to race 70 metres.

Fax piled on the misery when Sharp scooped up a loose pass and raced 80 metres following a period of sustained Rams pressure.

Tyrer kicked seven goals from eight attempts, and was on target following Sharp’s late score to crown a satisfying afternoon for Halifax and ensure that the Rams losing run continues.

MATCH STATS DEWSBURY: Josh Guzdek 6 Rob Worrincy 6 James Glover 7 Macauley Hallett 7 Dale Morton 8 Paul Sykes 7 Gareth Moore 7 Jode Sheriffe 7 Robbie Ward 7 Jack Teanby 7 Jordan Crowther 6 Rob Spicer 6 Aaron Brown 7 Subs: Dom Speakman 8, Lucas Walshaw 7, Chris Annakin 7, Kyle Trout 7.

Tries: Morton (13), Speakman (38), Sykes (48).

Goals: Sykes 3/3.

HALIFAX: Quentin Laulu-Togagae 8 Conor McGrath 8 Steve Tyrer 8 James Saltonstall 8 Will Sharp 8 Scott Murrell 8 Ben Johnston 8 Jacob Fairbank 7 Brandon Moore 7 Will Maher 7 Chester Butler 8 Shane Grady 9 Simon Grix 7 Subs: Ben Kaye 8, Elliott Morris 7, Dan Fleming 7, James Green 8 Tries: Butler (11, 51), Moore (24), Saltonstall (28), Kaye (35), Tyrer (66), LauluTogagae (69), Sharp (75).

Goals: Tyrer 7/8.

Referee: M Griffiths Half-time: 12-22 Penalties: 13-5 Sin Bin: Lucas Walshaw (58, holding down) Sent Off: None Weather: Cloudy Man of the Match: Shane Grady (Halifax) Attendance: 1,394 Match rating: 4/5.

RUGBY UNION

Seven’s heaven for Moorenders RFU North East One

CLECKHEATON RUFC PENRITH RUFC

REMARKABLE: Cleck players mob Matt Piper after his try sealed a stunning comeback against Penrith PHOTO: Gerald Christian

70 59

THE CURTAIN fell on Cleckheaton’s season as they produced a dramatic performance worthy of its own script in the West End. The Moorenders’ six-game winning run looked in serious danger of coming to a disappointing end but a remarkable fightback saw Cleck record one of their most memorable victories in recent history.

The Spen Valley men trailed 59-35 with 20 minutes remaining but scored 35 points with no reply as they staged a remarkable comeback against Penrith.

Penrith travelled to Moorend hoping to secure a play-off place and they started the game in explosive fashion.

The opening try gave a taste of what was to come as quick hands and pace out wide led to the visitors scoring an excellent try through full-back Jay Rossi.

Cleck hit back on six minutes when a kick to the corner from Ronan Evans was gathered by Mikey Hayward who crashed over to level the scores.

Mike Swetman kicked a penalty from close to the half-way line two minutes later before Hayward sped clear to cross for his second try of the day and 13th of the season.

On 17 minutes great support play

led to Penrith’s second try of the afternoon with Mike Raine crossing the whitewash and Matt Allinson converting.

Brad Marsden replied for Cleck shortly after the restart, Swetman missed the conversion but the hosts still led 18-12.

Penrith hit back as they scored two tries in four minutes through wingers Olly May and Jon Fell, earning themselves a bonus point and taking a lead they would retain until five minutes from time.

Jamie McNaughton increased Penrith’s advantage with another try while Allinson added two more conversions.

Tim Mobbs was introduced to the contest and made an immediate impact as he scored his first try for Cleck when supporting a break from Swetman.

A Cleckheaton attack soon after quickly turned into a try for the visitors as Penrith scrum-half George Graham intercepted the ball and ran 70 metres to go in underneath

the posts.

The second half started in the same fashion as the first finished, with an interception try from the away side.

The lightning-quick Fell took the ball and went in for his second try of the game, Allinson added the extras.

The Moorenders hit back as Paul Turner burrowed over the line and then on 55 minutes Jack Seddon grabbed a try after running an excellent line down the blind side.

The scoreboard was being worked into overdrive as Penrith looked to have sealed victory when May and Graham both added to their tallies, giving the visitors a seemingly insurmountable lead of 59-35.

Cleckheaton refused to give up the fight and Swetman sparked the comeback as he forced his way over the line from close range.

The experienced stand-off went in again with 12 minutes to go and with both tries converted only 10 points separated the sides.

Quick hands from one side of the field to the other created space for Cleck’s Grant Fitzsimmons to cross the line, with the conversion bringing the score to 59-56.

Swetman put the Spen Valley men in front as he completed a quick-fire hat-trick to take the home side’s tally to 63 points.

Skipper Matt Piper rounded off a superb afternoon for Cleck as he went over for the final try of the day with a minute to spare, sparking great celebrations.

“This was a fantastic way to close out the season, with the team extending their unbeaten run to seven games,” said Cleck chairman Neil Gillan.

“Head coach Thiu Barnard, assisted by Mike Swetman, are to continue their tenure next season and are already planning for the campaign.

“If we can play like we have during the last two months then the outlook for next year is filled with promise.”

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Kelly: No confidence issues with Rams DEWSBURY RAMS chief Neil Kelly insists there are no confidence issues at the club – despite a run of seven straight defeats in all competitions.

Dewsbury travel to London this weekend hoping to turn around their recent poor form.

Kelly feels that his players have done themselves proud against some tough opposition in recent weeks.

However, the Rams boss was quick to express his frustration after his side lost 46-18 at home to Halifax last weekend.

“I think, for ourselves, and in no way am I trying to play down the results but the performances generally have been quite good,” said Kelly.

“I am not including last week’s performance in that but the performances have been good against some really tough opposition.

“Realistically, and I am talking realistically, when I say which games would people have expected us to win in the run of fixtures we have had.

“We have played Leigh away, Toulouse at home and Toronto, these are teams with massive budgets, far in excess of what ours are.

“I think we have still managed to perform well against most sides but like I said last week was an exception.

“Last week we didn’t perform in what was

DOUBTFUL: Dewsbury’s Paul Sykes probably the most realistic game for us, in terms of getting some points.

“That was the disappointing factor, as we had performed well against sides that we would have been doing well to win against.

“However, last week the win was there for us and we didn’t do the basics right and credit to Halifax, they did the basics of the game well – we didn’t.”

The Rams last played London in the second game of the campaign, narrowly losing 12-0 at the Tetley’s Stadium.

And Kelly feels that the competitiveness of that contest gives his side plenty of hope going into Saturday’s game.

He said: “The game earlier in the season gives us hope that we can go down and replicate the performance that we showed when we last played London.

“London are a confidence team and their confidence has taken a blow over the last few weeks.

“They have lost more than they have won, which is similar to ourselves.

“We need to stop some difficult players, Jarrod Sammut is the main person that comes to mind.

“But they have also got some significant forwards that we need to stop as well.

“We have not got such a big squad, we are a small squad and we haven’t got anyone coming in permanently over the next few weeks so we need to find a solution.

“We cannot sulk, the fixtures are the fixtures and we need to go down to London and show what we can do.”

Paul Sykes may miss the trip to the capital after he injured his hamstring against Halifax last weekend.

Top-four finish ‘unrealistic’ for Batley BATLEY boss Matt Diskin believes that a top-four finish is an unrealistic goal for his side.

With the number of full-time teams in the Championship, Diskin feels that the top four “should select itself.”

The Bulldogs travel to Featherstone this weekend and Diskin insists that his side have shown that they have the ability to be able to compete with one of the division’s in-form sides.

“We go into Featherstone with the ethos that we are going to get a win,” said Diskin.

“You ask any sportsman, you don’t take to the field thinking you can’t compete or that you can’t win.

“We are under no illusions that it is going to be tough but talks of top four, I think, are unrealistic at the moment.

“If you look at the quality that is in the division now compared to previous years the top four, in theory, should select itself.

“But we want to make sure we are knocking on that door and make sure those so-called bigger sides are delivering what they need to deliver to beat us.”

Diskin’s men are riding high on confidence after a superb win over Toulouse two weeks ago but the Batley chief isn’t going to get carried away with the result.

He said: “We are confident, we would be silly not to be, we want to ride the momentum from the win over Toulouse.

“We had a successful Easter period, we targeted three wins out of four and we got that.

“Going into Fev we are confident, as we competed exceptionally well against Featherstone at home.

“They are spending the money that allows them to have some real quality in their side.

“So we are going to have to concentrate from one to 17 to stand any chance of coming away with a win.”

FITNESS TEST: Batley’s Patch Walker

Diskin has confirmed that Patch Walker will be subject to a late fitness test to determine whether or not he will be fit for Sunday’s game.

The Batley boss was pleased with the performance of Huddersfield Giants loanee Izaac Farrell against Toulouse and says the Bulldogs have enough cover if Walker is unavailable.

He added: “Patch can play in the middle at loose forward just as comfortably and as efficiently as he does at half-back.

“The problem with Patch is that he is having trouble with back pain, he has trained this week and has come through unscathed.

“We need to have some late tests on him to see if he is available for selection.

“Almost everyone else is fit and healthy, we gave the players a week off to rest and rejuvenate so they could be mentally and physically prepared.”

Sedge player suffers seizure during game LIVERSEDGE’S game against Hall Road Rangers was abandoned on Monday evening after Sedge player Craig Billington (pictured) suffered a seizure at the side of the pitch.

Billington was rushed to hospital before the referee abandoned the game in the 78th minute with the score at 3-3.

The Liversedge forward has since made a speedy recovery and is hoping to be back playing as soon as he is able.

“I had a seizure while playing and as I came off it got worse,” said Billington.

“Thankfully all at Liversedge and the lad from Hall Road Rangers helped out, and the paramedics of course.

“Thanks to all for the tweets and texts of well wishes, I’ll be back playing soon.”

During the game, Hall Road went in front as Chris Spinks’ free kick took a deflection and wrong footed the Sedge keeper.

He then added a second from the penalty spot after he was brought down inside the area.

Josh Greenlaugh halved the deficit just after the break as he slotted the ball underneath the keeper.

Fraser Hansen restored the visitors’ twogoal cushion before Greenlaugh completed his hat-trick to draw Liversedge level.

There was then concern as the match was stopped as Billington received treatment before being rushed to hospital.

With the season coming to a close, the result will stand with Sedge still due to play at least four games before Thursday.

On Tuesday evening, Liversedge won 4-0 at home to Staveley Miners Welfare.

Joe Walton put the hosts in front with seven minutes played before two secondhalf goals from Greenlaugh and one from Ryan Lill sealed victory.

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