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Friday January 16, 2015

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No. 668

50p

T N E M S S E S S A IE F L E S l housing market and

Ed Balls discusses loca t ric st di to it vis on y ur sb w De in s ce an ch Labour’s ECIAL REPORT - p12 SP

HONEYMOON FROM HELL Turkish food hospitalises bus driver p3

WE TOLD YOU SO

By David Miller News Reporter davidmiller@thepressnews.co.uk

COUNCIL planners have been condemned after work on a new housing scheme in Mirfield caused flooding.

Houses on Lady Heton Drive were affected on Monday after Ben Bailey Homes began building 34 properties nearby.

Campaigners warned planners and the developer that the area would flood if the scheme went ahead.

Town Council chief Coun Vivien Lees-Hamilton (Con, Hopton) attacked Kirklees Council for waving away their concerns.

She said: “The land was allocated for housing in the Unitary Development Plan (UDP) in 1999.

“Back then the area probably was suitable for housing, but

Work on controversial new homes quickly leads to flooding since 1999 the council has repeatedly allowed developers to build outside of the UDP. “As a result all the soakaway land has gone and the area is now prone to flooding.

“I don’t know whether the planning committee was deaf or just didn’t get it, but they approved the development anyway.”

Optician Darren Aveyard and another of his neighbours on Lady Heton Drive are affected.

The back garden of Darren’s home is flooded while the garage of a neighbour had to be pumped out.

Water was also said to be flow-

ing under the property, with a concern for its foundations.

Darren said: “Contractors removed the topsoil and vegetation, leaving a clay base underneath exposed.

“And then, as we told the council, when it rained the land’s flooded, and, because of the slope, it’s then all flowed towards Lady Heton Drive.”

Workmen, when told by Darren of the problem, piled up a bank of soil in a bid to stem the tide.

He added: “All credit to them for acting, but who knows where the water will go now?”

Coun Lees-Hamilton said the

developer should offer compensation and added: “That’s the price they should pay for riding roughshod over people.”

She added Ben Bailey Homes had “acted like environmental terrorists” for removing trees from the site.

Coun Lees-Hamilton said: “The irony is trees soak up water, and I don’t care that the developer is going to plant saplings after the fact.

“Those saplings will take years to grow, and in the meantime residents are left with a continuing problem.”

Continues on page two

Properties on Lady Heton Drive, Mirfield, have been affected by the flooding after builders started work

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Deaths CARTER MICHAEL ANTHONY On 10 January, of Dewsbury, aged 77.

Friday January 16, 2015

Husband of the late Catherine. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium, Friday 23 January at 3.15pm.

DOBSON STANLEY

HALL MARGARET CLARE

On 9 January, of Batley, aged 93. Husband of the late Margaret. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium on Tuesday 27 January at 1.15pm.

On 6 January, formerly of Birkenshaw, aged 86. Wife of the late Eric. Requiem Mass at St Patricks RC Church, Birstall on Thursday 22 January at 12noon, followed by committal at Dewsbury Crematorium at 1.15pm.

DUNNETT ELSIE On 2 January, aged 92.

Wife of Alan. Funeral at St John’s Church, Carlinghow on Wednesday 21 January at 1.45pm, followed by committal at Dewsbury Crematorium.

FUSSEY FRANK On 6 January. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium on Thursday 22 January at 11.15am.

GLOVER PETER FREDERICK

HAMMONDS FREDERICK RONALD ‘RONNIE’ On 10 January, aged 90 years, of Gomersal.

Husband of the late Chrissie. Funeral at St Mary’s Church, Gomersal on Wednesday 28 January at 11.30am, followed by committal at Dewsbury Crematorium.

HAMPSHIRE PATRICK DONALD

On 10 January, of Tentercroft Court, aged 84.

Husband of the late Nora.

Funeral service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Wednesday 21 January at 2pm.

On 8 January, of Birstall, aged 86 years. Husband of the late Marie. Requiem Mass at St Patrick’s RC Church, Birstall on Monday 19 January at 1.30pm, followed by interment in Birstall Churchyard.

GOODLAD NEE GREENWOOD MARGARET

HINCHLIFFE JOYCE (NEE OATES)

On 9 January, of Dewsbury Moor, aged 71. Wife of David. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium, Monday 26 January at 2pm.

On 6 January, formerly of Thornhill Lees, aged 89 years. Wife of the late John. Service of celebration of Joyce’s life and

interment will take place at Holy Innocents Church, Thornhill Lees on Tuesday 20 January at 1.30pm.

JARVIS NEE BOOTH (FORMERLY DELANEY AND REYNOLDS) MONA On 9 January, of Thornhill, aged 88 years. Wife of Peter. Funeral service at Dewsbury Crematorium on Friday 23 January at 12.30pm.

LODGE CHRISTOPHER On 25 December, of Birstall, aged 65 years. Son of the late Kenneth and Rose. Funeral at St Saviour’s Church, Birstall, Thursday 22 January at 11.15am, followed by interment at Bruntcliffe Cemetery.

LONGASTAFF MICHAEL On 9 January, of Thornhill, aged 80. Husband of Agnes. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium, Tuesday 20 January at 10.30am.

PATON CHARLES On 10 January, aged 91, of Hightown. Husband of the late Mary. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium on

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Wednesday 21 January at 11.15am.

ROBINSON ARTHUR On 10 January, aged 82 years, of Batley. Husband of Mavis. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium on Friday 23 January at 11.15am.

SENIOR (FORMERLY MANTON) NEE WILSON ALICE On 9 January, formerly of Earlsheaton, aged 98. Wife of the late Fred. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium, Thursday 22 January at 2.45pm.

SIMPSON HAROLD OSWALD On 5 January, aged 86 years. Husband of the late Edith. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium, Friday 23 January at 1.15pm.

STEAD LEO On 11 January, aged 81, of Dewsbury. Husband of the late Vicky. Requiem Mass at St Joseph’s RC Church, Batley Carr on Thursday 29 January at 12noon, followed by committal at Dewsbury Crematorium at 1.15pm.

WATSON CHRISTINE NEE COLLIER On 7 January, aged 59.

Mum of Lewis, Jo and Hannah. Funeral at Dewsbury Crematorium, Wednesday 28 January at 10.30am.

WOODCOCK HILDA NEE WHITEHEAD On 7 January. Wife of the late Ronnie. Funeral at Fixby Crematorium, Wednesday 28 January at 2pm.

Homes flood after builders start work Continued from page one But Coun Lees-Hamilton, also a Kirklees councillor, reserved her main criticism for planners.

She said: “It’s galling to know we were right and the planning committee was wrong.

“But we can’t crow about ‘we told you so’ because this is a serious problem affecting people’s lives.”

There are now fears bigger housing schemes set for Mirfield could also cause flooding.

Houses on Stocks Bank Road, near to where 166 homes are to be built as part of the Mirfield25 project, already suffer flooding.

Similar issues affect the Balderstone Fields, where Bellway Homes want to build 134 properties.

Of the work off Kitson Hill Road, a spokeswoman for Ben Bailey Homes said no complaints had been received from residents.

She said: “The proposed works include surface water run-off prevention measures along the site boundaries.

“This will any prevent run-off from the site from affecting neighbouring properties.

“Installation of these protection measures was completed on January 13 and our engineers are inspecting the site regularly to monitor their performance.

“To date, we have not been approached by any residents regarding surface water run-off since our works commenced on the site.”

Daylight robbery RAVENSTHORPE: A man was dragged into a ginnel in a robbery in broad daylight last Thursday.

The victim was walking near the junction of Bradbury Street and Lee Road at around 1.30pm when his arm was grabbed.

He was pulled into the ginnel, where a white man in his 30s demanded cash and his mobile phone.

The robber punched him to the ground and then searched him for a small amount of change in his pocket after he refused.

He managed to run away over nearby playing fields and was chased by the suspect for a short distance.

The attacker is about 5ft 9in tall, slim and had a white hoody with blue jeans. Anyone with information can call Kirklees CID on 101.

ThePress Friday January 16, 2015 Issue No: 668 31 Branch Road Batley West Yorkshire WF17 5SB Tel: 01924 470296 Fax: 01924 472561

www.thepressnews.co.uk @ThePressLatest

Telephone 01924 472178

/ThePressNews

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ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

Chimney collapse tragedy boss jailed A BUILDER left a novice labourer to demolish a chimney in Batley – which then collapsed and killed him.

Leeds Crown Court heard Nigel Parker, pictured, went to check on another site while Daniel Hough, 23, worked alone in the Thorncliffe Estate.

Daniel died instantly when two tonnes of rubble from a first floor bedroom chimney fell on him.

The court was told the incident happened on July 25, 2013 – Daniel’s first day on the job.

Alistair MacDonald QC, prosecuting, said Mr Hough also had no building industry qualifications.

Demolition began halfway up the chimney but without any support of the upper part.

This so weakened the structure that there was nothing to stop the upper part crashing down.

Parker, 56, previously of Sherburnin-Elmet, admitted gross negligence manslaughter and two breaches of health and safety regulations.

Lisa Roberts, for Parker, said her

client had since had a mental breakdown and had spent time in a psychiatric unit.

Judge Mr Justice Macduff, who said the incident was “beyond incompetence”, jailed Parker for two years.

He added: “You will always have to live with the knowledge that you were responsible for this unlawful killing.”

“You have lost your job, your good name and your self-esteem.

“You are weighed down with a sense of guilt – and rightly so.”

Honeymoon hell Mark had his romantic dream holiday ruined after eating raw chicken A FATHER from Dewsbury has told how his honeymoon in Turkey was ruined by undercooked food.

Bus driver Mark Swannell, 46, ended up in hospital with a serious gastric illness while staying at a resort in Sarigerme.

He travelled in October with wife Nicola and their children to celebrate their wedding five months earlier and her 40th birthday.

Mark said he cut into chicken during one meal and noticed blood in the middle.

Other food was left uncovered for long periods while cutlery, crockery and table linen was dirty.

Other hygiene issues included cats being seen in public areas of the hotel and in the restaurant.

Mark said: “We were all so excited to be having a break and were absolutely devastated with the way things turned out.”

He spent the rest of the holiday in hospital with diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea and lethargy.

The couple had travelled with their three children, Lewis and Kyle, both 13, and Keira, seven.

Mark added: “The break was totally ruined and none of the reps at the resort asked Nicola how I was doing or took any interest in my welfare.”

Law firm Irwin Mitchell are seeking answers from tour operator TUI UK about what went wrong.

They are also appealing for anyone else who stayed at the Holiday Village resort in Sarigerme last year to get in touch.

Jennifer Downing, of Irwin Mitchell, said: “It’s important we find out exactly what caused Mark’s illness.

“Lessons may be learned to reduce the risk of others suffering in the future like he did.”

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Morrisons to close RAVENSTHORPE: Morrisons is to close its “loss-making” store with the loss of an unknown number of jobs.

The branch, which the Bradford-based retailer took over from Netto in 2011, is one of 10 nationally that will shut this year.

A spokeswoman said: “We've looked extremely carefully at whether the stores can be turned around.

“But unfortunately we cannot see a way of making them viable. We are therefore proposing their closure.”

She declined to comment on job losses at Ravensthorpe, saying only that the number of redundancies may not match the number of staff.

Rail taxis for disabled MIRFIELD: Disabled rail passengers now have a taxi service to get them to the nearest accessible station, following intervention from MP Simon Reevell over the lack of wheelchair access at Mirfield Station.

He told train firms Northern Rail and Grand Central they have a duty to ensure disabled access, in the form of staff assistance or a free taxi.

Mr Reevell said: “Many passengers aren’t aware that the option to book a taxi is available to them.”

Anyone with problems should call Northern Rail customer relations on 08081 56 16 02 or Grand Central’s assisted travel helpline on 0344 811 0072.

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BATLEY & SPEN: Plans to shut libraries across the area top the agenda at a meeting at Batley Town Hall on Tuesday (7pm). Kirklees Council chief librarian Carol Stump is due to detail proposals at the Batley and Spen District Committee session.

Libraries in Birstall, Batley, Heckmondwike and Cleckheaton could all be under threat in budget cuts. The role of ‘friends’ groups in saving libraries from closure and how residents can get involved will be discussed.

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ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

Disgrace of the sex-pest paramedics

News In Brief Town Hall ram-raid CLECKHEATON: Thieves fled empty-handed after the Town Hall was hit by ram-raiders yesterday (Thursday). Two vehicles – a Land Rover Discovery and a Mitsubishi Shogun – were driven to the side of the building at 2.38am.

The Discovery was crashed into the building’s street-level entrance before the raiders entered the premises.

“It is believed they tried and failed to take the cashier counter and then sped off in the Shogun.

Police believe both vehicles were stolen in Bradford on Wednesday. Anyone with information can call Det Insp Stef Wiseman at Kirklees CID on 101.

Armed robber jailed LIVERSEDGE: A member of an armed robbery gang has been jailed for more than 11 years.

Jamal Benjamin, 25, of Laverhills, Hightown, was among those who terrorised three generations of the same family in Bradford. He admitted three offences of robbery, dangerous driving and driving while disqualifed.

In an incident in September, 2013, men armed with a knife and a pistol stole jewellery and £30 in cash. Bradford Crown Court heard Benjamin is the only one to be caught.

Judge Robert Bartfield said Benjamin was “a significant figure in the level of command” of the gang.

TWO paramedics at Dewsbury Ambulance Station have been suspended for sexual harrassment.

Richard Senior and Andrew Rowley made a litany of lewd comments and sexual gestures to female colleagues.

Both were banned for a year by regulator the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

A hearing was told Mr Senior

repeatedly begged a female colleague for a “foursome”.

Mr Senior, who has now quit his job as a paramedic, boasted of his conquests in front of patients.

He also made sexual noises in the ambulance station mess and commented on another colleague’s breastfeeding.

The pair were said to be “worse when they were together” and

were split up in September, 2013, after complaints from co-workers.

Mr Senior’s conduct was found to be a “serious departure from the standards expected of a paramedic”.

The panel was told Mr Rowley, who denied most of the allegations against him, has also quit. Among the charges was a claim that he swore at a newly-qualified medic

and also called her ‘useless’, causing her to be off work with stress.

A spokeswoman for Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust said a thorough internal investigation was made.

She added: “Both employees were found to have breached the trust’s code of conduct and appropriate disciplinary action was taken in June, 2013.”

Plan for new homes ‘will put lives at risk’

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COUNCIL CRITIC: Local resident Stuart Morris, inset, and land at Kirkgate, Birstall, where two new homes could be built

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LIVES could be at risk if new homes are built fronting onto a busy Birstall road, residents claim.

It is feared a scheme for two properties off Church Lane, near the Black Bull pub, will block the view of drivers at the Kirkgate junction.

A meeting at the pub on Monday heard Kirkgate is used as a ‘rat run’ to avoid Bradford Road.

There are reports of near misses with traffic on Church Lane and with pedestrians crossing the road.

Residents are worried what will happen if sight lines are

further obscured by homes on the corner of Kirkgate.

Sandra and Colin Hartley, of Church Meadows, object to the scheme, which involves Kirklees Council selling land they own for development.

They wrote: “The grassed area at the end of Kirkgate is important to traffic coming up Church Lane.

“It is advantageous to be able to see traffic conditions at this junction before turning in.

“It would be hazardous to all motorists at this often busy junction to lose this benefit.

“Further up the road the Muffit Lane/Church Lane junction has in recent years

seen an increase in accidents.”

Other issues include lack of parking, where access roads will go and the loss of a green space used by children and dog walkers.

Stuart Morris, also of Church Meadows, blasted the council for poorly-timed consultation.

The retired sales director said: “Everybody was a bit upset that this came right before Christmas.

“We think the council have been a bit crafty in that with the holidays we’ve not had much time to get organised.”

Today is the closing date for comments on the application (ref: 2014/49/93860/E).

Immigration talks

Help for job-seekers

THE EFFECTS of recent immigration on Batley is to be discussed at the Town Hall on Tuesday, January 27 (9.30am to 2.30pm). The event, called ‘New and Emerging Communities Awareness’, is being hosted by Kirklees Council officials. The meeting is free and open to frontline council staff, partner agencies or community groups. To book, call Habiban Zaman on 01924 482192 or email habiban.zaman@ kirklees.gov.uk.

JOB-SEEKERS can get help at a meeting in Dewsbury Town Hall on Thursday (1.30-4.30pm).

More than 20 groups, including employers with current vacancies, will be at the event.

Those attending can also get advice on training, education and how to write a CV. The event, called ‘Build Your Own Future’, has been put together by Kirklees Council’s Dewsbury and Mirfield District Committee.

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AN ACCOUNTANT from Heckmondwike denied stealing £450,000 from his former employer.

Anthony Simpson, 53, of Wood Avenue, is accused of embezzling the sum from nowdefunct Bradford conveyancing firm Hammonds Direct.

Bradford Crown Court heard on Monday the company went bust in 2009 with the loss of 200 jobs.

Simpson denied theft relating to the alleged taking of

cash belonging to the firm’s partners from September 1, 2008, to July 8, 2014.

George Hazel-Owram, prosecuting, said Simpson would represent himself at a trial set for Monday, May 11.

Mr Owram said: "He accepts money was paid out of the account to other parties and himself.

“The issue is whether Hammonds Direct partners were in on this and were using him to conceal money

from the administrator.”

He added there is also concern about whether police had complied with the law in relation to searches and interviews.

Mr Owram said the defendant was told at an earlier hearing to have legal counsel, to no avail.

Judge David Hatton QC ordered a pre-trial review for Friday, April 17.

Simpson was given unconditional bail until then.

ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

News in Brief

ELECTION CANDIDATES MAKE THEIR CASE FOR A BETTER BRITAIN

Stop importing, start producing

By David Miller

Mark Thackray (UKIP)

Adrian Cruden (Green Party)

MANUFACTURING jobs could be Dewsbury’s salvation, a UKIP parliamentary candidate has claimed.

Mark Thackray, 53, wants the town to lead an industrial rebirth and would push any government for investment.

The founder of Scout Hill firm Tektronix is UKIP’s candidate for Dewsbury and Mirfield.

He started the textile machine manufacturer in 1997 after seeing first-hand at another company how jobs are lost.

Mr Thackray said: “We’d export machines to companies abroad who would then win contracts to make things at the expense of British firms.

“I thought this was wrong and so set up in business to support our own manufacturers.

“Every penny that goes out of our economy on imported goods equals jobs lost at home and more debt.”

He added that the tragedy for Dewsbury, with its empty shops, is that industry once made it one of the most prosperous towns in the north.

Mr Thackray said: “Even in textiles, there’s only a couple of yarn manufacturers left.

“We’ve got to start making things again as a nation.

Everything’s imported now and it’s done terrible things to jobs and the economy.”

His motivation is also personal, having seen daughters Lisa, 25, Victoria, 23 and Deborah, 21, struggle.

All three can only get part-time work and do at least two jobs each to make ends meet.

Mr Thackray, of Leeds, studied wool and yarn manufacturing at the former Dewsbury and Batley

‘Greens are rising rapidly...’

ADRIAN CRUDEN, who stood for the Green Party at last May’s council poll, has been selected as the party’s candidate in Dewsbury & Mirfield in the general election.

The Lib Dems are the only major party still to announce a candidate for the constituency.

Mr Cruden, of Thornhill, scored 260 votes last May to finish ahead of the Lib Dems

in Dewsbury South.

The former chairman of the Kirklees Law Centre said: “The political scene is changing fast and the Greens are rising rapidly.”

He was a Green Party councillor on Kirkburton Parish Council from 2007 to 2011.

Policies he supports include axing big councils like Kirklees, re-nationalising utili-

ty firms and cracking down on corporate tax avoidance.

He said: “We stand for real local democracy with smaller councils. We also stand for a more equal society.

“Our world will not be able to sustain the massive inequality in wealth that we see now.”

The Greens are in the process of selecting a candidate for Batley & Spen.

Technical and Art College. He also supports the return of grammar schools – “as comprehensives have failed” – and wants a referendum on EU membership, saying: “Every time any of the major parties have got close to that, they’ve backed off.

“While ever that’s the case, UKIP will make a stand.”

Railway death DEWSBURY: A 20-year-old man died after being hit by a train near the railway station last Saturday. The man, who has not been named but is from the Batley area, was pronounced dead at the scene at around 2pm. He was found near the Webster Hill railway bridge.

Trains were disrupted for more than four hours and a spokesman for British Transport Police said: “The incident is not being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”

Body discovered DEWSBURY: The death of a man found in a town centre flat is not being treated as suspicious. Police found the man, 42, last Wednesday at a property on Nelson Street after concerns were raised by a friend.

Officers also ruled out drugs as the cause after the deaths of three men in the town last month due to a suspected rogue batch of heroin.

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CRASH SHUTS ROAD: A road in Staincliffe was closed for 90 minutes following a collision on Sunday afternoon on Dewsbury Gate Road, involving a silver Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, left, and a silver Toyota Yaris. The road was closed between Halifax Road and Occupation Lane for an hour and a half. An injured passenger in the Yaris was taken to hospital.

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Friday January 16, 2015

Je suis Charlie?

No, just disgusted at cowardly press RITISH newspapers missed a massive opportunity to strike a telling blow for freedom of speech last week, in the wake of the Charlie Hebdo massacre.

One hundred years ago, the City of London Rifles – the ‘Printers Battalion’ – saw action in the Great War. Times were when the Daily Mail provided two companies of volunteers.

These days, Fleet Street’s editors would mostly be thrown in the lock-up as consciencious objectors.

Paul Dacre, current editor of the Daily Mail, the most jingoistic of today’s nationals, should have been on the phone to all of his contemporaries last week.

On the day that millions of people took to the streets of Paris, he should have been urging his fellow editors, as one, to print the offending cartoon that cost those murdered journalists their lives.

I was very surprised that the Guardian used the Charlie Hebdo cover – online at least – and with a warning that the image might offend! Better than nothing though.

B

Daily Mail editor Paul Dacre – no awards for our national newspapers for manning the barricades But if the Mail and Times, the Telegraph, Independent, Express, Sun, Mirror and Star, had all joined and made a stand, it would have taken the so-called ‘blasphemy’ bull by the horns. It would have planted a much-needed flag in the sand.

Do our laws still prevail in this realm or does sharia dictate now? We shouldn’t even be discussing it.

Here’s the thing: If what our political masters tell us about our ‘vast majority of peaceloving Muslim neighbours’ bears any truth, what’s the

problem? No-one is asking them to blaspheme. We respect their beliefs. But to tell the world that it cannot draw a picture of a historical figure? Not in mockery even – which I don’t think the new Charlie Hebdo cover is – but at all?

Sorry, that’s just another example of Islamic brow-beating, poking a finger in our ever-retreating and kowtowing chest. Until we step back all the way off Beachy Head.

That’s the game here.

If British Muslims understand the concept of free speech, are tolerant of the right to mock and ridicule – if that majority respects British law as Cameron and Co keep banging on, what’s the problem?

It was encouraging to hear a few moderate Muslim spokesmen standing up against the Paris terror. It’s a start, but hardly a significant one. The cat’s still got the tongues of Sayeeda Warsi and Shahid Malik, of our own local imams and councillors, whose ‘moderate’ natures we continue to glibly assume.

As for the cartoon, it isn’t

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LIFE IN BLACK AND WHITE Danny Lockwood as if we need worry about upsetting the jihadists – you can’t inflame them any further, because our hellish deaths are already their idea of heaven.

But had those images appeared on front pages the nation over, the point would have been made, a line drawn.

BIG enough newspaper could do it alone, but it might as well paint a bull’s eye on the front door – and not necessarily just for the extremists. In today’s Britain I can picture the rest of the media, led by the Lord Haw Haws within the BBC, turning on it, branding it as reckless, inflammatory.

Would the industry rally around The Press if we put our neck on the line? Not for a second. We’d be vilified as much or more by our own establishment as any offended Muslims.

That’s why there had to be a collective willingness to take a stand. And it wasn’t there.

Even if worst had come to worst and every newspaper office found itself besieged, vandalised, attacked, at least we’d know the full extent of our politicians’ self-delusion and the real state of play in this fragile land.

But I really don’t think that would have happened.

In many years of dealing with Dewsbury and Batley’s Muslim communities, its businessmen, politicians and criminals alike, I have experienced one common thread – a respect for strength and conviction.

I’ve been in the hearts of Savile Town and Mount Pleasant, with accusations flying vigorously back and forth.

A

Scaredy-cat Dave doesn’t want to play IT IS actually embarrassing, watching the playground panto that Prime Minister’s Questions has become.

The Conservatives have decided to omit the word ‘immigration’ from the next four months of General Election campaigning. To simply pretend they haven’t lost control of our borders, that the unstoppable flood of immigrants is not the root cause of our overstretched NHS, crowded classrooms, and rampant drugs and prostitution gangs.

“Just keep talking about the economy – except don’t mention the deficit!” That’s it. One lifebelt fits all.

I wouldn’t mind but we now even measure the drug/prostitution black economy when measuring our GDP. Maybe that’s why George Osborne was so ridiculously bullish about the UK economy this week, risibly claiming that it could rival the USA’s (and the election bullshine isn’t even in full swing yet!)

Meanwhile the unwillingness to talk about immigration (and only reluctantly the EU) is why David Cameron doesn’t want to go anywhere near a televised debate. Yet I suspect he’ll have to. He wants to appear magisterially aloof but the plain fact is that he’s frit. Just a frit posh boy, babbing his britches.

Confrontations and shouting matches have ended with a respectful handshake.

Nothing personal. No hard feelings. You’ve got to stand up for yourself.

But the way of mainstream British establishment, of local authorities and the police, striped through by political correctness, is to fawn and flatter, to never risk giving offence, to patronise and bestow favours.

Retreat, retreat, retreat.

What community wouldn’t lap up such subservient, preferential treatment? It’s life on easy street, funded by a system which panders to imagined sensitivities.

Pardon the language, but it’s bullshit. Want to live in a

western democracy? Our rules. End of conversation.

But Islam is not just a religion. It is a culture, a lifestyle, a political movement that doesn’t negotiate – and it has got the feeble British sussed.

Last week was a rare opportunity to tackle the poisonous, divisive status quo, but the British press merely proved itself as a self-regarding haven for cowardy custards.

All those pages and columns of tearful eulogies for their French cousins? All that florid, literary handwringing and poetic anguish?

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’M NOT quite sure what to make of the huge demonstration in Paris. On one hand we witnessed a remarkable coming together of so many people, of such diverse communities. It was reassuring, inspiring.

Then there was the sight of those posturing prime ministers, presidents, dictators and tyrants, linking arms like they were doing one big hokeycokey. I’ll bet Tony Blair and Gordon Brown were narked at not getting an invite. (And sorry for the bad taste, but I looked at that lot and uncharitably wondered why there’s never an armed jihadist just when you need one.)

I chuckled at the sight of David Cameron, shunted off as far down the line as the French could politely manage. Aw diddums. Never mind Dave – chins up old boy.

But did you see some of the people present, showing their ‘solidarity’? Marching for peace?

Mahmoud Abbas runs the Palestinian Liberation Organisation for crying out loud. Good

I

job they kept him away from Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, who has plenty blood on his hands.

The Saudi ambassador turned up. The Saudis, who fund Sunni terror groups and recently sentenced a blogger who criticised the regime to 10 years in jail and 1,000 lashes.

Tunisia, Egypt, even the King of Jordan, countries where journalists are routinely persecuted, all puffing up for the photo-shoot.

Russia too, where ‘photo-shoot’ has literal connotations for critics of Vladimir Putin.

Freedom of speech? I don’t think so.

And it will not make a blind bit of difference, excepting that in the UK Cameron has promised the police state even more snooping powers.

All in the name of security of course – and this from a Government that allows mass surveillance of ordinary British journalists’ phone records, based on the spurious excuse of a few Fleet Street celebrity phone hackers.

These people have some nerve.

ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

Dad blasts change to schoolday times

By David Miller A FATHER from Birstall has hit out at plans to change school hours that have given parents little time to change their work and travel arrangements.

Philip Cawtheray said a lack of consultation at the BBG Academy in Birkenshaw had caused upset.

Last Friday it was announced that the school day will start at 8.20am and end at 2.30pm from Monday, February 2.

This is to allow for split lunch breaks in an attempt to improve the behaviour of children.

Philip, whose son, 11, attends BBG Academy,

claimed changes to the schoolday came without warning.

The Birstall Nash steward said: “What they’re trying to do may be the thing that needs to happen.

“But they shouldn’t have made such a decision without talking to parents first and giving us some proper notice.

“Planning this for the next school year would have been wiser. It would have given everybody the chance to have their opinion and adapt.”

He added a lack of buses means his son will need to set off for school at around 7.15am.

Lunch, meanwhile, will be split into three sessions for different year groups between 12.25pm and 1.40pm.

The school, currently in

special measures, was taken over last month by Leedsbased Rodillian Academy Trust.

A spokesman for the trust said: “The rationale behind this decision is to create a safer environment at lunchtime.”

The re-jigged school day offers more time for extra-curricular activities and support for those who need it.

Pupils took a letter home last Friday, a text was sent to parents and the document was also posted on the school website.

The spokesman added: “The academy is working with a local bus company to provide transport for pupils travelling from the Birstall and Batley areas.”

Struggling college ‘will recover’ A HEADTEACHER vowed action is already being taken after her Batley school was judged as ‘inadequate’.

Samantha Vickers said changes at Batley Business and Enterprise College will see it recover from a devastating Ofsted verdict.

Weaknesses in maths and literacy were found while there are also problems with behaviour and safeguarding.

The report, published on Monday, noted a high turnover of staff as affecting the ability to improve.

Ms Vickers officially took up her post two weeks before Ofsted’s visit in October but she

had been in the role for about 11 months.

She said: “We can reassure everyone that strong action was already being taken before Ofsted’s visit.”

As a result there are more examples of good and outstanding practice, she claimed.

Ofsted highlighted a strength in the school’s promotion of spiritual and cultural values.

But the report added: “The college’s overall effectiveness has declined since the last inspection (in November 2012).

“The quality of teaching across the college, although improving in recent months, is too inconsistent.”

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Friday January 9, 2015

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Union cash could fill hole in budget Dear Sir, Last week you cited Coun David Sheard needing £75m of somebody else’s money to rectify the neglect of our roads: some hard decisions needed, clearly.

Could he, therefore, be introduced to the spokeswoman who let slip the cost of taxpayers’ unwilling, or unknowing, funding of trade union activities within the council.

Naturally, no explanation was given as to why taxpayers fund this, but self-funding the £577k a year would cost the 13,400 union members a mere 83p a week each.

If this is how union activities are financed elsewhere,

They despise our community From: Tim Wood, Mirfield Dear Sir, The proposed cuts that could close down the Mirfield Town Council building, and its attached offices, are yet another short-sighted measure which reflects a genuine lack of goodwill and decency from Kirklees towards the people of Mirfield.

We have a Town Council whose interests are for the people of Mirfield, the councillors are all volunteers, and don’t get paid.

The only place they meet is in the council offices, where other meetings from the public domain can be held.

For years I have enjoyed sharing a small storeroom in the council building in order to conduct and prepare the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal for the Mirfield area. It is a useful asset to have.

Whispers of cuts to the library, the town’s only public toilet, and now the council offices, leaves many of us won-

Letter of the Week: Peter Sykes, Batley why not here?

The resultant freeing of £6m over 10 years could surely fill the odd pothole or two at zero cost to local taxpayers.

That’s a whopping £6,000,000 not spent on unions/Labour Party/MPs’ support and just from within our little local authority.

Actually, it’d add 28 per cent more to annual hole-filling than

dering what we get from Kirklees for our council taxes.

We don’t have a dedicated sports centre or swimming baths, in fact not much in the way of public amenities at all.

Yet, Mirfield is one of the largest contributors, per head of population, to Kirklees’ bank account.

Mirfield is still a community with a sense of pride and spirit for the good side of society.

I often think Kirklees, in all its anonymity, despise our sense of communal togetherness.

Closing down the council offices will be further proof of their animosity towards Mirfield, or will someone champion a new phoenix, just when it’s the hustings season?

Done his time From: Pensioner, Ossett Dear Sir, It was nice to read Ed Lines in The Press newspaper this week.

I am pleased to read someone saying something that makes sense about Ched Evans.

central government taxpayers will fund over the first six years Coun Sheard highlighted.

Over the full 10 years, almost a quarter of the necessary funds could already be identified – £18m of £75m.

No cost to Kirklees Council and Coun Sheard’s a hero to local taxpayers: no extra tax but spend, spend, spend!

What’s not to like?

The media on TV are a lot to blame, always on about him, every time we put the TV on.

Why can’t they leave him alone? He’s done his time.

No role model From: David Honeybell, Heckmondwike Dear Sir, I have not read the court papers regarding the rape conviction of footballer Ched Evans, and I don’t want to understate the seriousness of rape and the effect it must have on victims being attacked and violated in this horrendous way.

But I have to agree with the views expressed by Danny Lockwood in last week’s Ed Lines.

I fully support convicted paedophiles being banned from working with children for obvious reasons, but Evans is a footballer and I fail to see the connection between rape and football.

What harm can he do on a football pitch? And I don’t buy into this idea of footballers

being lifestyle role models to young boys.

They may well be role models for their sport, and their antics of diving and cheating to ‘win’ penalties get copied, but that’s as far as it goes.

Are there any statistics to show how many young men have followed the example of Wayne Rooney and started to visit brothels to have sex with old women?

How can we in all honesty stop a man from making a honest living playing football and at the same time allow Jeffrey Archer, a convicted perjurer, to keep his seat in the House of Lords?

Big influence From: A concerned parent, Heckmondwike Dear Sir, I always look forward to Danny Lockwood’s Ed Lines and usually find myself agreeing with your comments.

However your article entitled ‘Why should Evans now be denied a living?’ led me to believe that your sporting

PLANNING APPLICATIONS D Wood, 40 Bracken Close, Mirfield, extension to existing detached garage.

Mr M Yasin, 17 Woodland Grove, Dewsbury Moor, outline application for erection of five dwellings.

Mr M Yasin, 17 Woodland Grove, Dewsbury Moor, alterations to convert existing building to two dwellings.

C Halloran, adjacent to 7 Belle Vue Street, Batley, demolition of existing building and erection of dwelling.

Longley Concrete Ltd, Ravensthorpe Road, Thornhill Lees, two-storey rear extension to existing offices.

Richard Kirby, Alpha House, 48 Whitley Road, Thornhill, demolition of existing house, erection of five dwellings and formation of parking to the front.

Darren Smith Homes, adjacent to 13 Dunbottle Lane, Mirfield, discharge conditions 4, 5, 8, 11-14 on previous permission 2014/90639 for erection of two dwellings (substitution of housetypes).

L Hopwood, 32 Norristhorpe Lane, Norristhorpe, erection of agricultural building.

Darren Smith Homes, adjacent to 13 Dunbottle Lane, Mirfield, dis-

charge conditions 3-6, 8, 11-14 on previous permission 2014/91451 for erection of three dwellings (modified housetypes).

Darren Smith Homes, adjacent to 13 Dunbottle Lane, Mirfield, discharge conditions 2 (surface drainage) and 3 (landscaping) on previous permission 2014/91450 for erection of detached garage (modified proposal).

Laing O’Rourke, Whitcliffe Mount School, Turnsteads Avenue, Cleckheaton, demolition of existing facilities and erection of new school and sports hall with associated landscaping works.

R Smith, 440 Oxford Road, Gomersal, ground and first floor extensions.

Mr Akbar Ali, 3 Park House Drive, Thornhill, single-storey extension.

Rouse Homes Ltd, White Horse Hotel, 274 Leeds Road, Birstall, variation condition 2 (plans) on previous permission 2008/90510 for demolition of former public house and erection of 12 dwellings (amended house types).

Rouse Homes Ltd, White Horse Hotel, 274 Leeds Road, Birstall, erection of four dwellings (modified proposals).

Mr A Ali, 57 Healey Lane, Batley, two-storey extension over carport, single-storey extension and dormer window.

L Williams, adjacent to 79 Fall Lane, Hartshead, outline application for erection of detached dwelling.

Mrs Humera, 51 Ravensthorpe Road, Thornhill Lees, two-storey side and rear extension, single-storey front extension and store to rear.

Mr M Azam, 37 Selbourne Road, Savile Town, two-storey side extension.

Mr E Dockrat, adjacent to 24-26, Thorncliffe Road, Staincliffe, outline application for erection of four dwellings.

Mr D Moyser, 203 Raikes Lane, Birstall, works to TPO(s) 02/05.

Dura Beds Ltd, Kelvin Trading Estate, Grange Road, Batley, demolition of existing office and erection of two-storey office and showroom.

Community Of The Resurrection, Stocks Bank Road, Mirfield, variation condition 2 (plans) on previous permission 2011/90605 for erection of new monastery.

Mr S Hussain, 5 The Avenue, Dewsbury, two-storey extension.

K Thornton, 13 Woodlands Road, Gomersal, Certificate of Lawfulness

for proposed erection of outbuilding.

T Harker, 10 Roundwell Road, Hightown, two-storey and singlestorey extensions and detached garage.

Kirklees Council, public WCs, Market Street, Birstall, change of use to (A1) retail on ground floor with (C3) residential above.

Mr Y Dokrat, 36 Frederick Walker Gardens, Batley, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 4m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 3.8m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 2.6m.

Kirklees Metropolitan Council, adjacent to 21 George Street, Cleckheaton, outline application for erection of up to three dwellings.

Kirklees Metropolitan Council, adjacent to 163 North Road, Ravensthorpe, outline application for erection of up to four dwellings.

Mr T Hussain, 2 Pilgrim Avenue, Dewsbury Moor, single-storey side extension.

S Dawkins, 3 Princess Street, Chickenley, installation of external solid wall insulation.

Mr & Mrs S Laher, 50 Alexandra

Crescent, Westborough, formation of vehicular access and gates and demolition of existing wall (within a Conservation Area).

Mr Y Dokrat, 36 Frederick Walker Gardens, Batley, single-storey front extension.

Mr Mohammed Rizwan, 48 Dewsbury Gate Road, Dewsbury, demolition of existing garage and erection of detached garage with playroom over.

N U & I Ltd, 27 Union Street, Dewsbury, prior approval of proposed change of use from office (B1) to dwellinghouse (within a Conservation Area).

Mr S Sarwar, 91 Parker Road, Thornhill Lees, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 5.963m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 3.9m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 3m.

Mr I Mohammed, 66, Spen Valley Road, Ravensthorpe, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 5m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 4m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 2.69m.

background may have influenced your assessment of the situation and mis-guided your sympathies.

No-one is denying Evans a living. What people are denying him is a position where he has the opportunity to influence young people.

If a teacher, youth worker, police officer, politician or someone in many other professions, where they had an obvious influence on young people, had been convicted of rape, they would not be able to continue in that profession.

No-one is preventing Ched Evans from becoming a plumber, travel agent, car salesman or taking a multitude of other jobs.

What is being said is “Ched Evans, we don’t want you to have an influence on our football-crazy children. You have lost that right by your actions.

“You have made no attempt to regain that trust, as you won’t even acknowledge the wrong you did to that girl or apologised for your actions.

“You have allowed your supporters to continue her persecution and shown no contrition whatsoever.”

If Ched Evans’ conviction is overturned on appeal, then he should be allowed to return to a career in football.

At that time it would be down to the consciences of those considering employing him.

Personally, based on his own admission of his behaviour, as reported in the media, I would say his moral standards are not those that I would want young children to be influenced by.

Premises are under-used From: Harold Laycock, Mirfield Dear Sir, There has been much speculation and debate regarding the possible sale and future use of Mirfield Town Council offices.

The fact is that the offices are under-utilised, with the front section of the premises remaining empty.

The overall appearance is an environmental detraction, with

blackened, rotting window frames and boarded-up window and door panels. An eyesore and a disgrace.

Regarding rumours of the future use of the council offices, they are obviously unsuitable for use as licensed premises due to the lack of parking space.

According to recent rumours Tesco, who are closing unprofitable stores, presently have a lease on the old Black Bull building.

This would fit in nicely with the image of Wetherspoons.

Traffic calming is needed now From: Paul Wilkinson, Mirfield.

Dear Sir In response to the Hopton Lane ‘Rat Run’ article in The Press last week.

Two months ago I had to travel up and down Hopton Lane to get to and from Emley every day.

I could not believe the dangerous speeding, tailgating and mad driving that goes on, on that road, which is a built-up area, as far Jackroyd Lane.

As a person who always stays within the speed limits, there were occasions when I had to pull to the side of the road just to let the speeding tail-gaters pass.

Do some drivers not actually realise that where there is a built-up area and no roadside signs with the speed limit on, that road will always be a 30 mph road?

The whole road system as far as Emley is a bit like driving on a lawless Scalextric track, with far too many cars and vans tailgating each other, at full speed, even on the dangerous winding bends on Jackroyd Lane, Hopton Hall Lane and also on the notorious B6118, heading towards Grange Moor.

Speed bump calming measures, very similar to the ones on Ravensthorpe Road, would be a very good idea to slow down the speeding motorists driving down Hopton Lane.

Perhaps a digital radar speed

Continues on page nine

ThePress

From page eight board, giving out the speed that a car is travelling at, would also be a good idea.

So much for free expression From: ‘Heckmondwike Hector’ Dear Sir, I am compelled to write in support of Danny Lockwood in ‘Ed Lines’ who is, like many of his readers, fed up to the back teeth with the army of ‘Islamapologists’ who emerge from every crevice of the liberal-dominated media.

Lefty delusions have been the driving force for years. I can hardly forget how the recently-jailed Abu Hamza got BBC prime time for his verbal tirades outside the Finsbury Park Mosque; his bouncing belly wobbling in harmony to his fulminating mouth, and those uniformed bobbies smiling at his antics.

It seems to me that the BBC captured these images on film in order to demonstrate to the world that we are democracy so tolerant we are even prepared to accommodate those who, themselves, are intolerant. How illogical?

How sad it is that it took the courage of the US to finally nail him. Make no mistake though, the real culprits of this irrationality are PMs and cabinet ministers who, in their foolishness, treated this dangerous character as if he was some pantomime villain.

Labour politicians were even saying, at the time, that it is better for radicals to be in this country where we can monitor them closely.

How would that statement sound in the light of what has now come about?

What has happened recently in Paris may well come home to roost on us.

If it does, then it is our leaders who have allowed it through their sheer misguided complacency.

It is through political correctness that we pussyfoot around anything which may cause offence to Muslims – for one example, by going soft on these preachers of hate.

The result is that freedom of speech has become the privilege of one religious following, who, seemingly, can say whatever they like; but anyone who voices even the mildest of criticisms of Islam can expect to have their collars felt very quickly.

The examples are numerous.

Mad mullahs and their irrational disciples can burn poppies, and express a desire to do the same with infidels, Jews and gays.

They do it at demonstrations or online; but don’t dare be a Christian who refuses bed and breakfast to same sex partners, because you will end up with a criminal record and possibly lose your business.

The reasons behind this monstrous state of affairs are as sinister as they are absurd.

It is because this religion has become the state’s favoured client group, protected by ‘hate crime’ laws, that have been invented to grant them special privileges, whilst punishing its critics.

It first began in the days when a fatwa was ordered against Salman Rushdie, for an alleged insult to Mohammed, in his book Satanic Verses.

Since this time, there has been a concerted campaign to close down any questioning, criticism or satirical portrayal of one religion, its founder and its teachings.

Having reached the zenith of its power over the media, it can instantly suppress any challenge with accusations of ‘Islamophobia’,

a word right out of the dictionary of diversity.

It is one that has, time and again, been levelled against everyone who tries to give a reasoned argument or objection that is deemed offensive. Anyone falling foul of this concept can be expected to be treated as a racist and punished accordingly.

Following the Paris massacre, our Prime Minister made a bold and stoic speech about the freedom of expression in a democratic society; but his words are no more than gnat’s belch in the face of a fire breathing dragon.

Sorry Mr Cameron, the terrorists have already achieved their objective.

Newspapers dare not reproduce the so-called offensive cartoons, because they would end up putting themselves and their staff at risk.

So much for free expression.

It’s unfortunate Mr Prime Minister that, at least in this case, the pen is no longer mightier than the sword and thus, because of the Islamic threat to authors, I dare not even put my name to this letter.

Until we have regained the freedoms that our grandparents paid such a terrible price for in two world wars, I have to remain yours truly.

We won’t stand for this..

From: P Rhodes, Mirfield Dear Sir, Years ago I worked on Bridlington Council in an environmental department.

A boarding house landlady wrote in saying that some of her guests

had been complaining that they were embarrassed by what they could see from their window, which overlooked the nudist bathing beach. Being a junior staff member, they sent me along to investigate, on a hot, sunny day.

The landlady took me up to the top floor, and pointed to the window in question. I peered out, looked around in all directions, and told her I couldn’t see anything.

“You can if you stand on a chair,” she shouted.

Simply put up or shut up From: Darren Whitley, Cleckheaton Dear Sir, It is with some interest that I read your letter of the week from K Brown of Mirfield.

We are living in a time where Kirklees Council are seeking to sell much of the family silver, after putting round the rumour that the current government is forcing this upon them as a result of cutting funding.

How strange that we happen to be living under a council under Labour control, and how convenient that the government of the day is Conservative.

This can only be a short-term solution, since once the money raised is spent, it is gone forever.

It is patently obvious that Mr/Mrs Brown is no fan of the Conservative councillors that represent him/her, but contrary to what he/she says, the town council are not ‘co-opted buddies’, but rather elected representatives.

Only a small amount of research suggests that while some may be elected unopposed, they were nonetheless elected. Perhaps if K Brown does not like the elected representatives that sit on the Town Council, he/she has the answer in his/her own hands.

To put it quite simply, put up, or shut up.

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ThePress

News In Brief

Junkie stole Lego BIRSTALL: A homeless man stole Lego worth more than £100 from Toys R Us to fund his heroin addiction.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard Steven Wojtylo, 37, entered the Birstall Shopping Park premises with a large empty bag on November 28.

Wojtylo, of no fixed address, filled it with Lego but was detained by staff as he tried to leave.

He admitted to two counts of theft, having also stolen two remote control helicopters from the Boots store nearby.

Wojtylo said his motivation was to buy drugs. He was jailed for 10 weeks and told to pay an £80 victim surcharge.

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Friday January 16, 2015

Strictly no pressure...

DANCE SCHOOL PUTS FUN FIRST FOR 20 YEARS

By David Miller A DANCE school which has inspired two generations of Batley youngsters is celebrating its 20th birthday.

Sarah Taylor, 49, founded her eponymous academy in January 1995 and she is now teaching the children of her first pupils.

Back then she opened at the former Batley Community Centre on Wellington Street with just 18 students.

Now Sarah Taylor Dance has about 250 pupils and purpose-built premises in a four-storey converted mill on Station Road.

Sarah, a former Earlsheaton High School pupil, said the secret of the school’s success is making it fun. She said: “There’s no

pressure and we never push anyone. What we care about is making sure all our pupils are happy.”

Stardom is not a factor and Sarah added: “For many it’s just nice to have a hobby.”

But for those who wish to

go further there are opportunities – and some of the current crop are said to be on the cusp of breakthroughs.

Some are bidding for parts in major productions and Sarah said: “All I’ll say is, watch this space!”

They have a role model in Sarah, who left Hanging Heaton for the bright lights of London aged 18.

She gained a performing arts diploma from the famous Italia Conti school in 1987 and then went into pantomimes and musicals.

One was Jack and the Beanstalk, which co-starred Ian Botham and Max Boyce, at the B r a d f o r d Alhambra in 1991.

Her school offers classes including ballet, tap, musical theatre and street dance to people of all ages.

Sessions are Monday to Thursday evenings and Saturdays. For more details call 01924 898844 or see www.sarahtaylordance. co.uk/index.htm.

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PHARMACY workers raced to help when an elderly woman fell badly near their Batley shop on Tuesday.

The woman, aged about 75, went into a seizure and suffered facial injuries around 1.30pm near the Coop Pharmacy at the corner of Market Place.

Pharmacist Sarah Jawad, also trained in first aid, rushed with medical supplies from the shop.

She and assistant pharmacist Nighat Hanif put the woman in the recovery position and treated her facial wounds while a passer-by called 999. Sarah said: “After a while she got back on her feet. An ambulance came in about 10 minutes and took her straight to hospital.”

She denied being a hero and added: “Helping people is what we’re here for. I just hope she’s okay.”

DON’T CALL US HEROES: Pharmacist Sarah Jawad and assistant Nighat Hanif

Addict snatched perfume to fund habit A DRUG addict from Mirfield stole perfume worth £200 in two raids on the same store.

Lee Edwards, 29, of Cooperative Street, Lower Hopton, used a child’s buggy to cart off goods from Boots in Brighouse.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard he stole items on December 2 and again the next day.

Edwards, who admitted the charges, also pleaded guilty to three thefts from the Co-op in Mirfield.

On January 2 he stole meat from the store and on two other occasions he took alcohol.

The court was told Edwards committed the offences to fund his habit.

Ian Whiteley, for Edwards, said his client’s current problems stem from a prison stretch.

Jailed for nine months in December 2013 for dangerous driving, he became addicted to Subutex, a treatment for opiate addiction.

The case was adjourned until Monday, January 19.

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ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

Cat-hunt for lost Denzel, the Ponderosa favourite

By David Miller A POPULAR rescue cat who delights visitors at Ponderosa in Heckmondwike has gone missing.

Four-year-old Denzel was nursed back to health by Norristhorpe couple Laura and Paul Midwood after being abandoned.

He often ventures down to Ponderosa, where he is fed treats by visitors.

Nurse Laura and NHS community driver Paul, of Elm Tree Close, last saw Denzel on New Year’s Eve. Laura said: “Denzel is a massive part of our family.

He’s the boss of the house and we’re desperate to get him home where he belongs.”

Denzel, who has a damaged right eye, was abandoned by his previous owners as a kitten.

Talk talk

He suffered from fleas among various medical problems but was nursed back to health by Laura and Paul.

They are especially concerned about him being missing due to his damaged right eye.

Laura, who works at Pinderfields Hospital in

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Carl’s banking protest A DEWSBURY businessman protested in London against a bank he claims is trying to shut him down.

Carl Pickering, who runs Cheque Change on Corporation Street, went to the Lloyds Banking Group headquarters last Friday.

He said their subsidiary, Bank of Scotland, want to close his company account with just eight

weeks’ notice.

Mr Pickering claimed his business, which employs nine people, has £1m in the bank.

He fears the loan and cheque cashing firm will close because no other bank will take his business.

Mr Pickering, who was refused a meeting with Lloyds boss António Horta-Osório, said: “No bank account means no business.”

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THE origins of unusual phrases like ‘hair of the dog’ or proverbs like ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’ will be explained at Batley Probus Club on Tuesday.

Noel Moroney will present a talk called “To Coin a Phrase – or Why Do We Say That?”, at the Older People’s Centre.

Wakefield, said: “It causes many infections and means he often avoids bad weather. We fear he may have ventured too far and become disorientated with the bad weather.

“He may be towards Mirfield, Heckmondwike, Cleckheaton, Dewsbury Moor or along the greenway.”

Denzel is micro-chipped and was last seen wearing a reflective yellow collar with a bell.

He is described as slight but agile, friendly and approachable. He also has a ‘thinning’ of fur between his eyes.

Laura added: “After searching high and low for Denzel we still haven’t found him.

“His usual location is Ponderosa or around Lodge Lane in Norristhorpe but repeated searches haven’t brought us any joy.”

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ThePress

12

Friday January 16, 2015

AS FIGURES SHOW JUST 50 NEW HOME SALES IN DEWSBURY LAST YEAR...

Balls action pledge on housing crisis

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constituency in 2014. Analysis of Land Registry data by the Yorkshire Building Society shows that across Yorkshire and SHADOW Chancellor Ed Balls held disHumber the number of new-build transaccussions on the housing market and the tions was down by more than a quarter HAIGHS FARM SHOP compared to 2013, meaning 2014 saw the need to help first-time buyers during a Far Common Road, lowest number of new homes bought in visit to a building society in Dewsbury.

Mirfield, WF14 0DQ decades.

Mr Balls, Labour MP for nearby Morley ANY QUANTITY SUPPLIED The figures show that the number of and Outwood, met with local party ALL WELCOME new homes bought in Dewsbury more activists and bosses from Yorkshire www.haighsfarmshop.co.uk than halved compared to 2013 and is just a Building Society after new figures were OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK sixth of its 2006 peak. published showing just 50 new-build home It’s worth a ride out Overall home sales in Yorkshire and the sales were completed across the Dewsbury You won’t be disappointed Humber, including existing properties as well as new-build, also saw a slight SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE SALE fall in 2014 compared to the previous year, with the market seeing only half as many properties changing hands as before the financial crisis.

Yorkshire Building Society’s study, titled ‘Dewsbury Local Housing Market Analysis’, also shows that the average price of a property in the region is 3.6 per cent lower than when the Coalition came to power in 2010.

After a round-table discussion in the window of the Dewsbury branch, involving YBS chief executive Chris Pilling and chairman Ed Anderson, Mr Balls said: “The figures Yorkshire Building Society are publishing show why there is such a need for government to address the housing crisis and do more to allow first-time buyers to get on the ladder.

“There have been nearly as many government press releases about generating more housebuilding as there have been new-build sales in Dewsbury in the last year.

ON SELECTED “I am extremely conscious of the STOCK ROLLS shortage of housing in our area and the need for more decent affordable homes.

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CANDID CAMERA: Yorkshire Building Society chief executive Chris Pilling snaps a ‘selfie’ of staff at the Dewsbury branch with Ed Balls and Labour candidate Paula Sherriff, centre

DEWSBURY HOUSING MARKET ANALYSIS Based on Land Registry data analysed by Yorkshire Building Society

In the last five years (January 2010 – November 2014) there have been 5,297 property transactions in the Dewsbury constituency, compared with 8,329 in the period from 2005 to 2009.

AVERAGE HOUSE PRICES IN DEWSBURY Property type Avge 2014 price Avge 2010 price Detached £246,738 £245,018 Semi-detached £134,477 £127,936 Terraced £106,780 £107,821 Flat £89,525 £71,437 AVERAGE HOUSE PRICES IN YORKSHIRE & HUMBER Property type Avge 2014 price Avge 2010 price Detached £198,810 £206,257 Semi-detached £107,998 £112,044 Terraced £76,275 £79,132 Flat £107,164 £111,178

“There have been nearly as many government press releases about generating more housebuilding as there have been new-build sales in Dewsbury in the last year” – ED BALLS DIFFERENCE IN 2014 PRICES BETWEEN REGION AND DEWSBURY Property type % difference in price Detached 24% higher in Dewsbury Semi-detached 25% higher in Dewsbury Terraced 40% higher in Dewsbury Flat 16% lower in Dewsbury During the last five years, 483 new properties were sold in the Dewsbury constituency.

In the five years previously, from 2005 to 2009, the figure was 991.

There was a large fall in the sale of new-build flats, from a peak of 130 in 2007 to just 11 in 2013.

All references to Dewsbury refer to the Parliamentary Constituency of Dewsbury.

Paula will be a brilliant MP: Ed BIG-HITTER Ed Balls sang the praises of Labour’s Parliamentary candidate for Dewsbury after his brief visit to the town.

Speaking exclusively to The Press, the Shadow Chancellor – who claimed not to know who Dewsbury’s Tory MP was – endorsed Paula Sherriff’s campaign for the Dewsbury

and Mirfield seat, saying: “I’ve known Paula for many years and I know she will be a brilliant, hard-working MP. “She’s deeply committed to the constituency and to helping people and I genuinely hope she wins.

“This isn’t just another soundbite, I really mean that.

“I’ll do everything I can to sup-

port her.”

Ms Sherriff added: “I was delighted to be able to bring Ed to Dewsbury. It’s been an incredibly useful visit for us.

“I’m really keen to meet with business and financial leaders across the constituency faceto-face, to find out what’s affecting them and how we can help.”

ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

Who’ll repair our footpath?

News in Brief Plea to bug victims NORTH KIRKLEES: Visitors should stay away from hospital if they or anyone in their family have had diarrhoea, vomiting or flu symptoms in the last four days.

It is hoped the move will keep the winter vomiting bug norovirus away from staff and vulnerable patients.

Bosses at the Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust warned the norovirus can be particularly serious for those who are already ill.

And those with the bug were told not to go to A&E or try and see their GP, as they should recover in time without treatment.

■ ‘WE WILL’ SAYS ‘DEVOLVED’ COMMITTEE ■ ‘NOT UNLESS WE SAY SO’, SAYS COUNCIL A SHABBY footpath in Mirfield may seem like an issue too trivial to ignite a political row – but for town councillor Vivien LeesHamilton, it sums up all that is wrong with Kirklees Council’s proposed ‘devolution’ plans.

The surface of the footpath on Hopton Lane near the junction with Waste Lane is cracked and broken.

An elderly woman slipped on loose gravel before Christmas but was not badly hurt.

Coun Lees-Hamilton wants the path repaired and is lobbying Kirklees for funding.

Cash would come from the council’s devolved Dewsbury and Mirfield district panel –

but approval from the cabinet is also needed.

She said: “It’s demeaning that they want us to work up a scheme and then go with a begging bowl for approval.

“It’s not freedom, it’s control from the centre. We had more control under the old area committee system.”

She added that if Mirfield councillors, or perhaps the town council, were given the power, the path would simply be repaired.

Council leader Coun David Sheard claimed full devolution would lead to ‘outsourcing’.

He said: “That would result in a costly tendering system which would do nothing to solve any budget problems.

“Councils that have followed this route find that as funds are withdrawn by cen-

Facebook threat to PC

tral government, they cannot decrease payments for tendered contracts.”

He added the cash doublewhammy leads eventually to more services being closed.

Coun Lees-Hamilton hit back and said: “Quite a large amount of council tax comes out of Mirfield and we feel we’re not getting the services for it.

“In the end, it doesn’t matter whether the footpath is repaired publicly or privately.

“What matters is if we had control of our own budget we’d find the cheapest, most cost-effective solution and get the job done.”

BATLEY: A crime suspect told a police officer to leave him alone – in a Facebook post to the PC’s girlfriend.

Mark Pownall, 26, of Bradford Road, was identified by PC David Overend in September over an alleged criminal matter.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard PC Overend received a Facebook friend request from Pownall on January 6.

Minutes later the officer’s girlfriend, Jessica Wilson, was sent a message warning her to tell PC Overend to leave him alone.

Pownall admitted to sending a message which conveyed a threat. Sentencing was adjourned until Thursday, January 29.

Always wanted that dream bathroom?

They want us to work up a scheme and then go with a begging bowl for approval, says Vivien Lees-Hamilton, right

Residential parking Six extra officers to join permit changes child sex exploitation unit CHANGES to residential parking permit charges, which come into force on April 1 this year, are being introduced to help cover Kirklees Council administration costs.

Properties with one car will still be allocated a free parking space but there will be a charge of £15 for each additional vehicle.

‘Resident’ and ‘visitor’ permits are being replaced by ‘specific’ and ‘open’ permits.

Households can apply for two open permits, the first (which can also be used by residents or visitors) free of charge, and the second for £15.

Only two open permits are allowed per household.

The second permit will need to be renewed after 12 months.

Residents can also apply for a specific permit, costing £15, for any vehicles registered to their property. These include registration details and are valid until the vehicle is sold or taken off the road.

Objections to the proposed changes should be sent to Julie Muscroft, Kirklees Council, 2nd Floor, High Street Buildings, High Street, Huddersfield, HD1 2NF (reference DEV/BP/D11614-13) by February 6.

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A COUNCILLOR has backed the way colleagues and police are tackling child sexual exploitation in the district.

Coun Darren O’Donovan (Lab, Dewsbury West), pictured, was at a council meeting where action taken so far was reviewed.

The overview and scrutiny panel for development and environment heard that Kirklees Police are to hire six extra officers for 18 months.

They will join a unit funded with cash from the West Yorkshire

Police and Crime Commissioner.

The unit works with the council’s family support and protective services departments.

Coun O’Donovan said: “I take a lot of confidence from the police and council in their approach to this.

“What we need to think about is what can we do as a council to help our social workers and the police?”

Supt Ged McManus, of Kirklees Police, said: “We’re doing all we can to help victims who come to us with historic cases and bring offenders to justice.

“Over the next month or two we will be recruiting six temporary investigating officers to assist us.”

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ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

15

A genuine sense of community

Stags’ star signing boost Gentlemens Hairdressing est.1964 Visit our renowned MEN’S HAIRDRESSING ESTABLISHMENT Where courtesy & care matter Roger & his team of experienced stylists extend a warm welcome

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ing the other night and they have about 40 blokes signed up,” said Maloney.

“We were given club booklets with contacts and everything in – I’ve seen Super League clubs who aren’t that well organised.

“I can’t wait to start training and get back involved in the game.

“The guys are looking at being a Conference team a few years down the line. It really is impressive.”

And Maloney won’t be the only big name out on the paddock when the season starts in March.

Dean ‘Diesel’ Sampson is reputed to be joining the cause, with players coming not only locally, but from all over the county.

“There should be a great crowd for the first game – I’ve been texted by loads of my old Dewsbury and Batley teammates having a dig,” added Maloney. “It should be great fun.”

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The town also has an excellent selection of pubs and restaurants which have built up a reputation across the area for their high quality and great value food, from home cooked dishes to more exotic fare.

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Mirfield people are proud of their thriving town and protect its interests fiercely.

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There are many specialist and independent shops and businesses which offer something unusual and different, and Mirfield will always surprise and delight.

Families are realising there is no need to travel further afield to find the goods and services they need as Mirfield offers something for everyone, all within easy walking distance of bus stops and convenient car parks.

Despite plenty of new developments to bring to town up to date Mirfield has retained much of its character and is still associated with a wealth of historical figures, including Robin Hood, the Luddites, the Brontes, and it was also home to Hollywood actor Patrick Stewart.

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THE LATEST player to join rugby league’s newest club says he was blown away by how professional and ambitious the organisation is.

Well-travelled former England international Francis Maloney is putting his boots back on to join Mirfield Stags, the new club founded by former Press reporter Ryan Sparks.

Ryan has recruited Kiwi international and local resident Robbie Hunter-Paul (right) as president of the Stags, plus top referee and Mirfield man Richard Silverwood as coach.

Stand-off Maloney, 41, who started at Leeds Rhinos but has also played at Castleford, Wakefield, Warrington, Salford and several other clubs, believes the Stags are going places – despite not having played a game yet.

“I went along to a club meet-

MIRFIELD is one of the district’s most desirable places to live and work and boasts a compact and convenient town centre with plenty of surprises.

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ThePress

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Friday January 16, 2015

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Ossett has a clean, well-kept town centre and there is always a warm, friendly welcome from the shops and businesses.

And it’s not only Ossett that guaranteed you a warm welcome – on the way to the town from North Kirklees you’ll probably drive along Wakefield Road, past Earlsheaton and Chickenley, where there are many shops and businesses that offer top-quality goods and services.

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ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

17

‘Go team’ are Ann’s on song with transforming G4 star Jonathan school site J Hear Ann across the BBC radio network and on Ent News (UBC Media Showbiz online)

ONATHAN ANSELL has recently starred in the pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarves at the Carriageworks in Leeds, and he told me backstage that he can’t wait to get back on the road again with his X Factor runner-up band G4.

Jonathan said: “We reformed as we all missed it and the response has been great ... we just need to land a slot on X Factor now to make it all fantastic.”

PUPILS at a school in Thornhill Lees are celebrating after green-fingered volunteers transformed their grounds into a new wildlife area.

Headfield CofE Junior School has been part of a project called ‘Green for Go’, which is run through environmental charity Groundwork Leeds, who help adults who have learning, mental health or physical disabilities.

The 13-strong Green for Go team in Dewsbury have spent the last six months giving Headfield’s grounds a complete facelift.

Sue Lee, outdoor learning educational teaching assistant at the school, said: “The Green for Go group is an amazing team and the partnership between the Groundwork Trust and school is very positive.

“Every week since the summer the group has helped to improve the school grounds by developing the wildlife area, building a polytunnel, planting bulbs and creating flowerbeds, to name just a few of the tasks they’ve been involved in.

“The children have also really benefited from meeting more people from our community.

“We’d like to say thank you to them and we hope more funding for the group will be secured so they are able to support us in the future.”

Court correction BATLEY: A court report last week about a man who assaulted his pregnant ex-girlfriend contained an error.

Joshua Spry, of Bond Street, threatened to but did not actually kick Jade FisherWilkinson in the stomach in an incident on Boxing Day. He in custody awaiting trial on two counts of alleged assault and one of theft. We are happy to set the record straight.

SUCH was the success of the recent Downton Abbey musical album, which was released for the festive rush, that another is already planned for this coming year.

But who will they get to sing on it? Can Dame Maggie Smith be persuaded to recite a poem or sing a music hall song? I will keep you posted...

Green for Go members are still visiting the school on a weekly basis, with their focus now on preparing the recreational areas for spring time.

They will be fitting work benches and creating additional raised flower beds for sowing seeds, tidying the woodland area and clearing the pond ready for new habitats.

Running every Thursday from 10am to 3pm the scheme is free to attend.

People can simply join themselves or be referred through organisations such as Mencap, MIND or the Real Employment Agency.

For more informaration email rebecca.houlding@groundwork.org.uk.

Absolute Beginners

JASON DONOVAN has revealed he won’t be returning to Neighbours for the soap’s 30th anniversary celebrations. The actor and singer has contributed to an upcoming documentary which will look back on the show’s 30-year history, but his character Scott Robinson will not be heading back to Ramsay Street for the milestone.

FATHER TED creator Graham Linehan has spoken about the possibility of adapting the sitcom for the stage. The writer reveals that he believes a musical version of the show could be a success. “It’s still getting great ratings as repeats and the public hold it in high regard, so I think why not give it a go?” he said.

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LONG-RUNNING soap EastEnders will finally reveal how its character Lucy Beale was killed in a flashback episode, as part of the show’s 30th anniversary week. The bad news is that it won’t happen until next month, meaning another few weeks of endless ‘who did it’ stories...

“LESLEY JOSEPH does all

Ann Montini and Jonathan Ansell at the Carriageworks Theatre in Leeds Maycon Pictures her own stunts!” Birds of a Feather star Pauline Quirke said to me while having a quick break on set. “She is a brave lady Ann I can tell you, because she knows no fear, whereas I trip up over a loose mat in the studio...”

been confirmed. The former S Club singer tells me: “I got the call pretty late, but I love the show and can’t wait to get back on the dancefloor again ... I just hope I can remember the routines even a tiny bit.”

ELIZABETH HURLEY’S new TV show ‘The Royals’, in which she plays the spoof Queen of a fake country, has yet to find a broadcaster here in the UK. She is keen to point out: “It’s a great show, but maybe they are seeing how well it does in other countries first.”

THE X Factor Live Tour is proving as unsuccessful as the TV show now, with tickets being given away in droves and many dates only half full. It was once a huge sell-out, but given the low ratings of the last series who can blame the once-devoted public from staying away?

LAST TANGO In Halifax actress Sarah Lancashire found fame as Raquel in Coronation Street way back in the 90s, and she admits that it helped as “my father worked on the show as a scriptwriter in those early days, and so he had quite a few contacts looking back...”

EMMERDALE actor Jeff Hordley, who plays Cain Dingle in the soap, tells me having reached his mid-40s he now has his own allotment. “Yes I do enjoy growing my own veg and doing the garden,” he said. “I would have laughed a few years back if you had told me that, but it’s a great hobby.”

HONEYSUCKLE WEEKS has explained why she thinks long-running drama Foyle’s War has been such a success. “I think people like to look back, not just at the time, but the stories and the clothes, how people managed and so forth, plus many have rose-tinted glasses,” she said. “It was tough for many and we do try to reflect this, but also add in some fun too – that is what makes Foyle so special to me.”

LES DENNIS, who plays Michael in Coronation Street tells me he knew he was doing a great job in the soap when people started calling him by his screen name and not his own name. “You know then that people are connecting with you and it’s a great feeling,” he said.

RACHEL STEVENS will be joining the 2015 Strictly Come Dancing UK tour, it has

JAMES ALEXANDROU will be making a guest appearance in Casualty on January 24. The former EastEnders actor, who played the original Martin Fowler in the soap, tells me he declined a return to Albert Square as: “I wanted to do something different, and at this stage in my career it’s easy choices for me, but who knows in the future?”

WITH Nick Hewer announcing last month that he will not return for the 11th series of The Apprentice, Lord Sugar ought to take care that he doesn’t end up having to recruit two new sidekicks.

Karren Brady, the recently appointed Baroness Brady of Knightsbridge, would not confirm her return for the next series. Instead, she suggested that her seat in the House of Lords would factor into her decision.

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Friday January 16, 2015

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.

Amazing, amusing ONE OF the most popular speakers to address meetings of Batley History Group over the past few years will be back again later this month to amaze and amuse its members.

Former Keighley librarian Ian Dewhirst has won acclaim not only for the unusual facts and stories which he delivers across a wide spectrum of interests but also the highly amusing stories which he has unearthed and delivers with aplomb.

Over the years Ian has written hundreds of magazine articles along with several books – The Story of a Nobody and The History of Keighley among them – and spent most of his period of employment in Keighley Library even though, he says, he never had any clear desire to be a librarian.

He got his first taste of the profession while doing his National Service in the army and then went on to become a library assistant at Keighley before taking over the role of reference librarian.

He says it was not a very exiting career but it dovetailed admirably with his personal interests and he was able to unearth lots of fascinating stories about the English way of life while doing so.

He has already talked to History Group members about Victorian and Edwardian leisure pursuits and also about Yorkshire’s Christmas traditions.

He returns to the meeting in Batley Town Hall on Monday January 26 to give what he titles ‘An Informal History of the 20th Century’.

The meeting starts at 7.30pm in the main hall but free refreshments are available from 7pm.

Admission is £2 for members and £4 for non members.

SATURDAY JANUARY 17 MAINLY HIGHTOWN (NK) Meet 10.45am behind Cleckheaton Town Hall BD19 3RH GR SE 191 254 7.5 miles (M) No dogs please Leader: Geoff Tel: 01422 379921

MONDAY FEBRUARY 2 OAKWELL IN WINTER (NK) Meet 1pm Oakwell Hall top car park WF17 9LG GR SE 217 270 4 miles (L) No dogs please Leader: Kathleen Tel: 01924 471473

Cleckheaton date for London-show Eric

Oakwell activities can make you fitter

BIRKENSHAW-BASED artist Eric Humphrey will soon be holding his first exhibition at Matthew’s Coffee House in Cleckheaton, having previously exhibited at the Mall Galleries in London.

Eric began painting 30 years ago and is mainly self-taught.

Taking early retirement from teaching in 1992 enabled Eric to concentrate on the landscape and aviation

subjects in which he specialises.

His latest work features original works in watercolour, oil and acrylic plus prints.

The paintings will be on display at the coffee shop on Market Street from Monday January 26 until Saturday March 7.

There’s an opportunity to meet Eric at a ‘meet the artist’ event on January 26, from 6pm until 8pm at the café.

A LOVE OF PAINTING A NEW exhibition of fine oil paintings opened at Batley Art Gallery this week.

The show of artwork features 68 paintings, all created by well-known local artist David Martin – and includes many local landmarks familiar to Batley and Dewsbury folk, such as the Pioneer Building, Bagshaw Museum, Wheelwright College and Batley Library.

In one painting, David manages to transport Dewsbury buildings into the heart of a tranquil Venice scene!

Artist David was born in Birstall, educated in Batley and now lives and works from home in Thornhill.

He has always loved painting and drawing, being inspired by our local architecture and varied Yorkshire landscapes.

“Landscape painting isn’t just about the scene before you but about capturing the feeling you felt when painting it, the reason you wanted to paint it in the first place,” he said.

“I don’t try to do anything different or controversial for the sake of it but just continue the traditional methods of creating a painting so that others can appreciate the beauty I see.

“I use a simple palette of usually only three colours and white in oils or watercolours and paint landscapes, seascapes, portraits and still lifes.”

Among the many artists David admires are JMW Turner, John Singer Sargent, Edward Seago and Yorkshire artist David Curtis.

He has works in many private collections, both in the UK and around the world and has portraits hanging in Dewsbury Museum and Dewsbury Town Hall.

David’s work caught the eye of exhibition organisers and visitors at Batley when it received a large number of votes in last year’s open exhibition.

In particular, David’s depictions of the library building and Station Road were very well thought of – and this led to the current exhibition being arranged.

The exhibition runs until January 31 and entry is free.

For more details contact Batley Library and Art Gallery on 01924 326021.

Artist David Martin at a launch event at Batley Art Gallery Pictures: Mike Clark

Setting the standard for future pantomimes THE MAGIC of pantomime was exploited to the full by members of Carlinghow Theatre Company when they staged the fascinating story of Aladdin at Batley Town Hall last weekend, writes Malcolm Haigh.

Their extensive talents were given full rein by the company’s chairman Jane Griffin, who used her wide experience of stage work to not only write the script – her second – but also to direct the production with such amazing precision that the players embraced her demand for high performance standards.

It meant that lots of panto traditions – the exchange of repeated chants between performers and audience, the animosity shown to evildoers and the overwhelming support offered to brave

characters – were present in abundance.

But so were varying twists and turns of the plot which placed this pantomime high on the performance scale and meant the audience was always being challenged with a variety of tantalising storylines.

To this riveting performance was added a stunning schedule of song and dance routines from confident principals and an amazing all-age chorus which executed the demanding choreography of Amanda Eyre with tremendous precision.

Amanda was already presenting a classy performance as the leading character Aladdin and merged well with Melanie Dixon to provide the love interest in the story.

They were helped in turn by Katie

Flynn as the fascinating Spirit of the Ring and Jenny Alexander as the allimportant Genie of the Lamp which made such a difference to the story.

Without doubt though the performances which captured the hearts of the audience were those of Nigel Dixon, who showed his wide stage experience to produce one of the best Widow Twankey performances ever seen on local stages and that of Gareth Jones as the determined, demon-possessed Abanazer who brought real drama to the setting.

Their tussles were re-inforced or reprimanded in turn by the appearances and appeals of many other important roles played out by Lisa Cockcroft, Andrew Holdsworth, Adam Schewtschuk, Iain Harknett, Alan Sykes and Olivia Griffin.

Each contributed to the tremendous overall effect as did the company’s technical staff whose work with the lighting, sound systems and various set changes made this a pantomime which not enraptured the audience but set a challenging performance standard for others to aim at.

Members of the chorus and dance troupes were Hollie Parker, Holly Jackson, Ellie Crawshaw, Harriet Wagstaff, Louis Ashpool, William Wagstaff, June Schewtschuk, Alexandra Griffin, Amelia Battle, Anna Holmes, Chloe Barnes, Emily Warring, Chloe Russell, Amelia Glover-Jewesbury, Jessica Stelling, Gabrielle Munslow, Rachel Stirk, Lauren Sykes, Evie Sykes, Phoebe Whittaker, Milly Bamford and Imogen Battle.

ANOTHER new year, another resolution to get fitter and healthier ... whatever level of exercise you are aiming for, Oakwell Hall Country Park in Birstall could help you turn resolve into action.

For those looking for a first step into exercise, there is ‘Walk Yourself Back to Health’ – an hourlong walk around the park – every Tuesday starting at 1.30pm from in front of Oakwell Hall at the top of Nutter Lane.

There is no need to book.

A more strenuous alternative is an hourlong Nordic walk every Wednesday, starting in front of the hall at 10.30am.

There is no need to book but there is a £1 charge for the hire of equipment.

For anyone who wants to get on their running shoes, the park hosts a 5km timed run every Saturday morning as part of the national Parkrun scheme.

Suitable for all abilities, the run starts at 9am from in front of the hall.

The run is free to take part in but runners must be registered with the Parkrun scheme.

More information and details of how to register can be found at www.parkrun. org.uk/oakwellhall.

Table top sale A TABLE TOP sale takes place at Ossett War Memorial Community Centre on Saturday February 7, starting at 10am.

Admission is 50p which includes a cup of coffee, tea or glass of juice and a biscuit.

Bacon sandwiches are available at a reasonable price.

The sale will be a good opportunity to clear out unwanted possessions ready for a spring clean.

Contact ossettwecarboot@yahoo.co.uk for a booking form.

Friday January 16, 2015

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Tel 07814 577224. (1600) FURNITURE Large cane rocker swivel chair, mustard yellow cushions £40. Tel 01924 473218. (1619) Double divan bed with drawers, also as new 1500 pocket Outlast memory foam mattress £120. Buyer to collect.

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(1614) Dressing table/console table, 6ft 4” long, with separate 3-folding mirror, from Ikea, colour Malm. Dressing table £30, mirror £20. Tel 07766 610689. (1610) Single mattress as new, used in spare bedroom, bargain £25 ono. Tel 07796 927000. (1611) Ikea three-door wardrobe with mirror; chest of drawers, bedside cabinet, new condition £70. Tel 07594 430397. (1603) Beige leather chaise longue, two years old, like new £100. Tel 01924 453932. (1604) Ikea round dining table and four tuckaway chairs, as new £80. Tel 07594 430397. (1603) ‘Nevada’ rise & recliner chair, in gold, perfect condition, used for one month only. Paid £900, will accept £250. Tel 07505 166835. (1596)

Wooden chalet dolls house with three pieces of furniture, in good condition £7. Tel 01274 876748. (1589)

Pine corner unit with light in top cupboard, 27” (w), as new £75. Tel 01924 485972. (1597)

ELECTRONIC White Kenwood Chef mixer & liquidiser £60.

Tel 01924 494161. (1609)

Pine table 53” (L) x 30” (W), plus 4 dining chairs, good condition £100. Tel 01924 485972. (1597)

FABRIC/FASHION Two heavy quality sleeping bags £5 each. Tel 01924 473218. (1619)

Tea/drinks trolley on castors, gilt metal, three trays high (removable trays for normal use), £10 ono. Tel 01924 462494. (1598)

Ladies navy blue, long winter coat, size 14 – 16, as new, £4.50. Tel 01924 463116 (1608) Ladies blue fleece, short jacket, size 14 – 16, as new, £2.50. Tel 01924 463116. (1608) New Carlton black suit carrier with parts for shirts etc £7. Tel 01274 876748. (1589) FREE Free to collect horse manure, bring your own bags.

Joiner made radiator cover, in painted white gloss, with fancy fret frame. Measures 4ft 4 1/2” long x 2ft 6” high, in excellent condition £15.

Tel 07796 927000. (1588) Solid oak TV cabinet, in excellent condition; 2 shelves + 2 glass cupboards each side, fit 50”+ TV. Cost £369, will accept £50. Tel 07796 927000. (1588) Antique pine waxed cup-

cheque for payment.

ADVERTS must be no longer than 50 words. When your item(s) are sold ring 01924 470296 to cancel.

All unsold adverts will stay in the paper for a MAXIMUM OF TWO MONTHS.

PRICE SYSTEM ITEM bands

Up to £7: £8 - £25: £26 - £50 £51- £100 £101-£200 £201-£500 £501-£1450 £1,451 plus board with two drawers, (H) 87cm x (W) 61cm x (D) 46cm £35. Tel 07984 737341. (1578) GARDEN Fencing laths, 4” wide, 3/4” thick, x 32 pieces.

Length 56 - 66”, £20 the lot. Tel 01924 472043.

(1590) Bosch AHS 41 Accu cordless hedge trimmer. Less than a year old. Only used once, like new £25.

Tel 07733 225908. (1576) HOUSEHOLD Gas cooker, as new, ideal for flat £50. Tel 07594 430397. (1603) Hoover washing machine, good condition £50. Tel 07594 430397.

(1603) Avento Delonghi oil filled radiator, variable thermostat and overheat safety shut off £35. Tel 01924 450919. (1594) New 65-piece dinner set comprising tea set, coffee set, teapot, coffee pot, milk and sugar, cheese dish, two flat dishes, three tureens, gravy boat etc; cream coloured with peach flowers £45. Tel 01274 876748. (1589) MISCELLANEOUS Standard holly tree in pot £12. Tel 07508 834666.

(1618) Aspidistra in pot £10. Tel 07508 834666. (1618)

Cost per item

£1 £2 £3 £4 £5 £7 £9 £11 01924 474574. (1595) Ten John Wayne DVDs £10. Tel 01924 450919.

(1594) 12ft wooden extension ladder £25. Tel 01924 492436 (buyer collects).

(1579) MUSICAL Tenor saxophone complete in case with original mouthpiece, neck sling and reeds. Gold lacquered, made by B&S Company GDR (Germany). Many pros and semi-pros play B&S saxes.

Both instrument and case are like new, although slightly used.

Owned from new, well cared for by sixth form school girl, £395 ONO, cash payment only. Tel Batley 01924 477016.

(1613) SPORTING/ FITNESS/ Ladies Slazenger golf clubs, only used three times. Inc. navy & silver Slazenger bag, 3 to 9 irons, 3 woods, driver, sand wedge and putter.

Bargain £120. Tel 01924 455295/07815 850482.

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Full set of original Ping rail £50. Tel 01924 473835. (1593) Titleist 2000 golf trolley.

Good condition, only £20.

Tel 07733 225908. (1576)

Well-rotted horse manure (no straw) 5 bags £10, free delivery.

Ring Ken on 01924 409540 or 07922 186721. (1616)

Golf balls, titleist Pro V1 to practice or play, in various conditions £25 for 100. Tel 07733 225908. (1576)

Xmas tree from Next; 6ft green tree tipped with gold glitter. Like new, with original box £25. Tel 01924 507860 after 6pm.

(1602)

WANTED Wanted: New/used lengths of wood for exterior of shed. Will dismantle if needed. Ring 07790 568986. (1620)

Strong clothes rail and smaller rail; suit carbooter £30 for both. Tel

Wanted: Wooden clothes horse. Tel 01924 472250.

(1615)

From back page “They have signalled their intent by signing a player like Paul Wood and investing in the overseas market.

“But it is not about the opposition in pre-season it is about us and our performances.

“I want to see us play well as a unit, get fitter and play more fluently as well as good individual performances.

And then we can see what the scoreboard says at the end of the game.”

Kear is still without a number of notable absentees for the game, with Ayden Faal, Sam Scott, Luke Blake, Brad Hey, Keegan Hirst and Cain Southernwood all still sidelined.

And the current Welsh coach expects to name a similar side to that which played Dewsbury over the festive period.

“It is very much going to

be a similar squad to the one who played Dewsbury with players still out injured,” he continued.

“And for those players playing against Featherstone it is a chance to put in another good performance and say to the returning players, we’ve done our bit, now it is your turn.

“We will come back the week after against the Heavy Woollen select with the likes of Cain Southernwood back in the squad, so we are in a healthy position.

“I’m really pleased with how the players have come back after the Christmas break and they have clearly kept themselves fit, that is a big plus for us.”

Tickets for the Featherstone game are priced at £10 for adults, £5 for concessions and £2 for juniors (under 16).

The Bulldogs then face two further home games as their

pre-season continues, starting with a Heavy Woollen Select side on Sunday January 25.

Kear’s troops then face another home test when they welcome last year’s Championship rivals North Wales Crusaders on Sunday February 1.

Despite their busy pre-season schedule Kear insists that the focus is very much on the 2015 Championship season.

“I don’t think it is about winning games in pre-season because there aren’t two points on offer,” he added.

“It is a different philosophy as a coach during the trial games than it is during the season.

“I want to see the players apply what we have worked on in training on the playing field.

“But our main focus is on February 15 and the Workington game.”

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Megson stars in Overthorpe Sports win CONNOR Megson fired in four goals as Overthorpe Sports Under-13s secured an impressive 9-4 victory over Woodkirk on Sunday.

Sports youngsters’ fine first half performance playing up the slope and against a strong wind laid the foundation for the win.

Overthorpe should have taken an early lead but Alex Stonefield’s close range effort and follow up was bundled off the line.

The Sports continued to press and took the lead following a Brad Llewellyn corner, Megson thumping the ball home through a crowded defence from six

GOAL MACHINE: Connor Megson scored four times as Overthorpe Sports beat Woodkirk Dave Jewitt yards out. The visitors doubled their lead when a fine pass from Josh Riley freed Megson on the left and he finished well with an excellent left foot shot.

Llewellyn added

two more individual goals in quick succession before Megson completed his hat-trick by latching onto Llewellyn’s pass.

Nathan Hawker in the Sports goal made

a superb save to keep out the hosts until a smart individual goal from Woodkirk gave him no chance to take the score to 51 at half-time.

The hosts enjoyed their best spell of the game early in the second half and capitalised on some poor Overthorpe defending to make it 5-2 before Brodie Haigh set up Llewellyn for his hat-trick.

Woodkirk made it 6-3 with a close range finish following a great cross.

Stonefield, Riley and a fourth goal to Megson made the game safe before another defensive error from the Sports gifted Woodkirk a late consolation goal.

Mirfield Sports Council Cleckheaton CC face seek award nominations testing Black Sheep MIRFIELD SPORTS COUNCIL MIRFIELD SPORTS COUNCIL are seeking nominations for their annual awards night.

The awards are a celebration of the town’s sporting successes, with teams and individuals competing in a range of sports from local level to international recognised.

Last year’s awards went to Battyeford Belles under-11s, who won a special under-11s team prize, and Mirfield Free Grammar girls under13s, who were honoured with the junior team of the year award.

Other sporting achievements were also rewarded with Moorlands Cricket Club First XI winning the senior team of the year, Isaac Pollard clinching the junior sporting achievement award for his achievements in the National Gymnastics competition and Kyle Chisholm collecting the senior sporting achievement award after representing Yorkshire in swimming.

Chris Hoyle, who had introduced a successful mentoring scheme at Battyeford Sporting Club that is now being widely copied around the region, also received recognition for his services to sport.

The awards are presented following the MSC AGM each year, usually in April, and those wishing to place nominations can get a nomination form from Martin Hatfield by emailing mhatters99@googlemail.com.

Champions cup tie CRICKET JCT600 Bradford League champions Cleckheaton CC face a tricky away tie against the David Stow National Village champions Woodhouse Grange in the first round of the Black Sheep Yorkshire Champions Trophy.

Woodhouse Grange, the Hunters York Senior League champions, beat Woodlands in the semifinals of the 2013 competition before losing to Hoylandswaine in the final at Wrenthorpe.

Whoever wins the first round tie will be at home in the semi-finals to the winners of the clash between holders Elsecar and the All Rounder Central Yorkshire League champions Methley.

Yorkshire Academy, who are competing in

the competition for the first time after winning the Solly Sports Yorkshire League, are away to the Drakes Huddersfield League champions Hoylandswaine.

The remaining first round tie sees AireWharfe champions Otley entertain the Ben Bailey Homes South Yorkshire League title winners Treeton.

THE FULL DRAW IS: FIRST ROUND (to be played by May 14): Hoylandswaine vs Yorkshire Academy, Elsecar vs Methley, Otley vs Treeton, Woodhouse Grange vs Cleckheaton.

SEMI-FINAL (to be played by July 26): Otley or Treeton vs Hoylandswaine or Yorkshire Academy, Woodhouse Grange or Cleckheaton v Elsecar or Methley.

ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

HEAVY WOOLLEN SUNDAY LEAGUE

SPORTS TAKE THE LEAD OVERTHORPE Sports Club lead the Heavy Woollen Sunday League PREMIER DIVISION for the first time this season after recording a 3-1 win over Oakwell Motel in an entertaining game at Ings Lane.

Kristian Angus, Reece Patterson and Scott Hargreaves netted for Overthorpe, with Jonny Beverley replying for Oakwell. Overthorpe are three points clear of both St John Fisher and Birkenshaw, but both have games in hand.

Mirfield Town require a single point from their remaining games to clinch the CHAMPIONSHIP title after they won 6-0 at Heckmondwike Sports Club.

Kieran Corley and Jonathan Mitchell both hit doubles for Mirfield, who also had Gibril Bojang and Chris Meesom on target.

Will Clapham hit four goals, Scott Love claimed a hat-trick and Carl Hackney also found the net as second-placed Woorkirk

Valley won 8-1 against Barr Street (Lewis Tolson).

Third-placed Mount Pleasant suffered a shock 2-1 defeat at lowly Taylor FC. Ebrahim Seedat and Ahmed Seedat scored for Taylor, who climb off the foot of the table, with Mohammed Patel replying for Mount.

Sam Buswell and Daniel Holdsworth both netted in Marsh’s 2-1 win at Hartshead, who are now bottom of the division.

DIVISION ONE leaders Navigation were held to a shock 3-3 draw by Overthorpe Sports Club Reserves. Gavin Saville, Lee Bennett and Bobby Campbell were on target for Navigation, but strikes from Danny Marshall, Chris Walker and Craig Fryer earned a point for Overthorpe.

Birkenshaw Reserves are second on goal difference after Jack Rogerson (two), Ryan Hird and Phil Bell all found the net in a 40 win over Bay Horse East Ardsley.

Town Rangers lie in fourth place after goals from Richard Carter (two) and Joe Wills saw them to a 3-1 win over Punch Bowl, who had Nathan Clarke on target.

Dale Joy bagged both goals as Deighton WMC won 2-1 against Dewsbury Westside, whilst Ben Simpson (two) and Kalvin Whyte both netted in The Yorkshireman’s 3-2 win over Battyeford Reserves, who replied through Nigel Saddington and Robert Fleming.

FC Liversedge lead DIVISION TWO by five points following their 9-0 demolition of lowly Snowdon.

Liam Downes led the way with a hat-trick, Kyle Smith grabbed a brace, with Lee McKeown, Jamie Fawcett, Mark Wigley and Brendan Soulsby also finding the net.

Second-placed Cobras weren’t in action, so Scholes Athletic consolidated their third place with a 5-3 win at Hanging Heaton CC.

Gareth Jones and Kieran Armitage both struck twice for Scholes, who also had Matthew Blackburn on the scoresheet.

Hanging Heaton replied through Chris Appleyard, Chris Goodair and Simon Woodhead.

Dave Barlow and Brad Jackson scored for Batley Celtics as they won 2-0 against Six Lane Ends, a result that sees them rise to fourth place.

St John Fisher OB progressed in the West Riding County Sunday Cup after hammering Peel Park 10-0.

Rob Bordman and Jordan Pugh both hit hat-tricks for Fisher, Rob Hiscox fired a double, whilst Dominic Riordan and Anthony Doran also found the net.

Joel Farrar and Tom Ormondroyd scored for Birkenshaw, but they went down 3-2 at King George, whilst Woodman Batley Carr also lost 53 at home to Sherwood.

In the County Trophy, Clifton Rangers lost 5-0 at Linthwaite.

SPEN VALLEY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Savile Town loss edges them closer to the drop IN the Spen Valley League Savile United failed to climb out of the PREMIER DIVISION relegation zone as they were defeated 5-1 at Route 1 Rovers.

Mohsin Acha had scored for the visitors, but a fantastic solo performance from Rovers’ Sohail Fiaz saw him score all five of his side’s goals, keeping Route 1 Rovers in

third place.

In DIVISION ONE Mount Pleasant went level in third spot after defeating bottom club Cleckheaton Sporting 5-2.

Anees Younis and Muhammed Omar both netted doubles, with Abdurraheem Mayat completing Mount Pleasant’s scoring.

Sporting replied through

Liam Roadknight and Matty Softly but it wasn’t enough for them to collect their first league points.

In the same division Jamie Baulk scored four times as Fox and Hounds Batley secured an emphatic 8-0 win at Norfolk. Dom Simpson (two) and Paul Beaumont (two) completed the rout.

George Healey also

cruised to victory as they saw off the challenge of Division One rivals Savile Town in a 6-1 win.

Luke Newsome led the way with a hat-trick, with further scores from Benho Aparicio (two) and Ash Parkinson. Fyaz Bobat replied for Town.

In the final game to be played Howden Clough ensured Inter Batley’s

miserable season continued with a 2-1 win.

Inter Batley – currently second-bottom, 10 points below Savile Town – put in a brave showing against their fifth-placed rivals and scored through Mahfooz Kola.

But replies from Reece Scholes and Maccauley Clarke ensured the hosts collected all three points.

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

Belles ladies close gap on leaders Bradford City Middleton Park Ladies Battyeford Belles

1 7

BATTYEFORD BELLES produced a near faultless performance to secure an emphatic 7-1 victory over Middleton Park Ladies.

Despite bad weather conditions, with heavy gusting winds, the Belles performed exceptionally well in securing their first win of the new year and moved to second in the table.

Battyeford pressed forward from the off with lots of early chances, but some rusty fin-

ishing and the post and crossbar kept the score at 0-0.

However, the impressive Becca Wiggans took the initiative and opened the scoring on the quarter hour mark with a brilliant strike, then quickly doubled the lead minutes later.

Belles goalkeeper Gemma Robshaw was seldom troubled and when called upon was resolute, and strong defending from Becca Banks, Rosie Gresswell, Olivia Harding and Charlotte Twigger reduced the Middleton chances to a trickle.

It was in midfield where the Belles dominated the game, joint girls-of-the-match Annie Straw and Leanne Webster controlled much of the game with Sarah Taylor capitalising just after the break for the Belles’ third.

The introduction of striker Louise Wardman at half-tine resulted in Battyeford pushing on and her first action was to send Wiggans through for her hat-trick.

Wardman then took the game to Middleton and completed her own hat-trick to seal a comprehensive 7-1 win.

NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL

Liversedge rue missed chances in narrow Cleethorpes defeat Cleethorpes Town Liversedge FC

3 1

LIVERSEDGE were made to pay for missed chances as they pushed second-placed Cleethorpes Town all the way before eventually losing 3-1.

The hosts’ goalkeeper Damien Steer deservedly picked up the man-of-the-match award as time and again he denied Sedge.

The match could not have started much better for the hosts as they raced into an early lead.

In just the third minute Brody Robertson had the ball in the back of the net.

In the 10th minute smart thinking from Jonathan Oglesby created a glorious chance for Robertson to extend the lead but he was adjudged offside.

Chances kept coming for the hosts but were unfortunately spurned.

Firstly, Jack Barlow fired inches over the bar. Then Marc

Cooper’s shot went wide.

With the Owls pushing up, it left their defence a little exposed and Liversedge almost capitalised when the ball fell to Kieran Corley inside the 18-yard box, but a great block from Luke Mascall saved the hosts and the ball went out for a corner.

From the corner, the ball was whipped in and headed home by Josh Hope but the referee’s whistle had already blown for a foul on Steer.

In the 39th minute, the visitors should have equalised after an indecisive clearance from Lawrence Heward found Tom Jackson inside the box, but his curling effort was more than matched by a diving save from Steer.

Just two minutes later though Liversedge did equalise, Eli Hey on hand to knock home an Alex Flett clearance.

Straight from the kick-off the Owls went in search of a quick

reply and nearly got one when Heward headed goalwards only to be denied by a goalline clearance.

The chances kept coming deep into added time but no goals were scored and the sides ended the half level.

Sedge keeper Sam Dobbs almost set up an unlikely score when his clearing kick caught the wind and found Wood.

He chested the ball down but as he sprinted into the box, Steer narrowed the angle and Wood’s attempted lob bobbled wide.

The chances kept coming for the visitors as Wood first saw his header saved, before dragging a shot wide.

Then came a five-minute spell for Liversedge which should have put the game beyond the reach of Cleethorpes.

A long ball from their keeper troubled the home defence once more, this time though as Wood was about to shoot, Steer

feigned a dive to put off the striker and he could only shoot off target.

Then two minutes later Matthew Kingston had to clear a Corley header off the line. Just 60 seconds later, Hey was caught just offside as he tried to finish off a neat move.

The five minutes of chaos was then complete when Barry Rothera headed wide of the mark.

In the 68th minute, Town’s Hanslip was dismissed for a second bookable offence.

This seemed to really turn up the heat on the blustery afternoon, as the Owls re-took the lead in the 73rd minute. Cooper curling an effort past the stranded Dobbs.

As Liversedge looked for a way back into the game Robertson capitalised on a defensive error and had the easiest of chances to slot the ball home to seal the victory.

25

Albion ladies in daunting FA cup action with Leeds WOMEN’S FOOTBALL OSSETT ALBION, struggling in second bottom spot in the North East Regional League Southern Division, face a visit from Premier League (North) First Division promotion chasers Leeds this weekend in the quarterfinal of the West Riding County FA Women’s Cup this weekend.

It is a tall order for Albion, who went down 3-0 at home to Wetherby Athletic in a league game last week despite giving a wholehearted display. Jo Atkinson earned her side’s player-of-the-match award but it was goals from Grace Adams, Emma Guilder and Rachel Carmichael that settled it for Wetherby.

Leeds bowed out of the FA Cup last week when they went down 3-1 at Premier Division leaders Coventry City and Albion will need to be aware of an inevitable backlash from a wounded, but otherwise in-form, Leeds side.

In the other ties Wetherby go to Premier League (North) Premier Division side Bradford City, Brighouse Town are at home to Brayton Belles and Farsley AFC entertain Bradford Park Avenue.

Ossett Town are once again without a game in the West Riding County League Premier Division but in the Second Division Dewsbury Rangers were in action at home to Thornes last week and picked up their first win of the season with a 2-1 success.

With a scheduled fixture at pointless Middleton Park next for Rangers they have a good chance of moving away from second bottom spot.

Battyeford Belles closed the gap on leaders Bradford City A with a 7-1 win at Middleton Park, and should be too strong for the home side at Thornes this week, while in Division Three Belles reserves went down 4-0 at home to Tyersal and an outside chance of promotion looks to have gone.

Sharks scouting for girls GIRLS’ RUGBY LEAGUE SHAW CROSS SHARKS are holding an open day tomorrow (Sat) for girls who are wanting to give rugby league a try.

The club are inviting girls in school years 7, 8, 9 and 10 to come along and give the sport a go.

The open day runs from 12noon to 2pm at the club’s Leeds Road base.

There will be a fun coaching session run by qualified level 2 coaches and the opportunity to see the club’s excellent facilities and hear about the club’s plans to expand the girls youth section.

Parents are welcome to attend and see what the game has to offer their daughters and the club will be open from 11.30am.

Girls attending should bring some warm sports kit and suitable footwear, changing facilities will be available, current players from the girls youth section will be there to assist and demonstrate some of the skills they have learnt during the past season.

For more details ring Chris Smith on 07985 275213.

Shaw Cross get kind Challenge Trophy draw RUGBY LEAGUE SHAW CROSS SHARKS will face Crosfields in round one of the RFL Conference Challenge Trophy.

The Leeds Road outfit will take on the National Conference League Division Three side on Saturday May 2 along with 15 other ties in the knockout competition.

Dewsbury Celtic will be the underdogs for their opening round tie in the same competition as they travel to The Oval to take on Hunslet Warriors.

The Warriors were relegated from the NCL Premier Division last season, with Celtic suffering a similar fate to move down to Division Two. Thornhill Trojans’ first taste of Conference Challenge Trophy rugby will be on the road as they face a long trip to Gateshead Storm.

Both teams are newly-entered into Division Three and the tie could prove an intriguing cup contest.

ThePress

26

Friday January 16, 2015

RUGBY UNION

CLECK BATTLE FOR BONUS NATIONAL LEAGUE THREE NORTH

ROSSENDALE CLECKHEATON

20 22

at Marl Pits

CLECKHEATON claimed a hard-fought 2220 win over Rossendale in very testing conditions at Marl Pits on Saturday.

A late revival from Rossendale, in galeforce conditions, looked to have denied the visitors but tremendous team spirit and collective desire got them into position to score a winning try and claim a bonus point to go with it.

The hosts entered the game with a proud home record, with Sale the only visiting team to have claimed victory at Marl Pits way back in September.

Cleckheaton, playing down the hill in the first half, seemed to be on top and enjoyed territorial advantage. Despite bulldozing runs from Richard Piper, Alex Dawson, Carl Mason and Paul Turner it was the backs that would eventually break through.

A quick pass from Jack Bickerdike to Mike Piper, found Martin Woodhead in some space and though initially held short, Woodhead clung on to the ball whilst his teammates drove him over the line for a try.

Ross Hayden’s conversion attempt fell victim to the wind.

Rossendale had only made a handful of inroads into Cleckheaton’s territory in the opening 20 minutes but shortly after the Moorenders’ try, the visitors did not securely gather a kick through and Rossendale’s winger dived on the ball for an equalising score.

BREAKAWAY: Olly Akroyd makes a break for the Moorenders with Rossendale players in pursuit Cleckheaton’s forwards built pressure time and again as the half rolled on but once more it was the backs that got the breakthrough.

Matt Piper threw the ball wide to Lee Queeley, who showed it to James Wilson before charging to the line. The Rossendale defenders thought they had tackled Cleckheaton’s wingman but Queeley had the strength to carry them both over the line for a second try.

Hayden judged the wind correctly and put Cleckheaton 12-5 in front.

With the last play of the half the

Gerald Christian

Moorenders infringed close to their sticks and Steve Nutt slotted a penalty to reduce the home side’s arrears at half-time.

A catch-and-drive from Cleckheaton gathered momentum and just as the home side thought they were stopping the push, substitute Josh White broke off to the right and grounded the ball over the line.

At 17-8 Cleckheaton looked to be in command, but with more than 20 minutes to go things could change – and they did.

Rossendale could not break through Cleckheaton’s formidable defence by running

RUGBY LEAGUE

Ripley masterclass guides Trojans to cup victory BARLA National Cup round one

HOLDERNESS VIKINGS THORNHILL TROJANS

10 36

at Saltaugh Road playing fields

THORNHILL TROJANS got their new season underway with a BARLA National Cup first round victory over Holderness Vikings in blustery conditions on Humberside.

With strong, cold winds blowing around the playing area, this was never going to be a classic, however Thornhill pressed forward from the off and essentially had this game wrapped up after the opening 25 minutes of play.

The Trojans’ cause was helped by a sensational four-try haul from centre Tom Ripley.

It was a cross-field kick, high into the wind, which created the first try of the game.

Man-of-the-match Joel Gibson booted the ball high and the wind caught it to bring it down into the path of winger Sam Ratcliffe who took the kick cleanly and went over for an unconverted try.

It was a break from Sam Ratcliffe which created the next Thornhill try. With Thornhill camped on the Vikings’ line it took a brilliant pass from Danny Ratcliffe to create the necessary

Thornhill set sights on Thatto

TRIUMPH: Thornhill Trojans on the attack against Holderness Vikings opening and put Ripley over for his first try of the game. Gibson converted.

A break from Gibson down the middle of field put the visitors firmly in control of the cup tie.

Gibson strode away covering 30 metres to plant the ball down for a try between the posts. Gibson added the extras to his own try.

Gibson once again made good use of the strong wind to create the Trojans next try as the onslaught continued.

THORNHILL Trojans continue their preparations for life in the National Conference League with a trip to Thatto Heath tomorrow (Sat).

The friendly fixture, which kicks off

Dave Jewitt

This time Gibson chipped the ball into the corner and Mindaugas Bendikas was on hand to pounce and score a try.

Gibson converted.

Then on the stroke of halftime Ripley took advantage of some sloppy tackling to barge his way over for a try. Defenders seemed to drop off Ripley as he ploughed over for his second.

The goal was wide of the mark but Thornhill were in control, leading 26-0 at the interval.

at 2pm, is sure to provide a stern test for the Trojans as

they take on a Crusaders side established in the

Playing into the wind in the second half the Trojans’ attacking options were more limited, however from close range Sam Ratcliffe chipped the ball forward and Ripley collected to go over for his hat-trick try. Sam Ratcliffe converted.

Now leading by 32 points Trojans began to lose some intensity and the Holderness team took advantage to score two tries of their own.

A penalty to the home team, when Thornhill were guilty of holding down in the tackle, gave them a platform.

From there a dummy from stand-off Dan Suddaby wrong footed the Thornhill defence.

Suddaby completed the move and went over for an unconverted try in the corner.

Just 10 minutes later hooker John McCloud caught the Thornhill defence off guard on their own try line and nipped over for a try from acting half.

Tom Grantham converted.

But it was Thornhill who had the final say when a chip forward into the in-goal area from Danny Ratcliffe exposed the Holderness defence and Ripley read the situation perfectly to register his fourth try of the afternoon.

The goal was missed but Thornhill ran out 36-10 winners.

NCL’s Premier Division.

The club are running a bus to the warm-up game and supporters are welcome to travel with the team.

The game will be played at Hattons

Solicitors Crusader Park, Close Street, Thatto Heath, St Helens, WA9 5JA. The bus will depart Thornhill Sports & Community Centre at 11:30am.

Send your sports reports, news and photos to Jared Priestley at sport@thepressnews.co.uk

straight at it or trying to run round it, so they resorted to kicking through.

Another mis-field gave the home side a scrum in a dangerous position close to the visitor’s line. Rossendale tried to push over and Cleckheaton were adjudged to have stopped them illegally, leading to a penalty try.

The conversion under the sticks brought the scores to within two points.

Cleckheaton made headway back into Rossendale’s half and won a penalty. In ordinary circumstances three points would have been in the bag, but with the wind Cleckheaton opted for the corner.

Unfortunately the ball was spilled at the line-out and Rossendale pounced on it.

Despite the efforts of Queeley, Wilson and Hayden chasing down the home side’s flying wingman, they could not haul him in before he crossed the line for an almost length-of-thefield try.

Ian Armitage’s men were suddenly 20-17 down and up against it.

As with the previous week, the team were not in the mood to concede and attacked Rossendale with vigour.

Ollie Akroyd had a couple of incisive runs from the No.8 position and Rob Afoa Peterson was impressive and deservedly earned manof-the-match.

With Cleckheaton pressing Rossendale’s 22, Mike Piper spotted space on the right and chipped a perfectly-weighted kick to the corner, which was gathered by Hayden for Cleckheaton’s bonus-point try.

Rossendale tried in vain to keep the ball alive in injury-time but a knock-on after around 20 phases brought the game to a close.

Boys ease past Ryhill to reach second round PENNINE LEAGUE

PROGRESS: Batley Boys run the ball in

Dave Jewitt

BATLEY BOYS made comfortable progress into the second round of the BARLA National Cup with a 46-6 victory over Ryhill Hammers on Saturday.

The Halifax Road side, who will face Illingworth in round two, return to league action tomorrow (Sat) when they take on CHAMPIONSHIP ONE strugglers King Cross Park in Halifax.

Ossett Trinity slipped to a 16-0 loss at Lindley Swifts in DIVISION ONE as they continue to falter in their division.

Shaw Cross Sharks were without a fixture last weekend but make their DIVISION TWO return tomorrow when they travel to West Craven Warriors.

The Sharks are currently chasing the league’s top three and with a fixture against a West Craven side narrowly clear of the drop-zone they will be looking for a vital win.

Trinity were due to be in local cup action tomorrow (Sat) but have seen their Wakefield Cup tie with Premier high-flyers Sharlston Rovers postponed.

In DIVISION FOUR Dewsbury Celtic failed to end Crofton Cougars’ unbeaten start in the league as they lost 32-10.

Celtic, currently one spot above the relegation zone, face another tough away trip tomorrow as they face Sherburn Bears at Eversley Park.

Hanging Heaton this week host Slaithwaite Saracens, aiming to continue their push for DIVISION FIVE promotion.

In DIVISION SIX EAST Dewsbury Moor A are at home against a Harehills Pigeons side one place below them in mid-table.

ThePress

Friday January 16, 2015

27

RUGBY LEAGUE PLAYER RATINGS DEWSBURY RAMS Kieran Hyde Austin Buchanan Karl Pryce Shane Grady Dalton Grant Matty Wildie Anthony Thackeray Ryan Hepworth Tom Hemingway Matthew Haggarty Rob Spicer Scott Hale Joel Farrell

7 7 8 8 7 7 7 7 8 7 8 8 7

SUBS: Toby Adamson Dale Morton Wayne Godwin Aaron Brown Zach Johnson Byron Smith Makali Aizue Sam Wood

7 7 8 9 8 7 7 7

SALFORD RED DEVILS Jon Ford Conor McGrath Jake Bibby Jason Walton Brad England Niall Evalds Theo Fages Scott Taylor Liam Hood Adam Walne Jordan Walne Matty Gee Gareth Hock

6 6 6 6 7 7 6 8 8 5 6 6 7

SUBS: Carl Forster Luke Menzies George Griffin Harry Files Ryan Lannon Adam Jones

7 7 6 6 6 6

GAME GUIDE DEWSBURY RAMS Tries: Hale (3), Spicer (7), Aizue (27), Pryce (43), Wood (66). Goals: Hemingway 2/2, Hyde 2/3.

SALFORD RED DEVILS Tries: Forster (51), England (57).

Goals: Hood 2/2.

STATS Penalty Count: 7-3 Referee: C Leatherbarrow Attendance: 1,313 Half-Time: 18-0 Weather: Cold and dry Sin-Bin: None Sent Off: Adam Walne (Salford, 65)

ThePress MAN OF THE MATCH

AARON BROWN The Rams lose forward impressed on his return from an injury absence

RAMS GIVE SALFORD HELL Austin Buchanan enjoys testimonial win over Devils PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY

DEWSBURY RAMS SALFORD RED DEVILS

28 12

Oliver Roby at the Tetley’s Stadium

AUSTIN BUCHANAN’S testimonial game went the way of Dewsbury Rams as they picked up a deserved win over Salford Red Devils.

The Rams dominated the first half and tries from Scott Hale and Rob Spicer helped give them a 12-point lead after just seven minutes.

Makali Aizue then gave the scoreline an even more convincing look with a 27thminute try.

Anthony Thackeray, a Championship Player of the Year nominee last season, came off for the hosts at the break with an arm injury but Glenn Morrison explained that he “should be fine”.

The setback didn’t halt the Rams’ momentum either, with Karl Pryce going over on 43 minutes.

The introduction of Gareth Hock and new signing Scott Taylor saw the Devils improve and they finally got on the scoresheet through Carl Forster on 51 minutes.

They further reduced the arrears soon after through Brad England, but Dewsbury held on and secured the win on a special day for Buchanan, with Sam Wood scoring on

GAME CLINCHER: Substitute Sam Wood crashes over for the Rams’ final try to seal an unlikely win 65 minutes.

Rams head coach Glenn Morrison was delighted with his team’s display.

He said: “I thought the boys played really well. A win like that over a Super League side is great.

“The performance was great and I was glad to see we stuck to the game plan for most of the game.

“I thought we looked really good with ball in hand and we were solid defensively too.

“Everyone who is fit has had a game in pre-season now, which is good with us being still a few weeks away from the start of the campaign.

“We’ve still got a few things to work on but if we continue to improve like we are then we’ll be more than ready for the Sheffield game.”

The hosts flew out of the blocks on the first whistle and found themselves on the front foot just three minutes in as Tom Hemingway kicked a

40/20. Hale proved to be the beneficiary as he crashed over from close range to open the scoring.

The seventh minute saw the Rams extend their lead as Spicer stole in behind the defence and planted down a pin-point kick from Thackeray. Hemingway converted both efforts.

The Rams continued their dominance and could have had a third but the returning Wayne Godwin was held up

MOOR EDGE PAST WIDNES Dewsbury beat summer giants West Bank in National Cup BARLA National Cup round one

DEWSBURY MOOR WIDNES WEST BANK

18 10

at Heckmondwike Road

DEWSBURY MOOR produced a solid all-round performance to march into the second round of the BARLA National Cup, beating Widnes West Bank 18-10.

Having learnt about their opponent’s North West Counties Summer League success – winning the Premier Division in October – Moor seemed unfazed as they got off to a blistering start.

The experienced Chris Mortimer, Phil Shotton and Danny Wardman put in some solid tackles that seemed to have the visitors shell-shocked.

And it was no surprise when the Maroon and Golds took the

lead. Good handling down allowed centre George Croisdale to power over for the opener.

The goal was missed but Moor held an early advantage.

CRICKET This brought the Widnes team to life and scrum-half Ryan Millington put in some tricky kicks to increase the pressure on the hosts.

But they brought the best out of Moor duo Jordan Foster and Lewis Holliday who both dove bravely onto loose balls with opponents baring down on them.

Up front the arm-wrestle continued with Andy Robinson, Peter Robinson and Jamie Samme making headway, only to be met by stubborn defence from West Bank and especially their prop Ryan Bates.

But after an offence at the play-the-ball Dewsbury winger Jacob Flathers kicked a penalty

to push the score to 6-0 with the interval approaching.

The second half saw the visitors put the Moor line under siege, but the home defence held firm with James Eatherly, Bradley Foster, Matt Shaw and Ashley Boddy rising to the occasion with some crunching hits.

Then came the magic moment in the tight cup contest. As West Bank attacked the Moor right edge a loose pass was sent out and Flathers latched onto it before racing 100 metres for a crowd-pleasing score.

Flathers converted his own try to give the hosts a 12-0 lead.

The try would have deflated most teams but the Widnes men showed spirit and clawed their way back into the game.

The West Bank halves Millington and Eddie McAdam combined to put centre Danny

Stapleton over for a try. The conversion drifted wide.

The decisive incident in the end-to-end game came soon afterwards as Moor pressed West Bank near their line.

After an attack was thwarted and the visitors regained possession Jamie Samme produced a brilliant ball steal to gallop under the posts for a decisive try.

Flathers added the extras to give the home side a commanding 18-4 lead.

With 15 minutes remaining Moor were perhaps guilty of relaxing and West Bank continued to fight their way back into the tie.

The pressure eventually told when scrum-half Millington crossed for a score and hastingly added a drop-goal conversion – but it was too late and it was Dewsbury who progressed.

Maroon and Golds enter National Conference League DEWSBURY MOOR ARLFC have returned to the National Conference League with immediate effect.

The Heckmondwike Roadbased side will replace Peterlee Pumas following their withdrawal from Division Three earlier this month.

NCL member clubs voted overwhelmingly – 44 to 5 – at Monday night’s AGM to re-

elect a Moor side that previously played in the competition from 1995 until 2002.

Following the withdrawal of Peterlee, Dewsbury Moor enquired if they could apply and after a management group meeting and facilities inspection they were put forward to a club vote.

It is another blow for the winter-based Pennine League which has already seen sever-

al departures to summer rugby, with Dewsbury Moor joining Thornhill, Drighlington, Hunslet Club Parkside and Wibsey Warriors in the NCL. The Maroon and Golds have proved dominant in the Pennine League Championship One, stacking up a number of high-scoring victories on their way to second place.

Steve Horsfall

over the line on 25 minutes.

But they were not to be denied just a few minutes later as the unstoppable Aizue blockbusted his way over from 10 metres. Kieran Hyde took over the kicking duties and made it 18-0 to the hosts at the break.

The second half began in the same way as the first, with the Rams crossing three minutes in.

This time it was Pryce who scored with a superb individual effort. The former Wigan man showed great agility to find space before brushing aside two defenders on his way to the line. Hyde made it two from two with the boot.

Then Hock and Taylor returned to the field and they almost immediately had a positive impact, laying the platform with a line-break each for a Forster try on 51 minutes.

Fast hands on 57 minutes gave England space for a simple finish on the left flank.

Liam Hood kicked both goals.

The Devils were in determined mood and Hock was held up before Hood had a try disallowed for offside.

But their momentum was halted as Adam Walne picked up a red card just after the hour for a high shot on Joel Farrell and Wood completed the scoring, finishing off a slick passing move with 15 minutes to go.

Home draws for Heavy Woollen clubs in cup BARLA NATIONAL CUP THE DRAW for the BARLA National Cup open age second round was held on Saturday with three of the district’s teams represented.

Batley Boys were drawn at home to Illingworth after they eased past Ryhill Hammers in the opening round.

In Illingworth the Halifax Road men face a former Pennine League side who have now made a switch to the Yorkshire Men’s League following the Pennine Premier Division fall-out.

Thornhill Trojans, fresh from their victory at Holderness Vikings, continue their preparations for the new National Conference League season with a second-round tie at home to Heysham Atoms.

The Atoms – who edged past Pennine Premier side Queensbury in round one – finished second in the North West Men’s League Division One last term and will be hoping for another win as they embark on a new summer season.

Dewsbury Moor completed a hat-trick of home draws for the Heavy Woollen sides and will host Hunslet Club Parkside in round two.

Moor – who were recently accepted into the National Conference League – will get an early taste of what they are up against in their new surroundings as they take on newly-entered NCL Division Three side Hunslet.

All ties are to be played on Saturday, January 24.

The full draw is: Brighouse vs Sharlston Rovers, Thornhill Trojans vs Heysham Atoms, Halifax Irish vs Keighley, Batley Boys vs Illingworth, Egremont vs Bamber Bridge/ Wath Brow Hornets, Upton vs Stanningley, Queens vs St Maries Vikings, Dewsbury Moor vs Hunslet Club Parkside.

DEWSBURY BRIDGE CLUB RESULTS: Tuesday January 6 1 J. Roberts and M Loveridge 2 A Haith and M Belk

3 M Holt and M Hirst 4 S Dyson and C Walker

HULL OF A TEST

‘Five Star’ is ready for Olympic showdown GARY SYKES is set for a sensational return to the ring when he takes on Olympic sensation Luke Campbell at the Hull Ice Arena on March 7.

Sykes – who failed to defend his British super featherweight title in his last outing, losing to Cromer’s Liam Walsh in London – will take on the 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist in his home town.

The Dewsbury-born fighter will switch to lightweight for the Hull contest and faces Campbell in only his 10th professional bout.

It is likely to prove a tough task for the Central EBC-trained fighter as he is coming up against a tricky southpaw who is yet to lose a professional fight.

The Yorkshire derby showdown is also going to be shown live on Sky Sports.

“These are great fights for Luke and Tommy to lay down a marker ahead of their explosive clash in the summer,” said promoter Eddie Hearn.

“Both guys will be out to impress in front of the home fans and indeed each other, but

By Jared Priestley Sports Reporter sport@thepressnews.co.uk

Gary and Martin will be aiming to scupper their plans and add famous scalps to their already impressive CVs.” However, Sykes will have to take on his East Yorkshire opponent without trainer Julian McGowan in his corner.

The Central Boxing trainer has announced his retirement from coaching professional fighters after 23 years in the sport.

McGowan has trained Sykes since his second professional fight – as well as during his amateur career – and has turned him from a one-fight novice to a two-time British champion.

However, the pressures of working fulltime at UK Greetings in Dewsbury as well as family life have led to his decision to retire from the professional game.

McGowan and close friend John Tallant

Rams hand deals to Moor amateurs DEWSBURY RAMS have signed local duo James Delaney and Brad Delaney from amateur side Dewsbury Moor ARLFC. The Moor pair, who are cousins, have played all of their junior rugby league at Heckmondwike Road and will now link up with Glenn Morrison’s side on one-year deals.

Brad – the son of former Leeds and Dewsbury Rams half-back Paul Delaney – is a scrum-half and has previously been on a scholarship deal at Huddersfield Giants.

James, meanwhile, is a hard-working forward who has enjoyed representative honours having played for BARLA Great Britain.

He has been a regular in Moor’s promotionchasing Pennine League side, with his performances earning him a call-up to Danny Maun’s Heavy Woollen select squad who are due to take on Batley Bulldogs on Sunday January 25.

Rams head coach Morrison said: “Since I have arrived at the club we’ve always tried to bring through local players.

“We brought them both into the new second team and they have both really stood out in training and earned their contracts.

“Brad is a very skillful kid, he is small but he has a good footy brain which is what you want from a half-back.

“James is the total opposite, he is a big kid and is very strong. He is always in the gym and doing extras. He is very committed.

“They will both get a chance to play in the first team when we take on Gateshead.

“We have seen a number of local players come through the ranks here at Dewsbury and hopefully these two can do the same.”

Morrison highlighted Dewsbury Celtic star Jason Muranka as a key example. The versatile forward linked up with the Rams whilst still playing amateur rugby league in the National Conference League.

Another local player in the Dewsbury ranks is Shaw Cross star Zach Johnson.

“The local community has provided us with a number of players and there is clearly lots of talent in Dewsbury,” Morrison added.

Meanwhile, the Australian chief has

MOOR SUCCESS: Brad Delaney has penned a oneyear deal with the Rams and inset, with Dad and former Dewsbury player Paul Steve Horsfall backed Aaron Brown to have a big impact in the new Championship season.

The loose forward produced a man-of-thematch performance against Salford on his return from a long lay-off with injury.

And Morrison says he could prove a key cog in the Dewsbury machine and could propel them to more success in the 2015 season.

“Aaron Brown is a quality player who we missed last season and it was pleasing to see him put in a man-of-the-match display after nearly a year out.

“He is one of the players we need in our squad and had he not been injured I think we could have achieved even more last season, even though we achieved a lot.”

own their own gym, Central EBC, in Batley and will continue to train amateur boxers and run regular mid-week classes.

Sykes and McGowan formed an impressive partnership which saw the Dewsbury boxer defeat Andy Morris to clinch the British super featherweight title in March 2010, before successfully defending the belt.

After losing the title to Gary Buckland in 2011, Sykes faced a frustrating wait of almost three years before he was offered a chance to re-capture the Lonsdale belt.

And it was one he did not waste as he as he recorded a 10th-round stoppage victory over Jon Kays at Dewsbury Sports Centre last May. Despite retiring McGowan continues to fight for his man, taking on the British Boxing Board of Control in a dispute over Sykes’ right to an outright Lonsdale Belt.

Sykes had four successful British title fights and as such should be an outright winner of a Lonsdale belt. However, the BBBofC are refusing to recognise that, arguing he GOING FOR GOLD: Gary Sykes will be aiming to dent gold medallist Luke Campbell’s unbeaten record in Hull Steve Horsfall never fought a mandatory defence.

Bulldogs face fired-up Fev BATLEY BULLDOGS coach John Kear says getting a win against Featherstone on Sunday would be pleasing, but insists it is not all about the result.

The Bulldogs were due to take on Featherstone at the Big Fellas Stadium but due to ongoing ground maintenance the venue was switched, with the game now taking place at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium on Sunday (3pm).

Kear’s side are coming off the back of an impressive victory over local rivals Dewsbury Rams on Boxing Day, whilst Featherstone

enter the game having lost their two friendlies, albeit against Super League opponents in Castleford and Wakefield.

However, Kear says they are sure to provide a tough

test for his troops and expects them to be challenging for the top spots come the start of the season proper.

“Each game is a different test for us, so it isn’t our toughest test yet because we have different objectives for each game,” said Kear.

“We achieved our objectives against Dewsbury and hopefully we can do the same against Featherstone.

“I certainly think they will be one of the top sides this year, especially given their history in the competition.

Continues on page 24