The press 23rd dec 2016

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Friday December 23, 2016

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No. 769

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Four hospital wards are reprieved

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NOW IT BEGINS Miller Homes submit plans for initial 240 homes in Thornhill Lees green field development

By James Morris News Reporter james@thepressnews.co.uk

PLANS have been submitted for hundreds of new houses in Thornhill Lees.

Developer Miller Homes wants to build up to 120 properties in each of two locations just a few hundred metres apart, as the first stage of a massive scheme dubbed ‘Dewsbury Riverside’ that could eventually create up to 4,000 new homes south of the town.

Dewsbury Riverside is due to form a major part of the Local Plan, Kirklees Council’s planning strategy for housing and industrial development in the district.

More than 30,000 homes need to be built in Kirklees before the year 2031 to hit government targets and cope with demand.

The council’s Local Plan is due to be handed to a Government inspector following a public consultation period that ended last week.

Fields off Lees Hall Road and Ravensthorpe Road, close to the ward boundary with Mirfield, would be developed and a spokesman for Miller Homes said: “We can confirm we have

submitted outline planning applications for two developments as part of the first phase of the wider Dewsbury Riverside development.

“These plans are for proposed developments of up to 120 new homes at both Lees Hall Road and Ravensthorpe Road in Dewsbury in areas which are already allocated for development in the current adopted development plan.”

However, the plans have been met with anger from community groups who oppose any development in the fields between Mirfield and Dewsbury.

Marcus Jessop, founder of the Horses not Houses campaign, which is bidding to block the Dewsbury Riverside scheme, said: “Once again this shows complete contempt for the Local Plan process.

“No decision on these plans should be made until the whole thing is decided by the planning inspector.

“If Kirklees pass these it makes a complete mockery of the Local Plan.”

Conservative councillor Martyn Bolt (Mirfield) added: “Members of the public are putting a lot of time and effort into getting to grips with the process and here you have, it seems, a developer driving a coach and horse through it.

“It’s easy to see how public confidence in the council is eroded.”

The outline plans from Miller Homes for 120 houses each off Lees Hall Road (below) and Ravensthorpe Road (bottom)

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ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

Help stop spread of vomiting bug Deaths BELL NEE HEMINGWAY JEAN On 15 December aged 71,

of Mifield. Wife of Colin.

Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Thursday 5 January at 2pm.

Place your family notices by calling 01924 470296

BROOKE

CHAFFER DENNIS On 15 December, aged 92.

Husband of the late Gladys.

Service at Dewsbury Minster, Wednesday 4 January at 1.15pm, followed by committal at Dewsbury Crematorium.

Robert Willie

CLAY GLADSTONE

On 19th December 2016, peacefully, at Huddersfield Royal Infirmary with his son David by his side, aged 91 years, Robert (Bob) of Littlemore Grove, Mirfield.

The beloved husband for over 60 years of the late Margaret and a loving and dearly loved dad of David, a very dear friend of Mark and dear brother of the late Roy and the late Rita, also a dear brother in-law, uncle and cousin.

Robert will be received into St Paul’s Church, Eastthorpe, Mirfield on Wednesday 11th January 2017 at 5.30pm. Funeral service and committal will take place at St Paul's Church on Thursday 12th January 2017 at 10am, followed by refreshments in church.

Friends please accept this intimation. Family flowers only please, donations in lieu maybe placed in the collection box provided by the Funeral Directors George Brooke Ltd, for the benefit of Cancer Research UK

On 14 December, aged 69, of Cleckheaton. Enquiries to Julie Ward, Bereavement Manager, Dewsbury Hospital. Tel 01924 816096.

DEWARKOUREMBI JEAN On 12 December, aged 64, of Dewsbury. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Wednesday 28 December at 11.15am.

GEE DORIS On 20 December, aged 102, of Mirfield. Wife of the late Joe. Service at St Mary’s Churchyard, Mirfield, Thursday 29 December at 1pm.

CLOUGH LESLIE On 13 December, aged 88, of Batley. Partner of Eileen.

Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Friday 23 December at 10am.

CROSSLEY DOROTHY (NEE HARE) On 15 December, aged 78.

Wife of the late Selwyn.

Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Thursday 29 December at 1.15pm.

HINCHCLIFFE NEE STRAFFORD MADGE On 18 December, aged 92, of Crackenedge. Wife of the late Jack. Service at Dewsbury Baptist Church, Wednesday 4 January at 10.30am, followed by committal at Dewsbury Crematorium.

Place your family notices by calling 01924 470296

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JACKSON BRIAN On 18 December, aged 69, of Cleckheaton. Husband of Julie. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Friday 30 December at 11.15am.

MANSELL NEE GENTRY BRENDA On 18 December, aged 74, of Batley. Wife of the late Clive. Service at Batley Cemetery Chapel, Friday 6 January at 10.15am, followed by interment in the cemetery.

PRATT EDDIE On 15 December, aged 88.

Service at St Thomas’ Church, Batley, on 3 January at 11.15am, followed by cremation at Dewsbury Crematorium at 12.30pm.

SCHOFIELD JAYNE LOUISE On 12 December, aged 44, of Liversedge. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Thursday 29 December at 12.30pm.

SHORROCK JOAN ANN On 16 December, aged 91, of Batley. Wife of the late

Jack. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Tuesday 3 January at 2pm.

TAYLOR DENNIS EDWARD On 15 December, aged 84, of Batley. Husband of Jean.

Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Thursday 29 December at 11.15am.

WARD KENNETH On 10 December, formerly of Ravensthorpe. Husband of the late Eileen. Funeral enquiries to Brian Thomas, Funeral Director, Bridgend.

Tel 01656 668967.

WESTON LESLEY (Also known as Lee) On 7 December, aged 67.

Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, 28 December at 12.30pm.

WILLIAMSON NEE COGHILL WINIFRED On 17 December, aged 84, of Dewsbury. Wife of the late Kenneth. Service at Cottingley Crematorium, Thursday 29 December at 3.40pm.

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HEALTH chiefs have issued a reminder to people planning to visit hospitals to stay at home if they or their family members have had diarrhoea, vomiting or flu-like symptoms in the last four days.

The Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust want to keep the winter vomiting bug, or norovirus, away from vulnerable patients, who could be seriously affected, and staff who could pass it on.

The trust’s deputy director of nursing, Dawn Parkes, said: “We understand how much people want to visit their loved ones in hospital and how beneficial visits can be for patients, but coming in with something like norovirus can cause more harm than good.

“Whilst the norovirus infection itself is generally a mild illness, with no specific treatment, it can be much more serious for those in hospital who are already unwell.

“It’s also highly contagious and can spread rapidly in areas where large numbers of people gather, like schools, offices or hospitals. So we really want people to think carefully before visiting one of our hospitals if they or anyone in their family has even mild symptoms of stomach upset.”

Good hand hygiene is important to help limit the spread of the infection – and you should not rely on alcohol gels.

Soap and warm water is the most effective way to kill the virus. There are also other simple steps you can take to help stop norovirus spreading: • Disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated with norovirus. It is best to use a bleach-based household cleaner (always follow the instructions on the cleaning product).

• Flush away any infected faeces or vomit in the toilet. You should also keep the surrounding toilet area clean and hygienic.

• Wash any clothing, or linens, which could have become contaminated with norovirus. Washing with hot, soapy water will help to ensure that the virus is killed.

• Although people usually recover without treatment in 24 to 72 hours, it is important to stay away from work, school, college or any social gatherings until you have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours.

If you have norovirus, the best thing you can do is rest, and have plenty of non-caffeinated drinks to avoid dehydration.

Seeing a doctor is not usually necessary. Don’t visit your GP or a hospital A&E department to avoid passing the virus on to others.

However, if you or your child have symptoms of severe Friday December 23, 2016 Issue No: 769 dehydration, have bloody diarrhoea, 31 Branch Road your symptoms Batley West Yorkshire haven’t improved WF17 5SB after a few days or Tel: 01924 470296 you have a serious Fax: 01924 472561 underlying health condition, call your www.thepressnews.co.uk @ThePressLatest GP or NHS 111 to get medical advice. /ThePressNews

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Publisher: Danny Lockwood Editor: David Bentley Reporter: James Morris Sports Reporter: Joe Link Graphic Designer: Craig Moore Sales Manager: Lucy Tissiman Sales Executives: Nicola Finch Janet Black Sam Gilbert Office Manager: Adele Latham The Press abides by the principles of the Independent Press Standards Organisation and at all times attempts to report fairly and accurately and correct mistakes or errors as soon as possible.

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ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

pRESS opening times over THE festive period THE PRESS’S offices at 31 Branch Road, Batley, will be closed from 12.30pm today (Friday December 23).

We will re-open on Wednesday December 28, when we will be back hard at work on our next

edition – which will be out as usual on Friday December 30. The office will also be closed on Monday January 2 due to the Bank Holiday.

Everyone at The Press would like to wish our readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Strike threat from kids’ social workers

By James Morris SOCIAL workers in Kirklees children’s services have threatened strike action, plunging the troubled department further into crisis.

Unison has confirmed it is balloting around 250 children’s social workers for industrial action just weeks after a damning report by Ofsted.

Inspectors rated Kirklees children’s services as inadequate - their lowest rating prompting the government to send in a troubleshooter to try and turn fortunes around.

Eleanor Brazil will earn a reported £1,000 per day in her role as she assesses whether Kirklees can turn around their fortunes by themselves, or whether children’s services will be outsourced.

The news that social workers are considering strike action comes as a further blow to council bosses.

Unison officials say that they are simply raising the same issues they have been highlighting for a number of years, including workloads, bullying and bad management.

Kirklees Unison chief Paul Holmes said: “If they solve the problems we’re talking about it will help Ofsted turn it around.

“We’d like answers to those issues and then we won’t be walking out.”

Mr Holmes said staff were leaving their current roles due to the pressure being placed on them by bosses.

“This isn’t personal to the new director, but we’re not convinced it will get better,” he said.

“There’s a phenomenon now I’ve never seen before.

“People are leaving permanent jobs, going to work for agencies and then coming straight back.

“They’re doing it because it’s easier. You can leave, come back, earn more and you don’t get the harder jobs.

“About a quarter of social workers now are agency. If they get new permanent staff they’re only lasting about seven or eight months as there’s too much ‘aggro’.

“There are more and more children at risk because the staff can’t get to them.”

Cabinet member for family support and child protection, Coun Erin Hill, said: “I’m aware of Unison’s claims, and have a meeting with union officials arranged already to talk through their concerns.

“I hope that the decision to go to ballot before these discussions does not cause disruption just before Christmas for so many of our staff.

“My number one priority is keeping children safe and supporting our staff to do that.

“I hope the result of the ballot will reflect the considerable time, effort and resource that has gone into supporting our workforce.”

Meanwhile local Tories have demanded an investigation into what has gone wrong in Kirklees children’s services that were rated as ‘good’ in 2011.

Kirklees Conservative leader Coun David Hall urged Coun Hill to find out what happened in the past five years and to find out if anybody in particular was to blame.

He said: “We can’t learn lessons from the

HEROES HAILED

A DEWSBURY supermarket has recognised the volunteers who have raised money in store throughout the year.

Asda invited a number of their ‘community heroes’ for a festive lunch.

Some of the good causes that have benefited from fundraising in-store include the New Friends of Dewsbury Cemetery, Mirfield Christmas Appeal and the Downs and Special Friends group.

The lunch also r e c o g n i s e d Dewsbury and Mirfield MP Paula Sherriff who has supported a number of campaigns in the store throughout the year.

Asda’s community champion Sharon Kingswood said: “We are truly inspired by the work they do.

“We have worked closely with all of them over the year and thought it would be nice to say a massive thank you.”

past if there’s not adequate investigation of the past.

“What efforts are being made to look into the political leadership in children’s services between 2011 and 2015?”

Former Tory chief Coun Robert Light said that he was confident Coun Hill was the right person to turn the failing department around, but backed calls to launch an investigation.

He said: “If any council gets an Ofsted report like this, which to be frank is pretty damning, you would expect the portfolio holder to get a right good kicking.

“The issue is how did we get into this situation?”

Leader of the council Coun David Sheard confirmed that he and Coun Hill had met with Mrs Brazil.

He said: “We welcome her help in getting the best for our children. We’re not objecting to her imposition at all.

“Everyone will ask how we got where we are, but the priority now is to put things right now.”

News in Brief Remember Pele?

HECKMONDWIKE: A professor is appealing for information regarding footballing legend Pele’s visit to the town in the 1960s.

Professor Philip Newsome is looking to interview anybody who remembers the visit for a BBC radio documentary.

The Brazilian great came to Heckmondwike to visit the famous Co-op football boot factory.

Anybody with information is asked to email philipnewsome@me.com.

Gedman steps up KIRKLEES: The council have announced a replacement for outgoing chief executive Adrian Lythgo.

Current deputy Jacqui Gedman was unanimously voted for by councillors at a full council meeting last week.

She will take up the role on an ‘acting-up’ basis for a period of 12 months from midFebruary when Mr Lythgo stands down.

The current chief executive, who has been in the role for more than six years, informed the council of his decision in November.

Single in the charts BATLEY & SPEN: A charity single released in memory of Jo Cox is in the running to be this year’s Christmas number one.

The Friends of Jo Cox group, which includes stars such as Ricky Wilson from the Kaiser Chiefs and KT Tunstall along with the cross-parliamentary rock band MP4, have covered The Rolling Stones’ 1969 hit ‘You Can’t Always Get What You Want’.

The legendary rockers have waived their claim of royalties and all proceeds will be donated to the Jo Cox Foundation.

Batley and Spen MP Tracy Brabin also sings on the track and Chancellor Phillip Hammond has announced all VAT from the single will be donated to the foundation.

The song can be downloaded from iTunes and other online stores.

WHAT’S ON Open Thursday, Friday, Saturday from 7.30pm and Sundays from 3pm GREAT MUSIC FROM THE 50’S, 60’S, 70’S 80’S

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ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

News In Brief Sheard makes plea KIRKLEES: The leader of Kirklees Council has written an urgent letter to the Secretary of State for Local Government over funding cuts.

Coun David Sheard wrote to Sajid David MP this week following concerns about cuts to the latest funding settlement.

He asked to meet Mr Javid claiming the council “have limited opportunity to address the very real pressures we face in adult and children’s social care within the resources of the four-year-settlement.”

Remanded over rape LIVERSEDGE: A man has appeared in court charged with three counts of rape.

Roy Hunter, 39, appeared at Kirklees Magistrates Court, accused of raping a woman on December 9, 10 and 11 in Liversedge. Hunter, of Huddersfield Road, was remanded in custody to appear at Leeds Crown Court on January 11.

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Home Office funds to bolster local efforts to counter radicalisation

£40k job tackling Kirklees extremists

By James Morris A NEW job is being advertised to help root out potential terrorists in Kirklees.

The council is looking for a community co-ordinator to join their counter extremism team.

The 12-month role pays £37,858-£39,660 and is available to view on their jobs page.

The advert says: “This new role will enhance our work to improve community cohesion and tackle extremism.

“Extremism is one of the greatest challenges the country faces and local authorities have a core role to play in building more resilient communities and tackling the harms extremists cause.

“The post, which is Home Office funded, will support national work to build partnerships with local communities and groups, a key part of the Counter-Extremism Strategy.

“You will help identify mainstream voices and provide support to groups

countering extremism in all its forms.

“You will help shape local strategy and interventions related to counter extremism. You will have experience of working with, and developing effective and productive relationships with partners, being outcomes focused and a highly effective communicator.

“You will have a good understanding of what constitutes community cohesion, violent and nonviolent extremism and the range of actions and inter-

ventions that can create stronger communities.

“Candidates will therefore be expected to have good knowledge of the Government’s Counter Extremism Strategy 2015.”

The successful candidate will join the council’s small counter-extremism team that has been active for a number of years.

They work within the community in an effort to try and identify children who are most at risk of indoctrination by terrorists or political or religious extremists.

Following the news last year that Dewsbury teenager Talha Asmal had become Britain’s youngest suicide bomber, Kirklees hired four staff members to try and stop other local children being targeted by terrorist groups such as ISIS. Last month Security Minister Ben Wallace MP also visited Dewsbury to speak to mothers about the risks of radicalisation.

To view the community co-ordinator job, visit https://jobs.kirklees. gov.uk

Plenty of bobs for these jobs...

LOCAL scouts raised a mightily impressive £1,750 with two charity bag packs.

The Dewsbury West scout group helped shoppers with their bags over two weekends at Sainsbury’s supermarket in Dewsbury.

They will now distribute the money raised between 14 scout groups around the district.

The cash will be used to buy camping equipment and also replace existing kit that’s past its best.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our customers from everyone at Haighs!

Xmas Eve 6am-2pm Re-open Thursday 29th 7.30am-5.30pm Friday 7am-6pm New years eve 7am-4pm Re-opening Tuesday 3rd January normal times 7.30am 5.30pm Be sure to check our advert next week for our new year special offers!

‘Mad Friday’ Helping homeless plea for A&E on Christmas Day EMERGENCY services are gearing up for what is expected to be one of their busiest nights of the year.

The last Friday before Christmas – commonly referred to as ‘Mad Friday’ – will see thousands of people drinking in pubs and bars across the region after breaking up for Christmas.

However, health bosses have asked people to stay within their limits to avoid putting added strain on hospitals.

Dr Sarah Robertshaw, head of clinical service for emergency medicine at the Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “The festive period, and in particular the Friday before Christmas, can see people drinking much more than usual.

“We don’t want to be killjoys and dampen the festive spirit but we do want people to remember their Christmas party for the right reason, and not because they ended the night in A&E. Alcohol-related

injuries can stretch hard-pressed A&E departments to the limit.”

Health officials have also asked people who do not have a serious or life-threatening injury to stay away from visiting hospital emergency departments.

A spokesman for the Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust said: “We ask that you only call 999 for an ambulance in an emergency when it is clear that you or another person has a serious or life-threatening illness or injury and needs time-critical medical assistance.

“We will always respond to anyone needing vital treatment, but we often find that our staff are called out to deal with patients whose needs are less urgent.

“This means that emergency ambulances can be tied up unnecessarily to the detriment of patients with potentially very serious conditions.”

IT’S said that Christmas is a time to be surrounded by loved ones, but not everybody will have the chance to sit around the dinner table with friends and family on December 25.

One Batley food outlet is hoping to tackle this by throwing open their doors to the homeless for a day.

Smokey’s Original, on St James Street next to the bus station, will be open from 12noon until 4pm on Christmas Day for homeless people who can eat free of charge and receive presents.

The idea is that of manager Graham Fryer, who is hoping to feed as many homeless people as possible on the day.

He said: “People are so focused on their own lives that sometimes we forget about other people.

“Homeless people are often forgotten about and if we can make them happy, even if it is just for one day, it has got to be worth it.”

Graham is appealing for donations of food and presents and is also asking for people to give up their time

to help out on the day.

If anybody would like to get in touch, they can do so via the Smokey’s Facebook page, or by calling in to the town centre premises.

As well as the event at Smokey’s, there are also other Christmas meals planned around the district.

Overthorpe Tenants and Resident’s Association will be holding a Christmas Day lunch for people over the age of 50 who are lonely.

The buffet lunch will be held at Charlesworth Court, Thornhill from 1pm until 4pm.

Transport can be arranged by calling 01924 458526.

Biggie’s Fast Food, on Edge Avenue, Thornhill, will be offering free food and hot drinks to the homeless, elderly and anyone struggling from 5pm on Christmas Day. Owner Biggie Jay – real name Janzeb Ayub – says he has been inspired to open his takeaway by his own time on the street when he was just 19.

“I know what homeless people go through because I’ve been in the same situation,” he said.

ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

Sofa so good – graveyard litter gang cleans up

News in Brief New life breathed into Batley cemetery BATLEY: Planning officials have given the go-ahead to create around 850 new burial spaces at Batley Cemetery.

Kirklees Council’s Heavy Woollen Planning Sub-Committee voted unanimously to pass the application at a meeting last week.

The northern two thirds of the land would be used for Muslim burials, while the southern third would be for Christian burials.

Councillors agreed that the added spaces were needed and gave the scheme the green light.

VOLUNTEERS from Batley Cemetery Support Group may not have spotted any partridges in pear trees during their pre-Christmas litter pick in the cemetery – but they did happen upon a microwave, an armchair, two pairs of trainers and 23 bin bags of rubbish.

The group’s regulars were joined by helpers from Tesco in Batley and local MP Tracy Brabin.

The group holds quarterly litter picks in the cemetery and can be contacted by emailing batleycemetery@live.co.uk.

Their next meeting will be on Wednesday, February 1, at 7.30pm at the Old People’s Centre on Upper Commercial Street, Batley.

Trust u-turn on plan to shut four DDH wards

By James Morris News Reporter james@thepressnews.co.uk

HEALTH chiefs have announced that four wards due to be closed at Dewsbury Hospital will remain open.

As part of the Acute Hospital Reconfiguration (AHR) Plan, the wards in the Ridings Building were due to be converted for non in-patient use in January 2017.

But Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust chief executive Martin Barkley this week wrote to local politicians to inform them of the change of plan.

In the letter, he stated that the trust were unsure they will be able to “safely reduce” the number of medical beds required.

Plans had been in place to convert the closed wards to uses

such as a new therapy department and out-patient accommodation.

Mr Barkley said: “We may not be able to reduce average length of stay to the level envisaged in the original hospital reconfiguration plan.

“The main contributory factor is that demand for services across the system is rising, resulting in high levels of demand for admission, particularly in those specialties such as frail older people, respiratory and stroke which traditionally have longer lengths of stay.

“This means that, although the average length of stay has gone down, it has not been in line with the original plan.

“Given the uncertainties about the number of beds requireduired, it does not seem sensible at this time, to lose four wards.”

The trust have said they are still committed to the re-development plan which will see the demolition of the Staincliffe building and the relocation of the remaining in-patients from the Bronte Tower.

Further details are set to be published in February 2017.

Politicians have welcomed the news that the wards will remain open for the foreseeable future.

Dewsbury and Mirfield MP Paula Sherriff said: “I welcome the Trust’s decision and I’m pleased that they are responding to concerns raised about the impact of planned changes on patient safety.

“It is only right that any uncertainties about the number of inpatient beds required are met with prudent planning.

“What continues to concern me here is the immense pressure

being placed on our local NHS services to cut costs.”

The Labour MP has asked Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt to visit the area to witness the effect a downgrade of Dewsbury Hospital would have.

But Miss Sherriff said that Mr Hunt implied he would not be coming to North Kirklees.

“From his reply, the minister appears content that the cuts have been delegated locally,” she said. It is quite right that decisions about local healthcare be undertaken here, where the needs of the population are best understood.

“What the minister has chosen to overlook, is the £22bn topdown cuts being imposed nationally on regional NHS and social care services through ‘Sustainability and Transformation Plans’.”

Brooklands bouncer denies assault BATLEY: A bouncer has denied assaulting a customer at a Bradford Road nichtscene.

Umaru So, 37, pleaded not guilty to attacking Dwain Wilcox at Brooklands Bar on May 28.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard that Mr Wilcox suffered a large gash to his temple during the alleged incident.

So, of Rockwood Road in Leeds, will attend at the court again on February 10 for his trial.

Fire crews required to cut driver free DEWSBURY: A motorist had to be rescued from a car following a crash in Shaw Cross.

The incident happened just before 4pm on Saturday on Leeds Road when a car ended up on its side.

Two appliances were sent to the scene from Dewsbury Fire Station. The driver was not seriously hurt.

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Brown bin plan for garden waste KIRKLEES residents could soon be offered the chance to have garden waste collections – at a cost.

The council is currently consulting on plans to introduce a regular service for between £60 and £80 per year for fortnightly collections, or £30 to £40 per year for a monthly collection.

If the scheme is given the go-ahead, residents who have signed up would receive a brown wheelie bin.

A council spokesman said: “The council is currently looking into the possibility of offering an annual garden waste collection subscription service.

“This would give interested residents access to a 240-litre brown bin which would be emptied on a regular basis. The bin could be for one household or could be shared by neighbours.”

A survey is available for residents to fill out

Gift appeal great MIRFIELD: The town’s Christmas appeal, which sees a huge number of gifts donated to elderly and lonely people has been branded a huge success again.

Now in its second year, last weekend saw volunteers gather to take part in a mass wrapping session at Christ the King Church on Stocks Bank Road.

Supermarkets around the area also donated presents and children from Year 8 at Mirfield Grammar School wrote the gift tags.

Organiser Helen McKechnie said she was overwhelmed by the generosity of local people.

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to determine roughly how many people would use the service and how much they would be willing to pay.

“The council will make a decision on whether the service is feasible once we know how many people are interested.”

Residents can complete the survey online at www.kirklees.gov.uk/garden-bin.

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ThePress

6

Friday December 23, 2016

BACK IN PRINT Now on sale, the updated edition. Reserve a copy in office hours on 01924 470296, order via www.thepressnews.co.uk or call in at our office, 31 Branch Road, Batley

LIFE IN BLACK AND WHITE Danny Lockwood

Judges like to keep us in our place THINK I understand why the British judiciary is put on such a superior pedestal; why we serfs are treated with contempt if we question the impartiality of the bewigged in-breds.

(I’m not big on bowing and scraping, if you hadn’t already fathomed).

It’s the only way politicians, with their increasingly shaky grasp on our obedience, let alone trust, can exercise some sense of impartial authority over us – the law. It must be obeyed.

Except politicians can’t and judges aren’t. It’s why I at least will hold in contempt whatever high-handed ruling over the EU-Brexit case the Supreme Court hands down.

All completely impartial, incapable of being influenced by personal prejudice are they? Even the joker who built a career on his pro-EU bias, systematically ceding

I

The Lord Chief Justice ... a real John Thomas

British legal authority to Brussels? Even the clown whose wife spends half her time on social media telling Brexit supporters to stop dragging their knuckles?

Pull the other one, it’ll play Ding-Dong Merrily-on-High.

And no, I’m not labelling

the lot of them. Such a glib generalisation would be as dumb as the establishment claiming that they are, to a man and woman, above criticism, beyond scrutiny.

But it is precisely why a British hero, Marine Sgt Alexander Blackman, is spending yet another Christmas in a miserable prison cell – because the highest judge in the land chose, and I mean chose, not to allow him home.

I’ve stood in front of enough judges (win, lose and draw) to state unequivocally that when all the legal arguments are done, they are human, influenced by their personal prejudices. When you are as haughtily superior as some of these people become, that’s a dangerous

K I TC H E N S - B E D R O O M S - B AT H R O O M S

thing. Most would happily hold God herself to account.

But the law is nothing more than a profession – like plumbers or brickies except without a clue how to do much of anything useful, except that the most successful ones slither their ways up the greasy privileged poles of the Inns of Court.

Once in their elevated finery and flourishing their judicial privilege like a magic wand, too many indulge their private grudges under the cloak of unquestioned authority.

Sgt Blackman was heading a unit of Marines in Helmand province in Afghanistan under hellish conditions when he shot an already mortally wounded Taliban fighter who seconds before was trying to kill him and his men.

He was convicted of murder, shortly subject to an appeal. He had been free on bail before his trial – he’d

even been allowed to use weapons. And indeed the Crown raised no objection to Lord Chief Justice Lord Thomas about Sgt Blackman being allowed home. Usually when the prosecution don’t object, bail is a formality.

Instead Baron Thomas of Cwmgiedd (an old boy of Rugby School and Trinity College Cambridge naturally) strained his considerable intellect to find a reason to rule that in his view – his view – he could not find ‘exceptional’ circumstances.

I’ve read the judgment.

Thomas qualifies his ruling with precedent and case law – except that part of the Lord Chief Justice’s job is to set precedent and this was a war zone incident that all parties have conceded is unprecedented in our courts.

Thomas had a choice and he chose to slap down the populist clamour to allow Sgt Blackman home. That’s how I

read this – the high and mighty law couldn’t be seen to be influenced by the great unwashed. Take him down!

The judge’s legion of apologists bowed and scraped to the propriety of his judgment, happy to abuse lowly critics like newspaper columnists – I’ve already had a ration on social media from the baying left-wing mob, which these days includes most of the legal profession.

So much for impartiality.

At a time when paedophiles, rapists and murderers are being sent home early to relieve pressure on our imperilled prison system, a man who put his life on the line for his country is being made to suffer to preserve a pompous old fool’s vanity.

I’d love to pour a pint over the wiggy head of John Thomas – yes really, that’s how the Baron was Christened. He’s one by name and one by nature.

‘We’ll stop the shoppers!’

THE evil Sheriff of Nottingham’s tax collectors (Kirklees Division) were hard at it in Dewsbury on Wednesday afternoon, busily trying to close down local businesses and drive even more shoppers out of town.

You can’t fault them for effort – I walked round town and in 14 minutes saw four parking tickets being dished out. Bless ‘em, their little fingers were tippy-tapping away like billy-oh.

It wouldn’t surprise me one bit if Kirklees Council has them on commission-only pay, or at least bonuses. Still, you know whose fault it is, don’t you? That’s right. Tory cuts…

Two for the price of one – traffic wardens hard at it in Dewsbury. Good luck finding a police officer though (they’d probably need directions)

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E HAD our office Chrimbo do at Roberto’s in Batley last Friday night, and who should come in for dinner with a couple of friends and sit just across from us but Batley & Spen MP Tracy Brabin.

This, remember, was just a few hours after Tracy had digested two pages of coverage of her Indian Muslim Welfare Association radio show performance, plus a pretty unforgiving analysis on my page.

After dinner I went for a chat and I think it’s fair to say that if looks could kill, I wouldn’t still be worrying about when to start my Christmas shopping this year.

No problem. If someone had given me a public working over like that, I’d be more inclined to shove my steak knife up their nose, than write a thank you note.

That’s how we roll in these parts, Ms Brabin. Probably best that you come to terms with the new house rules where politics are concerned sooner rather than later.

We are going to sit down in the New Year to kick some things around, and I hope she

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can appreciate that as tough as The Press can be on our public representatives, we try to acknowledge and be supportive of the good ones doing a good job.

Full marks, as I said last week, for the passion and vigour with which Tracy Brabin has thrown herself into the job, both here and in Westminster.

I don’t expect to agree with her on every subject under the sun – but that’s the point, debate and disagreement is part and parcel.

Bring it on. My main concern is that she proves able to show backbone to all of her constituents in equal measure.

IT’S THAT time of year again – and doesn’t it fly? To everyone whose noses I’ve put out of joint (again) – it’s not personal! And to all of our loyal readers and customers, a huge thank you from all of us here at The Press.

Have a safe and happy Christmas and although The Press will be in the shops next weekend, I’ll wish you a healthy and prosperous 2017 too. Take care.

ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

Muslim boys school branded inadequate

By Staff Reporters AN INDEPENDENT Muslim boys school in Batley has been given a damning report by government inspectors.

Education watchdog Ofsted rated Cambridge Street School as inadequate - their lowest rating.

They found the leadership, quality of teaching and pupil outcomes to be inadequate and rated the personal development and behaviour of pupils at the school, which charges parents £1,350 per year, as requiring improvement.

The school is based on the site of Kirklees College’s former Batley Centre and was only registered with the Department for Education in August 2015.

Following the inspection which took place in September the report criticised leadership at the school.

It said: “Not all leaders and managers have the skills and knowledge to carry out their roles effectively.

“Leaders and managers do not monitor the quality of teaching effectively to bring about improvement.

“Teachers’ expectations of what pupils can achieve are often too low.”

Inspectors were also critical of the school’s religious teachings.

They said: “Pupils learn about different religions but do not have the opportunity to demonstrate tolerance.

“They do not learn about culture in different societies, such as traditions, architecture and music.

“Nor do they learn how they can positively contribute to society.”

They did however, find that

pupils feel safe and enjoy going to the school.

A spokesman for the school said: “A new governing team and a new management structure is in place.

“We are working closely with education specialists who are assisting us in drawing up and implementing an effective action plan.

“We have already made considerable improvements and we will continue to improve to ensure that our children are given excellent opportunity to achieve their potential.”

7

Soldier ‘slipped through the net’ A FORMER soldier who stole as he struggled with homelessness and a drug problem “slipped through the net” after he left the armed forces.

Daryl Cusworth, 31, stole £81 worth of stationery from WH Smith in Dewsbury on November 26 while high on cocaine.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court was told that he tested positive for cocaine following his arrest.

Mike Sisson-Pell, mitigating, told the court Cusworth suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.

He said: “He’s slipped through the net and when he left the service there wasn’t the level of support there is today for people who have mental health difficulties.

“He’s had 17 prison sentences in the recent past.”

Cusworth, of no fixed address, is currently getting help with accommodation from the Royal British Legion. He admitted the theft.

He was ordered to complete six months of drug rehabilitation as part of a community order. He was also fined £40.

Traditional shopfront success A SECOND building in Dewsbury town centre has been restored to its former glory, thanks to a grant scheme.

A grant from the Dewsbury Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) has transformed 13-17 Corporation Street with an original-style shopfront.

A total of £3.7million has been allocated to the regeneration of the Northgate area of the town, including Corporation Street, with the Heritage Lottery Fund providing an initial £2m and a further £1.7m coming from Kirklees Council.

The grants aim to replace modern shop fronts with ones of a more traditional style.

They also provide for the restoration of architectural details such as decorative stonework and the installation of awnings, repairs to defective guttering and fall pipes, improvements to external decoration and the refurbishment of upper floor windows.

Other properties on the street have now indicated an

interest in improvement works as well, having seen the outcome.

Work at other THI buildings is ongoing, including the recipient of the third grant, Northgate House.

Kirklees cabinet member Coun Peter McBride said: “Dewsbury has some fantastic architecture and the THI helps to ensure that the buildings in the area complement that.

"The grant has led to the creation of high-quality shopfronts in keeping with the era of the buildings, whilst at the same time supporting local businesses.

"I am delighted that the work on 13-17 Corporation Street has led to a new café called ‘Sweet & Salted’ opening, as well as raising the profile of existing business ‘Simply Mobile’.

"It is also good to hear that the success of the initial grants is leading to other businesses looking to follow suit and take advantage of the grant.”

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UKIP responds to MP’s radio interview An open letter to Tracy Brabin, As a Batley and Spen resident, I am writing with concerns about your recent appearance on Radio IMWS. Firstly, you claimed that the report on the Iraq War ‘specifically, unequivocally says Tony Blair did not lie to Parliament.’

This is not true at all. The report did not say whether Blair lied or not, but it did say that there was no imminent threat from Saddam Hussein when we invaded Iraq.

You then said ‘we cannot also forget that he did bring three Labour governments.’ Why would you try to defend Blair at all, let alone in this way? Nothing else he did can compare to the devastation in Iraq.

You next went on to say ‘More

In response, Tracy Brabin MP wrote to Mr Lukic.

Dear Aleks Lukic, You bring up a number points, let me respond to each on an individual basis.

Brexit – let me be absolutely clear, I heard the voice of the country and people of Batley and Spen in last summer’s referendum loud and clear – we are leaving the European Union.

I may have misspoke in the interview but my position and voting record hasn’t changed.

I’m determined to get the best possible deal for Batley and Spen in the Brexit negotiations and I will use my position as your MP to do so.

As I’m on record as saying, I do not wish the hinder or delay the submission of Article 50 in any way, as evidence of this, I have already

Letter of the Week: Aleks Lukic, UKIP Dewsbury, Batley and Spen than ever we need the country to see that actually the Labour Party’s getting back on its feet. It’s getting back united. It’s fighting against Brexit.’

Most people across all communities in Batley and Spen voted to leave the EU, as you will know. So why do you want to fight against our wishes? Why would we accept that?

You were later asked how you would hold Kirklees Council to

voted in the House of Commons on a motion which called on the Government to submit Article 50 ‘no later than March 31, 2017’.

Tony Blair – The three successive Labour Governments did an enormous amount of good for our community.

Under Labour we saw record investment in schools, brought class sizes down, record results in our schools, introduced the Winter Fuel Allowance, the creation of Sure Start, half a million children out of poverty, peace in Northern Ireland, hospital waiting times at a record low and the cluster bomb banned.

Contrast that with the situation today, Sure Start centre closures, food bank queues growing, in work poverty on the up, child poverty rising again and vital NHS services

New challenges for us in 2017 From: Ednan Hussain, Dewsbury Liberal Democrats Parliamentary Spokesperson Dear Sir, The year 2016 will be remembered for better or worse, as one that changed all our lives – and perhaps more importantly, those of the children and young people who will shape all our futures.

Britain voted narrowly to leave the European Union.

None of us will know the real consequences for some time, probably years rather than months.

True, the sky did not fall in the day after the referendum, but the pound quickly dropped in the currency markets, making foreign holidays more expensive for everybody.

The more serious and long term consequences have yet to be seen, but there are worrying signs.

I fear that Brexit is a self-inflicted economic mistake that we could well do without in a very competitive world.

I campaigned to remain in the EU and make no apologies for that.

Some 48% of my fellow voters felt the same way. The Brexiteers tell us to accept the vote and move on.

But what is it we are supposed to

account over inadequate children’s services.

Your response was that, although you were disappointed, ‘it’s really hard for our Labour council because the cuts are from the Government and we in the North are paying the price for it.’

It is wrong to blame others for the serious failures which Ofsted found at the council.

In light of this, how can residents

under threat.

While I need no lessons on the Iraq War, indeed I left the Labour Party for a time because of it, I refuse to hide away from my belief that

accept? They don’t know. And would they have accepted an equally close vote to remain? I think we all know the answer.

But unexpectedly the year has ended on a much more positive note for the Liberal Democrats than we could possibly have imagined.

A string of by-election successes in council elections, including here in Kirklees, was capped by winning in Richmond Park in London, overturning a huge Conservative majority.

Events elsewhere in the world deserve far more attention than they get from politicians living in their ivory Trump towers.

Events in the Middle East are a tragedy of huge proportions, and it’s innocent civilians on all sides who come off worst when leaders cannot see beyond their narrow short-term interests.

What is clear at the end of this tumultuous year across the world is that standing up for liberal values, for openess, diversity and freedom from conformity is more important than ever before.

By defending the rights of minorities and of freedom of speech, we defend our own rights to be different.

I am an optimist. 2017 will see new opportunities and new challenges. Let us all dedicate ourselves to working together, across culture, race and faith, to make the world a better place.

That is the best Christmas present we can give each other and the communities we love.

trust you to challenge the council and make sure vulnerable children are looked after properly?

I was then appalled by your response to a question about the far-right.

You said ‘Paul Nuttall likes to think that UKIP is going to stride the nation, and we’re all going to be Ukippers and have those attitudes.’

You might not know that I am a teacher employed in a local school.

Labour Governments are much better for Batley and Spen than Conservative ones.

Children’s services – I’m not sure if you had the opportunity to listen to the interview in full as I didn’t blame Government cuts for the Ofsted inspection result.

What I said was the report was very disappointing, I’d spoken to Council Leader David Sheard, a senior official at the council and that it was a small mercy that no child had been put in harm’s way.

Thankfully new procedures have been put in place by Kirklees Council and I know you’ll join me in wishing everyone involved well as the current situation simply isn’t acceptable.

On the other hand it is undoubtedly true that

A fresh look at Chinese culture From: John Appleyard, Liversedge Dear Sir, I called at the ‘Impressions’ gallery in Bradford recently to see its latest exhibition: ‘The Queen, the Chairman and I’ by Kurt Tong, an award-winning photographer.

The exhibition marks the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China from British rule. Hong Kong is a place of great beauty.

Former Labour MP and Shadow Foreign Secretary Denis Healey, a keen photographer, described the view over Hong Kong from the peak as one of the wonders of the world in his autobiography ‘The Time Of My Life’.

Margaret Thatcher once said she would never surrender sovereignty, but was persuaded otherwise.

Ceding Hong Kong to Britain was seen as a humiliation with no benefit, its loss of sovereignty put it at the mercy of foreign powers.

When the People’s Republic of China was proclaimed in 1949, as many as 100,000 people a month fled to Hong Kong and in the 1980s and 1990s the economy boomed.

The exhibition takes a fresh look at Chinese culture. Kurt Tong will give an artist’s talk on Saturday January 21 at the Impressions gallery, or you can attend a workshop as part of a

If you would suggest that I have farright attitudes, then that could cause real problems for my livelihood.

I can only be glad that most people do not seem to agree with you about UKIP and its four million supporters. But still, will you admit your mistake and issue a public apology to prevent any possible issues for me at work?

For all our sakes in Batley and Spen, I hope you realise that what you are saying is not going to win people over. 78 per cent of us did not support you in your by-election.

I haven’t even mentioned your comments on local segregated communities. I could write another whole letter about that!

unprecedented cuts to local government budgets have made delivering top-quality services much more difficult.

UKIP – firstly, let me say, of course I do not wish to see you lose your job, and I hope you know my comments were in no way intended to do so.

If they do cause any problems with your employer, please let me know and I’ll send an urgent clarification.

Yes, the question I was asked referenced the term ‘far right’ but it also mentioned Angela Merkel.

Merkel is one of the most high profile and successful politicians in the world, that’s why in my entire answer I referenced other ‘mainstream’ political parties and politicians, Marine Le Pen in France, Norbert Hofer in Austria and your party, UKIP.

special cultural events programe presented with the Business Confuscius Institute at the University of Leeds.

Facelift needed From: ‘JS’, Batley Dear Sir, Your old world is rapidly fading – you’d better start swimming or you’ll sink like a stone, for the times they are a changing,” were the words of a Bob Dylan song.

Over the years we have seen how the state has failed the British people...

Lessening the means of defending ourselves; Giving away powers to the unelected European Union; Failure to act on the promise to reduce bureaucrats in the NHS, governing bodies, and think-tanks; Failure to control excessive immigration; Weakening police forces; Allowing house prices to sky-rocket out of the reach of most people; Selling our best companies – Jaguar, Rolls Royce, British Steel, Cadbury’s and even our ports etc; Rapidly increasing government and public debt; Selling our gold at rock-bottom prices – Gordon Brown; Pussyfooting with the politicallycorrect EU Court of Human Rights, as regards to cases supporting

I fully respect the decision thousands in Batley and Spen made to vote for UKIP at the last general election, but I won’t shy away from highlighting stances I don’t agree with, the party’s thirst to further privatise the NHS which has time and time again resulted in poorer services or cutting taxes for the richest which means less into the Government coffers and less to areas like our community.

Despite our differences, I hope we can do our politics by open debate, discussion and in a respectful way.

I appreciate you took the time to email me on this matter, I’m sure Radio IMWS are pleased to hear you are a listener and I look forward to continuing our discussions soon.

foreign criminals; Foreign aid being wasted on buying restaurant chains, hotel chains, shopping trips for dictators and their wives, entertainment and even gambling; Banking corruption – no-one made accountable or punished. It’s always just ‘lessons will be learned’.

The list could go on and on. The whole system needs a giant facelift.

It is clear that matters just can’t be left solely to the likes of Cameron, Blair, Heath, Brown, Major, Clegg, Merkel, Hollande and Sturgeon.

We must have more ‘direct democracy’ by the people, because it is clear that our views, and visions, are proved correct more often than our elected dictators.

Local footy links From: Harold Laycock, Mirfield Dear Sir, Last Wednesday evening Salomón Rondón scored a hat-trick of goals with his head, playing for West Brom against Swansea City.

However, back in 1953, whilst playing for Huddersfield Town against Everton, Jimmy Glazard scored four goals all with his head.

These were all from crosses from Victor Metcalfe, a local Ravensthorpe lad who went on to play for England.

ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

‘No floods this side of 2017’ WATERWORLD says Kirklees

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ONE PAPER ... ALL THE NEWS from Dewsbury, Batley, Ossett, Mirfield, Liversedge, Birstall, Heckmondwike, Cleckheaton & Spen Valley Thursday December 31, 2015 No. 718 5

Communities band together in big clean-up after floods chaos

By James Morris

MAROONED... The appropriately-named Ship Inn at the end of Steanard Lane in Mirfield, where the River Calder, right, burst its banks Picture: Steve Benso LOODING brought out the est in people this Christmas with communities coming ogether to help each other.

Volunteers from Dewsbury, Mirfield and Batley worked locally nd elsewhere amid scenes of devastion across the region.

Batley-based charity One Nation nd Dewsbury youth group Kumon ll t k t C ld V ll

As more storms head for the UK, councillors call for a review of land allocation for improved river defences and a fresh strategy to combat flooding t

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“Near Todmorden, we went to gentleman’s home where his kitch was under water and had to ripped out.

“We recently visited Cumbria a it’s truly heartbreaking to see devastation the floods caused.

“But it’s been an amazing and em tional experience to see everyo working together from all faiths make a difference and helping ea h ”

Vehicle vandalism spree A NUMBER of Mirfield residents woke up to find their vehicles had been vandalised this week.

Criminals struck on Monday night, smashing car windows and even ripping the metal bodywork open on a van.

Huddersfield Road resident Nikki Gott had the windows of her Ford Ka smashed.

She said: “I’m really upset and angry that someone would do this.

“The car is sentimental to me and for this to happen just

days before Christmas too.

“There are about four or five cars on the street which have had similar happen, but nothing seems to have been stolen.”

Police confirmed they attended the incident and several items had been taken.

A spokesman said: “Police in Kirklees have received reports of criminal damage to motor vehicles overnight in Mirfield.

“Anybody who has any information about these incidents is asked to contact Kirklees Police on 101.”

The council said that the district “avoided widespread flooding”.

A study into why Mirfield was so badly hit said that relief work may be difficult to fund.

Earlier this year Coun Bolt chaired a meeting with the council and Environment Agency, who said they could not invest as much money as requested because it was mainly businesses that were affected rather than homes.

The Kirklees Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (KLFRS) sets out the authority’s plans to cope and states that 7,600 properties in North Kirklees are deemed to be at ‘higher risk’: 1,600 in Batley, 2,500 in Dewsbury, 3,000 in the Spen Valley and 500 in Mirfield.

A Kirklees spokesman said: “The initial study has identified costly flood defence works in and around the River Calder which may be difficult to fund.

He added that the council has plans in place to identify likely flood risk sites and enable it to forecast potential problems.

“Information will be passed ... to senior officers to allow them to make decisions on providing more community support such as more council officers, sandbags, gully emptiers etc.”

A KIRKLEES councillor has hit out at council bosses after they claimed they did not have time to discuss his flood worries at a recent meeting.

Coun Martyn Bolt (Mirfield, Con) said he was “disgusted” following the full council meeting last week after time constraints meant that a new flood defence strategy was not discussed.

The item was deferred until the next full council meeting in January due to the over-running of December’s schedule.

Coun Bolt says that time is of the essence as we approach the anniversary of last year’s flood that saw over 100 properties in Kirklees hit when the Calder burst its banks on Boxing Day. Some 88 businesses and 36 homes in Kirklees were affected.

Afterwards he said: “I asked for the meeting to be extended to allow the councillors to discuss the flooding strategy.

“However, they stated it was not a time sensitive issue so put it back to the next meeting.

“Do they not remember when the floods happened last year?”

After Boxing Day, the Ledgard Bridge stretch of the river in Mirfield rose to 5.25m, breaking the previous high of 5.1m.

News in Brief Exotic bird thefts BATLEY: Police are appealing for information after a number of birds were stolen from the aviary of Upper Batley High School between 4pm last Wednesday (December 14) and 9am the next morning.

It is thought the culprits broke into the aviary and took 16 birds in total – two doves, seven parakeets, four rosella parakeets and three kakariki parakeets.

Inspector Mohammed Rauf, of the Batley and Spen NPT, said: “I would appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident or saw any suspicious activity to get in contact.

“Likewise if any bird fanciers or pet shops are offered birds for sale in a deal that seems suspicious, please call.”

Assault is denied BIRSTALL: A man has denied assaulting his partner. Kristan Ashley, 39, pleaded not guilty to the assault on Leanne Asquith when he appeared at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court. Ashley, of Lowood Lane, Birstall, is alleged to have assaulted Ms Asquith at her home in Batley on October 18. His trial will take place on February 17 at Kirklees Magistrates Court.

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ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

News In Brief ‘Abusive’ texts were sent to ex DEWSBURY: A man has denied sending threatening messages to his ex-partner.

Mohammed Bilal, 22, pleaded not guilty to sending messages that were grossly offensive or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard that he allegedly sent one message that said he hated the woman and warned her to watch out for what he would do next.

Bilal, of Highgate Road, also denies two charges of assault and criminal damage to a window. His trial will take place at the magistrates’ court on February 17.

Man accused of assaulting baby THORNHILL: A man has appeared in court after he allegedly slapped and kicked a one-year-old baby.

Craig Cookson, 26, is charged with assaulting the child, occasioning him actual bodily harm.

The alleged attack happened in Dewsbury on November 18. He is also accused of assaulting the boy’s mother as she tried to intervene.

Cookson, of Partridge Crescent, Thornhill, pleaded not guilty to both charges when he appeared at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court. The case was sent to Leeds Crown Court where he will appear on January 17.

PEOPLE POWER Kirklees challenges public to save buildings TWO former museum buildings in North Kirklees are heading into 2017 with uncertain futures.

Following the closure of Red House in Gomersal this week and Dewsbury Museum last month, Kirklees Council is now officially looking for organisations to take them over.

A new community group, the Friends of Dewsbury Park Mansion, are hopeful of striking a deal to run the Grade II listed building in Crow Nest Park.

But it was revealed this week that the Friends of Red House group has been wound up, leaving the future of the historic site on Oxford Road up in the air.

The deadline for initial expressions of interest and/or outline business cases for taking over either museum is March 6, 2017.

It remains unclear whether there is a community group currently in a viable position to take Red House on.

If nobody from the community is willing to take over the running of the buildings, the council will look at placing them for sale on the open market.

Chairman of the Friends

of Red House group, Jacqueline Ryder, said: “The Friends of Red House were set up four years ago when Red House was initially under threat.

“Our purpose was to support the staff with events, and put on events of our own, to raise awareness of Red House and do what we could to increase visitor numbers.

“The Friends have contributed over 1,000 voluntary hours towards this and can be proud of what we have achieved. We have some very dedicated helpers who turn up at all events and turn their hands to a variety of tasks. Most are retired, and this is our hobby.”

She claimed that it would be virtually impossible for the group of volunteers to take over its management.

“To run Red House as a successful business requires skills and knowledge of funding sources that the group does not have,” she said.

“Although we are devastated at the closure, we hope someone will come forward with the ideas and drive to make it work. In the circumstances we have

The former mansion building in Crow Nest Park which housed Dewsbury Museum.

People have until March to come up with a plan for keeping it as a public facility

decided to wind up the Friends group.”

Kirklees Council decided to close the museums in October as part of a costcutting measure that will see them save £531,000.

The authority will make decisions on any expressions of interest in April.

Jax Lovelock, from the Friends of Dewsbury Park Mansion group, said she was confident a deal could be struck between them and the council that would see them take over the running of the building.

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“We are at the beginning of the process but the council seem really up for this.

“The timeline is tight but we are on with it. We want the best outcome for the building which we believe is community use.”

Cabinet member Coun Graham Turner said: “The council did not want to be in this position. Nobody wants to close museums but we do need to react to these times of austerity and make savings. Following our recent consultation, we know that the public sup-

port our plan to find new and innovative ways for them to view the collections, and we will be doing more of this in the future.

“Museums are not just about buildings, it’s about using the collections to tell the story of our past and how they influence what we do today. However if any organisation thinks that they have a business case for taking over the buildings for the benefit of the local community I would encourage them to fill out the forms on our website.”

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ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

FANS of Batley Bulldogs and Dewsbury Rams are excited to see their sides battle it out for the Roy Powell Trophy in the inaugural Powerhouse Challenge.

The traditional Boxing Day clash has a new name thanks to match sponsors Powerhouse Fitness.

Andy Oldroyd, manager at Powerhouse’s Batley store, said: “We are happy once again to be sponsoring both teams. It’s a privilege to help a local team rise and win with the right nutritional products and equipment to support their growth as a team.

“Boxing day with be a good eventful one I can imagine, but next season is the real challenge. I wish Dewsbury and Batley all the best of luck for next season and can’t wait to watch it all unfold.”

Batley boss Matt Diskin will be hoping to win his first game in charge of the Bulldogs in the 2016 Powerhouse Challenge and end the club’s memorable year in style.

Meanwhile Rams boss Glenn Morrison will be aiming to win his first Boxing Day derby in five attempts.

Rams fans last celebrated a festive win over arch-rivals Batley in 2011 under then head coach Warren Jowitt.

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ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

Nicholas optimistic about Diskin’s new-look squad

By Joe Link Sports Reporter joe@thepressnews.co.uk

BATLEY BULLDOGS chairman Kevin Nicholas is hoping his club can end a remarkable year on another high in this year’s Boxing Day derby at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium (12noon).

The Mount Pleasant side may not have played a game for over two months but Nicholas insists the club have been ‘very busy’ off the field to ensure that Matt Diskin and his players have the best possible chance of replicating the success of last season.

“It’s been a crazy year in many ways,” admitted Nicholas.

“We achieved things that nobody thought we would, but since the end of last season we’ve made a lot of improvements on and off the field to try and make sure it was no fluke.”

But Nicholas is confident he has the right man for the job in Matt Diskin to take the club forward.

“Matt (Diskin) will arguably have a tougher job than his predecessor John Kear because sides are likely to take us more seriously and consider us a bigger threat,”he said.

“However what Matt has done in his short time with us has been impressive.

“Matt’s happy with his coaching and they’ve been working hard to improve the team’s way of playing.

“Fans can expect a more attacking

Batley Bulldogs chairman Kevin Nicholas (inset) has been impressed with head coach Matt Diskin’s recruitment, including the signing of Dane Manning (right) who returns to Mount Pleasant for a second stint approach from the team in games and it all sounds pretty exciting.

“Matt has a strong squad to work with, we made it a priority to hold onto the players we had last season and Matt’s signings are very talented.

“But despite what we achieved last season

we’ve remained grounded as a club, we’ve not spent beyond our means. We’re not in debt and we haven’t even received the extra revenue from reaching the ‘middle 8s’, that will come in January.”

But on top of extra prize money, Batley have received more cash as a result of spon-

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And as Nicholas enters his 20th season as chairman of the Bulldogs, the solicitor couldn’t be happier with how the club has progressed. He added: “We’ve managed to spend what we have from an influx in sponsorship deals, Danny Maun has found his commercial duties much easier.

“The club is in such a good place right now, it is great to see. When I took over in 1996, looking back, I feel quite proud. But I can’t take all the credit, Andrew Winner has been with me every step of the way and there have been some quality coaches and players on our books during that time as well.

“Not everything over that time has been plain sailing, we have often taken steps backwards but when that’s happened we always seem to take two more forward.

“I have as much enthusiasm for the job now as I did on day one. I absolutely love this club and the sport of rugby league and I’m definitly not done yet. I want the club to grow and achieve bigger and better things all the time.

“The last decade has been particularly successful time for us. We won the Northern Rail Cup in 2010 under Karl Harrison and as everyone know we reached the Qualifiers last season.

“We’re just looking to compete for silverware more regularly and with Matt in charge, and the squad he’s put together, I think we will be able to do that.

“Boxing Day will be a chance for fans to see the first steps of what could be a successful period for the Bulldogs.”

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ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

13

Morro targets his first-ever Boxing Day win DEWSBURY RAMS fans will be hoping head coach Glenn Morrison will improve his record in the Boxing Day derby on Monday.

Since taking over at the Tetley’s Stadium in 2012 the Aussie coach has lost all four of his traditional festive battles with Heavy Woollen rivals Batley, but the former Bradford Bulls star will be aiming to make it fifth time lucky after admitting he is ‘conscious’ that the fans want to win, despite maintaining an impressive record against the Bulldogs in competitive outings.

Rams supporters will also be boosted by the news that only Scott Hale and Luke Adamson are unavailable for the clash at Mount Pleasant.

Second-rower Hale is still recovering from a shoulder operation while loose forward Adamson is out due to a hip complaint.

Morrison is expected to take a squad of 20 on the short journey to Batley, and he is excited to see his new-look squad in action.

“I want to win every game I’m

involved in and I’m conscious that the fans think the same,” said Morrison.

“As a club we always try to win, but at the same the Boxing Day game is a friendly and that gives me the chance to try one or two new things and I can learn alot about the group because of that.

“It isn’t going to be easy though, this is probably the strongest Batley side I’ve faced on Boxing Day. They’ve been able to spend big after the year they’ve had and they look to have recruited well.

“Matt (Diskin) is a quality coach too, it might be his first post as a head coach, but he’s had some experience at Bradford in a temporary role and has also played under some top coaches during his playing career, so he’ll know what

he’s doing. It’s going to be tough for us to find Batley’s weaknesses but that’s our job and we’ll be giving it everything.

“Like always the guys are really eager to get out their and show me what they’re capable of.

“We’ve been working on a lot, both physically and technically, so it will be good to see the guys implement some stuff on the pitch.

“The lads have a lot to prove as well, but every player will get at least two games in pre-season.”

The captaincy at the Rams is also still up for grabs and Morrison admits he’s yet to discuss who will lead the squad on the field in 2017.

“There are a lot of leaders in the side,” he said.

“Players like Paul Sykes who captained us last year and Mitch

Rams boss Glenn Morrison looked on as his side lost 18-16 at Mount Pleasant back in July. Morrison’s men have lost all three fixtures against their arch-rivals this year and the Aussie will be hoping to prevent a fourth on Boxing Day, but he will have to do it without Joel Farrell (background) who switched to the Bulldogs during the off-season Stringer have bags of experience, but that isn’t everything.

“I want an out-and-out leader

who will play by example and so far in training I’ve seen a few potential candidates.”

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ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

Recruits will miss action BATLEY fans will have to wait until the New Year to see some of their new recruits in action.

Notable off-season signing Dane Manning is nursing a broken thumb and won’t be available until January.

Second-rower Joel Farrell is also recovering from minor surgery and is also expected back next month.

Meanwhile, Castleford loanees Tom Holmes and Will Maher, Dave Scott, Adam Gledhill and James Brown will also have to sit out the Bulldogs’ first pre-season outing.

But despite injuries to key memebers of his squad, Matt Diskin is expecting a top performance from his side. He said: “We’ve been working on a lot of new things, but the players have been adapting well and have been showing improvement week on week.

“I want us to play a more attacking brand of rugby and I’m sure fans will enjoy that.

“There are a lot of players wanting to impress me so I’m optimistic that we’ll put in a good performance.

“I’m a local lad and I know the importance of this game to them, they really want to

Joel Farrell in action for Dewsbury against his new club Batley at the 2016 Summer Bash in Blackpool celebrate the win, as do I, it’s my first game in charge so I want to impress them.

“I’ve been to this game for the last three years and the atmosphere is great, I’m really looking forward to it and hopefully we’ll have something to celebrate Boxing Day afternoon.”

Ticket prices for the game are; adults £17, concessions £12 and £3 for juniors. Kick-

off is at 12noon at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium.

BATLEY’S STARTING LINEUP: Michael Hayward, Shaun Ainscough, Wayne Reittie, Macauley Hallett, Sam Smeaton, Cain Southernwood, Dom Brambani, Alex Rowe, Tom Lillycrop, Alistair Leak, James Harrison, Brad Day, Joe Chandler.

Rams’ unique kit will be auctioned off after match DEWSBURY RAMS will be playing in a oneoff blue and white kit against rivals Batley on Boxing Day. After the game the kit will be auctioned off to raise money for charity.

The decision to wear the charity shirt was made following the delayed arrival of the Rams’ 2017 home and away shirts due to the club’s increased number of sponsors.

A club statement said: “While the club does have certain charities in mind we want to involve supporters as much as we can in deciding which charity or charities we should support with this initiative.

“We would welcome feedback from people who have perhaps been helped or received support personally, or who have perhaps been touched by the support a friend or relative

may have received by any charitable organisation who you think are worthy of our support.

“We are pleased to be able to release the design of the shirt which comes complete with all our 2017 shirt sponsor logos and the full kit will include matching shorts and socks.

“We know what shirts Batley will be playing in on the day and this shirt design will ensure that the two teams are easily identifiable to the match officials and to supporters.”

The shirts will be available to purchase at the club’s kit launch night in January, where the lucky bidder of each player’s shirt will receive their shirt from that player. Further details on the date and time of the launch will be released during the next week.

Squires can’t wait for Dec 26 Continued from back page “I love the Boxing Day derby, it’s probably my favourite game of the season, it’s a great blow out to get rid of the cobwebs and there is always a big turnout,” he said.

“It’s been a while since I last had a game so hopefully Matt will play me.

“I’m eager to impress because there’s a lot

of competition for places in the squad at the moment and I want to cement a place in the team for the start of next season, which won’t be easy.

“But if I’m not playing I’ll definitely be supporting the team from the stands. My family often go to the games and I expect this one (Boxing Day) won’t be any different.”

Friday December 23, 2016

ThePress

15

ThePress

16

Friday December 23, 2016

News In Brief Claimant had £14k CLECKHEATON: A man has had to repay almost £6,000 that he fraudulently claimed.

Ian Bates, 59, pleaded guilty to dishonestly making a false statement to obtain a benefit and failing to disclose information to make a gain when he appeared before Kirklees Magistrates. The court heard he made claims for income support and jobseeker’s allowance.

However, he failed to inform the Department for Work and Pensions he had just under £14,000 in savings.

His solicitor, Paul Normandale, said that his client had repaid most of the cash.

Bates, of Pyenot Avenue, was fined £342 and ordered to pay £85 in costs and a £34 victim surcharge.

Fire crew jobs at risk in review

PLANS to cut the number of firefighters at a North Kirklees fire station have been revealed.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority published their proposed changes to emergency cover earlier this week which include plans to reduce the number of staff on the Technical Rescue Unit at Cleckheaton from five to three.

A wide-ranging cost-cutting exercise by the service could see 44 posts across the county disappear, saving

around £1.8million.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Steve Rhodes explained the changes were possible due to the significant reduction in risk and demand.

He said: “Firstly, I would like to give the reassurance that public and firefighter safety is our priority and have been at the forefront of our minds when carrying out research and drawing up the proposals.

“However, the challenge we have is to provide a first-class, effective,

yet also efficient and economic service using finite resources.

“The proposals would have minimal impact on service delivery.”

Formal representation can be submitted until February 3, 2017, by emailing IRMPconsultation@westyorksfire.gov.uk or by writing to Consultation Co-ordinator, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service HQ, Oakroyd Hall, WYFRS HQ, Bradford Road, Birkenshaw, BD11 2DY.

‘Neglect’ led to death

By Staff Reporters A COMPANY director from Dewsbury has avoided jail following a work accident which killed his brother.

Nasir Hussain was the managing director of Felt Supplies Ltd in 2012 when he was pulled into a machine and killed.

His fellow director and brother, Wazir Hussain, was handed a 12-month prison sentence suspended for 18 months for a number health and safety breaches at Leeds Crown Court.

The court heard that on February 1, 2012, the carding machine which formed part of the production line at the premises on the Wharfedale Business Park in Bradford had become jammed with waste.

Nasir, from Dewsbury, then overrode the safety system by using a spare key to unlock one of the gates to the carding machine and stood on top of it with a metal bar in one hand to clear the blockage while the line was still running.

Although the machine had been switched off after a time, it was still running down when his clothing became entangled and he was pulled into the machine, suffering fatal injuries including a broken neck.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found the use of a spare key to access machinery, while it was operational, was commonplace by the workforce.

Despite HSE issuing a prohibition notice to stop the unsafe practices and taking the spare keys into their possession, the unsafe practices were still allowed to continue for a period following Mr Hussain’s death.

Felt Supplies Ltd admitted three health and safety breaches and contravening a prohibition notice.

The company was fined £175,000 and ordered to pay

The factory where Mr Hussain was pulled into a machine that had been left running

£64,165 in court costs.

Wazir Hussain of Garden Street, Ravensthorpe, pleaded guilty to the same offences and was handed the suspended sentence.

Judge Geoffrey Mason told Hussain he would have been sent to jail had the case been heard earlier, but admitted that improvements to safety at the fac-

tory had been made since the accident.

He said: “There clearly was no regard for the safety of those who were employed.

“So bad is this case, a serious accident involving death was not only foreseeable, we would say it was inevitable.”

After the hearing, HSE inspector Jacqueline Ferguson said: “This is a tragic incident that could so easily have been avoided.

“In this case it was the director that was fatally injured and it could so easily have been an employee, in which case, we may have been looking at a corporate manslaughter charge.

“Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards especially where there has been a deliberate breach or a flagrant disregard for the law.”

Tesco volunteers join festive celebrations A GROUP of community volunteers put on their party hats and pulled crackers to celebrate the work they have done over the past 12 months.

Tesco in Cleckheaton invited organisations who had fundraised with them throughout the year to their community buffet.

The guests had not only raised money for their own charitable causes, but helped the store with its annual Neighbourhood Food Collection and the Tesco Partnership with Diabetes UK and the British Heart Foundation.

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MOUNTED police officers were part of an operation to tackle anti-social behaviour on London Park Estate in Mirfield.

Uniformed officers and roads and policing teams were also involved last weekend.

Traffic checks were conducted and neighbourhood teams also visited Old Bank School to speak to pupils and their teachers.

Inspector Jenny Thompson, of the Dewsbury and Mirfield NPT, said: “This was a pre-planned exercise organised by PC Ros Hird, the local ward officer, to provide an increased police presence, engaging with the public and young people at the community centre, as well as providing help and advice such as crime prevention tips.”

“This operation saw police officers and our partners speaking to residents about any issues in relation to this area in Mirfield.

“We hope that the law-abiding people of the estate will continue to welcome our presence in the area and pass us information on people who are committing crimes. “ “We hope that residents feel confident and reassured after speaking to the officers that we will take action against any anti-social behaviour and would urge anyone to come forward and contact us if there are any concerns or ongoing issues.”

ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

Keeping it in the family...

Mike Popplewell takes a look at two Heckmondwike clans who helped the town to thrive

By Mike Popplewell

17

Relationship breakdown led to obscene messages A DEWSBURY man received a birthday card containing obscene photographs from his ex-partner following the breakdown of their relationship.

Claire Green sent the card to the home of Anthony Grundy, on Victoria Road, after the pair had ended their 18-month relationship.

She had been warned not to contact Mr Grundy any more after she had bombarded him with texts and phonecalls.

Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard that Green and Mr Grundy’s relationship broke down just days after he moved to Blackpool to be with her.

He then moved back home to Dewsbury but Green continued to call and text him.

She managed to find his new number and turned up at his house on one occasion.

The incidents were reported to the police in July and Green was issued with a harassment warning.

Mr Grundy then heard nothing from his ex-partner until October when the card arrived.

The court was told that it was addressed to “Little D***” with six photographs inside and accused Mr Grundy of being a child abuser.

She said that she had been the victim in the couple’s relationship, which is what had motivated her to send the card.

Green, who is still living in Blackpool, pleaded guilty to pursuing a course of conduct which amounted to harassment.

She was sentenced to an eight week suspended prison sentence.

She was also banned from contacting Mr Grundy for two years.

news@thepressnews.co.uk

T WAS CHRISTMAS DAY in Heckmondwike, the year was 1761, and 20year-old merchant Jeremiah Firth was four days into his marriage to 15-year-old Mary Popplewell.

Neither could have imagined what lay ahead for themselves and their descendants, for it transpired that their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were to create a business dynasty that was to fuel the developing industrialisation and prosperity of the town during the ensuing centuries.

Jeremiah and Mary were living in difficult times.

The world around them would soon be in some chaos, with the American War of Independence and the French Revolution, whilst here in Britain the Industrial Revolution was drastically changing our society.

Late that summer King George III had married Princess Charlotte and had celebrated his coronation, but his reign was to also impact all aspects of British society as his ‘porphyria’, a genetic metabolic disease, was to leave him mentally incapacitated for long periods and eventually lead to dementia.

Mary Popplewell’s brother Francis became the owner/landlord of The George Hotel in the centre of Heckmondwike, and established the town’s first blanket hall in the barn at the rear of his pub.

His brother Robert was to marry her grandaughter Mary and run a cloth warehouse in London.

Jeremiah and Mary’s eldest son James, young Mary’s father, had established a business in London and his brother Thomas had a cloth finishing Mill in Beck Lane, Liversedge.

Thomas’s son Edwin had originally established himself as a merchant in Liverpool, but when Thomas died he returned to Heckmondwike, bought Flush Mill, began a blanket manufacturing business and was to become the biggest employer in the town.

Two of Edwin’s sons, Thomas Freeman and Charles Henry, later joined the business and were subsequently knighted for their services to industry.

From the 17th century the Firths and the Popplewells had been diehard ‘dissenters’ and pillars of the Upper Independent Chapel - they

Safety and management require improvement

I

A DEWSBURY care home has been told that it must improve by inspectors.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) recently inspected the Dewsbury 1 home, run by St Anne’s Community Services, and found that it ‘requires improvement’.

Inspectors praised the effectiveness, responsiveness and the caring approach to residents, but said that safety and management require improvement before it can be classed as a good facility.

The Oxford Road home can accommodate up to five adults with learning disabilities. had even played a huge part in financing the building of the old chapel, which is now developed as flats, and the Sunday School building which now functions as the church.

Sir Thomas Freeman Firth’s son Algernon, who later inherited his father’s title, lived in Flush House, opposite Flush Mill, and later donated his garden to the people of Heckmondwike and, as Firth Park, still stands in the centre of the town as a permanent reminder of the family’s contribution to the people of the Spen Valley.

The Spen Valley Civic Society no doubt had endless deliberations over the comparative merits of the candidates for inclusion on their ‘Fame Trail’, but while Francis Popplewell did find his way on to the trail for his ‘Blanket Hall’ it is perhaps inconceivable that the Firths’ contribution to Spen Valley life went unnoticed.

• For the record, Mary Popplewell was to have 15 children in her 24-year marriage to Jeremiah, but only eight survived to adulthood. She was my 5x Popplewell great aunt as well as being my 5x Firth great grandmother.

Jeremiah was my 5x great grandfather, their grandaughter Mary is my 3x great grandmother but, as the daughter of my 4x Firth great grandfather, she is also my 5th cousin – and to confuse the issue more she is the second cousin of her own children!

Heckmondwike has a lot to answer for!

LATEST PLANNING APPLICATIONS Mr O Iqbal, two-storey rear extension, 35 Halifax Road, Staincliffe.

Andrew Owens, Planned Contracts Ltd, c/o agent, discharge conditions 4, 5, 7-17 on previous permission 2014/93615 for erection of five dwellings, alterations to convert coach house/garage to one dwelling and refurbishment/remodelling of three existing dwellings, Preston Gardner Ltd, 56A Leeds Road, Liversedge.

GJS Developers Ltd, two detached dwellings with detached garages and associated parking, adjacent to 29 Hollinbank Lane, Heckmondwike.

Patricia Berry, work to TPO(s) 91/90, Coverdale, 3 Brearley Gardens, Liversedge.

Mr Khan, extensions, 127 Oxford Road, Dewsbury.

J Heaton, two-storey and singlestorey side extension, 12 Leeside Road, Heckmondwike.

K Hepworth, outline application for residential development, 4 Spen

Vale Street, Heckmondwike.

P Kenyon, orangery to rear, 3 Moor Croft Close, Mirfield.

JEM Trading UK Ltd, change of use from warehouse to motor cycle display area and cafe, Brookroyd Mills, 678 Bradford Road, Batley.

J Wood, certificate of lawfulness for proposed erection of singlestorey rear extension, extension to existing garage and erection of garden store, 4 Crossley View, Mirfield.

Riyasat Qureshi, side extension, 6 Selbourne Drive, Savile Town.

Vautrey, work to TPO(S) 07/02, 55 Quaker Lane, Hightown, Liversedge.

Mr A Kiani, two-storey rear extension and front porch, 11 Radulf Gardens, Littletown, Liversedge.

Sami Jassam, certificate of lawfulness for proposed installation of new door (within a Conservation Area), The Dewsbury Reporter Building, single-storey side extension and alterations, 3 Highfield Court, Soothill.

Miller Homes, outline application

for residential development (C3), land off Lees Hall Road, Dewsbury.

P Gaunt, single-storey extension, Mirfield Masonic Lodge, King Street, Mirfield.

Mr & Mrs Batley, two-storey and single-storey side extensions, single-storey rear and dormers to front and rear, 95 Bywell Road, Dewsbury.

Irfan Aslam, variation of condition two (plans) on previous application 2016/92590 for demolition of existing garage and store and erection of two-storey side extension, twostorey front extension and raising height of roof, 10 Valley Road, Thornhill.

Fernbrook Associates Ltd, discharge condition 1 (materials) on previous permission 2014/91778 for reserved matters application for erection of three dwellings, land at 58 Upper Road, Batley.

Kirklees Council, Investment & Regeneration, discharge condition 16 (bat survey) on previous permis-

sion 2015/92908 for outline application for erection of residential development, land off Soothill Lane/Grange Road/ Mill Forest Way, Batley.

Smyths Toys, C/O Agent, installation of three illuminated signs, Gelderd Road, Birstall.

Card Factory, installation of illuminated sign, 6b Northgate Centre, Northgate, Heckmondwike.

R Elliott, work to TPO(s) 21/91 within a Conservation Area, 16 Latham Lane, Gomersal.

Juan Torres, discharge of conditons 3 (Materials), 4 (Tree Protection), 5 (Landscape), 7 (Phase I Desk Study Report), 8 (Phase II Intrusive Site Investigation Report), 9 (Remediation Strategy), 10 (Remediation Strategy), 14 (Remediation Scheme For Public Safety), 15 (Boundary Fencing), 16 (Crime Prevention) on previous application 2015/921093 for erection of 13 business units, Rawfolds Way, Rawfolds, Cleckheaton.

Inspectors said: “We found staff were recruited safely and were employed in sufficient numbers to meet people’s needs.”

The report also said that residents were happy with the care they received from members of staff at the home.

However, concerns were raised regarding the storage and recording of medicines.

The CQC report continued: “There was a quality assurance system in place, but this had not identified the issues we found during the inspection with risk assessing, care planning and risks associated with the home environment.”

Stuck for Christmas gift ideas?

One man s story of a cultural and social revolution in his home town.

Publisher and journalist Danny Lockwood marks June 24th 1989 as the date that Dewsbury changed for ever. His book, first written in 2011 but fully updated with new material in 2015, charts the repeated failure of politicians, police, local and national government to understand, let alone tackle, the widening gulf between communities. By turns funny, tragic, angry and nostalgic, the author points the finger of blame not at a creed or colour, but at a Politically Correct dogma that has failed everyone.

Dedicated & signed copy: £14.95 “Lockwood succeeds in showing that British freedoms are in peril due to a kind of cultural suicide ... The Islamic Republic of Dewsbury is a stark reminder that England (and the west for that matter) has lost the plot” AMAZON BOOK REVIEWS

PHONE 01924 470296 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm to order a dedicated and signed copy.

Pay by debit/credit card or pick up from our office at 31 Branch Road, Batley, West Yorks WF17 5SB Price (inc p/p) £14.95

inc post & package

18

ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

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 MONDAY JANUARY 9, 2017 POPELEY AND THE RED HOUSE Meet at 1pm at Oakwell Hall top car park (WF17 9LG, SE217271) No dogs please.

Contact: Kathleen Tel: 01924 471473 kathleenoshea5@aol.com

Carols at the tree

Acoustic live with Gareth

ON SATURDAY December 24 there will be carols sung around Mirfield’s Christmas tree, just outside the library in the centre of town.

Now in its sixth year, the free festive community gathering is quickly becoming a Mirfield family tradition.

Starting at 4pm, song sheets will be available on the night and there will be a few surprises in store for those who come along.

Rambling Manor ON WEDNESDAY December 14 some 38 members of Dewsbury & District Rambling Club set off from the Manor Golf Club in Drighlington and walked in the Tong area.

Club members also enjoyed a Christmas meal at the golf club afterwards.

M a r g a r e t Chamberlain and Ruth Knowles were the leaders and David Townend was the back marker.

On Saturday, 13 ramblers set off from Spenborough pool and took field paths to the Shears Inn at Hightown.

The walk continued to Roberttown, then over field paths to Dewsbury Country Park and along the Greenway back to the start point.

The seven-mile walk was led by David Townend.

A walk is planned for Bank Holiday Monday, January 2 2017. Please meet at Carr Gate Garden Centre near Wakefield at 11am.

Parking is on the roadside near the garden centre, and David Banks is the leader.

To publicise your event email david@thepress news.co.uk

SATURDAY JANUARY 14, 2017 THORNHILL Meet at 10.30am meet at the car park behind Dewsbury Sports Centre (WF12 8EN, SE246216) 8 miles – moderate Contact: Eddie and Andrea Tel: 01924 470 091

TV’S Pop Idol runner-up Gareth Gates will be performing at Cleckheaton Town Hall in 2017.

The Bradford-born singer will be taking a break from his stage work to perform a special set of acoustic music on June 4 next year, at 7.30pm.

Since finishing second to Will Young in the first series of Pop Idol, in 2002, he has carved out a very successful career and travelled worldwide.

He has sold 3.5 million records in the UK alone, released three albums and had four number one singles.

In 2009, Gareth auditioned and

impressed Sir Cameron MackIntosh and accepted the role of Marius in the 25th anniversary tour of Les Miserables.

He has since performed a successful Boogie Nights concert tour with the legendary Osmonds and he continues a successful career in musical theatre.

In the new year he will be performing in the musical, Footloose, as Willard.

Tickets to see Gareth Gates – Live and Acoustic, can be purchased from Kirklees Town Halls online at https://tickets.kirklees. gov.uk or by calling the box office on 01484 225755

The king of wishful gifting IT MIGHT be getting a bit late, but are you still stuck for a present for the 80s music lover in your life?

Then why not buy them tickets to see Brit Award-winning legends Go West next year?

The band will be performing at Huddersfield Town Hall on Friday December 1, 2017.

They will take to the stage of the town hall to sing some of their greatest hits including We Close Our Eyes, Call Me, Faithful, King of

Wishful Thinking and Don’t Look Down.

The band was formed in 1982 by Peter Cox and Richard Drummie, who went on to have huge commercial success and established themselves as one of the most successful singer/songwriter duos of the 80s.

Go West have played live around the world continuously since their inception and have sold over 20 million albums.

Tickets cost £27.50 and are available from www.tickets.kirklees.gov.uk or by calling 01484 225755.

Love conquers all with a Beastly time at the Grand Beauty and the Beast Leeds Grand Theatre Until January 7 www.leedsgrandtheatre.com Box office on 0844 848 2700 Review by David Bentley WHILE there may be some who attend Northern Ballet’s Beauty and the Beast thinking they will be treated to talking clocks and dancing candlesticks, there will almost certainly be none leaving disappointed that it wasn’t what they thought.

This incarnation of Beauty and the Beast brings with it everything you would expect from Northern Ballet: charm, humour, darkness, and just a hint of magic.

A kaleidoscope of colour and haute couture-style costumes, Beauty & the Beast is a treasured classic for the whole family, choreographed by artistic director David Nixon OBE. Set in an unspecified period, the egotistical Prince Orian is transformed into a hideous Beast

by La Fée Magnifique as punishment for his vanity. Elsewhere, a young woman named Beauty, her father and her two sisters are cast out of their home by bailiffs and forced to live in a forest.

When their father, searching for food, trespasses on the Beast’s land, he must hand over one of his daughters in order to preserve his life.

Beauty volunteers, and once her initial terror fades, the pair fall in love.

Beauty’s love breaks the curse, and the Beast transforms back into Prince Orian in time for the wedding.

Returning for the first time since its 2011 world premiere, this is not an adaptation of the Disney version of the story – it is based on the original tale and embraces the darker elements as well as the lighter moments.

Northern Ballet have adopted a simple philosophy: ignore Disney, and make the audience

fall in love with the original story. And it works. Perfectly.

Dreda Blow as Beauty and Ashley Dixon as the Beast complement each other wonderfully, with Dixon suitably predatory as the emotionally unstable Beast.

It is the Beast who utterly captivates the audience as he is pulled between grace and frustration, love and withdrawal, and has the audience desperately hoping he finds his happiness.

There is one moment which

will stay with the audience for a long time. The Pas De Trois between Beauty, Beast and his former self as Price Orian (Giuliano Contadini) is at times touching, at others haunting, and throughout utterly fascinating.

Set to an infectious score played live by Northern Ballet Sinfonia, including music by Saint-SaÎns, Bizet, Poulenc, Glazunov and Debussy, this magical show proves that love conquers all.

ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

Hear Ann across the BBC radio network

Marketplace

Collabro star Richard is back on Turn your unwanted items song after split from BGT winners into cash £££s ORMER Collabro star Richard Hadfield tells me that he left the band because of a slight feud with his bandmates over his solo music.

The singer has declared it was a “shame” to end his career with the group on such a low note, but insists he is much happier on his own.

Richard is back recording, planning new shows and admits he would love a stint as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent, as: “Who knows more than me what happens once you have won? I could be useful on that panel.”

F

1) Ring Adele on 01924 470296 (9.30am-4.30pm). Have your advert ready and you can pay by debit card (30p surcharge).

2) Call into the office at 31 Branch Road, Batley WF17 5SB and pay by cash, cheque or debit card (30p surcharge).

3) Post your advert and include your name and a contact number, along with cheque for payment.

ADVERTS must be no longer than 50 words.

(We cannot accept the following items: Motor vehicles, caravans, livestock. All listings will stay in marketplace for a maximum of two months. If you wish to amend your listing, or cancel when sold, contact or call 01924 470296.

Ann with Collabro star Richard Hadfield

FANS of Strictly Come Dancing will have noticed a recent visit to the show by one of 2016’s most famous faces, British astronaut Tim Peake.

Remember you read this here first – he has already been asked to appear on the dance show for next year.

That is all I am saying, just take note now...

BAKE OFF queen Mary Berry tells me: “One of the things I find very difficult is selfies.

Once I said to everybody, ‘I’m on a day out with my daughter, do you mind if I don’t?’ And people were charming. What are they going to do? Put it on, what do you call it, Instagram? I think that’s something we could all do without.”

AFTER nearly 20 years of playing the vicar in Emmerdale, John Middleton has had a wealth of exciting storylines. He tells me: “I am sad to go, as I thought it was a job for life, but soaps have to reflect real life and so this is my exit. I will miss it, but I am sure the soap will be just as great long after I have left.”

GERMAN Chancellor Angela Merkel is a devotee of Midsomer Murders, says original star of the show John Nettles. “I know she liked the show and they would send over box sets for her and so forth, but I am not sure what really appealed to her ... small village, lots of murders, who knows?!” he laughed.

BOYZONE singer and former Coronation Street hunk Keith Duffy says: “I still get people coming up and talking to me about Coronation Street. It was a huge part of my life. I was there for 10 years on and off, from 2002 to 2012. I loved the people, loved the character of Ciaran McCarthy, and I’d like to think that, one day, he’ll be back on the cobbles, causing trouble.” I wonder

what the writers think...

STRICTLY Come Dancing’s head judge Len Goodman may have decided to quit the show, but insiders tell me that like Bruce Forsyth, he may be persuaded to come back for specials like Christmas and Children in Need. Len admitted to me: “I may regret it, but right now it feels right, but if they ask me, who knows, I may just say yes.”

CORONATION STREET actress Jane Danson has played downtrodden Leanne Battersby since 1997, and admits she can’t believe it’s been almost 20 years.

“Where has the time gone?” she said. “I would like to point out I was a teenager when I started ... but I have no plans to leave, as playing her is still such an adventure and why would I leave such a great job?”

WILL YOUNG was said to have “refused” an invite to the Strictly Come Dancing final, after he quit the show due to “personal reasons”.

However I can reveal that many behind the scenes on the show, were secretly thrilled, as: “He was not a team player, I mean had he ever watched the show before? Let’s just say there were no tears when we all heard.” Oh dear.

I’M A CELEB contestant Martin Roberts tells me he is sticking with his Homes Under The Hammer shows from now on. He said: “I enjoyed a lot of it I have to say, and it was a real test of my endurance, but it’s one of those things you get offered in TV and think why not, the money is great, and how hard can it be? Then you arrive and find all that out...”

REMEMBER the cult 70s Saturday night show Kojak, which starred Telly Savalas as the lollipop-loving bald

Maycon Pictures

cop who solved crimes. Well, insiders in the US tell me that there is a planned remake, and Bruce Willis is keen to take on the role in the new version.

TV PROPERTY queen Kirstie Allsopp’s dad, former Christie’s chairman Lord Hindlip, has a new book out called An Auctioneer’s Lot: Triumphs & Disasters at Christie’s. She reveals: “My father is passionate about all things vintage, that is where I get it all from, and I enjoy making my ‘Home Made’ shows, proving you don’t need lots to make things look great.”

BAFTA-winning writer Kay Mellor OBE, creator of The Syndicate, Playing the Field and Fat Friends, tells me she wants to see even more female writers taking the lead in TV drama. “We have excelled in recent years, but there is always room for more, and of course new ideas means exciting new drama, so I am always welcome to it,” she said.

IS IT a case of goodbye Ant and Dec – because there’s a new double act in town?

With a new album out, a nationwide tour and a spectacular TV special, it seems there’s little that Michael Ball and Alfie Boe can’t do. Both let slip they would like to star in a sitcom together, and I heard: “We get on well, and who knows, if someone wrote it for sure I know we would give it a try.”

ACTRESS Georgia Taylor admits she had reservations over Toyah Battersby’s return to Coronation Street.

“It would depend what the storyline is, and I thought there has to be a creative reason to come back,” she explained. “I insisted that she’s still vegetarian, and I think that people will warm to her again. Well I do hope so, you never know do you...”

19

NEW Small Calor Gas blower heater, suitable for shed or workshop £25. Tel 01924 430088.

(2068) CHILDREN’S GOODS/TOYS Red Tomahawk Mongoose two-wheel bike, suit 6-9yr old.

Very little used, stabilisers availablem £50 ono. Tel 01924 476050. (2066) Tonka toys, tipper truck and crane with grab, £26, will split.

Tractor/loading shovel, ride-on, suit 4/5 year-old, good quality, German made, £27. Tel Mirfield 01924 492544. (2059) Early Learning Centre baby’s wooden toddle truck with coloured bricks.

Excellent condition £10. Tel 01924 407400. (2054) iCandy apple pram.

Includes carrycot, pushchair, rain cover.

Converts to 3 wheeler. Like new, bargain £135. Tel Gomersal 01274 870164 (2044) A selection of toys for girls and boys (age 3–7 years), good condition. Vacuum cleaner, guitar, boys scooter etc. Great Christmas present (may split), £12.00.

Tel 07806 431728.

(2039) Mamas & Papas Lumix pram, black with black & white hood, black apron, parasol, rain cover.

Only used at Grandma’s. Like new, cost £186, only £50 bargain. Tel 01924 511981. (2020) BEDROOM FURNITURE Four drawer, 6ft x 6ft 6” super king size bed (frame with separate to make two single beds), six months old quality mattress. (Free to buyer - DIY headboard, three fitted valanced sheets and mattress cover).

Buyer to dismantle

and collect £50. Tel 01924 469652. (2064) Dormeo double orthopaedic mattress with memory foam topping.

New condition, cost £200, will accept £50.

Buyer to collect, Gomersal. Tel 01274 877611. (2049) Three sliding wardrobe doors, 93” x 31” with track, full mirror doors, ready to fit. £50 ONO, buyer to collect. Tel 01924 503021. (2029) CHRISTMAS Approx 7ft spruce hinged Christmas tree, only used once.

Cost £90, will accept £30 ono. Tel 01924 478723. (2043) COLLECTIBLES Bradford Exchange collection of Marilyn Monroe plates by artist Chris Notarile, in mahogany frames, complete with certificates of authenticity.

In good condition £10 each. Tel 07719 954892. (2061) DIY Aluminium extension ladder, 3 mtrs/10ft, 24 rungs in total.

Ideal for DIY, £30 ono, buyer to collect.

Tel 01924 462494.

(2047) DISABILITY/MOBILITY Black wheelchair with brakes, in working order but needs attention £10. Five mobile phones, no chargers, offers invited. Tel 01924 609015.

(2035) ELECTRICAL 2 x 3 light pendant ceiling fittings in pink, £10 each, two matching wall lights £10 each. Tel 07521 540623. (2060) 2 x 3 light chandeliers in glass and brass £10 each. Tel 07521 540623. (2060) Nespresso Magimix coffee machine with separate hostess milk frother, almost new, £40.00. Tel 01924 495640. (2037)

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? ITEM bands

Cost per item

Up to £7: £8 - £25: £26 - £50 £51- £100 £101-£200 £201-£500 £501-£1450 £1,451 plus 84 traditional bulbs, 40w, 60w, 75w, all new and in boxes, £12.00. Tel 07708 199300. (2032) FURNITURE Dark wood dining table, extending to 6ft plus six chairs, £100 ono. Tel 01924 499643. (2063) Open dark wood book case with three shelves, £20 ono. Tel 01924 499643. (2063) Comfortable threeseater settee and chair, excellent quality from M&S. Westcott chenille hessian, neutral colour £150. Tel 01924 442711. (2055) Shackletons ‘Sherbourne’ twoseater sofa, armchair and large storage footstool in beige.

Two years old, excellent condition. £300, buyer to collect. Tel 07703 183220. (2046) Solid oak table, 2 x carver chairs, 6 x chairs, extendable, excellent condition, buyer to collect, £295.

Tel 07929 257475.

(2031) GAMES Table-top casino board in carrying case, for blackjack and poker, with 400 casino chips, cards, dealing shoe and dice. New, £25. Tel 01274 876814. (2065) GARDEN Ride-on grass cutter 40” cut, double cutters. Vanguard 14hp, £350 ono. Tel 01924 278949. (2053) Old stone sink, suit garden ornament, £35. Tel 079615 64984. (2050) HOME ENTERTAINMENT Panasonic TV, 50” plasma TX-P50510B, as new, has been stored a while, £100 with free wall bracket, (no offers). Tel 07599 322227. (2058) Bose Lifestyle DVD

£1 £2 £3 £4 £5 £7 £9 £11

home entertainment centre. Very good condition, £325 or nearest cash offer.

Tel Martin 01924 629517. (2056) HOUSEHOLD Large yukka plant, 3ft, minimum £35. Tel 07961 564984. (2050) Tom Gower painting, £40, Tel: 079615 64984 (2050) Two Baxi Brazilia balanced flue wall heaters, F5 oak, good condition with installation guide. £150 ONO, cash only.

Tel 01924 457399.

(2028) MOTORING Motor spares new spacesaver wheel with tyre, buyer to collect, £40.00. Tel 01924 409809. (2041) Engine oil 4 x 4 litre in plastic container, Castrol GTX 10-4 A3B3. £10.00 each, buyer to collect. Tel 01924 451024. (2030) SPORTING/FITNESS Gym workout bench, hardly used. Ideal Christmas box, was £100, now £55. Tel Mirfield 01924 498341. (2057) Ridgeback 401GS mountain bike, 18 gears, 18” frame size.

Good brakes, excellent condition £40.

Tel 01924 407400.

(2054) British Eagle Zancara 21” bicycle. Polished aluminium frame, 21 speed, good condition. Approx. 10 years old, £50. Tel 07910 405324. (2051) Falcon Futura Cycle, full suspension, 18 gears, suit teenager, £25. Tel 07910 405324. (2051) WANTED WANTED: Timber to recycle for garden project. Tel 07790 568986. (2052) WANTED: Gas cooker for cash. Will call and collect. Tel 01924 471481. (2042)

Classified ThePress

20

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Friday December 23, 2016

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Car Boot Sale The Area’s Biggest and Best Car Boot Sale every Sunday at Dewsbury Rams, Owl Lane, Dewsbury OPEN AS USUAL DURING GROUND DEVELOPMENT WORK Price £12 per car, opens at 6.00am, ring 01924 465489 for further details

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Park House, High Road, Dewsbury Health Services NHS advice (urgent but non emergency) Tel 111 Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS) Tel 01924 542972.

Walk in centre A&E, Dewsbury & District Hospital.

Tel 01924 542695

Libraries Kirklees Libraries Tel 01484 414868

Sport/Fitness Centres (KAL – Kirklees Active Leisure) Batley Sports & Tennis Centre Tel 01924 565059 Batley Baths & Recreation Centre Tel 01924 565388 Dewsbury Sports Centre Tel 01924 565254 Spenborough Pool & Fitness Complex Tel 01274 891767 Whitcliffe Mount Sports Centre Tel 01274 891019

MPs Batley & Spen – Tracy Brabin Temporary address: Batley Resource Centre, 90 Commercial Street Tel 01924 479082 Dewsbury & Mirfield – Paula Sherriff The Old Dewsbury Reporter Building Tel 01924 565450

Useful Numbers Citizen’s Advice Dewsbury Tel 01924 487860 Kirklees Council Switchboard Tel 01484 221000 Police (non emergency) Tel 101

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Any Odd Jobs Big or Small

Call Tony 07939 018428

01924 402578 Garages

Car body repairs

Imperial Motor Company 107 Bradford Road, Dewsbury Tel: 01924 461607 or 07860 754984

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Friday December 23, 2016 Plumbing & Heating

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21

ThePress

22

Friday December 23, 2016

ATHLETICS

RUGBY UNION

Cleck RUFC miss chance to ease relegation fears National League Three North

MORLEY RFC CLECKHEATON RUFC

21 7

at Scatcherd Lane CLECKHEATON RUFC slipped up against National League Three North strugglers Morley losing 21-7 last weekend.

Morley showed a strong desire to climb to safety and end the year on a high against an increasingly inconsistent Cleckheaton side.

The hosts almost scored in the second minute when Paddy FisherNaylor won an attacking lineout which was driven within inches of the tryline.

Morley kept up the pressure and the visitors did well to keep the scores level, firstly halting James Davies’s progress in the centre and then Declan Brereton on the right wing. The recycled ball also gave prop Dan Richardson a chance to cross the whitewash but he was pulled down a metre short.

Cleckheaton had the chance of some respite when they had the put in at a scrum on their five-metre line, but a confident Morley side pushed them back over their own line allowing Ben Bowen to touchdown for the hosts. Mark Chester added the conversion to give his side a 7-0 lead after eight minutes.

The Moorenders were struggling to deal with the Morley centre’s direct running and this allowed the hosts to carve out opportunities. Cleckheaton prevented another try, but Morley extended their lead courtesy of Chester’s boot, after the away side conceded a penalty for offside.

It was Henry Shiell who scored Morley’s second try on 23 minutes. A loose pass was collected by Davies who found Shiell charging through just inside the Cleckheaton half. He burst through the Cleckheaton defence and had enough power to force himself over despite a last-ditch tackle from Ronan Evans. Chester missed the conversion on the heavy ground but Morley had pulled ahead to lead 15-0 after 24 minutes.

Cleckheaton began to come more into the game and gradually move the

Cleckheaton and Morley square off and Ronan Evans, right, fails to prevent Henry Shiell from touching down for Morley Photos: Morley RFC match into the Morley 22, although the hosts’ defence dealt with their attacks comfortably.

Josh Greatrix was shown a yellow card for an infringement at a ruck on 37 minutes and Cleck’s Paul Turner was given a compulsory 10 minutes’ rest for a dangerous tackle a minute later as the half ended 15-0.

Cleckheaton started the second period the stronger of the two sides and had a Lee Queeley try to show for their efforts. Evans converted to reduce his side’s deficit to just eight points.

But the Moorend side never really looked like pulling off a comeback.

In fact they were forced to do some more defending as Dan Richardson and Xavier Valentine charged up the right to cause more problems for the away side. As a result Cleckheaton conceded another penalty and with it three points from Chester’s boot.

Chester added his third penalty 10 minutes later when Harrison Baylis caused all sorts of problems with a mazy run out of defence, but missed

Long distance runner Michael Luby wearing the medal he won for completing the Lanzarote Marathon

two minutes later when Shiell was tackled late.

The tackle brought Cleckheaton’s second yellow card.

Despite being down to 14 men the visitors battled to the end but could not find any way through a resolute Morley defence.

The defeat leaves Cleckheaton sitting 10th in Naional League Three North, and Scott Benton’s side will be hoping for better when they return to league action away at Ilkley on Jan 7 (2.15pm). But first the Moorenders have the traditional Boxing Day clash with Old Brodleians to attend to. This year the fixture takes place at Woodhead at 11am.

Dewsbury man raises money for kids’ charity DEWSBURY runner Michael Luby has completed the Lanzarote Marathon in aid of charity.

The 62-year-old has raised £350 for children’s charities the Rainbow Trust and Get Kids Going, after completing the 26.2mile race in a time of 4:52:00.

As a hobby, the dedicated amateur athlete runs five miles every weekend and during the Lanzarote Marathon Luby made friends with people from as far away as Canada and the USA. He

said: “It can be so enjoyable and very sociable.

“My tip for anyone thinking about taking up running would be to go at your own pace, that’s what I have always done.

“And running has given me the chance to raise money for charity which is really rewarding, but I couldn’t do it without my loyal sponsors and once again I’m really grateful for all their support.”

Luby will be hoping to raise more cash for charity when he runs the Dewsbury 10K in February next year.

RACING WITH TOP TIPSTER MIKE SMITH

FANS RELISHING BOXING DAY’S BATTLE BETWEEN CUE CARD AND THISTLECRACK HE bookmakers can’t split them and even those closest to Cue Card and young pretender Thistlecrack are on the fence , but their clash in Boxing Day’s King George at Kempton could turn into a classic.

For a novice, Thistlecrack’s jumping has been good and his inclusion in the race has undoubtedly eased Cue Card’s price, but for my money there’s no better time to stay with the more experienced horse who has the form in the book and who has run against and beaten top-class horses all his life.

Jumping at speed will be a new experi-

T

ence for Thistlecrack and any mistakes will be ruthlessly exposed in this grade, and Cue Card can teach his younger stablemate a lesson in this mouthwatering duel.

There’s also plenty good racing over the sea over the holidays and look for Otago Trail to push The Crafty Butcher all the way home in the Paddy Power Chase.

However the horse I’m most interested in is Anibale Fly who is entered on Boxing Day at Kempton in the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase (2.05) and also at Leopardstown on the same day.

Also in Kempton’s 2.05 is Amore Alato who sidestepped last week’s Silver Cup at

Ascot, and he may be more of a player than his form suggests.

Native River could turn up in next Tuesday’s Welsh National but if it turns into a slog then last year’s runner-up Firebird Flyer can make it a home win for Evan Williams. Also entered next Tuesday in Leopardstown’s Paddy Power Future Champions Novice Hurdle is Crack Mome.

I highlighted this French import as one to watch out for earlier this month, and this well-regarded son of Spanish Moon could be a Supreme horse so get on him now.

Wetherby’s jumps meeting will be packed to the rafters as usual on boxing

Day and there will be plenty of support for Brian Ellison’s Definitly Red who is worthy of a place in any Lucky 15 you might be placing.

Our friends at Carrigill’s have been taking a look at some of the supporting races on the Kempton King George card and have a particular liking for Gold Present in the 1.30.

Owned by Mirfield businessman John Cotton and his wife, this six-year-old gelding ran a good race at Doncaster late last month, beating a horse who looked poised to follow up when unshipping at Fakenham earlier this week.

AUGUR’S BEST BETS: Anibale Fly (entered on Boxing Day in Kempton’s 2.05 and Leopardstown’s 2.20).

CARRIGILL’S NAP: Gold Present Boxing Day Kempton 1.30. Punters receive their money back as a free bet if the horse fails to finish in the top 4.

AUGUR’S ONE TO WATCH OUT FOR: Tell A Story. This three-year-old filly has only raced twice for David Simcock but is one to watch in starts before February, when she will reportedly head for the sales.

ThePress

Friday December 23, 2016

23

HEAVY WOOLLEN SUNDAY LEAGUE FOOTBALL

NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL

Birstall CC move top at Christmas

Liversedge knocked off track by Railway

ELLIOTT WILLIAMS and Jonny Beverley both hit doubles as Birstall Cricket Club climbed to the summit of the Heavy Woollen Sunday League Premier Division with a 4-2 win over Mount Pleasant.

Birstall lead St John Fisher by two points, though Fisher have three games in hand.

In the only other Premier Division game played, AFC Chickenley rose to sixth place with a 43 win at Navigation.

Tim Clarke led the way with a brace for Chickenley, who also had Sean Housecroft and Shaun

McDaid on target.

Lee Bennett (two) and Lamin Bojang replied for Navigation.

In the Championship leaders Linthwaite remain top with a 100 per cent record after winning 9-0 against a depleted Overthorpe Sports Club.

Clifton Rangers are in second place after they won 5-3 at The Yorkshireman.

Scholes Athletic are seven points clear at the top of Division One after they won 6-5 at Old Bank WMC.

Dean Commins led the way with a hat-trick for Scholes, with Gareth Jones, Kieran Armitage and an own goal completing the tally.

Old Bank replied through Robert Evans, Sam Womersley, Matthew Evans, Tom Frizzell and William Evans.

Saville Arms lie in second spot after Kieran Corly hit a magnificent seven goals in a 10-1 win over bottom-side St Ignatius.

Patrick Davies bagged a hat-trick for Saville who also had Daniel Damen on

WEST RIDING COUNTY AMATEUR LEAGUE

Littletown enter Xmas period in winning form A SECOND-HALF fightback ensured Littletown bagged all three points from their clash with West Riding County Amateur League title contenders Huddersfield YMCA. Adam Jordan and George Porter netted for the Beck Lane side, which keeps them on course for a title push of their own this season.

Littletown return to action in the New Year (January 7) when they host Steeton in the County FA Challenge Cup.

Elsewhere Lower Hopton boosted their survival chances with a narrow 3-2 win at home to fellow strugglers Honley FC. A Matthew Bugg brace set Lower Hopton on their way, but following a scare from Honley in the second period it took a Harvey Lockwood strike to secure all three points for the hosts.

Lower Hopton’s next outing is in the New Year (Jan 7) against Sherburn White Rose in the County FA Challenge Cup.

ATHLETICS

Athletes enjoy festive fun run

target. Andy Hill hit St Ignatius’ consolation.

Roberttown Rovers enjoyed an 8-1 win over Deighton WMC who replied through Jamie Pearson.

In Division Two, Overthorpe Sports Club Reserves’ game with Dewsbury United was abandoned after a Dewsbury player collapsed on the pitch.

Westgate 23 hit the biggest score of the day with an 11-0 win over Linthwaite Reserves whilst Clifton Rangers A drew 4-4 with Snowdon, who scored through Irfan Alli, Shakeel Pandor, Noman Hussain and Usman Iqbal.

WEST YORKSHIRE FOOTBALL LEAGUE

Hartshead end the year in second with Clough win HARTSHEAD have climbed to second in the West Yorkshire Football League Division One thanks to a dominant 4-1 win over Howden Clough.

Joel Farrar, Jamie Wasley and substitutes Liam Fox and Andrew Wood all found the net for the hosts.

Nathan Hallas bagged a second-half consolation for Clough, who drop to sixth following the defeat.

DIVISION ONE Hall Green United Hartshead Kippax Leeds Modernians Wyke Wanderers Howden Clough Huddersfield Amateur Aberford Albion Boroughbridge Old Centralians East End Park Featherstone Colliery Whitkirk Wanderers Swillington Saints Otley Town

P 12 16 16 15 13 16 12 13 14 15 16 12 15 17 16

W 11 9 9 8 7 8 6 6 5 5 4 4 4 3 2

D 1 6 1 2 3 0 3 1 4 3 5 2 2 3 0

L 0 1 6 5 3 8 3 6 5 7 7 6 9 11 14

PTS 34 33 28 26 24 24 21 19 19 18 17 14 14 12 6

By Keith McGhie WOMEN, children, animals and those of a nervous disposition were advised to stay indoors at the weekend as numerous doubtful looking characters were seen running up and down the Spen Valley Greenway.

Police and emergency services were, it’s assumed, notified, although several of their staff were rumoured to actually be taking part in the huge turn-out of Santas, Elves, a ghoulish ghost, a penguin, a pirate and a deranged surfer.

Mass panic was allayed when it transpired that it was just the Spenborough and District Athletic Club’s annual Christmas handicap, run over a four-mile course up and down the popular ex-railway line turned cycle path.

Distance runner Ian Ogden, from Heckmondwike, was declared the winner after blatantly breaking the event’s time-honoured rules by taking

Spenborough AC runners, young and old, enjoy their annual festive fun run the ‘race’ seriously but, instead of being disqualified, he was incomprehensibly awarded a trophy – or would have been had the 2015 winner remembered to bring it back.

A club spokesman said: “Yes, we do have some pretty ugly-looking characters, some actually improved by the wearing of masks, but the event does demonstrate what an all-encompassing club we are.

“We cater for everyone from people just wanting to do a bit of exercise

and keep fit, to national championship and Olympic hopefuls.

“We have had Olympians in the past and have several youngsters with potentially big futures if they wish to nurture their talent.

“But for many club nights and even competitions are just seen as good social nights.”

Spenborough and District AC meet at the Princess Mary Stadium in Cleckheaton on Monday and Thursday nights, from 6.30pm.

NCEL Premier Division

HARROGATE RAILWAY 3 LIVERSEDGE FC 2 at Station View LIVERSEDGE FC suffered 90thminute heartbreak against Harrogate Railway Athletic, who snatched a winning goal with just seconds left on the clock in the Northern Counties East League Premier Division clash.

Jonathan Rimmington’s Sedge side started and ended the game terribly.

The Clayborners went behind inside 10 minutes to a Fraser Hanson strike, but on the stroke of half-time the away side were

level thanks to Rhys Davies’s first goal of the afternoon.

His second strike came midway through the second period and gave Liversedge a slender lead that they desperately tried to hold onto.

But in the last five minutes the hosts turned the game on its head.

First Harrogate found an equaliser through Samuel Denton before Callum Robinson clinched all three points for his side at the death.

The win boosts Harrogate’s survival chances in the Premier Division while Liversedge have slipped further adrift of the playoffs.

Next up for Liversedge is a home league clash with Athersley Recreation on Boxing Day (3pm).

Albion brushed aside by City OSSETT ALBION were beaten 2-0 in their Evo-Stik First Division North clash away at league leaders Lancaster City.

The Unicorns, desperate for a win to distance themselves from the relegation zone, struggled to create any clear-cut chances in the first period and it looked like both teams would go into half-time level, until Albion’s Jackson Hassanyeh put the ball past his own keeper.

In the second period Albion didn’t offer much either.

They defended well but failed to cause the Lancaster backline any serious problems.

And on the hour mark the visitors’ hopes of salvaging something from the game were ended when Louis Mayers found the back of the net to double City’s lead.

Albion are 19th just a point above safety ahead of their trip to bottom-club Burscough on Boxing Day (3pm) knowing a

win is vital if they are to avoid the drop this season.

• Meanwhile Ossett Town have reached the quarter-finals of the West Riding County Cup thanks to a slender 2-1 win away at Harrogate Railway Athletic on Tuesday night.

Jason Yates and Danny Frost netted to put the Reds two up at half-time.

Railway battled back in the second-half and halved their arrears with a goal from Chris Fisher in the 72nd minute.

But Railway couldn’t find an equaliser in the closing stages as Town book their place in the last eight where they will face Brighouse Town next month.

Meanwhile Grant Black’s Reds also continued their impressive form in the Evo-Stik First Division North with a 1-0 win at home to Mossley.

Alex Peterson was the man with the goal last Saturday (Dec 17).

SPEN VALLEY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

West Side rediscover top form DEWSBURY WEST SIDE remain in close pursuit of Spen Valley Football League Premier Division leaders Palestino thanks to a comfortable 4-1 away win at Savile United.

An Atif Patel brace followed by goals from Danish Ali and Saif Akbar sealed the win for the visitors. In reply United netted a consolation through Adam Munshi.

However leaders Palestino were also in fine form away at Savile Youth and returned home celebrating a dominant 4-1 victory.

Man of the match Abdul Khan struck twice for the away side with further goals coming from James Chadwick and Sana Ullah Nasrat. Youth scored courtesy of an own goal.

Meanwhile in the First Division unbeaten league leaders George Healey annihilated Dewsbury West Side Reserves 11-2.

Luke Newsome hit five past the league’s strugglers with Lewis Boddy bagging a further four.

Simon Moore and Matthew Parkinson also found the net to round of their side’s impressive

performance. In reply Usman Hussain and Arbaaz Khan struck for the Reserves.

The victory for Healey means their lead at the top of the table remains eight points.

Their closest rivals Inter Batley also won, albeit narrowly, against Savile Town.

Awaab Ahmed, Ebrahim Ekalwaya and Mohammed Navsarka got the goals in their 32 victory. Sajeel Qadir and Junaid Khan netted for Town.

And in last weekend’s only other game third-placed Norfolk beat bottom-club Howden Clough 6-3 at home.

A hat-trick from Huzaifa Lunat and a brace from Ismail Loonat sealed the win, with Saad Daji also adding to Norfolk’s total.

Clough netted through Joe Hampshire (two) and Phil Crossland.

DEWSBURY BRIDGE CLUB RESULTS: TUESDAY DECEMBER 13: 1 M Watson and G Bloom;

2 A Cooper and J Lodge; 3 C Walker and G Bragg.

Four-page Boxing Day derby special inside

p11-14

Rams learn ref’s lesson

By Joe Link

Glenn Morrison has made friends with the enemy, in the form of referee Dave Merrick

Sports Reporter joe@thepressnews.co.uk

DEWSBURY RAMS head coach Glenn Morrison has revealed that part-time RFL referee Dave Merrick has been assisting in some of the club’s off-season training sessions.

Morrison made the decision to get Merrick on board following a disappointing 2016 Championship campaign which saw the Rams on the wrong end of numerous costly refereeing decisions.

Merrick’s main duty is to offer advice to the squad on defence and rucks in a bid to reduce Dewsbury’s penalty count next season.

Morrison said: “Last season we had a lot of decisions go against us.

“It was so frustrating on the sideline as a coach watching your team gift points to the opposition.

“We would have finished with a much higher points tally had we been more disciplined, especially in and around the ruck.

“We can’t afford a repeat of that next year so Dave has been with us in some wrestle sessions to help us clean up our play and stay on the right side of the referees.”

Players encouraged by new boss Diskin BATLEY BULLDOGS’ secondrow or centre Shaun Squires insists new boss Matt Diskin will be able to get maximum effort out of his players in 2017.

Local boy Squires has just completed his second season with the Mount Pleasant club, having been signed by John Kear in 2015, but the 26-year-old believes his best days are in front of him under the guidance of Diskin.

“Pre-season has been so tough but I feel like things have gone really well for me on a personal level, I feel like Matt really knows how to get the best out of me,” he said.

“But the whole squad is working so hard. We started with a lot of ground work, which was tough, but for the past few weeks we’ve been working with the ball in hand.

“It’s been tricky adapting to Matt’s new way of playing but I think the group have done well so far. We’re all just really eager to get out there and show the fans exactly how much we’ve improved.”

Batley defied the odds to finish third in the Championship and reach the Super 8s Qualifiers last season under the highly-experienced Kear, but Squires, brotherin-law to teammate Pat Walker, believes Diskin has the potential to become a legendary coach in

his own right and doesn’t see why Batley can’t repeat that success in 2017.

“The amount of encouragement he (Matt Diskin) has given us since taking over has been incredible,” added Squires, who is also a close friend and neighbour to recent Bulldogs signing Dane Manning.

“He wants us to play without fear. He wants us to be confident and not worry about making a mistake. That approach relaxes you as a player and can bring the best out of you on the pitch.

“Our squad is really strong, the club has managed to hold on to most of the first team from last season and the players Matt has brought in have bags of potential. The lads on loan from Cas are really talented, Tom Holmes in particular looks good.”

Squires, who lives in Hanging Heaton, has been nursing a rib injury during the off-season and the centre is unsure whether Diskin will risk him in the Boxing Day derby against Dewsbury at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium (12noon).

But whether he gets the nod or not Squires will be hoping to celebrate a positive result come Boxing Day evening.

Continued on page 14

GYMNASTICS PRODIGY BAGS GB CALL-UP GOMERSAL gymnast Simon Toussaint has been selected for the Great Britain Elite Performance Squad.

Simon, 12, was handed the early Christmas present off the back of a successful year in which he showed steady progress to catch the attention of Team GB scouts.

The BBG Academy student will now face 12 training sessions throughout 2017 at Team GB’s gymnastics base at Lilleshall National Sports Centre in Shropshire, and Simon’s first chance to impress GB coaches is at the end of January.

Simon developed a love of gymnastics from an early age and quickly joined the TSV gym in Cleckheaton aged just six, before moving on to Diamond Gymnastics Club in Halifax 12 months later, where he is coached

by Andrew Butcher.

The talented gymnast trains

over 20 hours per week as well as keeping on top of his schoolwork.

Monday to Wednesday Simon trains from 4pm to 8.30pm and on Thursdays he is allowed out of school early to train from 1pm to 8.30pm.

Simon’s participation in gymnastics comes when the sport is on the rise in the UK after Team GB’s strong performance at this year’s Rio Olympics, and his enthusiasm for the sport grew when he met Olympian Nile Wilson who is based in Leeds.

His father Ash said: “His (Simon’s) dedication, hard work and focus is second to none.

“He’s doing well in maths and he obviously loves PE, so he’s doing well in that too.

“But he’s working so hard and is so focused that he’s not behind in any subject. I’m really proud of him.”

Twelve-year-old Simon Toussaint

Simon Toussaint is watched by coach Andrew Butcher and (inset) Toussaint is sitting alongside friends who have also made the GB Elite Performance Squad