Keep up to date – and join the debate
VERTICAL BLINDS
3 FOR
£89 SALE 046 1502
Tel: 0800
01274 305 410
www.facebook.com/ThePressNews
ONE PAPER ... ALL THE NEWS from Dewsbury, Batley, Ossett, Mirfield, Liversedge, Birstall, Heckmondwike, Cleckheaton & Spen Valley
Friday February 24, 2017
12 MONTHS GUARANTEE
No. 778
‘WE WANT JUSTICE FOR JONNY’ TRAGIC DEATH... Jonny Binns was knocked down and run over by a car outside The Scarborough pub in Thornhill
Landlord’s appeal after pub regular is knocked down and killed in car park: ‘If anyone knows anything about what happened, please come forward...’ By Danny Lockwood THE LANDLORD of the Thornhill pub where a man was tragically killed last Friday night has appealed for the people who saw what happened to come forward and speak out. Jonny Binns was hit by a car and killed in the car park of The Scarborough pub at 8.40pm, after a fight broke out on The Town, the road which runs through the heart of the village. Police have arrested nine men and youths aged between 16 and 20 and released them on bail. Paying tribute to pub regular Mr Binns, 32, who lived on Ings Crescent in Thornhill, landlord Richard Leather described him as “a polite, kind lad, always with a please and thank you, who would do anything for folk”. Mr Leather, who has run the pub with his wife Rowena for 19 years,
Messages, above, from Jonny’s mum and family and, left, floral tributes outside The Scarborough pub
said Jonny “was certainly not a fighter” and that it was more likely he had left the pub to see if he could help stop trouble rather than get involved. He said the large car park, which
also acts as a footpath onto the neighbouring Henley Avenue estate, was very busy at the time. As one vehicle went to leave the scene of the trouble it was said to have hit and then run over Mr
Binns, who has a young son. It is believed the 19-year-old driver, who was held over the weekend before being released on police bail, lives in Hanging Heaton. “We don’t know what was happening outside,” said Mr Leather. “You can see Jonny in the pub on CCTV and also see regulars looking out of the front (towards the Scarborough fish and chip shop across the road) to see what was going on.” He said local people were still in
a state of shock but added: “Number one, we want justice for Jonny and I can’t stress enough – if anyone knows something, anything, about what happened, even if they were doing something they shouldn’t have been, then please, please come forward.” A dedicated Leeds United fan, the victim had worked at Dewsburybased Dust Control Systems in Shaw Cross Business Park for more than 12 years. Managing director Philip Oldfield said: “We are all devastated and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.” More than 100 tributes were placed in the pub car park over the weekend and a crowdfunding page to raise money for Jonny’s son and the son of his former partner had raised more than £1,600 by Thursday afternoon. A pot on the bar of the pub had raised more than £500 and a framed Leeds United shirt dedicated to
Continued on Page 2
50p
2
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
NAYLOR KATHLEEN SUSAN On 9 February, aged 80, of Gomersal. Wife of the late Malcolm. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Thursday 2 March at 1.15pm.
PICKLES NORMAN
Deaths ARCHER WILLIAM On 20 February, aged 73, of Dewsbury. Husband of Margaret. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Tuesday 7 March at 11.15am.
BONNAR JOE On 10 Feb, aged 68, of Dewsbury. Husband of Carol. Service at Dewsbury
Crematorium, Friday 3 March at 12.30pm.
CROSSLAND NEE SWITHENBANK KAREN On 18 February, aged 59. Wife of David. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Thursday 2 March at 10.15am.
GREENWOOD JAMES (JIM) On 12 February, aged 82, of
Heckmondwike. Husband of the late Olive. Service at Heckmondwike Salvation Army, Thursday 2 March at 11am, followed by committal at Heckmondwike Cemetery at 12noon.
HAIGH Susan (nee Wood)
On 15th February 2017 unexpectedly, Susan aged 60 years of Heckmondwike. Beloved wife of Joseph, loving mum of Amanda and the late Billy, devoted nana to Shauna, Casey, Cadey and Daniel and great nana to Mya-Angel and JensonJoseph. Family and friends are invited to meet on Monday 6th March at Dewsbury Crematorium Chapel at 12.30 pm for a service to celebrate Susan’s life followed by internment at Heckmondwike Cemetery. All enquiries to Gateway Funeral Services Tel 01274 653115
HAIGH (NEE ELLIOT) TRACEY On 14 February, of Birstall. Wife to Sean. Service at Morley Cemetery, Monday 27 February at 11.30am.
HALL BRENDA JOYCE On 9 February, aged 68, of Cleckheaton. Wife of Christopher. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Thursday 2 March at 2pm.
HILL RONALD STUART On 16 February, aged 89. Husband of Gertie. Service at St Mary’s RC Church, Batley, on Thursday 2 March at 1.45pm, followed by burial at Batley Cemetery at 2.30pm.
HINDLE HILDA On 12 February in Rutland, aged 100, formerly of Ravensthorpe and Mirfield. Funeral enquiries to Co-op Funeralcare, tel: 01572 757415.
Place your family notices by calling 01924 470296
David Butterfield INDEPENDENT FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS AND MONUMENTAL MASONS
JACKSON ROSE ANN (NEE ROBERTSHAW) On 14 February, aged 75, formerly of Hartshead and Mirfield. Wife of the late Peter. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Wednesday 1 March at 10am.
LAYCOCK COLIN On 16 February, aged 88, of Mirfield. Husband of the late Pat. Funeral enquiries to Richard Fearnley Funeral Directors, tel 01924 494435.
LUTY EDITH (NEE WINTERBURN) On 15 February, aged 75, of Cleckheaton. Wife of the late Jeffrey. Service at Scholemoor Crematorium, Bradford, Friday 17 March at 10.50am.
MALLENDER CARL GRAHAM On 18 February, aged 57 years. Husband of Lynn. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Tuesday 7 March at 12.30pm.
MORTON MAUREEN On 9 February, aged 69, of Dewsbury. Wife of Geoff. Service at Huddersfield Crematorium, Monday 27 February at 11.15am.
On 12 February, aged 90, of Mirfield. Husband of Audrey. Service at Huddersfield Crematorium, Friday 3 March at 2pm.
ROTHERY CYRIL On 15 February, aged 97, formerly of Cleckheaton. Husband of the late Margaret. Service at East Riding Crematorium, Octon, on Wednesday 1 March at 1pm.
SCANLAN PETER On 11 February, aged 64, of Batley. Service at St Mary’s RC Church, Tuesday 7 March at 1pm, followed by committal at Batley Cemetery.
SENIOR NEE MULDOON MARY On 18 February, aged 96, of Chickenley. Wife of the late
Charles Edward. Requiem Mass at St Thomas More RC Church, Chickenley on Monday 6 March at 2pm. followed by interment at Dewsbury Cemetery.
SKILLETER HERBERT JAMES ‘JIM’ On 17 February, aged 92. Husband to Edna. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Friday 3 March at 2.15pm.
STRODDER PETER On 11 February, aged 81, of Mirfield. Husband of the late Joan. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Wednesday 1 March at 11.15am.
VALLOW RACHEL On 10 February, aged 91, of Cleckheaton. Wife of the late Peter. Service at St Luke’s Church, Cleckheaton, today, Friday 24 February, at 2pm.
WEBSTER DENNIS On 16 February, aged 87, formerly of Chickenley. Husband of Mary. Service at Dewsbury Crematorium, Friday 3 March at 1.15pm.
STERRICKER Barbara
On 13th February 2017 Peacefully at Dewsbury and District Hospital, Barbara aged 87 years of Mirfield. Beloved Wife of the late John, devoted Mum of Richard and David, dear Mother-in-law of Betty and Yvonne, cherished Grandma of Rachelle and the late Marlie, Great-Grandma of Rebecca and proud best friend of her companion Pippa. Funeral service and committal takes place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday 27th February at 10.30am. Family flowers only by request please, donations in lieu if so desired for Kirkwood Hospice for which a plate will be available. Enquiries to Joseph Sheard Funeral Directors, 8 Nettleton Road, Mirfield WF14 9AA. Tel 01924 492219
In Loving Memory
Proudly serving this area for 50 years. Simple, Modern, Traditional, Bespoke, Pre arrangement funeral specialists
RICHARD FEARNLEY INDEPENDENT FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS CARING FOR ALL DISTRICTS Modern, Traditional and simple Dignified Funerals at a Reasonable Cost Recommended by The Good Funeral Guide
www.goodfuneralguide.co.uk Members of the National Association of Funeral Directors & British Institute of Embalmers - Diploma Holder Please call for friendly no obligation advice, or to receive our helpful brochures on arranging a Funeral, Pre-Paid Funeral Plans or Monumental Headstones.
www.openprepaidfunerals.co.uk CARE / CHOICE / COMPASSION QUAKER SOCIAL ACTION FAIR PRICE FUNERAL PLEDGE
DEWSBURY - 01924 452605 MIRFIELD - 01924 494435 RHF - The Assurance of Care and Trust 745 Huddersfield Road, Dewsbury, WF13 3LQ
www.rfearnley-funerals.co.uk
Award Winning Yorkshire & East Lancashire Regional Funeral Planner Of The Year FULLY GUARANTEED FUNERAL PLANS
NOW PROUDLY OFFERING A GOLDEN CHARTER ROYAL BRITISH LEGION FUNERAL PLAN
Tributes to Jonny at United game Continued from Page 1 Jonny is being put up this weekend. Jonny’s father, David Binns, said: “As a family we are still coming to terms with what has happened to Jonathan. He was a much-loved son and dedicated father to his own child. “He was also a devoted Leeds United fan. We would like to thank the local community for all their continued support. We would respectfully ask for privacy at this difficult time.” T o m o r r o w (Saturday) a group of Jonny’s friends from The Scarborough intend to start a minute’s applause in his honour at the Leeds UnitedS h e f f i e l d Wednesday match at Elland Road in the 32nd minute – chosen because of his age.
ThePress Friday February 24, 2017 Issue No: 778
Quality Cremation Funeral Service at a fixed price of £1699 53 Bradford Road, Cleckheaton and Arnold House, Southfield Terrace, Birkenshaw Contact: Richard Arnold or Janice Hutton 24 hours
01274 891335 or 653115 www.gatewayfuneralservices.co.uk
24 hour service. Telephone: Cleckheaton 01274 852 885 Roberttown Residence
With fondest love, and happy and treasured memories we remember a wonderful, loving husband, dad, granddad and great granddad who would have been 89 on 29 Feb 2017. Forever in our thoughts and conversations
Loving wife Joyce Jeff, Adele, Ann, Matthew and families
Butterfield House, Bradford Road, Rawfolds, Cleckheaton, BD19 5LT
XX
www.davidbutterfieldfuneraldirectors.co.uk
Place your family notices by calling 01924 470296
Telephone 01924 472178
BOLLANDS (BIRSTALL) Funeral Directors
Prepaid Funerals Funeral Flower Service Contact Robert Edmond 24 hours Available
18 KIRKGATE, BIRSTALL, BATLEY, WF17 9PB www.bollandsfuneraldirectors.co.uk
A Family Business providing a complete and caring service for over 60 years Golden Charter Pre-Payment Plans 24 Hour Service
George Brooke Ltd
Head Office - 14 Sharp Street, Dewsbury Chapel Of Rest - 9 Battye Street, Dewsbury Room Of Repose - 14a St Paul’s Road, Mirfield
www.georgebrooke.co.uk
01924 454476 / 497352
31 Branch Road Batley West Yorkshire WF17 5SB Tel: 01924 470296 Fax: 01924 472561
www.thepressnews.co.uk @ThePressLatest /ThePressNews Publisher: Danny Lockwood Editor: David Bentley Reporter: James Morris 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. In the first instance, contact the editor, otherwise we will be happy to give details of the Independent Press Standards Organisation.
Got a story? Call The Press newsroom on 01924 470296 or email news@the pressnews.co.uk
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
Jo street parties tribute will be fit for a Queen By Steve Martyn THE HUSBAND of Jo Cox has announced a nationwide programme of street parties to commemorate the anniversary of her death – and hopes it will rival the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in scale. Brendan Cox said the event, called The Great Get Together on the weekend of June 17/18, would be a “fitting tribute” to the mother-of-two who was shot and stabbed by Thomas Mair on June 16 last year. Her murder was “designed to divide our country”, so uniting in this way would be “a powerful statement,” he added. The Royal Family and a wide range of national charities have committed to helping publicise the event. Mr Cox told BBC Radio Two’s Jeremy Vine that his wife loved a party and would have been thrilled by the idea of people coming together on her behalf. “We wanted something that celebrated Jo’s energy but also brought the community together,” he said. “That could be picnics on your village green, street parties, shared barbecues, community bake-offs. The basic idea is to get together and have fun.” But he said the event also sent a strong message. “The killing of Jo was a politi-
Chef Jamie Oliver and the Duchess of Cornwall launch The Great Get Together cal thing designed to divide our country and split communities apart. As a reaction to that event, (we will) bring the country together en masse.” Mrs Cox used her maiden speech in Parliament in 2015 to say people in the UK “have far more in common with each other
than things that divide us”. More than eight million people were estimated to have taken part in neighbourhood street parties for the Queen’s landmark jubilee in 2012 and last year 7.3 million people held lunches in streets, gardens and community spaces as part of a project known as The
Big Lunch, which began in 2009. This year, The Big Lunch will join forces with the Jo Cox Foundation to co-ordinate the events. Charities planning their own events include the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, NSPCC, Women’s Institute, Glastonbury Festival, Help For Heroes and the RNLI. The Premier League, Scouts and Guides and other organisations have also pledged support. “Whether it’s the Olympics, Jubilee or Royal Wedding, people love that opportunity to come together,” Mr Cox added. “But being British we need an excuse to get together.” The Duchess of Cornwall and chef Jamie Oliver were joining Mr Cox for the launch of the The Great Get Together at Clarence House. Batley and Spen MP Tracy Brabin said: “The Great Get Together is a wonderful initiative and I can’t think of a better way to remember Jo one year on from when she was taken from us. “Getting everyone in the community together to talk and get to know one another is what she would have loved. “I know it’s going to be a difficult time for Jo’s family and our community and I hope Batley and Spen grinds to a halt with everyone in the community out on the streets, celebrating who we are.”
3
News In Brief Two more charged over man’s shooting DEWSBURY: Two more men have been charged over a February 1 shooting on a secluded part of Cemetery Road, between St Paulinus School field and the private Muslim burial ground. On Wednesday, Ibrahim Malik, 19, of Headfield Road, Savile Town, was charged at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court with conspiracy to murder. On Thursday, a 17-year-old youth who cannot be named was charged with attempted murder, robbery and attempted robbery. In the attack, a 24-year-old man was approached by four males from a parked VW Golf. He was shot in the chest and as he drove away another shot was fired at his car, but he managed to reach a house in Westtown. The court was told the gang then attempted to hijack a Honda, but after that failed successfully hijacked a Peugeot, stealing a mobile phone, wallet and cash worth over £8,000. The car was later found burnt out. Hasnain Owen and Owais Asfaq have already faced the same conspiracy to murder charge. The four have all been remanded to appear at Leeds Crown Court on March 22.
Car park death fall LIVERSEDGE: Police have revealed more details about a man who fell to his death from the roof of a multi-storey car park in Huddersfield town centre on Saturday. Emergency services were called to Huddersfield Bus Station at 11.15am. Police and forensic officers cordoned off the scene inside and put up a white forensic tent. Police have said the man was from Liversedge and that his family are “devastated”. Det Stef Wiseman of Kirklees CID said: “The incident took place at 11.10am and there were no suspicious circumstances. The deceased was a 53-year-old man from Liversedge. His family have been informed and it is now a matter for the coroner.”
BATLEY CURTAINS & BLINDS FAMILY RUN BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 1974
SALE FINISHES 28TH FEBRUARY 20% Off Made To Measure Curtains
The scene of the serious sexual assault
Woman raped in footpath attack A 22-YEAR-OLD woman was attacked and raped on an area of grass near a main road in Thornhill in the early hours of last Sunday morning. The serious sexual assault is believed to have taken place near the footpath which runs from Overthorpe Road, above its junction with Longcauseway, up towards the Mountain housing estate, at the top of the steep escarpment. The path can also be used as a short cut down to Thornhill Lees, although it is completely unlit. A police spokesman said the victim was being interviewed by specially-trained officers after the attack took place at about 1am. She also suffered a range of minor injuries in the attack, including cuts, bruises and scratches. The officer added: “We would ask anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the incident to contact us on the non-emergency number 101. The crime reference number is: 1317007844.” Police do not have a description of the woman’s alleged attacker.
Do you need Independent Financial Advice? For a free initial consultation please contact
01924 499182 704 Huddersfield Road, Ravensthorpe, Dewsbury, WF13 3HU thornhillinsurance.co.uk The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate tax advice, trust advice and estate. Clayton Holmes Naisbitt Financial Consultancy LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Quality & Friendly Service with Great Prices to Match • Ready made Curtains • Bespoke Curtains • All types of blinds made in our own workrooms • Sheers & Voiles
25 Commercial Street, Batley WF17 5HJ • 01924 471578 Please visit www.batleycurtains.co.uk Follow us on open 6 days a week 9.30am till 5pm facebook
4
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
News In Brief Branch closure date MIRFIELD: The Yorkshire Building Society branch on Huddersfield Road will close on Friday, May 19. Mirfield has lost branches of HSBC, Barclays, Halifax and NatWest since 2011. The nearest YBS branch is in Dewsbury.
Junkie stole candles Rubbish piles up outside the Salvation Army HQ in Batley
IRE WIN SH
S OW D
OPEN 24 HOURS 7 DAYS
YOR K
BATLEY: A drug addict who stole £52-worth of candles from Tesco in Batley escaped with a 12-months conditional discharge. Kirklees Magistrates were told that Naseer Laher, 35, of Bradford Road, Batley, had a record of offending to pay for his drug addiction. He must pay £105 costs.
Yorkshire Windows
Dewsbury’s Favourite Window Company
Army goes to war on tippers By David Bentley
Misted Up Units Replaced • Conservatory Roofs Repaired
NEW TILED CONSERVATORY ROOF SYSTEMS 5 Windows Fitted from £1100 Conservatories from £3980 Fascias/Soffits from £900 uPVC & Composite Doors from £495 A-Rated Windows • A-Rated Glass • Registered Installer of Planitherm
01924 950 733
VISIT OUR ONLINE SHOWROOM
w w w. y o r k s h i r e w i n d o w. c o . u k
32021
FLY-TIPPERS are hampering charity workers in Batley by leaving mounds of waste outside their premises. For years the Salvation Army HQ on Bradford Road has become a magnet for rubbish, some of which appears to be commercial waste. Now frustrated staff and volunteers are considering installing CCTV cameras and starting a ‘name and shame’ campaign for the worst offenders. The charity has a donations bin outside the entrance to its ‘Care and Share’ shop, but the area around the bin is regularly strewn with rubbish that the Salvation Army can’t sell –
and in some cases has to pay to remove. On Monday morning one of the building’s fire escapes was blocked by furniture and other bulky goods dumped overnight. Fridge-freezers, washing machines and cookers sit in a compound at the rear of the building waiting to be disposed of after being fly-tipped. Building waste, carpets, furniture and grass cuttings have all been cleared away in recent months. Shop manager Tanya Fahy said: “It’s a constant problem. People see us as just a quick route to the tip. “We have to cancel other jobs that our drivers are scheduled for to fit in a trip to the tip.”
Kirklees Council charges £70 to dispose of each fridge that is left. But the group does not want to discourage people from leaving legitimate donations outside the building. “We rely on donations to stock our shop,” added Tanya. “If we got rid of the bin outside, fly-tipping would still be a problem.” A Kirklees Council spokesperson said: “The council advises all landowners to secure their site and highlight security measures such as CCTV. “If fly tipping still occurs, any evidence should be passed to the council’s enforcement team, which can investigate further and take appropriate action against the offender.”
Girl,12, foils abduction attempt POLICE are hunting a man who allegedly tried to abduct a young girl in Westborough on Tuesday afternoon. The 12-year-old girl was on Russell Street – between Staincliffe Road and Brunswick Street – at 2.09pm when she was approached and grabbed by a man who had been driving a black panel van. The girl screamed and kicked him, causing the man to let her
go and flee in the vehicle. Witnesses saw the van being driven away from the area. The attacker was described as Asian, with a skinny build, in his 30s, and wearing all-black clothing, including a hoodie and jeans. Police attended and are appealing for witnesses. Det Insp Mark Walker, of Kirklees District CID, said: “While we understand that this
incident may cause some concern in the wider community, we would stress that this appears to be an isolated incident and the motives behind this man’s actions are unclear. “Anyone who has witnessed this incident, saw this man in the area and saw anything suspicious which could help our enquiries, please call Kirklees CID via 101, quoting log number 878 of 21/2.”
Start your dream right here Advertising Feature HAVE you ever wanted to run your own dance school as a business? If you have the qualifications, skills and confidence then St Mary’s Social Club in Batley may be able to help realise your dreams. The club on Melton Street has a fullyappointed and newlyrefurbished and redecorated dance studio available, on a very reasonable hourly rental basis. The newly-refurbished dance studio at St Mary’s The studio includes a The club has private offhired for other purposes such large dance floor, mirrored walls, waiting area, private street parking in the club as martial arts, zumba and keep fit classes. changing area, separate male surrounding. There are four large priFor more information conand female toilets, storage tact the bookings secretary area, tea and soft drinks bar mary schools in the vicinity on 01924 475414 or 07864 and separate access for cus- for potential clients. The studio can be also 656100. tomers.
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
Planners bend to palm tree power By David Bentley A RESTAURANT’S controversial ‘palm trees’ appear to have been saved from the chop. The trio of illuminated plastic trees in the car park of the Shama Restaurant at White Lee became the subject of a row after Kirklees officials told owner Billy Mohammad he needed to obtain planning permission for them.
Mr Mohammad installed the highly-visible trees and lights just over a year ago to brighten up the area and to combat fly-tippers who had dumped large volumes of waste in the car park. He was informed by planning officers that he needed to apply for retrospective permission – only to have it turned down. A formal appeal to the Planning Inspectorate was also dismissed in November.
But customers and locals rallied around the Shama and a petition set up by one client attracted more than 1,500 signatures asking for the council to let the trees stay. This week Mr Mohammad received a letter from Kirklees saying that they won’t be taking enforcement action – for now. “It’s a long, hefty letter, but it appears to say that they don’t see taking down
Search for star youngsters A YOUNGSTER who won a prestigious national carers’ award has appealed for people to come forward for the 2017 event. Nine-year-old Armaan Aslam of Dewsbury was chosen from hundreds of nominees as the winner of the Most Caring Child category in the national WellChild charity awards. The event celebrates the inspirational qualities of the UK’s seriously ill children and young people and the dedication of those who go that extra mile to make a real difference to their lives. Armaan picked up his prize at a star-studded ceremony at the Dorchester Hotel in London, where he had the chance to
chat with celebrity guests and Royal patron Prince Harry, pictured. Armaan was recognised for his tireless care of his older brothers Hassan and Arslan, who both had the degenerative condition Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy. Arslan died in 2015 at the age of 16 and 24-year-old Hassan is currently in the latter stages of the disease.
5
News In Brief Low pay exposed Restaurant boss Billy, left, and customer Richard with the palm trees the trees as a priority,” said Mr Mohammad. “There would be a lot of costs involved with removing them and I’m grateful that they’ve made a sensible decision.” Kirklees’ planning committee rejected the initial application from Mr Mohammad as they deemed the trees to be “harmful to the character and appearance of the surrounding area and and street scene.”
Armaan has learnt how to use the medical machinery needed to support Hassan and will sit with him for hours on end to entertain him and help with his daily needs, such as feeding. He also helps his mother look after the house and his younger sister, Nadia, and tends Arslan’s grave every week. The youngster has even found time to fundraise for local charities which have supported his brothers. Said his social worker Rebecca Crossland, who nominated him for the award: “It would be terrific for another child or professional from our region to be a winner.” There are different categories for professionals and young people aged between four and 18 and nomination forms can be obtained from www.wellchild. org.uk.
Customer Richard Spreadbury set up the petition, and Mr Mohammad added: “Hats off to Richard for all his hard work.” A Kirklees Council spokesman said: “We have advised the restaurant that there are no immediate plans to take enforcement action to remove the trees. “However, we reserve the right to take such action if members of the public make further complaint against them.”
Council boss stands down KIRKLEES Council’s chief executive Adrian Lythgo left his post last Friday (February 17). Mr Lythgo was with the council for seven years, six of them as chief executive. He announced he would be stepping down at the end of 2016, a time when Kirklees Council’s social services department was the subject of major scrutiny and criti-
cism which resulted in the authority bringing in outside troubleshooters. The new chief executive is Jacqui Gedman, who has been director of economy, environment and skills since 2011, having joined the council as a senior engineer in 2001. She took on the additional role of assistant deputy chief executive officer in March, 2016.
KIRKLEES: A Government scheme to name and shame employers who don’t pay staff the national minimum wage has shone its spotlight on two local businesses. Paradise Primary School in Savile Town, which began life in the former White Hart Inn – now the town’s Sharia Court – has admitted it underpaid some staff. A spokesman said the school had underpaid junior staff who were classed as apprentices when they had completed their apprenticeship and apologised for the oversight, saying employees had been reimbursed. At the Dixxi Express takeaway in James Street, Batley, the manager said he could not comment because the owners were abroad and could not be contacted. They were among 350 businesses and companies named by the Government and included Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust.
Fire charge rises KIRKLEES: Councillors have agreed a small increase in the charge for fire and rescue services in West Yorkshire. The precept will rise by 1.99 per cent – about 2p extra per week for the average council tax payer. It will enable West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority (WYFRA) to balance the books in spite of a further loss of £3.29m of its central government grant in 2017/18 and an overall cut of £7.9m by 2019/20. The new budget will enable the authority to start the recruitment of full-time firefighters in 2017/18 for the first time in nine years.
Work aversion KIRKLEES: Local employees have been branded amongst the most workshy – or prone to illness – in the country. The proportion of staff absenteeism between 2012-2014 was 2.3% according to Public Health England. The national figure was only 1.51% while in neighbouring Calderdale it was 1.25%, 2.1% in Bradford and 1.4% in Leeds.
Custom Made & Curtain Fabric Ready Made Curtains Curtain Express Haberdashery & Accessories Wallpaper Blinds Unusual Giftware
FINAL FEW DAYS OF SALE
Don’t Miss Out! MARCH MADNESS
20% Off
WOODEN VENETIAN BLINDS
ThePress
6
Friday February 24, 2017
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
Fiddler Ron’s twanged his string DON’T suppose there’s much chance of our government being able to reclaim any of the £1m compensation it paid ‘innocent’ Guantanamo Bay detainee Ronald Fiddler in 2010. That’s the same laughing boy Ronnie – more lately known as Abu Zakariya alBritani – last seen grinning for Facebook as he drove his car bomb straight down the road to paradise (or hell), via Mosul. Good luck scraping enough of your disintegrated bits from the Iraqi desert to make something of your impending fantasy encounter with 72 virgins, Ron. (Maybe they can come back with you to try piece together enough of your todger to make the sacrifice worthwhile, eh?) No, I don’t think so either. We’re now being bombarded with the usual outpouring
I
Last words of laughing Ron: ‘Here I come girls. Well, bits of me...’ of “he’s a good guy really” rubbish from the Muslim convert’s family, with blame being thrown at everyone except the terrorist and his twisted faith. Amidst that – again, as usual – there’s a complete
absence of a realistic explanation from his family as to why he was cosying up to the Taliban in the first place, when the Americans threw him in Guantanamo. Instead we now have plenty of custard pie-flinging
K I TC H E N S - B E D R O O M S - B AT H R O O M S
Wormald Interiors does it all. Why call 10 trades when you can call one?
between everyone involved in this circus, from who got Fiddler released by the Americans in 2004, to laying blame for authorising his lottery win over (unproven) allegations that MI6 officers knew he was being interrogated by the CIA. I’m not going to get into Fiddler’s lack of gratitude to the UK for getting him out of Gitmo in the first place. I’m not even interested in the intelligence failings over him heading to Syria (and presumably taking a chunk of ‘our’ million quid with him to donate to the ISIS cause). What I want to know is this – why £1 million? I want to say ‘why anything?’ but let’s accept there’s some measure of state culpability involved here. But why £1m? Why an absolute fortune? Whatever discomforts Ronald Fiddler endured he came home physically intact – and pocketed double the compensation a British sol-
dier would receive for the catastrophic loss of both arms and legs. So, who offered or authorised £1 million compensation for what another country did to the bloke and which we couldn’t have done a darn thing about, except get him out. Which we did, incredibly! And not just to him, but a veritable busload of ‘innocent’ Guantanamo internees. Money’s no object it seems when it suits our suits to keep people quiet. The cynic in me wants to think the compo was a number dreamt up by a government lawyer who knew his lawyer pal (representing Fiddler) was on a percentage fee. Don’t ever doubt that these charlatans all pee in the same pot. But other questions remain. His wife travelled to Syria to supposedly try to persuade him to come back. Really? She hauled all five kids across a continent to
just ask hubby to ‘come home honey’? Pull the other one love, it blares out the Islamic call to prayer. More likely, she went to join him and found that living in a bombed-out desert dump wasn’t quite on a par with suburban Cheshire luxury, thanks to that £1m payout from we taxpaying stooges. Apparently Missus alBritani complained to some media sources that the compensation “wasn’t a million pounds” at all. I sincerely hope she isn’t complaining, given how things turned out. Indeed, instead of politicians and lawyers arguing over who did what and when, I’d like them to tell us when they are going to repossess the terrorist’s home and reclaim any money left from his ill gotten gains. As for the ‘nice guy’ apologists who refuse to condemn the suicide bomber? It’s just a shame they weren’t in the back seat grinning alongside him.
Putting the wind up aunt Doris RACE yourselves, folks, Doris is on the way. She’s going to be furious, wet and windy and you’ll know when she hits town! By the time you read this ‘Doris’ will have come and gone according to the Met Office weather forecasters, rather like a bored in-law with nothing better to do. Rumours that Drizzle Dan, Hailstorm Harry, Cloudy Colin and Sleetshower Sue (and trying saying that while chewing a toffee!) are queuing up on the Atlantic horizon remain unsubstantiated.
B
But Storm Doris? Really? With a name like that ‘Doris’ should be a cranky maiden aunt with a leaky disposition and clacking dentures that don’t quite fit. With either the storm or the relative, you might be tempted to board up the windows and bar the doors, but really it would all be a bit over the top. I mean, we’re English! Stiff upper lip and all that! Just brew a pot of tea and put out a plate of biccies. Doris will soon be gone. I’m sorry, but this name thingy just isn’t us at all –
can’t we leave this hyped-up TV-style rubbish to the Americans? At least when they get a Hurricane Hank or a Typhoon Tyrone, the poor Yanks know they’ve got a proper hoolie of a weather front ripping through. They get towns blown away and houses flattened. We don’t even get a Sky dish blown off a council house. What’s wrong with a genteel hint from the Beeb that it might be advisable to wear your big coat and keep a pair of wellies handy?
News, fake news and Blair F Do you qualify for no VAT? Contact us to find out
01924 441494
FIND US ONLINE
www.wormaldinteriors.com email: wormaldinteriors@btconnect.com Visit Us At:
152 Leeds Road, Heckmondwike, WF16 9BJ
AKE news is all the rage right now, with Wiggy Trump denouncing the world media (or anyone who criticises him) as making it up as they go along. You should know all about that Donny – just ask Sweden! Given how many ‘serious’ people I see getting into a froth about completely fabricated rubbish which they then propagate by sharing on social media, I have to wonder where it will all end. But it begs a serious question – what is the difference between the BBC news and fake news? Or is there one? Try these for size: 1) Former PM Tony Blair says
he will lead the UK’s Remain voters in their efforts to overturn the 2016 referendum which he claims was distorted by Leave campaign lies. 2) War criminal Tony Blair is willing to begin a civil war in order to reclaim a place at the centre of a new British political movement to replace the Labour Party. 3) Tony Blair and his wife Cherie have added to their huge property portfolio by purchasing the stunning Brassneck Atoll, an exclusive island just a short sail from Richard Branson’s Neckar Island in the Caribbean. The BBC would tell you that ‘1’ is ‘news’ because it happened and Blair said it in
those terms. They have a point, but it doesn’t make it true. And naturally it went largely unchallenged by the Beeb and liberal media. I, however, would say that it is less news than propaganda because it suits the BBC’s hidden agenda. In my view (and those of us who think Blair should swing from the same Iraqi gibbet as Saddam Hussein) ‘2’ might be comment as opposed to news, but is closer to the truth. And finally (3) and the dream Caribbean island for Tony and his hag may or may not be fake news, truth or lie. Sure, I made it up, but it might mean we just haven’t found out about it yet!
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
STORE’S CASH INJECTION FOR AMATEUR RUGBY LEAGUE CLUB LOCAL amateur rugby league club Dewsbury Celtic is the first sports organisation to benefit from a new community venture launched by Asda Dewsbury. The store in Mill Street West is pledging to support more projects and good causes than ever before and has decided to provide new kits to local teams. Celtic, based on High Street, Westtown and who play their games at Crow Nest Park, received £920 from the Asda Foundation. For more information about what Foundation could do for your organisation, contact Asda community champion Sharon Kingswood on 01924 431500.
CLECKHEATON: An assault case against Amanda Beech of Turnsteads Mount was dropped at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court.
Assault case thrown out Ms Beech, 44, was alleged to have hit Toni
7
Lawler in the face and pushed her at an address in Cleckheaton on May 9 but the prosecution offered no evidence.
Parking ‘fix’ for now to ease rail station chaos By Steve Martyn A TEMPORARY ‘fix’ to parking chaos in Station Road, Mirfield, was approved by Kirklees Council’s Cabinet on Wednesday – with a proverbial light at the end of the railway tunnel. Rail commuters whose cars line both sides of Station Road have long been a traffic hazard and source of frustration for motorists faced with running a narrow gauntlet hundreds of yards long. A plan by officers to implement four double-yellow ‘passing bays’, which
will allow traffic to negotiate the road, was given the green light. Although not a permanent solution, the move was welcomed by Mirfield councillor Martyn Bolt. “It’s two-and-a-half years since I called a meeting and we drew up a masterplan to deal with this,” he said. With support from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, hopes were high for 115 new car parking spaces. Unfortunately, said Coun Bolt, one of the key partners, Network Rail, have been dragging their feet. One car parking site is proposed for
land occupied by Jewson’s, but it took Network Rail 18 months to start a conversation with them. “It’s just not been a priority for them,” said Coun Bolt. Cabinet also accepted an amendment from Coun Bolt and committed to pursuing a permanent answer to the problem. He added: “What we’ve got is a road safety solution to the problem but not a panacea to the parking issue. “It’s annoying that Mirfield has this facility and benefit to the area (a mainline connection to London) and is held back in this way.”
www.abblindsandcurtains.co.uk
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM MON-FRI 9AM-5PM, S AT 1 0 A M - 4 P M
8
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
We’ll buy your house Houses in any condition Fast completion & cash waiting No legal or agent fees Repossession stopped!!!
Mirfield 0800 7813862 webuyanyhouse@me.com
Let’s take our estate back from riders Dear Sir, I write as a concerned resident of Batley’s Wilton Estate. The anti-social and illegal riding of motorbikes and quad bikes has become a major issue. What should be quiet and peaceful evenings are blighted with the noise and nuisance of these vehicle being ridden dangerously. No lights often, no helmet and almost certainly no insurance. There are safety issues to the riders themselves, other residents, and a risk of accidents affecting the law-abiding vehicle
Decline in night life is a joke From: P Andrews, Dewsbury Dear Sir, A lot of the laughs and humour that keeps us happy are going out of British life. It may sound strange, but successive governments may be a reason for this decline. They have allowed commercial and business rates and taxes to go into orbit, the effect being the closure of pubs and clubs. Moreover, allowing foreign companies – from Germany, France, and Russia – to control our energy supplies doesn’t help. They are clearly intent on getting money from the British public. We went out to Wakefield, that used to be heaving at night. The simple formula seemed to be nice and cosy – plenty in;
Letter of the Week: Name and address supplied owners on the estate. These occur with an atmosphere of intimidation and threat that prevents people from reporting incidents to the police, for fear of being targeted afterwards. We residents have a decision to make. Do we simply say nothing, do
nothing and let a tiny minority ruin the estate with their illegal and dangerous behaviour; or work together with the relevant agencies to eradicate this menace and let ordinary people get back living their lives quietly and peacefully? To the parents and relatives of those riders – are you happy that
no heating – no-one in! Before political correctness reared its ugly head, we had comedians like Ken Dodd, Charlie Williams, and a Scouser who used to say ‘The Germans bombed our chippy’. Now, we get an outcry from some newspapers because David Davies MP wanted to kiss Diane Abbott – a joke in itself.
Remembering Mary Taylor From: John Appleyard, Liversedge Dear Sir, Thanks to Mike Popplewell for reminding us of the centenary of Mable Ferrett’s birth on April 30 of this year. I certainly would recommend Mable’s book ‘The Brontes in the Spen Valley’, last time I was in Cleckheaton Library they were selling the book at the reduced price of £3.
Mary Taylor Get it while you can! May I also bring to the attention of your readers that Sunday February 26 is the 200th anniversary of Mary Taylor’s birth – a feminist, businesswoman and friend of the Bronte family. Mary is buried in the graveyard at St Mary’s church in Gomersal and the Kirklees and Calderdale Bronte Group will be laying flowers at her grave
LATEST PLANNING APPLICATIONS Messrs Vesely, Bottomley & Hellewell, outline application for detached dwelling (options A and B), adjacent to 290 Oxford Road, Gomersal. Shabir Pandor, single-storey side and rear extensions, Copse House, 10 Blenheim Drive, Westborough. Mrs H Rajah, outline application for erection of three dwellings, land adjacent to 55 Norfolk Street, Batley. P Hargreaves, work to TPO(s) 30/97, 196 Halifax Road, Hightown. Oakapple Homes, discharge of conditions 3 (materials), 10 (delivery times) and 13 (access for construction traffic) on previous application 2015/91326 for erection of single-storey retail unit with ATM with associated parking and delivery facilities, 527 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw. Mr & Mrs Barker, single-storey rear extension, 50 Tetley Drive, Birkenshaw. Mr & Mrs Scaife, non-material amendment on previous application 2008/92964 for erection of extensions, 34 Blake Hall Drive, Mirfield. K Haji, the proposal is for a single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 4m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 4m.
The height of the eaves of the extension is 3m, 111 South Street, Savile Town. Align Property, compliance of conditions on previous permission 2011/90359 for extension to time limit to previous app 2007/94743 for demolition of existing buildings and erection of 62 dwellings with garages and associated infrastructure, Syke Ing Cottages, Syke Ing Mills, Off Ossett Lane, Providence Street, Earlsheaton. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, work to TPO(s) 19/92, Oakroyd Hall, Bradford Road, Birkenshaw. William Property Management, work to TPO(s) 06/92, Moorlands Court, Moorlands Avenue West, Dewsbury. Tesco Stores Ltd, installation of vehical repair unit and four nonilluminated and one illuminated signs, Tesco, Batley Shopping Centre, Alfreds Way, Batley. M Mubashir, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 6m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 4m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 3m, 20 Commercial Street, Ravensthorpe. Andrew Craven, alterations and extension to detached garage to
create dwelling forming annex accommodation associated with 65 Groves Hall Road, Dewsbury Moor. E Adams, the proposal is for a single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 4m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 3.6m. The height of the eaves of the extension is 2.6m, 11 Jenny Lane, Mirfield. M Sadiq, the proposal is for single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 6m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 4m. The height of the eaves of the extension is 3m, 119 Headfield Road, Savile Town. S Hussain, the proposal is for single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 6m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 4m. The height of the eaves of the extension is 3m, 57 Healds Road, Dewsbury. Joanne Dunford, two-storey side and single-storey rear extensions, 25 West Royd Avenue, Mirfield. Kiran Haji, erection of porch to front and raising of roof to create living space, 111 South Street, Savile Town.
M Mills, extensions and raising of existing roof to form living accommodation,14 Hostingley Lane, Thornhill. McDonald’s Restaurants Ltd, non-material amendment to previous permission 2016/93463 for erection of extensions, alterations and associated works, Northgate Centre, Heckmondwike. Neil Kennedy, two-storey side and single-storey front extensions, 10 Winfield Drive, East Bierley. Mr L Ali, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 6m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 4m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 2.75m, 35 Spen Valley Road, Ravensthorpe. Owens Developments, discharge of condition 3 (materials) on previous permission 2016/91997 for erection of 10 dwellings, 221 Leeds Old Road, Batley. Mark Crowther, dead or dangerous tree(s), Oldfield Nook, 171 Scholes Lane, Scholes. A Owens, non-material amendment to previous permission 2016/91997 for erection of 10 dwellings, former restaurant site, 221 Leeds Old Road, Heckmondwike.
your family members are behaving like this? Owning bikes takes money, and they need to be stored somewhere, so others must know what is going on. I know that the offenders doing this are known to many people. I’ve spoken to people who are near neighbours and they know who own the bikes and who rides them. However, they are reluctant report information. Of course, the police can’t watch every road on the estate 24/7. What they need is intelligence. They need to know who
on the morning of the 26 February Finally, in response to last weeks letter from Mrs A Rawat and the possible reduction in the numbers of Kirklees councillors, this is a matter for the Government, not the council. Recently the Government announced that the city of Leeds could keep all of its 99 councillors without any reduction in numbers. As the Greek philosopher Aristotle is supposed to have said, when people say something, do something and be something, they will always be open to criticism. By and large I think councillors do a good job under very difficult circumstances, that’s why there isn’t a queue a mile long to do the job! If we are not happy with the way our councillors perform, at least we have the chance to vote them out of office.
Owners are anti-social From: D Johnson, Mirfield Dear Sir, Following on from the letter by Kathleen Hodge last week regarding dog poo bags, I would like to widen the debate to dog ownership in general. Twice in the past two weeks I have stood in dog excrement whilst walking the local pavements, so I would like to invite a response if possible through this publication as to why dog owners think it is okay to allow their pets to foul not only our public highways, but also parks, sports fields and grass verges? It is bad enough behaviour to do this, however the cretins who collect the poo into those little black bags and then discard them into the hedgerows leave me speechless. Add to this the smell of dog wee which permeates many public footpaths and the noise nuisance created by barking dogs leads me to believe that dog ownership is becoming anti-social. I have yet to see someone offending, perhaps they sneak out under the cover of darkness or have trained the pet to look both ways before depositing a fresh batch.
are riding these bikes, and where they live. With information they can then target the offenders swiftly. I appeal to anyone with information to contact the police directly, as it can be given in confidence. Alternatively, information can also be given to Crimestoppers (0800 555 111) which is totally anonymous. Let’s get our estate back to what it should be – a place where families can live in peace and safety – by helping to stop the actions of a tiny minority wanting to destroy this.
Anyway, perhaps it is time to re-introduce the dog licence scheme which could be used to fund dog wardens and give the courts a workable way of banning ownership for those who have offended. So come on dog owners, stop this disgusting, selfish behaviour.
Thank you all for a lovely day From: Mrs B Senior, Mirfield Dear Sir, Through your paper I would like to say thank you to St Vincent De Paul Society at Mirfield, who provided a very good meal for nearly 60 people at Crossley Fields School, with entertainment; also picking people up from their homes and taking them home. I would also like to thank the ladies who picked me up when I fell. They are angels. I am looking forward to the event next year. I would also like to thank all the helpers, and people who donated for us to have a lovely Saturday afternoon. God bless.
Little yappers are everywhere From: Mrs R Barker, Mirfield Dear Sir, I totally agree with the article last week commenting on how dog ownership is becoming anti -social and I also thoroughly enjoyed the piece by Mr Spreadbury about litter. However I was wondering have other readers noticed the profusion of Shih Tzu dogs which seem to have become the latest must-have accessory. It is difficult to walk out nowadays without tripping over one of the little yappers. One can observe all manner of folk from fragile old ladies to large bearded men with tattoos (or should that be the other way around) tottering along with their little darlings. I hear that the main local source of these pretend dogs is someone who is churning them out for profit, so I was glad to hear that the Government is proposing to restrict this practice by forcing such
breeders to be licensed.
Well said, Mr Spreadbury From: ‘SN’, Cleckheaton Dear Sir, I just have to write and say how cheered I was to read R Spreadbury’s letter on the rubbish thrown down by thoughtless people. I could have penned something very similar myself, though not quite as eloquent. I would like to see a political party/government with quite a few R Spreadburys in it, but unfortunately for communities everywhere, the ones who put their hand up for the job seem to be either well-meaning but ineffective or vocal but ‘only here for the beer (wine, lucrative financial opportunities and social life).’ Common sense isn’t high up on the must-have list of required attributes to make much-needed effective legislation.
No pride in our neighbourhood From: Mrs M Wilson, Mirfield Dear Sir, What happened to ‘Keep Britain Tidy’? It was drilled into us when we were children, both at home and school. Ravensthorpe is a disgrace; there’s bags of rubbish thrown everywhere; even the gardens are full of rubbish, old sofas, mattresses, old cars. What has happened to the council? When we were younger they used to come round checking the houses and gardens. Nobody takes pride in anything any more. It’s a disgrace!
Parking woes at hospitals From: Mr M Holmes, Mirfield Dear Sir, I would like to tell you a true story. On Sunday February 19 I had
Continued on page 9
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
From page 8 to rush my wife to Staincliffe Hosptial at midnight with a suspected blockage in her abdomen, so an operation was required. At 4am it was agreed to transfer her to Pinderfields, so I left her in the capable hands of the nursing staff. She actually arrived on the ward there at 10am! That wasn’t the end of it; normally I don’t carry money or cards as my wife usually has both, but I slipped some cash and a note in my pocket for the car park. Fine, was it not? Arriving at the car park exit £6.90 was required, so out comes the brand-new £5 note. Frontways, backways, even tried sideways, there was no chance would the machine take it. Plan B was cash – £7 – good, it worked. By now it’s now four o’clock in the morning, no-one about. What if I hadn’t got the money or one coin hadn’t worked?
Moorside gave me a real insight From: Ms A Rawat, Batley Dear Sir, The Moorside TV drama could have been a three-parter and included the involvement of more people. In my opinion, it would have been wonderful to have shown the broad diversity of people who were willing to come and help, and would have provided even more interest to a national audience, and I bet there has been an international audience. It had the potential to have been an even better drama as there were so many elements to it. It could have gone on for weeks exploring the wider impacts. Real life and real people are far more interesting than any made-up dramas. But, it was only a two-parter and had to be concentrated and was centred on three women; the acting on all
The Moorside sides was brilliant. Should the drama have been made? Yes, I think. It gave me the opportunity to get to know Karen Matthews better, other than the woman who wore that hideous jacket with the large lapels. I loathed her before and was disgusted by her, but her character, as displayed in the drama, showed her not to be so much a monster as an inadequate, immature individual with a mental illness (a learning disability). She will always be inadequate, she will always be immature, deceptive and manipulative. The trick is to know this in a person, and to contain the damage that they can do. They will always damage themselves but, people close to her, and others like her, need to see this and to help, but also protect themselves. Because they seem so inadequate, people like Julie Bushby, and I have experience of this too, can so easily be taken in. We want help, we want to be practical, put their lives right but they are always planning other things. I am not angry with Julie, as some
seem to be; I think she is just one of those people who sees a problem and wants to get in there with the message ‘as a community we can sort this’. She was only trying to look after her community in the best way that she knew how – come together, search around you, raise morale. In a crisis you would want a Julie Bushby around you; she may not always do the right thing, but at least she will be there and not leave you on your own. But what of Karen and Shannon, and the rest of the children? It is such a shame that a wrong can’t be put right eventually, and everyone back where they were before with some control orders and assistance put in. They have all lost their home and a community that they knew and had friends in. Poor Shannon was never allowed to come back to her home and her room where she had left all her things. What a nightmare. In the picture that was used for the search, she looks lovely with sparkling eyes, and a big, happy smile. I have a feeling that she is going to be alright, and is going to make a better life for herself than her mother did. I have another experience of changing my feelings towards a person on getting to know them better, other than how they are portrayed in the media. Some years ago, a young Asian woman was arrested with her partner for the neglect and death of her young daughter. I wondered how she could be so cruel and felt a lot of anger towards her. I went to the court case in Bradford,
primarily to deal with my feelings about this woman, but as I heard her back-story of her childhood neglect, I understood that this was more a case of a person being feeble, immature and damaged, rather than being cruel, and I began to feel more sorry for her. The partner, who was the main culprit, had his family in court to support him, but she had nobody, absolutely nobody. Her barrister’s wife was also there to observe the case, and me and her sent the woman a message, through her barrister, that there were two people in the gallery who sympathised with her, and were wishing her well. Until we know the bigger story, it is difficult to judge people accurately. Moorside, the drama, helped me to deal better with my feelings of the whole saga.
Do you know any D-Day veterans? From: Nichola Rowlands, Remembrance Travel Dear Sir, I am Head of Travel for the travel arm of the Royal British Legion, Remembrance Travel, and I’m currently on a mission to find every single surviving D-Day veteran. The Treasury is enabling a series of free-of-charge tours for D-Day veterans to return to Normandy and pay their respects to their fallen comrades. The tours are being funded by the Treasury from LIBOR fines, and will enable a D-Day veteran to return with a family member and carer on a six-
9
night tour. The 2017 tours will take place in March, April, May and September and will give Normandy veterans – now mostly in their 90s – the chance to revisit the Normandy beaches, cemeteries and memorials. The tours will be accompanied by a medic and a guide from the Royal British Legion. The tours will depart from London and will include Eurotunnel from Dover to Calais, accommodation, visits to Pegasus Bridge, Juno, Sword, Gold beaches, Arromanches, and war memorials, plus visits to personally specified cemeteries too. Sadly, there is no database of D-Day veterans so we’re calling on the goodwill of the media and general public to spread the word. So, if you do know a D-Day veteran, please do let them know about our free tours. Normandy veterans wishing to benefit from this tour need to apply to our tour operator, Arena Travel on 01473 660800, or visit www.arenatravel.com/ journeysofremembrance.
Nothing to watch until they’re back From: Disgruntled from Pudsey Dear Sir, As I settled down in the hope of a nice cosy evening in front of the TV on Saturday evening I couldn’t believe just how much entertaining television there WASN’T on to keep us interested and amused. It’s no wonder that as from next Saturday Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway returns and that more than probably most of the United Kingdom cannot wait to see the return of these two lovely lads. Not surprising that they are top of their tree. Not surprising we welcome their return with open arms – some light relief will be more than welcome after long winter months of boring and nondescript programmes.
Paula Sherriff, MP for Dewsbury and Mirfield
‘Politically speaking’ I’ll keep fighting the good fight URE as night follows day, I will keep fighting for our local NHS serv-
S
ices. So I was pleased to welcome Shadow Health Secretary Jonathan Ashworth to Dewsbury District Hospital recently to see how the service is coping and to meet with local NHS campaigners. I’ve asked both Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Prime Minister Theresa May to come and see the challenges facing local hospital services for themselves, sadly neither has taken up the offer. I was glad that Mr Ashworth took the time to come and hear the concerns of local people about the downgrade of A&E services, and to thank the hard working staff who are going the extra mile faced with the winter crisis the NHS is experiencing. It was an opportunity to again highlight the concerns raised by both residents and health professionals about the multiple downgrades, community pharmacy closures and additional stresses on social care services affecting our area. It is wholly unacceptable
that Kirklees is set to be left without full A&E facilities, putting services already at breaking point under even greater pressure. NHS services in our region are not the first, and won’t be the last to come under attack from this Government. Its disastrous NHS reorganisation and funding shortages are causing cuts and closures across the country. The Conservative Government’s incompetent mismanagement and underfunding of the NHS has pushed the service to the brink, resulting in the toughest winter in years for staff and patients. Waiting times in A&E have become unmanageable and
even urgent operations are now being cancelled in record numbers. The Prime Minister needs to get a grip of the crisis and tell us how she’s going to fix this mess so that the NHS and its patients never have to go through a winter like this again. As well as writing to Jeremy Hunt and Theresa May, I’ve been vocal in Parliament about my concerns of the threat to our local NHS services and I will continue to be so (notwithstanding Mr Speaker’s reprimand for being perhaps a little too boisterous in the chamber). So I might be beginning to sound like a broken record. But a determined and passionate belief in getting the best for our area is what drives me to persevere. It is clear that, round here, there is still a widespread willingness to fight to keep our NHS services safe and local, and the campaign to preserve vital and highly valued services will go on.’
Paula
FEBRUARY Sat 25th Belgium Duty Free Shopping (24hrs) MARCH Sat 4th Flamingoland or Eden Camp (Transport Only) Sun 5th Scarborough or Filey or Bridlington Wed 8th Bury Market Thu 9th York or York Designer Outlet Sat 11th Light Water Valley (Transport Only) Wed 15th Beverley Market and Hull Sat 18th Whitby or Pickering Sun 19th Skirlington Market & Bridlington Sat 25th Bury Market Sat 25th Belgium Duty Free Shopping (24hrs) Sun 26th Mothers Day Special - Whitby
£45.00 £12.00 £12.00 £10.00 £12.00 £12.00 £12.00 £12.00 £12.00 £10.00 £45.00 £12.00
Pick-Up & Drop-Off at : Ossett, Horbury, Wakefield, Mirfield, Heckmondwike, Batley, Dewsbury, Cleckheaton
TEL: 01924 477 230 Call now to request our new brochure
www.stationcoaches.co.uk
10
ThePress
News In Brief Assault trial DEWSBURY: A man has been charged with two assaults on his girlfriend. Basharat Wali, 37, of Cliffe Street, allegedly punched Rebecca Wilkinson repeatedly after she asked him to leave her home in Cemetery Road on January 19. He is said to have attacked her again at the same address on February 17 and will face trial at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court on April 19.
Door damage OSSETT: A man who damaged the door of his mother’s house after she refused to let him in pleaded guilty to the offence at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court. Gareth Paxman, 27, of Runtlings in Ossett, had gone to his mother Susan’s house in Ings Road, in Heck-mondwike, saying he needed money. He was sentenced to 80 hours’ community service and ordered to pay £200 compensation.
Warrant out DEWSBURY: A warrant for the arrest of Richard Knowles, 40, of Wroe Street, Dewsbury Moor, was issued by Kirklees magistrates after he failed to attend court to answer charges of using threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour in Dewsbury on December 6.
Friday February 24, 2017
Crossing delight for campaigners IT’S taken a while... but this week Thornhill road safety campaigners were able to celebrate a new pedestrian crossing that finally links one of the village’s main green spaces to its residential areas. Rectory Park is home to the Thornhill United junior football club, a children’s play area and walks down to the moated ruins of Thornhill Hall, but for years the main road where Hostingley Lane meets Church Lane and Frank Lane has left parents ter-
rified for the youngsters’ safety. On Monday, workers were busy on a new zebra crossing and extended central refuge
area, to the delight of people who have campaigned since 2009. “Better late than never,” said
community activist Shaun Maddox, pictured, who lives nearby on Valley Road and has raised the dangers on regular occasions at Kirklees public meetings . “A lot of people deserve credit for this,” said Shaun, “Chris Kennedy at Thornhill United, the committee of the Friends of Rectory Park and not least three local councillors, two former ones in Khizar Iqbal and Salim Patel, plus Masood Ahmed. They’ve all fought for this. “They told us a child would have to get killed for us to get a crossing but thankfully it hasn’t come to that. “At least now mums and dads can let their kids use the park and know there’s a safe place to cross.”
Man jailed for ‘shocking’ abuse of Bonny the pup By Staff Reporters A MAN who beat a puppy over a period of “at least three weeks”, causing multiple fractures, has been jailed for 18 weeks and disqualified for life from keeping animals. In a prosecution brought by the RSPCA under the Animal Welfare Act, Nasim Hussein Khan, 41, of Scopsley Green, Whitley, pleaded guilty at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court to three offences of abusing 12-week-old American bulldog Bonny. RSPCA inspector Danielle Grimshaw said: “The state this puppy was in when she came to our attention was shocking.
“She had a fractured pelvis, spine, rib and foot and a swollen head which, in veterinary opinion, was the result of a skull fracture, though this did not show up on x-rays.” Khan had Bonny for five weeks. According to the vet, the oldest of her fractures was at least three weeks old. She was presented at the vets on August 5 last year and was described as “alert but nervous” and, although she could walk she was reluctant to, and was wobbly on her back legs. Vets gave her pain management, cagerest and closely monitored her for seven days before allowing her to go to a foster home, where she had to be on cage rest for another five weeks.
“This puppy was violently and repeatedly beaten,” said Ms Grimshaw. As well as the custodial sentence and life disqualification, Khan was also ordered to pay £400 costs and a £115 victim surcharge. In mitigation, the court heard that Khan was going through a difficult time due to troubles in his personal life. Bonny, now renamed Daphne, was signed over at a previous hearing and has been adopted by the person who fostered her. Ms Grimshaw said: “Amazingly she has recovered really well. Her owner describes her as a really friendly dog and trusting of everyone. She loves playing in the woods and sleeping on the bed with her dog friend Ty.”
‘Don’t let guns get into wrong hands’ WEST YORKSHIRE police have launched a gun and knife amnesty – and urged people to report anyone they suspect of possessing offensive weapons. The weapons surrender started on Wednesday and lasts until next Saturday (March 4). People surrendering weapons will not be prosecuted and can remain anonymous. Last year, 150 bladed and offensive weapons and 80 guns were handed in. West Yorkshire Police temporary assistant chief constable Angela Williams said: “We want to remove weapons so they don’t end up in the wrong hands on the streets of West Yorkshire, causing injury to someone or even worse.” Weapons can be surrendered at Dewsbury Police Station, on Aldams Road, between 8am and 8pm Monday to Saturday and 8am to 6pm Sunday. Police will also be contacting licensed firearms holders asking them to check that their weapons continue to be held legally. ACC Williams added: “There are a high number of responsible licensed firearms holders. During the last few years there have been several changes to the law and people need to assess whether these changes have an impact on themselves.” Anyone with information about the illegal possession or use of firearms should contact West Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
COMPASSIONATE, PERSONALISED CARE AT HOME A new & exciting venture from the providers of excellent care home facilities at ROBERTTOWN CARE HOME ADVINIA HOMECARE is a provider of PREMIER CARE & SUPPORT SERVICES for people who wish to continue living in the comfort of their own homes and offers:
FLEXIBLE HOMECARE TO MEET INDIVIDUAL NEEDS PERSONAL CARE • SHOPPING CARE & COMPANIONSHIP • COOKING CLEANING • WASHING MEAL TIMES • MEDICATION
Our ethos is to provide an outstanding quality of support, tailored to individual requirements. Our care is delivered by Care Professionals trained to provide the right level of support & companionship while remaining as discreet as you require. By supporting you in the familiar surroundings of your own home, our service can deliver the wellbeing & peace of mind that even the best residential alternatives cannot provide. Our personalised One to One Care, delivered in the comfort & familiarity of your own home, ranging from a few hours of support a day to live-in-care, can make a real difference to your quality of life.
If you would like to find out more about our services, or you would like one of our Care Consultants to call on you, please contact us. Registered and regulated by the CQC (Care Quality Commission)
Telephone: 01924 403450 Email: westyorkshire@adviniahomecare.co.uk www.adviniahomecare.co.uk
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
FIND HAVING A BATH CHALLENGING? WHY NOT INSTALL A WALK-IN SHOWER & TAKE OUT THE BATH?
11
12
ThePress
News In Brief Church shut HORBURY: Vandals have forced a Grade 1 listed church to lock its doors. Goods were stolen from St Peter and St Leonard’s and damage caused by a group of youths on the evening of February 6. Church wardens decided to lock the building, at least temporarily. Police said patrols have been stepped up to combat anti-social behaviour in the town.
Death appeal MIRFIELD: A coroner’s officer wants to contact relatives of Raymond Sykes from Mirfield. Mr Sykes, of Hirst Road, died of natural causes on February 4, aged 74, and he is believed to have had a son called Brian Milner. Relatives should contact coroner’s officer Mandy Sampson on 01924 292301.
Rider on trial BATLEY: A man accused of riding a motorcycle while banned from driving will stand trial at Kirklees Magistrates on May 8. Brendan Chamberlain, 23, of Fountains Avenue, was also charged with having no insurance and driving an offroad motorbike without due care and attention on Laurel Grove in Batley on September 21. He denies the charges.
Friday February 24, 2017
Karen’s shoplifting lies ... and her search for love By Staff Reporters THE nation’s fascination with dissolute Dewsbury Moor mum Karen Matthews – or at least the tabloid press fascination – has continued in the aftermath of the critically acclaimed but locally ridiculed TV drama The Moorside. The Sun newspaper has reported that Matthews had tried to con potential employers that she’d been in trouble for shoplifting, rather than getting eight years in jail for plotting the fake kidnap of her daughter Shannon in 2008. According to sources close to Karen, 41, when she got
three days a week doing voluntary work at a coffee shop in 2013 she said she was seeing a probation officer over a shoplifting offence. The newspaper was told: “We knew her under an alias. She had to go and see the probation officer every two weeks. “She said she had done stupid things. When probed a bit she said it was to do with shoplifting.” The truth came out with
publicity ahead of the controversial show which focused on the Dewsbury Moor community and the role of Karen’s friends and neighbours, Julie Bushby and Natalie Brown. The source said: “Karen still calls into the coffee shop. We only realised who she was with the news the show would be airing on TV. I felt shocked. She’s been a friend.” Meanwhile, another ‘friend’ told the Daily Star that Matthews is looking for love – or sex – on the Tinder dating app, but is so broke she can only log on while using the free wi-fi in a McDonald’s. The Star’s insider said Karen is thought to have been involved in only two short
flings since being released from jail in 2012. “She’s desperate to hook herself a fella. Before she was arrested there was rarely a time when she wasn’t in a relationship of some kind, however dysfunctional,” said the friend. “She’s seen a couple of fellas very briefly over the last few years but they were a lot older than her and a bit downmarket, even for Karen. Now she’s trawling the internet looking for love, or sex – or anything. “But she’s so short of cash because she can’t get a job that she has to rely on logging onto the internet where the wi-fi is free.”
Town’s history pops up in new showcase A NEW pop-up history exhibition has opened at Dewsbury Town Hall showcasing the area’s textile heritage, famous people and civic life. The exhibition has been backed by a grant from the Arts Council England Museum Resilience Fund. It supports projects which explore new ways to make museum collections more sustainable. The exhibition looks at Dewsbury’s past, from the Industrial Revolution in the
1800s to its political history. Visitors can also find out about famous local people including Dr Jane Walker, who founded the Medical Women’s Federation, Eileen Fenton, the first woman to swim the English Channel and Sir John Simon, Dewsbury’s first MP. Coun Graham Turner said: “We are excited to bring this display about Dewsbury right into the town centre so that many people can enjoy their heritage. We want to tell the story of the people of
Dewsbury, the industrial history, and how this created social and political change over the years. “We are delighted with how it looks and hope that visitors of all ages will enjoy sharing their memories and talking about how Dewsbury’s creativity inspires our lives today. “During our public engagement about museums last summer, people told us that they wanted us to do more things outside of museums, taking inspiring stories out
into communities. “These collections belong to the people of Kirklees and we want a wider range of people to have the opportunity to enjoy them. The museums service is responding to the challenges of the council’s budget savings in a very creative way.” Dewsbury Town Hall is open from 8.45am-5pm Monday to Friday, and 8.45am-2pm on Saturday. To access the pop-up display, visitors should go to the ground floor reception desk.
Jo’s sister at mosque open event THE Mount Pleasant Islamic Trust is hosting a public event open to the wider community this Sunday at the Madina Masjid in Purlwell Lane. A leading imam will be joined by Kim Leadbeater, the sister of murdered Batley & Spen MP Jo Cox, in addressing guests. The ‘civic engagement programme’ continues the mosque’s community efforts which have included hosting the touring Vatican cricket team and a ‘visit my mosque’ open day which attracted nearly 100 guests. The theme of Sunday’s session will be ‘Islam in Britain and our Shared Values’ and renowned Imam Suliman Gani will deliver the principal lecture, followed by Kim Leadbeater, who will speak about Jo’s legacy and how the people of Batley and Spen exemplified ‘community cohesion’ in the aftermath of her sister’s murder. Imam Gani is based in London and is one of the foremost Muslim media personalities and an authority on Muslim engagement. After the main lecture at 2pm, there will be a question-andanswer session with Imam Gani and the guest panel, followed by a tour of the madressa and lastly a tour of the mosque, including observance of Maghrib prayer at 5.42pm, which involves a recitation of the Koran. All are welcome.
Friday February 24, 2017
ThePress
13
14
ThePress
News In Brief Bus depot tools stolen DEWSBURY: Engineers’ tools were stolen by thieves who broke into the Arriva bus depot on Mill Street East last Friday. The suspects are believed to have entered the premises at around 2.30am before gaining entry to a workshop and making off with a set of tools. Jon Croxford, area managing director for Arriva Yorkshire, said: “An investigation has been launched with the police and CCTV footage is being reviewed.” Anyone who has any information or witnessed any suspicious activity in the area is asked to contact Kirklees Police, quoting log 166 of February 17. Information can also be sent anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Bouncer ko’d clubber BATLEY: A bouncer at Brooklands bar and nightclub on Bradford Road has been found guilty of assault by Kirklees magistrates. CCTV footage showed doorman Umaru So, 32, swinging a punch at Dwain Wilcock in the early hours of May 28 last year, as Mr Wilcock was leaving the premises. The victim was knocked out by the punch and woke up in an ambulance. So told the court he acted in self defence, fearing he would be assaulted after Mr Wilcock threw a bottle to the floor which smashed in front of him. So, of Rookwood Road, Leeds, was sentenced to a community order with eight days of rehabilitation activities and fined £215, with £200 costs and £150 compensation to Mr Wilcock.
www.facebook.com/ThePressNews
Friday February 24, 2017
Drugs man who broke teen’s jaw avoids jail By Staff Reporters A MAN who got into a violent confrontation over a drug debt, that resulted in a teenager suffering a broken jaw, has avoided jail. Alex Jones, 19, of Richmond Lea, Mirfield, was still only 17 in August 2015 when he tried to make money by selling a quarter-ounce of cannabis to friends in £10 bags, Leeds Crown Court was told. Prosecuting, Mr Tom Storey said that one of Jones’s customers had refused to pay and that they agreed by phone to meet near the site of the old Swan public house on Huddersfield Road, Fir Cottage. Jones was accompanied by friends and got into a confrontation with a teenager with the other group. Mr
Storey said Jones threw a punch and started a fight with the youth which spilled into the busy main road, forcing traffic to swerve out of the way. Jones head-butted the other youth, fracturing his jaw, according to the prosecution. At that point another teenager picked up a piece of broken glass and hit Jones in the neck with it before running away. Jones still had the glass embedded in his neck when police and ambulance staff arrived. Alex Menary said in mitigation that Jones was only 17 at the time and had since matured, getting a job and being offered an apprenticeship. “He made a number of bad choices that night,” said Mr Menary, who said his client was genuinely remorseful.
Jones also had a vivid scar on his neck as a result of the fight. The teenager who inflicted the glass wound is still only 17 and cannot be named. On his behalf, Mr Andrew Dallas said he was also much younger at the time and had been seriously affected by the events. He said he lashed out because he was upset at seeing his friend being badly beaten. Jones, who admitted a charge of inflicting grievous bodily harm and attempting to supply cannabis, received a 12month community order with 200 hours unpaid work. The 17-year-old, also from Mirfield, admitted a charge of wounding and was given a 12month youth rehabilitation order incorporating a 12-day activity requirement and 100 hours of unpaid work.
Scripture group on air
Mike Booth and Peter Wallis from SASRA
DEWSBURY Baptist Church – the landmark listed building at the bottom of Leeds and Wakefield Roads – has received £155,400 from the Heritage Lottery Fund for urgent roof repairs. The church, with its thought-provoking religious posters which greet motorists coming onto the ring road, was built in 1871 and has been a focal point in the town ever since. It is used regularly for Sunday worship and church meetings and stages other activities including an aerobics group and a youth group open to the public. It is also the base for a drop-in and advice centre twice a week for anyone in need of food, clothing, toiletries, advice or just a listening ear. On average, some 30 people are helped at these sessions. An internationally famous choir also meets in the church each week. Liz Exley, on behalf of the church members, said: “This grant has given us the opportunity to continue with the work already centred in the building and to open to other groups in the future.”
NOW OPEN AT OUR NEW FLAGSHIP STORE IN HECKMONDWIKE Located within FURNITURE MATTERS on WALKLEY LANE, HECKMONDWIKE
OVER 10 YEARS IN THE FLOORING INDUSTRY
Use our rvice e S ’ E M O H T A ‘SHOP you! the samples to
Roll Ends Available. Carpets from £3.99 sqm, Vinyls from £5 sqm, and Laminates from £8.99 sqm
We can bring ates, solid wood & all , lamin Carpets, vinyls ring accessories floo WN HOME O R U O Y F O T R HE COMFO CHOOSE FROM T everything & le p o e p s le a No pushy s ged for you n a r r a & d e r u s mea by us! WHAT WHAT OUR OUR CUSTOMERS CUSTOMERS SAY SAY –– “Great “Great service, service, fitted fitted great great && the the quality quality is is brilliant” brilliant” “Fantastic “Fantastic job job done! done! Removed Removed all all my my broken broken floor floor tiles, tiles, reboarded reboarded floor floor && laid laid vinyl. vinyl. Love Love it, it, thanks.” thanks.”
We will not be beaten on price & service Fitter with 30+ years’ experience Domestic & Commercial Fitting Available Tailored to your individual needs & budget
DEWSBURY’S Christian radio station, Branch FM, broadcast a special programme highlighting the work of a little-known military scripture group. Peter Wallis of the Soldiers and Airmen Scripture Readers Association (SASRA), of which the Queen is a patron, told listeners how the organisation was set up in 1838 to promote Christian fellowhip amongst soldiers. The organisation was awarded its charter in 1859 and celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2013. Its work is carried out by “scripture readers” who are ex-military personnel. For more information about SASRA, go to www.sasra.org.uk.
Landmark church wins the lottery
FULL HOUSE DEALS BRONZE DEAL £390*
Quality hard wearing loop pile carpet available in 6 colours 4/5m wide
SILVER DEAL £579*
Quality hard wearing loop pile / twist pile carpet & vinyl, underlay & accessories
GOLD DEAL £799*
Luxury twist / saxony carpet & vinyl, underlay & accessories
PLATINUM DEAL £999*
Super Luxury twist / saxony carpet & vinyl, underlay & accessories *All deals based on 80 sq yds
We are pleased to provide a full service from start to finish without the additional store costs of bigger retailers. A much better deal for your money
Call us today! Deals this good don’t last forever Call Carl - 07719 012018
Find us on
w w w. b i r k e n s h a w f l o o r i n g. c o . u k
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
15
Hecky-thump! By David Bentley FESTIVAL organiser Donal O’Driscoll is finally hanging up his microphone. After delivering 14 successful music events in Heckmondwike town centre, the live music lover has decided to call it a day – but he’d like to hear from anyone who wants to continue with the ‘Heckyfest’ concept he has developed over the last decade. Thousands of people have enjoyed the free events in Heckmondwike’s Green Park since their launch in 2007,
Donal’s decision to quit is sad news for live music... with scores of live bands from the region performing and other cultural attractions pulling in the crowds. For several years Kirklees Council provided the core funding, but organisers had to find more and more of the cash needed from sponsors and other sources for later festivals. Now living on the East
Coast, Donal has decided to hang up his hat, microphone, vests and shades and step down. Donal said: “Each one of these family-friendly music festivals gets more and more exhausting to organise and deliver. After the last two-day festival in July 2016 I really felt I could not do any better. “The outstanding perform-
ances from every one of the 28band line-up over two days and two stages was simply incredible to witness. “If there’s anyone out there with the time and the energy to do the next one I’m more than happy to pass on the details of all the excellent technical crew I have, as well as the brilliant service providers
needed to make the festival successful and safe for everyone. “The last festival cost just over £12,000. The long-running belief of our local councillors and the long-standing financial assistance from Kirklees Council made Heckyfest a reality in the past. “Green Park, and
Heckmondwike in general, is a fantastic place to hold these events. “I’ve felt incredibly proud of my home town, how well it has looked over the festival weekends and how welcoming the Heckmondwike people have been to everyone attending the events; many coming from far and wide.”
.... but Mirfield’s gearing up for the biggest show in town IT’S time to start gearing up for the biggest show in town! The deadline is fast approaching for applications for field stalls for Mirfield Show, which takes place on August 20. The family agricultural show attracts around 12,000 visitors and stall applications are welcome from businesses, people and charities not just locally, but from literally anywhere. The organisers pride their event on offering a wide variety of stalls selling everything from locally-produced bread and cheese to rugs made from New
Zealand wool and a range of arts and crafts. Applications are open until March 1 by downloading a form from www.mirfieldshow.com. Sponsorship packages for the biggest event on Mirfield’s calendar are still available. A show spokesman said: “It’s a great way to support a community event and to promote your business to thousands of families. “As a gold sponsor you would receive your branding on all pre-show materials including the website, pro-
gramme and posters displayed around Mirfield and the surrounding areas. “On show day your branding would be displayed prominently throughout the showground and main ring and you are guaranteed a stall in the showground so you can showcase your products and greet visitors.” Silver sponsors receive a half-page advert in the show programme as well as branding on an attraction at the show, plus free tickets. Bronze sponsors promote an attraction on show day with branding and get
an acknowledgement in the programme. Packages start from £150. The show organisers have thanked early backers including gold sponsor Riva Homes, silver sponsors Nest Photography, Floorings 4 U, Squared Blue Containers, Syngenta, and James Walker Properties, and bronze sponsors Grace Landscapes, Ossett Brewery, Tax Assist, Charlotte’s Ice-cream, Wilcock & Co and Mirfield Community Centre. Karen Bullivant, who chairs the committee, said: “We would like to thank
BLUEHILLS FARM SHOP & PLAY BARN Birkenshaw, BD11 2DU Tel: 01274 682007 FRIDAY NIGHT DISCO! 4pm-6pm With PEPPA PIG, MICKEY & MINNIE MOUSE, MINION & SPONGEBOB EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT! £6 ENTRY includes Tea from the Childrens Menu and FREE PLAY!
PLAY BARN OPEN 7 DAYS
WE HAVE 5* FOOD RATING IN EVERY ROOM
DEFRA LICENSE No. 49/529/0345ABP/PTF Turkey, Beef & Chicken Mince 40p lb
Necks, Wings, Feet, Tripe, Beef, Hearts, Liver, Tongues, Lamb Bones & Many More
GROOVY MOVIES! Music & Dancing Every Wed & Friday 10.30am
HAVE YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY HERE!
DOG & CAT FOOD
our confirmed sponsors for 2017 and everyone who has already applied for a field stall. “Mirfield Show is a not-for-profit organisation which is run entirely by volunteers. Without the generous support of sponsors, stall holders and the thousands of families who attend the show each year we would not be able to hold the show which everyone in Mirfield is proud of.” To buy tickets, book a stall or become a sponsor, go to www.mirfield show.com.
BIRTHDAY PARTIES OUR SPECIALITY £5--£8 £4 £8 £4--£5 £8pe perrch --£5 £5--£8 child ild
Great Value!
Fillet Steak £18.99 lb Now £12.99 lb 5lb Prime Sirloin Steak £25 Whole Topside - Silverside £3.10 lb Now £2.75 lb All Matured For 28 Days -----------------------------Ham Joints £3 or 2 for £5
10lb Lean Steak Mince 95% Vis Lean £20 £16 Whole Briskets £3.50 lb £2.95 lb 10lb Braising Steak £25 £20 SUPER VALUE! 15kg Dog Biscuits - £9 LARGE VARIETY PACK 15kg Dog Flake - £9 BISCUITS 2 FOR £1 Bacon from £1 packet 2 x 1.4 kilos Pedigree Dog 2 Bacon Chops £1 Biscuits £3.50 ✹ ✹ Liver & Onions £1 6 x 70g Encore Cat Food 10 Yorks Puds £1 ✹ £4 at Morrisons Only £1 ✹ 12 x 500ml Pepsi 24 Tins Whiskas Cat £8 £11.97 £2.99 3 kilo Iams Cat £6.35 12 x 500ml 7UP £2.99
✹
✹
✹
✹
16
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
Huis about that then! OSSETT-BASED specialist drinks retailer Bier Huis was named Independent Cider Retailer of the Year at the Drinks Retailing Awards in London. Bier Huis, on Towngate, beat off stiff competition from other finalists from the West Country – the traditional home of UK cider . The awards are run by trade magazine Off Licence News and editor Martin Green was joined on stage by Joe Fattorini, star of The Wine Show, to hand out gongs to retailers that stood out as the best in the business over the past year.
Owner David Jones said: “To win this prize is a huge honour for us. Our commitment to cider and championing local cider in both bottle and draught as well as the best from around the world has shown us to be a cut above the rest.” Beer Huis has won a string of awards in recent years, including being named as cider pub of the year by the Wakefield CAMRA group in 2016.
L-R: Joe Fattorini (ITV Wine Show), Justin Way (sponsor), David Jones (Bier Huis) and Martin Green (editor of Off Licence News)
New look for Greggs in Heckmondwike THE GREGGS food store in Heckmondwike has re-opened with a new look. The outlet, on Market Street, now offers customers a contemporary food-on-the-go experience. Seating and free Wi-Fi is also available for customers who want to enjoy
their purchases inside the shop. Heckmondwike store manager Caroline Dobson Hawke said: “I’m very proud to be managing this new-look shop and the team are looking forward to hearing what the local community think.”
Web TALK
All eyes on book competition
with Andrew Firth Welcome to the February 2017 edition of Web Talk, helping Kirklees website owners to prosper online
Getting the basics right THIS month is about getting back to website basics! With online now very much a part of our culture, as consumers we have clear expectations as to how websites should work. Here’s the basics that website owners should have in place, from a customer usability perspective. Mobile accessibility: With more than 60 per cent of phones in the UK now being used to access the internet, it is vital that websites are available via phones and tablets. In 2017 Google will be separating out the mobile index from the desktop index, so websites that do not have a mobile version will not be found on mobile (phone and tablet) search. Mobile usability: It is not just essential to have a website that is accessible on mobile, but it is important that the website performs for the user. Websites that don’t (this can be due to slow loading, broken images, poor navigation etc) will cause visitors to drop off. This is a sign that the website is not engaging and will affect search engine positions.
Fresh content: Websites are an information resource, whether a user is looking for a product, a service or some general knowledge, a website is often the first port of call for us to find information. Websites that are not kept up to date will be less engaging and the search engines take the opinion that if the content never changes then the website does not deserve to be ranked as high, because it is not delivering anything new to the searchers. Google My Business: This free business directory service from Google allows businesses to register and link their website. This is particularly important for companies who have a local target audience (this is most of us) as this service helps business listings and therefore websites to be found on local search. It is very important that the website is linked to the business office co-ordinates, as this builds trust that the business is located where you say it is. With trust comes Google rankings. Follow-up: Driving traffic to a website can be an expensive
process and developing a follow-up strategy helps business owners to reduce customer acquisition costs, and it is something that customers expect. Building loyalty with consumers through thank you messages and keeping your visitors informed using opt-in emails is something we all expect, and can be the difference between keeping and losing a customer. We all face lots of competition and so attention to customer service and effective communication helps to build a core base of loyal fans. Getting the basics right delivers more value for your online investment! • To read more on this and other subjects, please visit the blog at www. ascensor.co.uk/blog. For more information contact andrew@ascensor.co.uk Twitter: @andrewjfirth Connect on LinkedIn: andrewjfirth Ascensor are a digital agency providing website design, ecommerce and search engine optimisation.
WHALEY OPTICIANS in Batley is celebrating World Book Day by offering local youngsters the chance to win a £20 book token. “World Book Day is a wonderful celebration of reading and the joy of books – and what could be more important for children when reading than their eyes and vision,” said Chris Hey, optometrist at Whaley Opticians on Commercial Street. “We are delighted to be supporting this year’s campaign and highlighting the importance of healthy eyes and vision for youngsters.” Now in its 20th year, World Book Day on
Thursday March 2 will see children and teenagers across the nation come together to appreciate reading and explore the pleasure of books. As part of the celebrations, Whaley Opticians is inviting all young bookworms aged between five and 16 to enter a special competition on the SPECS network website, at
www.specsnetwork.co.uk. All entrants need to do is visit the site with their parents, follow the World Book Day Competition link and explain, in no more than 50 words, what their favourite book of all time is – and why. The closing date is 5pm on Thursday March 2 and the book token winners will be announced on Friday March 10.
Apprenticeship levy briefing A FREE lunchtime briefing for business leaders outlining the impact of the new apprenticeship levy is being held in Gomersal next month. Crown Workforce Management Systems is sponsoring the two-hour event at the Gomersal Park Hotel, on Moor Lane, on Wednesday March 29. The levy is a mandatory tax for employers with a UK payroll of more than £3million, who will be charged 0.5 per cent of their overall payroll bill from April. Businesses can offset this levy to fund apprenticeship training programmes for new
and existing staff, but the legislation is complex as the application of training and development under the apprenticeship scheme has been extended. Staff who are not formal apprentices may qualify under the new rules. Business leaders should ask themselves if they feel fully informed, prepared and ready for this new tax, said David Bacon, sales director for Crown Workforce Management Systems. “This is a great opportunity to learn first-hand what your organisation needs to do to be ready. There’s an opportunity also to ask the experts so that they can address
issues that may be relevant to particular sectors and industries,” he said. The briefing will be headed by SR Education, a private training provider, and lunch will also be provided. The programme includes presentations around the apprenticeship levy including the background, possible scenarios and implications. After the lunch break, there will be a workshop on how to comply, an outline of benefits and an opportunity to ask questions. The briefing starts at 12pm. For more information visit www.crowncomputing.
com/levy-extra.
Friday February 24, 2017
ThePress
17
ThePress
18
Friday February 24, 2017
Trust these tried and tested local businesses SALE NOW ON
REGISTERING NEW PATIENTS HOME VISITS & PRESCRIPTION SERVICE AVAILABLE
LARGE KIDS RANGE
When only the very best will do f you want to know what is happening across North Kirklees and beyond in 2017, then The Press is a must-read every week. Our track record in getting results for advertisers and standing up for the rights of local people is second to none. We try to maintain the highest standards in everything we do, always providing readers and
I 27 Towngate, Ossett, WF5 9BL
01924 263 313 Convenient Free Parking & Public Transport
2nd PAIR OFFERS - YOU CHOOSE THE OFFER!
advertisers with the best product possible. We like to promote businesses and organisations that share our values and practices. These fine local businesses and services from across the district regularly support us, and here we are pleased to recommend them to you. They are tried and trusted, and come with The Press seal of approval.
256 Halifax Road, Liversedge
WE SERVE TOP QUALITY FISH & CHIPS LI ETC Y, CHIL PLUS A GREAT CHOICE OF CUddRR ings Jacksons Beef Pu rvice Fast & Friendly Se ard to We look forw on! seeing you so
HADDOCK & CHIPS
KIDS MEALS F R O M
£1.70
Fish & a few
£2.60
£3.50
Thanking all our customers for all their support Opening Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 11.30am-7pm, Thursday & Friday 11.30am-8pm, Saturday 11.30am-2pm
Telephone Orders Taken
01924 510047
Find us on
CARS • BIKES • VANS
MOTs
F R O M
£35
CALL: 01924 497069 Mirfield Motor Care Ltd
Find us on
Unit 1, Station Business Park, Back Station Road, Mirfield, WF14 8QF Tel: 01924 497069 Web: www.mirfieldmotorcare.co.uk Email: info@mirfieldmotorcare.co.uk Company Registration Number: 09093036 VAT Registration Number: 188 9879 08
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
19
to give you the best products and services
Garlands Residential & Dementia Care Home Our family run home from home offers our guests undivided care & attention We provide respite & daycare in a happy and friendly environment, where respect & kindness are paramount
Watch Out For Our Gin Tasting Evenings Coming At The End Of The Month LOOKING AFTER CARS FOR OVER 40 YEARS
C
LMAN
COLMAN TYRE & MOTOR CO
VACANCIES AVAILABLE
FOR A GOOD JOB AT A FAIR PRICE
• SERVICING • BATTERIES • MOT TESTING FOR DIESEL, PETROL & CATALYST • ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS & FAULT FINDING • GENERAL REPAIRS • TYRES, BRAKES & EXHAUSTS
Telephone: 01924 404122 27 Church Street, Heckmondwike
LOCAL SERVICE 01924 409348 GREEN ROAD, LIVERSEDGE
Spen Fairdeal Are your double glazed units steamed up Albion St, Cleckheaton Tel: 01274 874753
www.spenfairdeal.co.uk
For all your DIY requirements, timber mouldings, varnishes, ironmongery, curtain rails, household, hardware & garden supplies, key cutting Largest selection of fireside PICTURE accessories FRAMING A in town
SPECIALITY
Coal scuttles fireguards ARTISTS MATERIALS companion sets
Discounts available for OAPs
or full of condensation?
We fit letterboxes You don’t need to replace the whole window... You only need to replace the glass! from £35 Before After • Est.1990 • We replace Glass, Locks, & Hinges • For all your Double Glazing Repairs • We can replace your faulty door & window mechanisms
Your Local Roberttown Window Doctor
Anti Snap Locks from £45 fitted
Replacement Sealed Units Fitted from £45 We can also fit new handles and anti-snap locks
Have you got faulty glazing? Company no longer exists or your guarantee run out? You don’t have to replace the window, we can repair them at a fraction of the cost of buying new ones
Call Tony your local service engineer for a free quote on 01924 412279 or 07974 700 789 www.repairs4windows.co.uk
@homesecurewindowmaintenance
Setting The Standards
20
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
Ramblers’ corner • FORTHCOMING walks with the North Kirklees Group of the Ramblers – non-members are always welcome. Please call the walk leader for more details SATURDAY MARCH 4 GOING NORTH FROM MIRFIELD Meet at 10.30am at Station Road, Mirfield, by Lidl (WF14 8NL, SE203195) 7 miles - moderate Contact: Annelis Tel: 01924 460 597 Email: a.griffin4@ntl.com
A life (and a talk) filled with laughter LAUGHTER is the lasting impression which Keith Barber has about his life – and it is something he is intending to share with members of Batley History Group when they meet in Batley Town Hall next Monday (Feb 27). For in looking back over his life Keith, a former distribution manager for a large chain of stores, says that whenever he remembers former friends, families and situations it’s the comical parts which come shining through. His talk entitled ‘A Trip Down Memory Lane’ starts with the wartime experiences and the challenging and comical events which he and other children came across when they played out at night after school. And he has a double check on his memory capability through his wife, because the couple, now married for 54 years, lived very close together in Hunslet and went to the same church and Sunday School as youngsters. He also recalls some of the funny incidents which used to occur on the sports fields when he played rugby union. That was one of his passions and he followed it through into the administrative side to become Yorkshire County President when the team won the national championship in 1993. “I love talking about the funnier side of life and I hope others will enjoy it too,” he said. The meeting, which starts at 7.30pm, is open to members – who pay £2 – and guests who pay £4. Free refreshments are available to all from 7pm.
New dojo is open to everyone tomorrow A MARTIAL arts open day is being held to celebrate the opening of a new dojo at Woodkirk Valley Country Club tomorrow (Sat). The event has been organised by the Revolution Martial Arts Academy, a mixed martial arts club based at the Leeds Road venue that teaches kickboxing, taekwondo, jiu jitsu and MMA. Running from 10am until 4pm, the open day will feature a mixture of martial arts demonstrations, including weapons and swords, and visitors will be able to join in with mini taster sessions throughout the day. Revolution’s team are also being joined by Joe G's Fitness Centre and Suzuku Martial Arts. There will be a bar, food, raffle, tombola, various stalls, face painting and glitter tattoos available. If you are a martial arts enthusiast or have been thinking about joining a martial arts club than the open day is the perfect opportunity to get involved. All are welcome to attend. For more information on the Revolution Martial Arts Academy call 07768 164865.
Nun too happy!
The Plough Mirfield es) Night Meet & Mingle (Sin19gl.3 0. 25th Feb @ ffle Free entry, games, raha d and lots of fun tothebe ls r detai Contact the pub for fur
with Spring Sale in conjunklcteeiosn Ambitions4Kir hase
d purc Come and have a coffee an adults with handmade items created bydisabilities, learning difficulties and ch. Monday 13th Mar ther details Call 01924 491148 for fur
We are an ideal venue to Mothering hold your Sunday PRIVATE 26th March FUNCTIONS Now taking bookings and are becoming ........... Book early to avoid well known for our disappointment SUNDAY CARVERY (12-16.00)
MONDAY 6 MARCH 2 BLUEHILLS OF BIRKENSHAW Meet at 1pm at Oakwell Hall top car park (WF17 9LG, SE217271) 6.5 miles – moderate Contact: Kathleen Tel: 01924 471 473 Email: Kathleenoshea5@aol.com
live music! Back by popular demand Friday 17th March 2017
Reece Music Fantastic Father & Daughter duo covering artists such as Eddie Grant, Kings of Leon, Amy Whinehouse & Motown
Where possible we work with local suppliers, Haighs Farm Shop, Walkers Fruit & Veg, Mirfield Seafoods & Ossett Brewery to name a few. We have a wide range of Beers and Lagers at reasonable prices, such as, Theakstons, John Smiths, Guest Ale (Yorkshire Blonde from Ossett Brewery), Amstel, Birra Moretti, Hop House 13 (the new lager from Guinness) & Carling. Support your local businesses
The Plough, Shillbank Lane, Mirfield. Tel: 01924 480787
Sister Act at the Alhambra Theatre, Bradford Until Saturday February 25 Box Office: 01274 432000 www.bradford-theatres.co.uk By David Bentley THE CRITICALLYACCLAIMED production of the hit musical Sister Act is only at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford until tomorrow night, more’s the pity... Starring Alexandra Burke and directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood, the camp, feel-good show features dazzling dance routines and songs inspired by Motown, soul and disco. Based on the smash hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg and Maggie Smith, Sister Act tells the hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier, a disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she
Ebenezer thriller
witnesses a murder. Under protective custody she is hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a convent. Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. The production has plenty of bounce and energy and is blessed with a superb cast, including the sexy and comically adroit Burke and a convent-full of energetic nuns who (uniquely for a musical) not only sing but also play instruments on stage. It’s a sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, sisterhood and music. Come and see the habits hit the road again and why this fabulous show has been seen by more than six million people worldwide. It’s a hugely enjoyable romp!
Drummer’s big return FORTY years since the untimely death of 70s glam rock superstar Marc Bolan, a legendary local drummer from the nostalgic TRex days comes to Wakefield on Saturday March 4. Paul Fenton, a former drummer with TRex, Christie and Carmen brings his band T-Rex (the music of Marc & Mickey) to Warehouse 23 for an evening of 70s hits. Paul, from Dewsbury, has been touring internationally with his band since 1997, re-forming T-Rex together with Mickey Finn and Jack Green to celebrate the music accredited to their genius former friend Marc. The doors open at 7.30pm
with local support band 11 eighteen, followed by familiar songs such as Get it On, 20th Century Boy, Hot Love, Cosmic Dancer, Ride a White Swan and many more chart-topping hits. The band today has seen the addition of Graham Oliver, the lead guitar player from rock band Saxon. Teamed with top professional keyboard player Dave Major, backing vocal Linda Dawson, lead singer (and local lad) Jay Spargo and bass player Tony ‘Pirate’ Alday, the band is not to be missed. Tickets priced £15 are available from Warehouse 23 by calling 01924 200162.
HANGING HEATON’S Ebenezer Methodist Drama Group are rehearsing their next production. The play is a thriller by Seymour Matthews, written in a similar style to that of Agatha Christie, but with a twist. The play will be produced by Allison Pollard and will be performed at Hanging Heaton Methodist Church on Thursday March 2, Friday March 3 and Saturday March 4 at 7.15pm. Admission is £6.50 for adults and £4.50 for children, including refreshments. Tickets are available by calling 07889 258997.
Askern you’ll receive DEWSBURY and District Rambling Club have planned a walk for Sunday February 26 in the Askern area. Please meet P Allen at Wellington Road car park in Dewsbury at 9am. The leader is a change to the syllabus. On Saturday February 18, 16 ramblers followed the Calder Valley Greenway to Huddersfield and returned to Mirfield along the canal towpath. The seven-mile walk was led by David Banks.
The captive queen SPEN VALLEY Historical Society’s next meeting is on March 8, David Templeman will give a talk on Mary Queen of Scots called ‘The Captive Queen 1568-1584’. Meetings are held in the Catholic Church Parish Hall on Dewsbury Road, Cleckheaton, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments served from 7.15pm. The cost is £2 per meeting for members, £4 for guests and membership is £10 per year. For more information email scooper@the coopersonline.org.uk.
Annie get your dog DEWSBURY COLLEGIANS are looking for one of their most important cast members for the upcoming production of Annie in June. They need a well-behaved, good-natured, friendly dog that likes children and isn’t of a nervous disposition. All breeds will be considered and the ability to bark in tune won’t be necessary... Annie will be played by 12-year-old Anais Leedham. The orphans and a great cast are already lined up for the show, all that is missing is the canine character Sandy. Anyone who has a four-legged friend who they think might fit the bill should contact Wendy Nuttall on 01924 452608.
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
21
Marketplace Russell ‘re-Brands’ his life with Hear Ann across the BBC radio network
Turn your unwanted items
new manager, baby and tour USSELL BRAND has left his manager John Noel after 15 years to move to Hannah Chambers Management. Russell tells me: “It’s all change, I have a brand-new tour, new baby, and of course a new style. I think it’s great to mix things up and take on a challenge which is what I am doing. Yes, I will be returning to films at some point, so don’t worry about that.”
R
1) Ring Adele on 01924 470296 (9.30am-4.30pm). Have your advert ready and you can pay by credit or debit card (30p surcharge). 2) Call into the office at 31 Branch Road, Batley WF17 5SB and pay by cash, cheque, credit or debit card (30p surcharge). 3) Post your advert and include your name and a contact number, along with cheque for payment. ADVERTS must be no longer than 50 words. (We cannot accept the following items: Motor vehicles, caravans, livestock. All listings will stay in marketplace for a maximum of two months. If you wish to amend your listing, or cancel when sold, contact or call 01924 470296.
TAKE NOTE, Pointless fans. Following the success of 2015’s A Year of Songs, which reached number six in the album charts, and Upon a Different Shore, which was released in 2016 and peaked at number eight, Alexander Armstrong has begin work on his third album this week. THE Jo Brand comedy Damned, about the lives of jaded social workers, is returning for a second series set in ‘a post-Brexit world’. Channel Four says that the six-part series, also starring Alan Davies, will screen later this year. AWARD-WINNING actress Sheridan Smith recently appeared in The Moorside drama, about the search for kidnapped schoolgirl Shannon Matthews. She told me: “I was fascinated by the story at the time, and we filmed it all in Halifax. But what we tried to do is tell the story. Not the news reports, but what happened. It’s a tough watch, but it was a tough real-life situation that we all know about too.” AFTER living in India for a month for the second series of BBC One’s The Real Marigold Hotel, dance legend Lionel Blair revealed why he won’t be enjoying a retirement there. “I missed my wife terribly,” he said. “Any time I thought about her, I’d well up. I’ve got three grandchildren too, and I just have to see them!” DAYTIME TV fans were shocked to discover that one of Doctors’ regulars is quitting the soap. The series, based in a GP practice, dropped the bombshell about Dr Jimmi Clay, played by Adrian Lewis Morgan. He tells me: “He is not being killed off, which is great, but I am having a little break to do other things, but I may just be back.” CHANNEL FIVE is reviving Cilla Black’s classic dating show Blind Date. But not many people are happy about it, including Cilla’s old pal Christopher Biggins. “I think it’s a daft idea really,” he said. “I mean, who can replace her? Plus it’s all
into cash £££s
Ann and Russell Brand moved on and the format seems out-dated now.” CORONATION STREET’S Ken Barlow will be left battling for his life once again, sparking fears for fans that actor Bill Roache could be quitting the cobbles. According to insiders, Ken will be seen fighting for his life after he suffers a second suspected stroke. LEE MEAD is returning to the role of Ben ‘Lofty’ Chiltern, but he’ll be working on the Keller Ward of Holby City, rather than the emergency department of Casualty. Theatre and music star Lee said: “I’m really excited to be coming back as Lofty, I’ve missed him! I’m looking forward to being in a new part of the Holby hospital and seeing what it has in store for him next.” THE CROWN creator Peter Morgan has lifted the lid on the challenges of writing and producing the big-budget Netflix drama, and admitted that casting changes for series three are being considered. He said: “It evolves of course, like the real story of the royals, but casting is so hard because they are real characters, and people all have an opinion on them.” EMMERDALE’S Amy Walsh plays Tracy Metcalfe in the soap and tells me: “I like the way she is now progressing, as we all do in soap. When she first came on she was trouble and feisty, but now she is more human and relaxed, plus she is a fighter and I know that side of her will be coming out again soon.” A YEAR after she won The Great British Bake Off, Nadiya Hussain has released her first novel, part of a trilo-
Maycon Pictures gy, loosely based on her own childhood and entitled The Secret Lives of The Amir Sisters. It’s disappointing, though that the novel was ghost-written by Ayisha Malik. RECENTLY seen as a guest judge on the BBC show Let It Shine, Lulu tells me how she keeps fit for her career. “You must be so careful with your health, especially in terms of what you eat and drink,” she said. “If I’m on tour I don’t talk until after 12, so from 12am to 12pm I don’t speak, not if you want to be able to sing every night. You have to care of yourself, it’s a job, and if you want to do your job, you have to be fit for it.” HELEN FLANAGAN’S return to Coronation Street has not gone down well with regular fans, who believe that she can’t act and is simply playing herself, with the words provided by a script writer. A source tells me: “We have extended her contract though, as she brings glamour to the show, which is what the new boss wants to see on screen.” IF YOU’RE a fan of the cult 70s show The Persuaders, which was an action comedy series and starred Sir Roger Moore and Tony Curtis, check out the True Channel, where it’s showing nightly at 9pm. AFTER his chat show got dropped from ITV, Alan Titchmarsh can barely contain his excitement over his new Channel Five documentary series about the National Trust. He tells me: “It’s such good fun finding all kinds of secrets behind walls. I do hope that we get to make more, as I know there are lots of people like me who love to snoop around old houses.”
NEW Acorn stairlift, 4 yrs old, fits any typical straight staircase, price includes delivery and fitting by trained Acorn engineer and full 3 months’ manufacturer’s warranty, bargain at £885. Genuine private sale but please contact supplier for removal and installation. Tel 0800 073 9793, quote Ref: 199025. (2097) Sherbourne twoseater sofa in oatmeal fabric. Pristine condition, never been sat on, bargain £485, also Sherbourne chair in oatmeal fabric, in pristine condition, never been sat on, bargain £380. Tel 07961 842563. (2098) Hand-crafted designer chaise longue (unused), cream faux leather seat and arm, back and seat trim in Stewart tartan fabric, chrome legs. Also includes lumber and loose cushion in same fabric, £350. Tel 07961 842563. (2098) Child’s Razor E300 electric scooter, as new, with charger, suit 8 year old upwards, bargain £90. Tel 07961 842563. (2098) Boy’s Anaconda BMX-style bike, 14” wheels with foot pegs, suit age 9 years+. As new, £40. Tel 07961 842563. (2098) Indesit front loader washer, 9 months old, very good, clean condition. Genuine reason for sale (moving to accommodation with laundry facilities) £60 ono. Tel 01924 503501 (buyer collects) (2099) New microwave, never used, bought for use in caravan, £25. Oval, bevelled, glass top coffee table with gold-coloured legs and frame £20. Tel 01924 359621. (2100) Portable Black Jack casino dealing shoe
with cards, 400 casino chips. Table top marked layout for dealing, £25 the lot. Can deliver, tel 01274 876814. (2101) Double bed mattress, very good condition, £50; buyer to collect. Tel 01924 485972. (2102) BEDROOM FURNITURE Double wardrobe, two bedside cabinets, set of drawers, all in teak basket weave. Good condition £60. Tel 01274 959373. (2094) Sofa bed, Clive Metel futon. Black/ red mattress £130, closed 183 cm (W) x 98cm (D) x 85cm (H), extended 183cm (W) x 135cm (D) x 30cm (H). Excellent condition, tel 01274 871715 (after 5pm). (2095) Stag dressing table, 6 drawers, 3 mirrors, mist on one, hence price £27. Tel 01924 503603. (2087) Two metal guest beds with mattresses £10 each. Tel 01924 401729. (2085) Metal framed fold-up occasional bed/mattress, £20. Tel 07519 288925. (2070) CHILDREN’S GOODS/ TOYS Light oak cot, hardly used £25. Two travel cots £5 each. Maclaren pushchair (grey & check) £15. Tel 01924 403625. (2096) Large fur rocking horse, £30. Tel 01924 401729. (2085) Three wheeler, ride-on buggy with charger. £100 ONO. Tel 01924 467057. (2072) COLLECTIBLES 1950s baby black doll, made by Pedigree, £50 ono. Tel 07804 233073. (2091) COMPUTING Medion (E1210) 10” everywhere netbook, complete, boxed, good condition £25. Tel Mirfield 01924 491306. (2074) ELECTRICAL Indesit front loader washing machine.
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 Good working order £50 ono. Tel 01924 407943. (Buyer collects) (2093) Breville electric kettle, modern dome shape, cream colour, good working order, £7. Tel 01924 444000. (2079) FASHION Men’s Louis Vuitton black trainer shoes, size 8, boxed, worn only twice. Cost £500, bargain £200 ono. Tel 07804 233073. (2091) Two red ladies’ handbags (large), in red, 12” x 10” and 15” x 12”, both excellent condition, still in wrappers £20 each. Tel 01274 861904. (2071) FREE Baled, dry wood, ideal for wood burners/home use. Free to collect from local area. Tel 07580 135488. (2078) FURNITURE Black leather settee with light brown ribbed cushions, 146” x 36”, adapts to corner settee 96” x 72”. Includes separate footrest 36” x 24” and scatter cushions. Excellent condition, first to see will buy £300 ono. Tel 01924 407943. (Buyer collects) (2093) Three-piece suite in light green fabric, 3 seater/2 seater/ plus recliner chair. Reversible cushions plain/ pattern. Excellent condition, first to see will buy £300 ono. Tel 01924 407943. (Buyer collects) (2093) Multi-purpose exercise bench, needs constructing, was £86, accept £25. Buyer collects, Tel 01924 501770. (2089) Heavy, black, oval, cast aluminium garden table and 4 chairs, 2 of them carvers. Cost £700, will accept £300 ono. Tel 07804 233073. (2091) Five-drawer chest in antique pine £30 ono. Tel 07719 954892. (2088) Polished hall table £25. Tel 01924 401729. (2085) Dusky pink dralon
£1 £2 £3 £4 £5 £7 £9 £11
winged fireside chair, good condition, £25. Also blue dralon winged two-seater sofa, good condition, £50. Tel 01924 472619. (2080) Dark blue leather twoseater settee and two chairs; wood trim on arms, good condition, £150. Tel 01924 381651. (2076) GARDEN Hand Garden Groom with bag, new, cost £70, accept £30 ono. Tel 07804 233073. (2091) Black & Decker battery hedge trimmer, 20” blade, 18V, hardly used, £35. Tel 01924 430088. (2084) Garden shed, 8’ x 6’, apex roof, very strong, never used, £280 delivered & erected. Tel 01924 278949. (2081) HOUSEHOLD 36-piece Royal Doulton ‘Yorkshire Rose’ tea service, £20. Tel 01924 264330. (2075) MOTORING Four alloy wheels from Vauxhall Astra. 16” 5 stud, bargain £20. Tel 01924 476964 (Birstall) (2086) MUSICAL Large keyboard with stand £25. Tel 01924 401729. (2085) PET GOODS Black cage for small dog (as seen in Argos book), cost £30, accept £15 ono. Tel 07804 233073. (2091) SPORTING/FITNESS Aerobatron exercise machine with instructions; cross country ski-stepper-eliptical. Computer counter calories/ strides/ mins & seconds. Sturdy machine, will fold, not lightweight. Set price £49. Tel 01924 503603. (2087) Exercise bike, full body workout, £25. Tel 01924 480194. (2082) Keep fit machine all the family can use, type used in gyms using vibration, several programmes, cost £150 as new, will accept £50. Tel 01924 469652. (2083)
ThePress
22
Friday February 24, 2017
Cheer up, it might never happen! By David Bentley
A warm canine welcome MAN wrote an email to a small hotel he planned to visit on his holiday, saying: “I would very much like to bring my dog with me. He is well-groomed and very well behaved. Would you be willing to permit me to keep him in my room with me at night?” An immediate reply came from the hotel owner, who said: “I’ve been operating this hotel for many years. “In all that time, I’ve never had a dog steal towels, bedclothes, silverware or pictures off the walls. “I’ve never had to evict a dog in the middle of the night for being drunk and disorderly. “And I’ve never had a dog run out on a hotel bill. Yes, indeed, your dog is welcome at my hotel. And, if your dog will vouch for you, you’re welcome to stay here too.”
A
Gerr’em onside Q: How many rugby league fans does it take to change a light bulb? A: Seven – one to change it, five to moan about it and the coach to say that if the referee had done his job in the first place the light bulb
would never have broken.
wanted the clean cup?”
Family trait
Mixed results
A PAPER bag goes to the doctors for an examination, and is told to come back one week later for the results. Sure enough, he returns, and the doctor says: “I’ve got some rather serious news for you.” “What is it?” asks the bag. “Well, the thing is, you’ve got hepatitis.” “How can that be?”, he asks. “Well”, replies the doctor, “your mother must have been a carrier.”
A WOMAN phones up her husband at work for a chat. Him: “I’m sorry dear but I’m up to my neck in work today.” Her: “But I’ve got some good news and some bad news for you.” Him: “Okay darling, but I’ve got no time now, just give me the good news.” Her: “Well, the airbag works.”
Hero to villain
Café culture
TWO KIDS are playing football in a park in Manchester. Suddenly one of them is attacked by a rottweiler which clamps its mouth around the kid’s neck. The other youngster, seeing the danger his pal is in, picks up one of the sticks they were using as a goalpost, puts it through the dog’s collar, and using all his strength twists it until the dogs neck breaks and his friend is saved. This is all seen by a local newspaper reporter who sees a possible national headline in the incident, and goes over to the kids. “That was really heroic,” he says: “I can see it now – Heroic United fan risks life to save best friend.” “But I don’t follow United,” says the kid. “Okay, how about Super City kid
STEVE and Martin went into a café that looked as though it had seen better days. As they slid in to a booth, Martin wiped some crumbs from the seat. Then he took a napkin and wiped some moisture from the table. The waitress came over and asked if they wanted some menus. “No thanks,” said Steve. “I’ll just have a cup of black coffee.” “I’ll have black coffee too,” Martin said. “And please make sure the cup is clean.” The waitress shot him a nasty look. She turned and marched off in to the kitchen. Two minutes later, she was back. “Two cups of black coffee,” she announced. “Which one of you
fights off rabid rottweiller to save his pal?” “But I don’t follow City either,” says the kid. “Well who do you support?” asks the reporter. “Leeds,” he says. “Even better,” says the reporter. “Callous Tyke urchin murders family pet.”
because it said ‘concentrate’ on the side.
Czray tghouht
My new movie about time travel is already being tipped by critics as ‘the previous Citizen Kane’.
AOCCDRNIG to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn’t mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoetnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be at the rghit pclae. The rset can be a total mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Pttery amzanig huh?
Quickies Never hit a man with glasses. Hit him with something bigger and heavier. I use to be a proof reader. Now it doesn’t matter what the alcohol content is, I’ll drink it. Apparently a bloke from Staincliffe spent 20 minutes looking at an orange juice carton
After a deep passionate kiss, the girl whispered to the guy: “Kiss me like that once more and I will be yours forever!” The man exclaimed: “Okay, thanks for the warning.”
I keep getting a rash every time I compare one thing with another. Think I might have analogy.
Head-scratcher IF A PINT glass smashes in a forest and nobody is around to hear it, do the forest animals all step in and shout ‘Waaaay!!!’?
And finally... NUNS: Women who marry God. If they divorce him, do they get half the universe?
• Heard a funny one recently? Send your jokes and pictures to david@thepressnews.co.uk and we’ll print the best.
Talk to us
Talk to us Talk to us to us Talk to us Talk to usTalk Talk to us
Talk to us Talk
Talk to us
to us
toto us us Talk to us TalkTalk Talk to us
Talk to us Talk to us Talk to us Talk to us Talk to us
ThePress Talk to us Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us Talk to us
Talk Talk to tous us Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us Talk to us Talk to us Talk to us Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us Talk Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us to Talk usto us
Talk to us Talk to us TalkTalk to us Talk to us to us Talk to
Talk to us
Talk to us
us
Talk to us Talk to us
Talk to us Talk to us Talk to us
the only
LOCAL team you
☎ 01924 470296
Talk to us
need
Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us
Talk to us
31 Branch Road, Batley, WF17 5SB (opposite Aldi car park entrance)
www.thepressnews.co.uk
Friday February 24, 2017
ThePress
23
Classified ThePress
24
EASY ways to book your advert:
01924 470296 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)
advertising @thepressnews.co.uk The Press, 31 Branch Road, Batley, WF17 5SB
Useful Numbers 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
Want to advertise in our Classified section? Call 01924 470296 or email advertising@thepressnews.co.uk
Aerial & Satellite
MALCOLM’S AERIAL SHOP
80 Town Street, Earlsheaton, WF12 8JL
• SKY TRAINED AUTHORISED ENGINEERS • AERIAL / SKY 2ND ROOM £39 • TELEVISION / PC & LAPTOP REPAIRS
AERIALS IRS / CAT 5 TV Sales, Repairs, Wall Mounting Free estimates CAI / RDI Accredited
Business For Sale
KELLY’S CABIN
Established Mirfield garden business for sale. All equipment, vehicle and safe lock up included. For further details contact
0749 4271517 Car Boot Sale
In Focus
Sky / Freesat / Freeview / Multiroom
FREEPHONE 0800 074 8967 or 01924 450999
Open 7 Days until 8pm - Est 20yrs
☎
Friday February 24, 2017
22 Blacker Rd, Birkby, Hudds 01484 513322 /
077150 55115
Cleaning
CALDER CLEAN CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING SPECIALISTS
Call Tim Riordan on 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
01924 490241
or 07770 462239 Email: tim@calderclean.co.uk www.calderclean.co.uk
Garages
Garage Doors
Computing
Computer Problems? Sick of Cowboys?
DENCROFT GARAGES
PC DOCTOR
Concrete Garages & Sheds Dismantle & Bases Garage re-vamps Garage Doors
23 Years Experience
230 Bradford Rd, Batley Tel: 01924 461996
MAIN
07976 877 768 • No Repair, No Charge • No call out charge • We repair on site
Park House, High Road, Dewsbury Decorators
Electrical
DECORATORS
ANYTHING ELECTRICAL
David Grayshon & Son Interior & Exterior Decorators FREE ESTIMATES Insurance work undertaken
Tel: 01924 477844 / 01924 443822 Mob: 07702 373315 Fencing
TS FENCING & PROPERTY REPAIRS All type of fencing, gates, decking, flagging & patios etc All types of property repairs, general handyman work.
Any Odd Jobs Big or Small
Call Tony 07939 018428
01924 402578
ALARMS, OUTSIDE LIGHTS Electrical Cookers Repaired Supplied & Fitted, No Job Too Small, 35 Years Experience, Same Day Service Available Ring Batley:
0113 285 4563 or 07801 063911
UP+OVER DOORS fitted, repairs,
remote supply only
dencroftgarages.co.uk
from £295 PENSIONERS DISCOUNT AVAILABLE All major debit/credit cards available
Car body repairs
Imperial Motor Company 107 Bradford Road, Dewsbury Tel: 01924 461607 or 07860 754984
01924 850141 07836 723821
Gardening Services
Green & Tidy Garden Maintenance • Lawns & Hedges • Regular or One-off tidy • Weeding • Jet washing • Commercial & Domestic • Fully Insured
Joiner
Keith Thackray JOINERY
Loft conversion specialist
Any joinery work undertaken Kitchens supplied & fitted or fitted only Decking, windows & doors Kitchen & bedroom fitting Over 28 years experience For a free estimate call 01924 450325 07710 503538
FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ ThePressNews
Follow us @ThePressLatest
Master Locksmith
HARFORD’S SECURITY LTD NELSON STREET, DEWSBURY, WF13 1NA
TEL: 01924 467269 FAX: 01924 430800 MASTER LOCKSMITHS ACCESS CONTROL INTRUDER ALARM INSTALLERS WEBSITE: www.harfordssecurity.co.uk
Call Martyn 07703 858245 Fish & Chips
Plastering Joiner
TONY’S DALE LANE
FISHERIES QUALITY Traditional “ENGLISH”
“FISH & CHIPS” (The way they used to be) Open Tue, Thur, Fri, Sat
DALE LANE off WHITE LEE ROAD SAT NAV WF16 9NT
PAUL ATKINS JOINER ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reliable & professional joiner---------& uPVC window fitter -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
with over 25 years experience • Internal/external doors fitted • Flooring • Skirting boards • Locks changed • uPVC fitted • Flat pack furniture assembled • Misted up double glazing units replaced • No job too small
01924 476107 • 07769 660358
PLASTERER KEVIN SCANLAN All types of plastering est over 30 years Tel 01924 468578 Mob 07973 717336
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017 Plumbing & Heating
Roofing
SIMPSON DENNIS (Roofing Services)
CHECK FOR CARBON MONOXIDE
Any gas appliance serviced £45+VAT then £15+VAT for each of others. Combi boilers fitted with For All 7 year guarantee Your Heating Choose Experience & Plumbing T: 01924 689776 Needs M: 0758 1552797 36 Greenacres Drive, Birstall, WF17 9RA www.ecoheatingyorkshire.co.uk Property Repairs
Brunswick Maintenance Gomersal based
All property repairs carried out. Toilet problems, leaks, Windows & doors Double glazing steaming up, Fencing 30 years’ experience
Call Andy
07976 752780 Clean, reliable, friendly service
11556
ADVERTISE YOUR JOB VACANCY! CONTACT 01924 470296
Removals/Couriers
M&S REMOVALS
All roof repairs. Insurance work Re-roofing, lead and chimney work – Reduction for OAPs All work guaranteed, free estimates Established 25 years
Public Notices
ALLAN BELK
Mob: 07880 581977 Tel: 01924 468148
Approved by leading insurance companies
Roofing & property repairs, chimneys lowered, new roofs, strip and re-fix flat roofing. Free estimates. All work guaranteed
Roofing
Scrap Metal
RW Roofing & Property Repairs
WILKINSON BROS
Tel Mirfield
01924 497776 Mobile 07768 298739 www.simpsondennis-roofing.co.uk
Pointing, guttering General Maintenance All insurance work undertaken 07901 750921 01924 485168
SCRAP METAL MERCHANTS
All Types Of Metal IMMEDIATE PAYMENT
• Copper • Brass • Lead • Aluminium and all types of cable (01924) 469409 14 Heckmondwike Road, Dewsbury, WF13 3PH
Situations Vacant
STILLBARN CATTERY is looking for someone that can run the cattery at weekends. The hours of work will be Saturday 9am-11.30am and 4pm-5pm and Sunday 9am-10.30am and 4pm-5pm Sunday. Hours can be more dependent on how busy the cattery is. The successful candidate must be flexible, local, have a love for cats and be able to deal with customers in a professional manner and deal with bookings efficiently. Please contact Bev on 07456 441100 or by email bevymarlow@aol.com
Delivery & Courier Service Competitive Rates Reliable, Efficient Services
TEL:
07836 649956
FOR A FREE 01924 500401 QUOTATION ANYTIME GOODS VEHICLE OPERATOR’S LICENCE
The MOST affordable advertising with the MOST readers in North Kirklees
NL Commercials Holdings Ltd of 15 Rouse Mill Lane, Batley, WF17 5QB is applying for a licence to use 15 Rouse Mill Lane, Batley, WF17 5QB as an operating centre for 5 goods vehicles and 0 trailers. Owners or occupiers of land (including buildings) near the operating centre(s) who believe that their use or enjoyment of that land would be affected, should make written representations to the Traffic Commissioner at Hillcrest House, 386 Harehills Lane, Leeds, LS9 6NF, stating their reasons, within 21 days of this notice. Representors must at the same time send a copy of their representations to the applicant at the address given at the top of this notice. A Guide to making representations is available from the Traffic Commissioner’s Office.
25
26
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL
RUGBY LEAGUE
Reversal sees Sedge fall back Northern Counties East – Premier GARFORTH TOWN LIVERSEDGE FC
2 0
LIVERSEDGE dropped to eighth place with a 2-0 away to Garforth Town on Saturday afternoon. Sedge were convincing winners when the sides met earlier in the season, romping to a 6-0 victory in October, but they looked like a completely different side. Neither team was able to break the deadlock in the first half as both struggled to create any real openings. Brandon Kane had the best chance for the visitors just after the interval. The ball was played through to him on the right side of the area but he was unable to slot his effort past the keeper. Garforth sub Sean Hunter was first on the scoresheet as he scrambled the ball home from close range after Sedge failed to clear a free kick. Keeper Sam Andrews made a spectacular save moments later as he tipped the ball over the bar. Mark Simpson sealed the win, scoring in his ninth consecutive game, hitting a free kick into the bottom corner from the left. Liversedge travel to fourth-placed Thackley tomorrow afternoon.
Evo-Stik 1st Division North OSSETT ALBION PRESCOT CABLES
3 0
ALBION’S hopes of survival got a huge boost as they cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory at home to relegation rivals Prescot Cables on Saturday. Albion were on the wrong end of a 5-0 scoreline in January but took the lead in the 10th minute when a ball over the top found Rob Bordman, who held off a strong challenge before lobbing over Marcus Burgess in the Prescot goal. Bordman continued to cause problems and had a shot tipped wide on the half hour. Albion doubled their lead four minutes before the interval when the ball was laid off to Ross Hardaker who fired into the top corner. Ossett continued to dominate for the majority of the second half. Bordman notched his third in two games from the penalty spot after Jimmy Eyles was pulled down. The result sees Albion stay in 17th position but now puts them 12 points clear of the relegation places.
SCARBOROUGH TOWN OSSETT TOWN
2 0
OSSETT Town were unable to get back to winning ways as they drew 0-0 away at Scarborough Athletic on Tuesday evening. It means Town have taken just one point from their last two fixtures after a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Colne on Saturday. Town face a tough test tomorrow afternoon as they face table-toppers Lancaster City (3pm), however a win could see them climb a further place into third.
Rams hurting after third loss on bounce Kingstone Press Championship
TOULOUSE OLYMPIQUE 56 DEWSBURY RAMS 2 at Stade Ernest Argeles A DAZZLING flurry of tries either side of half-time ensured an emphatic victory for the French side as Dewsbury’s dismal start to the season took a turn for the worse. The Rams kept their hosts to just one try in the first half hour but were out of the game after 50 minutes and have now just managed eight points in losing their opening three Championship fixtures. Spring-like conditions were the order of the day which was a relief to Toulouse – at least after their debacle in the quagmire at Sheffield. The firm playing conditions benefited both sides as Dewsbury enjoyed good possession from the kick-off. The home side looked tentative and made errors as they looked too eager to take the game to their opponents, conceding cheap penalties in the opening 10 minutes. The first penalty awarded to Dewsbury in the French half – in front of the posts about 35 metres out – was well kicked by half-back Paul Sykes but a second penalty shortly after from a few metres less was pushed wide. The Rams looked confident as good passages of passing and fine support play put the home side under pressure. The French outfit attacked sporadically but were let down by their final pass. They atoned for previous mistakes after 16 minutes when full-back Kheirallah kicked to the right corner on the last, where the perfectly-weighted lob was collected cleanly by right winger Tony Maurel with the Dewsbury left side looking on. Again Kheirallah converted. Dewsbury continued to push forward and looked menacing, but Toulouse defended competently and took advantage of a concentration
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
lapse by Dom Speakman as his pass outside to Dale Morton was intercepted 10 metres from the French line by Stan Robin. His quick turn of pace wrong-footed the opponents and they could only watch as he sprinted to the right corner. Kheirallah kicked the extras again on the half hour mark. Then it was the Kuni Minga show as the 23-year-old PNG-born winger made his mark either side of the half-time interval with three game-changing tries. The first was set up on 34 minutes as concentrated pressure from right to left from Con Mika, Kheirallah, Curran and Ader ended with the speedy winger picking up cleanly to dive in the left corner. His second came from a blistering run after picking up the ball in his ingoal area. Minga picked up and proceeded to run the length of the pitch to heap more misery on the visitors. Kheirallah kicked the two goals as the first half ended with Dewsbury well under the cosh. Glenn Morrison was no doubt hoping for better things but it was the same old story in the second period as the French continued to pile on the points. On 44 minutes Kheirallah picked up a failed grubber kick on his own 15 metres and burst through the middle with ease, spotted Minga to his left in good support and the perfectly timed
THORNHILL TROJANS face a tough BARLA National Cup trip to Thatto Heath on Saturday. A win in the delayed secondround game will earn them a home quarter final tie against Upton in April. The club is holding a season launch party on Saturday night at the Overthorpe Park clubhouse with entertainment from a Neil DIamond tribute act. Entry is free and there will be an auction to raise funds for the club. The Trojans kick off their league season at home to Wigan St Judes on March 4.
MATCH STATS:
Dom Speakman – pass intercepted for try pass 40 metres from the line was snapped up and the predictable outcome followed with Minga ending up under the posts with the Rams defenders unable to stem the flow. Next up hooker Kane Bentley found powerful young prop Bastien Canet on hand to crash over left of the posts. More points from Kheirallah as the full-back was at the forefront eight minutes later, the unmarked Egyptian kicking through to his left 20 metres out, with the excellent Rhys Curran out-thinking the opponents by diving on the ball to complete the classy try. This time Kheirallah proved he is human as the goal attempt hit the post and rebounded out. There was another miss 10 minutes later as more great creativity from hooker Bentley gave Mika his try on the left. Toulouse were in cruise mode now and it looked like they could score at will as Dewsbury’s resolve crumbled. However the hosts had to wait until the 77th minute for another try, centre Ader breaking away on the left and diving over in the corner into the left corner before Canet completed his double with the final play of the game. Kheirallah made it eight from 10 attempts as the final hooter put Dewsbury out of their misery.
HEAVY WOOLLEN SUNDAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Albion ladies fighting on CRICKET BOYS ON TOP OSSETT Albion take on Courts City at Dimple Wells on Sunday still needing points to be certain of survival in the North East Regional League, and a victory over a team currently only one point behind, will go a long way to securing Southern Division status. A 3-1 defeat at Doncaster Belles was a setback after a recent upturn in fortune, but with the teams below them failing to win their outlook is still positive. Farsley Celtic made it 11 wins out of 11 when bottom club Malet Lambert conceded their game at Farsley to leave the West Leeds club odds-on to win promotion. In the West Riding County League Ossett Town and Battyeford SC are looking increasingly unlikely to avoid the bottom two places in the Premier Division, though all credit should go to Town for a fighting display at home to promotion-chasing Tingley Athletic before going down to a 6-4 defeat. On Sunday second-bottom
Town go to Brayton Belles in a must-win game to have an outside chance of survival, while Battyeford are at home to a Brighouse Athletic side still harbouring hopes of the title. A defeat for Battyeford will confirm their relegation and bring to an end the superb run that took them through the divisions to the top flight in the County League. Dewsbury Rangers, with games in hand on the clubs above them, are handily placed to improve on their fourth position in Division Two – and the runners-up spot isn’t impossible. Rangers were 6-3 winners over Skipton Town and face a trip to Boroughbridge next. Ossett Town Reserves, beaten 2-1 at Silsden Development, are all but doomed to relegation while in Division Three Lower Hopton’s promotion hope are hanging by a thread despite a 4-2 win at Ilkley. Hopton are in joint second with Middleton but have played three games more.
BIRSTALL CC climbed to the top of the Premier Division with a 6-1 win against bottom side Heckmondwike Sports Club. Elliot Williams led the way with a hat-trick with Jonny Beverley (2) and Ryan Kerragher also finding the net. Kieran Senior scored for Heckmondwike in a result that sees Birstall lead the table by two points, though second-placed St John Fisher have four games in hand. Oliver Rounding netted both as Mirfield Town went third after a 2-1 win over seventh-placed Navigation. Linthwaite maintained their one hundred per cent record winning in the Championship as they beat Overthope Sports Club 4-1 away. Tom Ramsden put the home side in front but a hat-trick from Tyrone Gay, sent Linthwaite eight clear. Slip Inn Hounds are in second after they could only draw 3-3 with Hanging Heaton CC, who scored through James Keen, Tristan BatleyKyle and Tom Wigglesworth. Adam Hill hit the game’s only goal as Wellington Westgate beat bottom
side St John Fisher Reserves 1-0 to remain in fifth place. Roberttown Rovers moved back to the top of Division One with a 9-2 win at Ravenswharfe, Matthew Bolton hit four and, Reiss Brook bagged a hat-trick while Dean Vernon and Adam Williams got one apiece. Sam Hewitt and Andy Gott replied for Ravenswharfe. Deighton WMC enjoyed a 5-1 win over promotion-chasing Old Bank WMC, William Evans netting Old Bank’s consolation. Elsewhere Clifton Rangers Res and Saville Arms drew 2-2. Tom Hirst fired a hat-trick as Division Two leaders Overthorpe SC Reserves won 5-2 at home to Clifton Rangers A, Gareth Marshall and Michael Hutton bagged the others as Overthorpe opened up a three-point gap at the top. Wire Works are in second place after Connor Kaye, Eddie Hamlet, Michael Pell, Liam McManus and Steven Massey netted in a 5-2 win at Dewsbury Utd, who replied through Danny Laidlaw and Ross Ewart.
TOULOUSE OLYMPIQUE 1. Mark Kheirallah 8 2. Tony Maurel 8 3. Bastien Ader 8 4. Greg White 8 5. Kuni Minga 9 26. Constantine Mika 8 7. Stanislas Robin 8 8. Clement Boyer 8 24. Anthony Marion 8 16. Tyla Hepi 8 11. Sebastien Planas 8 12. Rhys Curran 9 13. Andrew Bentley 8 Subs: 9. Kane Bentley 9 10. Bastien Canet 8 15. Maxime Puech 8 17. Kalausa Leha 8 Tries: Maurel (16), Robin (30), Minga (35, 39, 44), Canet (47, 80), Curran (56), Mika (65), Ader (77). Goals: Kheirallah (8/10). DEWSBURY RAMS 23. James Glover 5. Gareth Potts 2. Hamish Barnes 3. Jason Crookes 2. Dale Morton 6. Paul Sykes 17. Dom Speakman 24. Jode Sheriffe 15. Robbie Ward 10. Mitch Stringer 4. Lucas Walshaw 12. Scott Hale 13. Aaron Brown Subs: 8. Tony Tonks 16. Toby Adamson 18. Jack Teanby 20. Aaron Ollett Tries: None. Goals: Sykes 1/2.
7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 7 7 8 7 8 8 7
Referee: T Grant Half-time: 24 -2 Penalties: 10-9 Sin Bin: None Sent Off: None Weather: Fine Man of the Match: Kuni Minga (Toulouse) Attendance: 1,438 Match Rating: 4/5
Swimmer Ian goes on the run!
SPENBOROUGH Swimming Club’s dedicated committee member Ian Johnson is taking part in this year’s London Marathon to raise awareness and funds for the charity SENSE. SENSE supports people who are deaf, blind, have sensory impairment or complicated needs to enjoy more independent lives. The swimming club has made a donation to the cause and anyone else who wishes to donate can do so at Ian’s JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Ian-Johnson43
ThePress
Friday February 24, 2017
RUGBY LEAGUE
RUGBY UNION
No consolation for 300-game Dom Kingstone Press Championship
BATLEY BULLDOGS 6 FEATHERSTONE R 32 at Fox’s Biscuits Stadium FEATHERSTONE made it three wins from three to start the Championship season after a comfortable defeat of Batley. Though Dom Brambani marked his 300th career appearance with a 51st-minute score, Rovers were dominant either side of his try which was converted by Pat Walker. Fev led 14-0 at half-time thanks to two tries from Ian
Moor into cup quarter-finals DEWSBURY MOOR notched a terrific 30-4 win over Hull side Skirlaugh to book a place in the quarter-finals of the BARLA National Cup. A pair of tries for man of the match George Croisdale and scores for Dom Hale, Jacob Flathers with a great 70metre effort, and Jordan McNally set the pace, with Flathers adding all five conversions for a 14-point haul. Moor’s reward is a home tie against Hunslet Club Parkside. They open their league season on March 4 vs Stanningley, away.
Hardman and three goals from Michael Knowles. Knowles added three more goals in the second half alongside tries for Ash Handley, Luke Briscoe and Keal Carlile which took the game away from the hosts and left Rovers with one of only two perfect Championship records in 2017, alongside Hull KR. However, in front of a healthy crowd, Batley, playing down the Mount Pleasant slope, began the game well on top. A flurry of penalties went against the visitors early on, and Knowles was sin-binned six minutes in, but Rovers soaked up a mountain of pressure. Their work was rewarded on 13 minutes as they launched their first attack of the game and Hardman touched down after a Bradley Knowles-Tagg break. Ash Handley couldn’t convert, but Knowles returned to kick his side 6-0 up with a penalty on 26 minutes, before the back rower made it 8-0 on the stroke of halftime. There was still time for Rovers to increase their advantage as Luke Briscoe ripped 50 metres downfield before sending Hardman over for his second of the day. Knowles added the extras for 14-0 at the break. Fev flew out of the blocks in the second half as both Carlile and
27
NO JOY FOR OSSETT SIDES
MATCH STATS:
Handley were denied in quick succession, before Handley got on the end of a slick short-side move involving Chris Ulugia to go over out wide. Knowles added the touchline goal, leaving Batley with a 20-0 mountain to climb. A glimmer of hope followed as Brambani, a stand-out in a difficult day for the home side, pulled off a superb individual effort, jinking through the defence. Pat Walker converted to make it 20-6, but that was as good as it got for the hosts. Knowles got the scoreboard ticking over once again with his third penalty of the match on the hour mark. Luke Briscoe then got over in the corner to stretch the visitors’ lead out to 20 points, Knowles going wide with the conversion attempt. With 15 minutes to play, man of the match John Davies was brought off after an immense defensive effort, to the acclaim of the visiting contingent, but that didn’t halt Rovers’ dominance. Carlile, the former Sheffield Eagles and Hull KR hooker, was next to go over, on 71 minutes, as he crashed over beside the posts for a simple score. Knowles tagged on the extras to round off the scoring on a successful afternoon for Rovers, who travel to Swinton next week.
BATLEY BULLDOGS 1. Dave Scott 2. Wayne Reittie 3. Sam Smeaton 4. Macauley Hallett 5. Shaun Ainscough 13. Pat Walker 7. Dom Brambani 16. Tom Lillycrop 9. Alistair Leak 21. James Brown 22. Dane Manning 19. Alex Bretherton 11. Brad Day Subs: 14. James Davey 15. Will Maher 17. Joe Chandler 10. Alex Rowe Tries: Brambani (51). Goals: Walker 1/1. FEATHERSTONE ROVERS 1. Ian Hardman 5. Luke Briscoe 22. Jason Walton 3. Chris Ulugia 24. Ash Handley 7. Anthony Thackeray 19. Matty Wildie 10. Andrew Bostock 9. Keal Carlile 32. Jordan Baldwinson 11. Michael Knowles 12. John Davies 15. Bradley Knowles-Tagg Subs: 6. Kyle Briggs 23. Josh Hardcastle 14. Frankie Mariano 13. Richard Moore Tries: Hardman (13, 39), Handley (45), Briscoe (63), Carlile (71). Goals: Handley 0/1, Knowles 6/7.
6 5 6 7 6 5 7 6 6 6 6 5 6 6 5 6 7
Leigh Learie carries for Ossett at York RI 8 8 6 7 7 7 7 6 7 7 9 9 7 6 6 7 6
Referee: G Hewer Half time: 0-14 Penalties: 12-9 Sin Bin: Knowles Sent Off: None Weather: Mild Man of the match: John Davies Attendance: 1,385 Match Rating: 3/5
Sharks take derby honours
York Railway Inst Ossett RUFC
27 22
OSSETT were unable to build on their 10-3 win against Hessle at York Railway Institute. They missed an early penalty and were made to pay when York made no mistake with their chance to kick for goal. Ossett weren’t behind for long as Jason Kay scored the first of his two tries to carry on his scoring streak with a wellworked try. Ossett dominated in the opening 20 but couldn’t put any more points on the board. They were left to rue missed chances as York ran in three tries before half time. Mark Fisher and Ben Jennings tackled hard for Ossett, Fisher with some of the best clearing out of the half prevented York going over again against a side very quick to get over the ball at the ruck. Nathan Spurr and Mark Buckborough came on for the start of the second half and Spurr immediately made his presence felt, running hard. Kay scored his second try of the afternoon with a jinking run through the York line to put
PHOTO: RON WHITE
Ossett back in the contest. Ossett had the hosts pinned on their own 22 but a breakaway saw York score under the sticks to earn a bonus point. Ossett’s play of the game came when Alan Grogan saw Joe Rotchell calling for the ball in open field, and a nifty punt over the top saw Rotchell beat the winger with a great turn of pace and collect to score. Mark Fisher then scored in the corner and Leigh Learie, once again outstanding in the loose, stepped up to convert from the touchline with 90 seconds to go. A clean take from the kick-off saw Chris White carry the ball up and produce quick ball at the ruck, but a knock-on two phases later meant Ossett were unable to snatch an unlikely victory. OSSETT 2nds also travelled to York RI and were defeated 41-24. Ossett raced into a 12-0 lead, but York took charge and scored 31 points without reply. Ossett responded well with two tries to cut the deficit to seven points, but York stretched away at the end. Both teams are at home this weekend, the 1st XV vs Knaresborough in the Cup and the 2nds vs Morley 3rds.
CLECK STUCK IN MIRE Kendall Cleckheaton
Ben Restall Memorial Trophy
DEWSBURY CELTIC
20
SHAW CROSS SHARKS
26
at Crow Nest Park SHAW CROSS beat their local rivals in a fiercely contested derby at Crow Nest Park on Saturday afternoon. Joe Buggle’s try five minutes from time proved the difference as Sharks held off a spirited second-half fightback. Shaw Cross head coach Brett Turner was pleased with his side in the first half but feels that too much complacency creeped in, in the second 40 minutes. “I don’t think I can take a positive from that second half at all,” said Turner. “We were just really dumb, we tend to do that at times whenever we get in front and we need to get that out of us. I do think we have improved gradually every game
DEWSBURY BRIDGE CLUB: Tuesday February 21st: 1. G Bloom and M Loveridge; 2. M Watson and J Sheth; 3. J Tomlinson and G Fishwick; 4. A Cooper and J Bragg
The Celtic and Sharks squads, who played for the Ben Restall Memorial Trophy and I hope to see more improvement in our last preseason game against Eastmoor on Friday.” Celtic coach Danny Thomas felt his team showed a lot of desire and was pleased with their performance. He said: “I’m happy, we have got a young group and it is about the future for us, we got relegated last year and it is all about building for this season and next. Today was just a stepping stone, it’s a local derby which got a bit heated at times, we came across a bigger team and a more experienced team but I think we held our own so I’m happy.” Shaw Cross stormed into a 20-point lead in 20 first-half minutes. Danny Flowers was first on the scoresheet as he received the ball on the right wing and barged through the tacklers to get the ball down with 18 minutes played. Aiden Chandler was next over as he broke the line 10 metres out to score. Fantastic play from Sam Ottewell and Nathan Smith allowed the Sharks to move off their own line and score with a 100m set. The visitors were in a confi-
dent mood and scored their third try when Tom Griffiths forced his way over the line from close range. Chandler doubled his personal tally for the afternoon as he managed to squeeze his arm out of the tackle to get the ball down and give Shaw Cross a 20point advantage. Nathan Smith was then sent to the sin-bin for a high tackle. Celtic took full advantage of the extra man and scored from the next set. They had three Foulstone brothers on show, with Mike and Pat starting the game, but it was youngest brother Paul who came off the bench and produced a man of the match performance. Paul got the first try as he stepped inside off the right wing and raced over and he caused problems for Shaw Cross at the beginning of the second half as he scored his and Celtic’s second try. Quick feet saw him jink through the Sharks defence to score. The hosts looked to have scored their third only minutes later as Josh West picked the ball from dummy half but he was held up just short
of the line. Jacob Lindley did get Celtic’s third try when he gathered a magnificent offload from Paul Foulstone on the left wing to cut the gap to four points. Buggle’s try came at the perfect time for Cross as he quelled the fightback. He found a gap to give his team a 10-point lead. The home side were last on the scoreboard as Dominic Senior chipped the ball over the defence and showed lightning speed to chase the ball down to score. Pat Foulstone added two goals. Cross held on for the victory and almost reached the 30-point mark but Thomas Ripley was held up on the line a minute from time. Over £1,000 was raised for the Friends in Deed charity.
Celtic seek coach CELTIC are running a second team in the Yorkshire Men’s League this year – which starts in April – and are looking for a Level Two qualified coach. Anyone interested should call 07850 605294.
22 7
CLECKHEATON RUFC remain in danger of relegation as they lost their fourth consecutive game away to Kendal on Saturday. It meant that Kendal completed the double over Cleck after their 25-15 win in October. Cleckheaton now sit two points above the drop but have played a game more than Morley, who occupy 12th place. After a tight opening quarter a penalty goal from Chris Park put the hosts in front. Josh Hall scored Cleckheaton’s only try of the game after he refused to give up the chase on a kick through. He was first to the ball and showed good feet as he kicked ahead all the way to the tryline before touching down. Kendall regained the lead after a penalty was awarded allowing the hosts to move
up the field. The Moorenders were unable to hold out and the home forwards drove over the line for Robbie Collinson to score. Cleck were to find themselves further behind well into first-half injury time. Try-scorer Josh Hall was sin-binned for a high tackle and Kendal made the most of the extra man as they stole the ball in a scrum and Joe Robinson was on hand to score. Team captain Richard Piper was also shown yellow as Kris Batton added Kendall’s third with just under an hour played. Cleckheaton’s miserable afternoon was not over as Josh Hall was shown a straight red for what was described as a punch to the head. The Moorenders’ next game is at home to Billingham, who Cleck defeated 27-7 when the sides met back in November.
SPEN VALLEY LEAGUE FOOTBALL: A high-scoring weekend saw 54 goals scored across five games. Shahid Patel scored a hat-trick for SAVILE YOUTH but it was not enough as they were beaten 9-3 by ATHLETICO, with Mohammed Raaj netting a hat-trick. A brace from Zubair Khan helped PALESTINO see off GIRLINGTON 4-2, with Theo Bujra and Nathaniel Dacres also getting their names on the scoresheet for Palestino. In the First Division GEORGE HEALEY hit double figures as they beat Marsh 10-0. Luke Newsome scored four of the goals, while man of the match Lewis Body notched a brace. Cyrus Church also scored in what was his last game for the side. INTER BATLEY won 8-1 against HOWDEN CLOUGH and DEWSBURY WEST SIDE lost 5-3 at home to SAVILE TOWN.
Batley need consistency after Featherstone defeat BATLEY coach Matt Diskin is looking for more consistency from his Bulldogs side as they travel to face Sheffield Eagles on Sunday (3pm), writes BEN McKENNA. Batley have won one and lost two of their games so far this season after their 32-6 home defeat against Featherstone Rovers last Sunday. They controlled the opening 20 minutes but were unable to find a way through the Featherstone line early on. Diskin feels it is time for the players to draw a line under the achievements of last season, as they aim to emulate the same heroics with another top four finish. “The lads had a fantastic season last year, maybe a little of that is still sitting with a few who think that they don’t need to do the hard
work,” he said. “From our point of view we have got to put a line under last year. “Last year was a great year, it was a great achievement for the club. The reason the players got there was because the players worked hard for each other. We have got to get back to that and I’m confident we will.” The Bulldogs boss felt his side were second best in all departments against Featherstone, and that there is plenty of room for improvement against Sheffield. He said: “I don’t think it was a good performance from us last weekend, Featherstone were very good, I thought they dominated just about every aspect of the game. “The first 20 minutes we had plenty of opportunity, we created overlaps, we had more numbers but we were too lateral in attack and
needed to be more direct and take advantage, which we didn’t. “I think the lads didn’t handle the pressure of not scoring, they were frustrated when they weren’t scor-
ing in the first 20 minutes and you could see that as we conceded two tries against the run of play. “We need to be better at dealing with pressure situations, dealing with frustration and it is a continual process in educating the players how to deal with that.” Sheffield themselves have endured an inconsistent start to the season, having lost twice, but they notched an impressive 32-14 win over Toulouse in their second game, and Diskin is unsure what to expect from his opponents this Sunday. He said: “I think a lot depends on who falls back from their dual registration with Leigh. “You look at a couple of weeks ago with that number they did on Toulouse – they played some great rugby and those Leigh players made a massive contribution
Rams’ miserable run continues in south of France
Sawyer worried by slump in form By Ben McKenna DEWSBURY Rams chairman Mark Sawyer admits that is he “concerned” with the club’s start to the season in the Kingstone Press Championship after their 56-2 defeat to French side Toulouse Olympique last weekend. Dewsbury have lost all three of their games so far and haven’t won a fixture, competitive or friendly, since September last year, leaving them without a win in eight games. Sawyer feels that the performances have been worrying as Dewsbury have only managed to score a total of eight points – one try and two penalties – in three games. “I’m disappointed with the Toulouse and Rochdale performances, we played okay against Swinton but just couldn’t get over the line. They took the benefit of our failure and scored late on,” said Sawyer. “It’s certainly concerning with the level of defeat in two of the games, we need to find a win fairly quickly and we need to turn things around very quickly. “If you find yourself a win or two behind and a bit off the pace it is very hard to pull back.” Sawyer struggled to find many positives when reflecting on the Rams’ start to the league season and feels that the dual registration agreement with Wakefield may play a big role as the injury list begins to get longer. He said: “We only have a small squad this season and we are already picking up numerous injuries. “There aren’t players in the market to sign and the dual-reg is important for us until one or two players come back.” Bradford Bulls’ points deduction is the only thing keeping Dewsbury from propping up the table, but Sawyer believes
SAWYER: ‘We have got to improve’
MORRISON: ‘Need to create in halves’
that the team can begin to turn things around. He said: “We just need to stick in there, we have been through difficult periods before, the division is getting harder and harder, it’s just a case of seeing how well we defended against Swinton and showing we can do it. “In the Toulouse match we picked up two or three quite serious injuries but that still doesn’t justify the scoreline. “Glenn is not happy with the way we are playing and he realises we have got to turn it around. “When you come up with scorelines where you’re losing by 50 points, the
lads know we have got to improve. “We have got to bounce back, even professional rugby league teams have bad results. If you look at Super League’s results they bounce back and we need to bounce back very quickly. “We can’t afford to be dropping off the pace, the budget we have got isn’t the biggest in the division but it certainly isn’t the lowest so we should be doing better. “I understand it is disappointing for the fans, it is disappointing for myself, we have just got to hope the players can pull together and do a lot better than in the case of the Toulouse match.”
towards that. “They struggled at the weekend against Halifax, so much like ourselves they are struggling for a bit of consistency so it should be an interesting game. “What I’m after at the moment is some quality performances, we need to add some consistency to the quality we have and the results will begin to look after themselves,” added Diskin. Batley will be able to welcome Adam Gledhill back into consideration as he edges closer to a return from injury, and new signing Joel Farrell should also be available this week as he makes his return from injury. Batley have suffered an injury blow as loose forward Danny Bravo has torn his ACL and will most likely be out for the remainder of the season.
Dewsbury’s attack lacking cutting edge DEWSBURY boss Glenn Morrison believes that his side need to start being more creative in their attacking play if they are to start winning games this season, starting this Sunday when they take on the London Broncos at the Tetley’s Stadium (3pm). The Rams slumped to heavy defeat last Saturday evening as they conceded 10 tries against Toulouse Olympique. Morrison praised the work of his forwards but was disappointed with his backs as they failed to create any real openings in the south of France. “We weren’t too bad last week, which may sound a bit funny when you consider the scoreline, our half-backs and full-back are the areas where you need people to create and they didn’t create,” said Morrison. “Our last-tackle options were poor and they (Toulouse) scored a lot of length-of-the-field tries. “I think the forwards have been doing their job. We need to come up with people who can break teams down, stick to a plan and stick some points on the board.” Morrison also believes that he needs to look at other options in the back row if he wants his side to pose a threat going forward. He said: “It’s going to be a tough day at the office, many have picked London to be in the top two this year but we’ll do our best. “I thought the energy levels against Swinton were great,
everyone pulled in, but if we want to score some tries and move up that table we need some halves that are going to create. We are looking at getting the right people in for that.” The Rams have been hit hard with injuries so far this season, and Morrison has said that they will need to rely on their dual registration deal with Wakefield to bolster the squad for Sunday’s game. He said: “We have plenty of injuries at the minute, we don’t have big numbers about so we are looking at this stage to get a team on the park, which is not ideal. “We are going to have to take a couple from the dualreg. We have got Aaron Brown, Dom Speakman and Jack Teanby all out and that’s just from injuries picked up last week. We have just got to stay positive, we need to be controlled at the right end of the field to break teams down and build pressure and we have been working hard on that this week. “We may have some new players in the creative positions to see if they can do the job but we have got to start turning things around and getting some points on the board or it’s going to be a long, long year.” Dewsbury will be boosted by the potential returns of second-rower Rob Spicer and full-back Josh Gudzek. Liam Coe, who Dewsbury signed from amateur side West Bowling, could also be in contention for Sunday’s game as the injury list has continued to lengthen.