The Scallymag Hudds - Issue 4

S CA LL Y A G M

THE

速

North Huddersfield, Fixby, Birkby, Lindley, Marsh, Edgerton, Bradley, Sheepridge and Surrounding Areas

DIARIES

FEATURES Literacy

Pre-School and Out-of-School Activities

Huddersfield Food & Drink Festival Newby Hall

Summer Reading Challenge Latest Books

Health

News

Focus On

Health & Fitness with Jackie Braddock

Kirklees Markets Family Law Advice

Schools, Childcare

1st Year Anniversary Issue!

June 2013

Issue 4

For Local Parents, Carers & Kids

FREE

Book your place in the scallymag - advertise now contact elaine - 07976 707415 / 01484 722662

Front cover winner Many thanks to The Motherhub, Lindley for supplying some fantastic Summer paintings and drawings.

Congratulations to Molly Baird, who created the beautiful, colourful Summer butterfly print. Molly’s prize is a three-week trial of Pyjama Drama workshops plus a CD of original music used in class. The Prize has been kindly donated by:

Christine Hudson of Pyjama Drama, Huddersfield www.pyjamadrama.com A very special thank you to all parents and members of The Motherhub who helped to co-ordinate the competition.

Classes and Birthday Parties in Hud To try a class or for more information pleas 01924 919422 or email christine@

 

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WELCOME WELCOME! A very warm welcome to the Summer issue of The Scallymag.

This is a particularly special issue as it coincides with our birthday, marking our first successful year of serving Huddersfield families. We celebrated in style with a delicious cake courtesy of The Almond Bakery in Shelley.

We are also marking the occasion by upping our page count, providing you with even more news, features, information about what’s happening in and around Kirklees and ideas for fantastic family days out.

Over the past 12 months I have been privileged to meet a whole host of inspirational local people working to provide a variety of initiatives that help to improve the lives of children and their families.

Staff and volunteers at Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice, our chosen charity for the year, figure among them and in this issue, you can catch up with all that has been going on at the hospice and its plans for the future.

Not only that, but you can read about the success of Huddersfield Town Foundation’s Early Kick-Off breakfast clubs, keep up-to-date with fairtrade duo, fairandfunky, at Kirklees Markets and learn about the opening of LoveBread, a community supported bakery.

Our fabulous double page spread on Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival 2013 will tell you everything you need to know about what’s on for families at the biggest free event of its kind in Yorkshire.

We also welcome Jackie Braddock, a local nutritionist, to our health page and provide advice on healthy eating, food allergies and free vitamin schemes.

We tackle family legal matters with Makin Dixon, find out how Freedom Personal Safety workshops can help your children learn about everyday dangers and focus on childcare options.

Fiona Woodhead tells the story of how she became a published children’s author, there is our regular literacy page with The Children’s Bookshop, Lindley, a chance to win tickets to an outdoor performance at the Lawrence Batley Theatre and you can find out how to get your kids involved in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

Don’t forget to check out our diary pages to find out what’s on, our favourite Father’s Day events and keep an eye out for information on Lindley Carnival and Holmfirth Arts Festival.

I hope you enjoy our bumper Summer issue and would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have made it possible, particularly our advertisers and schools, whose support ensures we can continue to bring you a quality family publication absolutely free.

CONTENTS

Front Cover Art Competition Winner Page 2 News Kirklees Markets get fairandfunky Page 4 LoveBread Bakehouse Opens Focus On Schools - Early Kick-Off Breakfast Clubs Page 5 Competition Dotty the Dragon Page 6 Focus On Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice Page 7 Out & About Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival Page 8 Health Health & Fitness with Jackie Braddock Page 11 Diary Pages Pre-school Diary Page 12 Out of School Diary Page 14 Out & About

Newby Hall Page 16 News Legal Advice Drop-in Sessions Page 17 Stay Safe Children’s Workshops Focus On

Childcare Page 18 Events Lindley Carnival Page 20 Holmfirth Arts Festival Page 21 Literacy Mum Turned Children’s Author Page 22 The Children’s Bookshop Page 23

Contact us

To discuss and book advertising space, ideas for future articles or just to let us know what you think of the magazine, please get in touch by any of the following means: 0 11 Church St, Rastrick, Brighouse, HD6 3NF 8 elaine@thescallymag.co.uk  07976 707415 / 01484 722 662 R www.thescallymag.co.uk The Scallymag (North Huddersfield) @ScallymagHudds

Editor: Elaine Jinks-Turner Lay-out & Design: Gary Turner Publishing: The Scallymag Distribution: Many thanks to all schools, groups and other businesses that help with the distribution of The Scallymag® Special Thanks: To all advertisers whose contribution ensures the magazine can be distributed free-of-charge Editorial & Advertising: Elaine Jinks-Turner Photography: © Gary Turner Disclaimer: Whilst every care is taken to ensure the information contained in this magazine is true, accurate and fair, the publisher cannot take any responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions, or for events arising from the use of this information.

Any statements or opinions given in the magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher and no products and services mentioned in articles or adverts are officially endorsed by them. © The Scallymag ® 2012 All content of this magazine is copyright. No part of it may be reproduced by any means or in any form without written permission from the publisher. The Scallymag® is a registered trademark of Catalyze Enterprises Ltd.

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NEWS

K

irklees Markets have teamed up with fairandfunky to offer free children’s craft workshops with a fairtrade theme.

The Scallymag caught up with Helen Robinson and Sophie Bebb, who set up the community interest company just over a year ago, while they were busy making recycled superhero masks to celebrate World Fairtrade Day 2013.

The pair were at UpMarket Sundays – a new monthly craft and local produce market which takes place at Huddersfield Open Market at Brook Street.

Helen said: “The workshops are absolutely free and they are so easy for people to come along to, join in and

KIRKLEES MARKETS GET

interact with their kids.”

As well as occasional appearances at UpMarket Sundays, fairandfunky can now be found at Queensgate Market, Huddersfield, on the third Saturday of every month for a ‘SCRAPtastic’ workshop, part of the ‘Make It and Take It’ series. On the first Thursday of every month, they also head to Holmfirth Market for a drop-in workshop.

Sophie said: “The workshops have been really popular, especially the Queensgate Market ones. There are so many people regularly walking through and they often leave what their children have made, go off and do their shopping and then collect it on the way back.”

The pair are passionate about positive change for the environment and challenging established attitudes, with

a view to encouraging people to shop responsibly, paying particular attention to where their products have come from.

Aside from their regular workshops, they are planning a fairandfunky Family Fun Day which is due to take place on August 4, 2013 at Holmfirth Market between 10am and 4pm. As well as a recycling craft workshop, there will be a variety of stalls, games and live music. On September 22, 2013, they are planning a fairandfunky Family Food Day. Fairandfunky will also be making an appearance at this year’s Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival with three different workshops on offer and have been heavily involved in ‘Holmfirth Driftwood’, a project in association with Holmfirth Arts Festival – see our special features for full details of both events.

..NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS ... NEWS .... NEWS..

LOVEBREAD BAKEHOUSE OPENS

H

ow often do you shop locally – all the time, every other day, once a week or not at all?

When the hustle and bustle of daily life takes over, it is easy to opt for the convenience of a supermarket rather than visiting independent stores.

But with the recent horse meat scandal, more of us are beginning to question the origin of our food and the ingredients it contains before we are willing to serve it up to our families.

LoveBread, a new community supported bakery, which has opened its doors in Brighouse, is hoping to inspire people to buy locally and take small steps in changing the way they shop.

Founding member, Carole Roberts, said: “All our bread is handmade using local ingredients to traditional recipes with the four key ingredients – organic flour, water, yeast and salt. There are no artificial flavourings or preservatives in any of our

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bread.”

The bakery, at Martin Street, was officially opened by the retiring Mayor of Calderdale, Councillor John Hardy, who cut a ribbon around the newly refurbished bread oven which was bought via Ebay using a grant from the Community Foundation for Calderdale – the Mayor’s charity.

LoveBread is a not for profit organisation staffed by bakers and volunteers from the community.

Carole said: “It was quite overwhelming to see such support for our project – many thanks to everyone who has helped us get to this point and beyond.”

The bakery sold out of bread within an hour on the day it opened but loaves are readily available on Saturdays between 10am and 12pm from the bakehouse and also from Ryecorn Wholefoods, Brighouse, and a number of farm shops including Villa Farm at Bradford Road,

Huddersfield.

LoveBread also runs a bread club based on a subscription model which guarantees customers fresh bread and enables the bakery to plan ahead.

Fran Lister, of LoveBread, said: “Over the past 12 months we have worked with volunteers to provide real bread for our community at local markets, through workshops and in local schools.

“We want LoveBread to grow and there are plenty of ways for people to get involved in working with us.”

Visit www.lovebread.org.uk to find out about children’s bread making workshops, future events and how you can get involved in the project.

FOCUS ON SCHOOLS MAKING SURE KIDS GET A HEALTHY BREAKFAST

Headteacher Dora

Plant and Mandy

Taylor from the Tow

n Foundation

T

he Town Foundation – the official registered charity of Huddersfield Town – has opened the doors of its 10th Early Kick-Off breakfast club.

Children at Dalton Junior, Infant and Nursery School at Mayfield Avenue, Dalton, will be the latest in a long line of pupils across the district to receive free healthy and nutritious breakfasts thanks to the charity’s support.

The Scallymag caught up with youngsters and staff at Ashbrow School, Ash Meadow Close, Sheepridge, to find out how popular their Early Kick-Off breakfast club has been since it started dishing up meals in March.

Dora Plant, headteacher of the school, said: “We are very appreciative of the support given to us by the Town Foundation and those that provide this great service.

“We have been very pleased with the take-up of the breakfasts and average about 90 a day, sometimes over 100.

“Having a healthy and nutritious breakfast means the children are more ready to learn, their behaviour is good, it helps with attendance and provides a more relaxed, informal introduction to the school day – the club has had a very positive impact.”

She said the children have enjoyed visits from players and representatives, including club ambassador Andy Booth and have also taken part in a variety of projects before school including needlework.

Early Kick-Off breakfast clubs were launched in November 2012, the first being at Christ Church Church of England Academy, Deighton Road, Huddersfield.

Mandy Taylor, corporate fundraising officer for the Town Foundation, said: “We have topped 23,000 breakfasts being served since the scheme started.

“The idea for the Early Kick-Off breakfast clubs is thanks to Town Foundation trustee, Dean Hoyle, who was alarmed by the instances of poverty and hunger in schools, not just in the UK, but in Kirklees.

“Of course we would love to be able to fund every child in Kirklees but that just isn’t possible, so we look at schools that have a high instance of free school meals and those which have demonstrated a real need.”

The Town Foundation relies on the support of a number of local businesses including Stafflex, Caterer’s Choice, Total Food Service and Kirklees Catering Services, to name a few, to enable the scheme to run.

The food is delivered to the schools by the Town Foundation and it is then up to staff and volunteers to make the breakfasts, ensuring that children have the right start to the day. The clubs are available to all pupils attending participating schools.

Early Kick-Off breakfast clubs is just one of many charitable initiatives supported by the Town Foundation.

Early Kick-Off breakfast club

ol

volunteers at Ashbrow Scho

e breakfast club uis enjoying th

l and Lo Raynor, Terrel

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PERFORMING ARTS LOVE THE LIMELIGHT? Six weeks can seem like an age when you’re a child. For parents, it can sometimes feel like longer!

If your kids like singing, dancing, acting and being the centre of attention, why not break the holiday boredom and enrol them for Limelight Summer School.

The school, which is run by husband and wife team, James and Lisa McCann, will be at St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, between August 5 and August 9, 2013 from 10am to 3pm and is open to children aged between six and 15.

Limelight, a successful performing arts school, has been offering weekly classes for several years with James teaching drama and Lisa, a qualified dance teacher, leading street dance for a variety of age groups.

James said: “At Limelight, the emphasis is firmly on creativity. We don’t just hand out scripts and dole out directions.

“We encourage participants via drama games, script writing, impressions, joke telling, singing and much more.”

The pair originally met in 2000 when working internationally in the entertainment industry. James has written and directed shows for Centre Parcs, MacDonald Hotels and various national theatre tours while Lisa has performed all over the world and choreographed numerous hotel and theatre shows throughout the UK. Of their first summer school, James said: “We’ll be working towards a Friday afternoon show, with free entry for friends and family, and helping kids improve their confidence and hone their performance skills.

“You don’t have to be an existing Limelight student, but if you are, you’ll finally get to experience everything we have to offer.”

To book for the whole week costs £75 and sibling discounts are available. Booking is essential and a £20 deposit is required.

Tel. 07779 154126 or email lisa@limelighttheatre.biz for more information.

WIN TICKETS TO SEE DOTTY THE DRAGON

The Scallymag has teamed up with the Lawrence Batley Theatre to offer you the chance to win tickets to see ‘Dotty the Dragon.’

Following the success of last year’s ‘The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark’, Blunderbus once again is set to take the theatre’s ‘Imagine’ series outside.

With fabulous puppets and live music, Dotty, the baby dragon, will be appearing in the courtyard for a special outdoor performance on Saturday August 10 and Sunday August 11, 2013, at 11am and again at 2pm.

Dotty lives at the top of a mountain with her grumpy dad, Mr Dragon, but in the village below, everyone fears for their lives because dragons eat children! Not this one though, Dotty is a vegetarian.

The Show is suitable for children aged between three and seven and those attending should bring blankets, chairs and suitable clothing for the hour-long performance.

The Scallymag is offering two pairs of free tickets to see the show. To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is answer the following question correctly and post or email your answer to the Lawrence Batley Theatre together with your name, address and contact telephone number or email address by Monday July 29, 2013 at 12pm.

Question: What is the name of Dotty’s grumpy dad?

Email entries to marketing@thelbt.org or post them to Marketing, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Queen Street, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 2SP. The two winners, who will each receive a pair of tickets, will be chosen at random after the closing date and will be notified on Wednesday July 31, 2013.

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forget me not children’S hospice FAMILIES TO BENEFIT FROM NEW GARDEN

F

orget Me Not has revealed plans for an inspirational new garden to be built at the site of its children’s hospice in Huddersfield.

The garden will be created by Greenfingers, a charity dedicated to shaping gardens at hospices across the UK. It will be a multi-faceted space aimed at enhancing the experience of families using the hospice.

Initial ideas include a super sensory space for children with communication issues, a teenage retreat for socialising away from younger children as well as a growing and nurturing area.

Matthew Wilson, chairman of Greenfingers, said: “We are delighted to be working with the team at Forget Me Not to create a much needed garden for all those who benefit from the hospice’s work.

“We are aiming to create a wonderfully stimulating and inspiring outdoor environment that will have a direct, positive impact on the children and young people who come in to contact with the hospice.

“Greenfingers believe time spent in a therapeutic outdoor space can be a welcome salve for the children and families who benefit from the tremendous work at Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice, providing precious family time away from the bedside.

“With such an inspiring and worthwhile cause, we hope the people of Yorkshire will be encouraged to donate and get involved with the project. There’s a long way to go and donations, big and

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT THE head girl at Hipperholme Grammar School recently raised £800 for Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice by taking part in a sponsored skydive.

Gabriella Capone, joined the hospice’s ‘Purple Posse’ – fundraisers that take part in extreme challenges – for the tandem skydive at Hibaldstow, Lincolnshire.

The 18-year-old A-level student said: “It was an amazing experience. I would just like to thank everyone who has supported and sponsored me for the skydive. It is very much appreciated.”

Sue Oliver, marketing and admissions manager at the school, said: “Hipperholme Grammar School is extremely proud to be a corporate member of the Forget Me Not Hospice as a ‘99er’ and we try to support their work in any way we can.

“We are so proud of Gabby and her commitment to helping the families of children with life limiting conditions in our area.”

small, can make a very real contribution to achieving our goal of providing this wonderful garden – a place full of happiness and fun – for all those who use Forget Me Not.” Through its Rosy Cheeks Appeal, Greenfingers aims to build 10 gardens at hospices throughout the UK. Vicki Finlay, head of care at the hospice, said: “We are thrilled that Greenfingers have chosen to support us in developing our garden. We understand the important role that the natural environment can play in palliative, end of life and bereavement care and have witnessed the positive impact it can have on a family’s quality of life.

“Our young people are bursting with ideas for the garden and are looking forward to working with the Greenfingers team to make these ideas come alive.”

To donate to Greenfingers and support the plans for the hospice garden, Tel. 01494 674749, email info@ greenfingerscharity.org.uk, or visit www. greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

NEW VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

The Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice is on the lookout for new volunteers to support its work caring for children with life limiting illnesses.

Volunteering can be an extremely rewarding experience and there are lots of roles available from joining a fundraising team, working in one of the 11 Forget Me Not stores, to administration and marketing positions.

A spokesman for the hospice said: “We welcome anyone who is keen to help, passionate about the work that we do and comes with a smile!”

Richard Bond, who is a voluntary van driver, said: “Being one of the hospice’s volunteers is like being a member of a family.

“I hope that I contribute in a little way to improving the lives of the children and families cared for.”

To find out more about volunteering visit www. forgetmenotchild.co.uk or contact Wendy Bentley on Tel. 01484 411040 or by email at wendy.bentley@forgetmenotchild. co.uk.

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OUT & ABOUT

F

rom cakes to confectionary, street food to Yorkshire farm produce, Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival has it all.

The festival, which will take place from Thursday August 8 to Sunday August 11, 2013 is now in its thirteenth year and is considered to be the biggest free festival of its kind in Yorkshire, attracting over 100,000 visitors to the town.

We first visited the festival last year with our three children and were amazed not only by the array of food and entertainment on offer but by the crowds that flock to this fabulous annual event.

Whether you’re a ‘foodie connoisseur’ or more of a novice, the festival is a brilliant way of introducing children to the sights and smells of a busy market, encouraging them to choose healthy options and nurturing a geographical and cultural understanding of where different foods come from and the processes involved.

But while we wandered amid the packed stalls that lined St George’s Square with a two-year-old who loves nothing more than to spend a morning shopping at a local market, little did we know that the food is just part of what the festival has to offer.

This year, the festival boasts more than 70 stalls and over 30 demonstrations and the Kid’s Zone, situated at the top of the square by the Head of Steam, promises to be a hive of activity for little ones.

Festival manager, Cathy Burger said: “One of the best things about the festival

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is the family atmosphere. It’s great to see kids and adults browsing the stalls and finding new foods to try and buy.

“Building on the success of previous years, we’ve added in more children’s workshops this year and have got plenty to get your little ones excited and interested.”

Minister of Chocolate, Carl Turner, will be giving youngsters the chance to make chocolate treats every day of the festival.

However, if your kids prefer savoury to sweet, be sure to visit on the last day of the festival for a pizza making workshop with Pizzatainment, where they’ll learn to stretch and toss dough.

The Life Style Kitchen will be keeping children busy planting farm to fork veggie characters and showing children that healthy and nutritious food can also be delicious.

Fairandfunky will be running a variety of arts and craft workshops, making everything from masks to insects from an array of recycled materials and promoting fairtrade and environmental themes.

All of the activities in the kid’s Zone are free and in addition to the workshops, the festival will also include face painting and balloon modelling.

For adults, the cookery demonstrations, which will be running every day, provide an ideal opportunity to pick up some new tips and sample the many delights prepared by the chefs on hand.

On Friday and Saturday evenings, the festivities continue with live music, so why not book the babysitter and return after

dusk for some alfresco cocktails and food.

Full details of the festival and fringe events, sponsored by the John Smith’s Stadium and organised by Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership, can be found at www.foodanddrinkfestival.org.uk.

OUT & ABOUT diary!

Make a note in your Thursday August 8 , 2013 to Sunday August 11

d Friday August 9:

Thursday August 8 an

fairandfunky – mask 10.00am – 10.45am

d cle making from recy ckaging pa

e Ministry of Chocolat 11.00am – 11.45am rflies fairandfunky – butte

m 5p .4 12 – m 0p 12.0 and bees

TBC 1.00pm - 1.45pm x mice, fairandfunky – egg bo 2.00pm – 2.45pm e at Ministry of Chocol

e Ministry of Chocolat 3.00pm – 3.45pm TBC

4.00pm – 4.45pm

Saturday August 10:

11.00am – 11.45am 12.00pm – 12.45am 1.15pm - 2.00pm 2.30pm – 3.15pm 3.45pm – 4.30pm 5.00pm – 5.45pm

Ministry of Chocolat e The Life Style Kitchen TBC The Life Style Kitchen Ministry of Chocolat e The Life Style Kitchen

Sunday August 11:

12.00pm – 12.45pm

Ministry of Chocolate

1.15pm - 2.00pm

Pizzatainment

2.30pm – 3.15pm

Ministry of Chocolate

3.45pm – 4.30pm

Pizzatainment

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HEALTH PUT A RAINBOW ON YOUR PLATE

Most of us know the words to the popular song, ‘Sing a Rainbow’, but did you know it is important to eat a rainbow every day?

Eating a variety of different coloured foods encourages children to enjoy a more balanced diet.

Brightly coloured fruit and vegetables provide antioxidants that help skin and heart health, vitamins and minerals are important for growth and fibre helps regulate digestion.

Getting the whole family involved helps kids to become enthusiastic about their five-a-day and may mean fussy eaters are more willing to try new foods.

When shopping, let the children choose one or two foods to try. Discuss

their taste and origin and look out for exotic fruits such as dragonfruit, persimmon or starfruit.

Visit independent shops as they will often have great ideas on how to cook and eat their goods too.

You can include dried fruits, tinned vegetables, fruit juices, smoothies and fruit bars.

Ideas for your rainbow adventure: red - tomatoes, radishes, strawberries; yellow - lemons, yellow tomatoes; pink - dragonfruits, rhubarb; green - cabbages, green beans; purple - beetroots, aubergines, grapes; orange - sweet potatoes, tangerines; blue blueberries, prunes.

By Sally Crosland, Freedom Fitness & Lifestyle www.freedomnorth.co.uk

Recipe for Rainbow Skewers with Pots of Gold Serves 4 Ingredients: 4 Tablespoons of ho ney or Agave Necta r 1 small pot of no ad ded sugar yoghurt 4 meringue nests 4 whole fresh strawb erries 1 tin of pineapple chu nks 1 watermelon slice 4 green grapes 1 large orange 4 pitted prunes (dried or tinned) 4 fresh blueberries 4 skewers Method: 1. Wash the fruit. 2.

Chop the watermelon and orange into chunks.

3. Thread each piece of fruit onto a skewer.

4. Spoon one tables poon of honey/agave into the meringue nest. Cover with one tablespoon of yog hurt. 5. To eat, dip the fruit into the yoghurt .

Who can find the gol d hidden underneath ?

NEW FOOD ALLERGY SUPPORT GROUP A Golcar mum-of-two has set up a new support group for parents whose children suffer from food allergies.

Katie Dixon, 25, was prompted to set up the Free From group following the negative experiences she had of dealing with her son’s intolerance to dairy.

When Joe, now two, was a few weeks old, Katie realised there was something wrong but faced an uphill battle.

She said: “I really struggled with him.

He would be up all night screaming, was sick after every bottle, had constant diarrhoea, terrible eczema and he even smelled of acid.

“I already had a daughter, Lilly, who

at the time was only 16-months-old, so I found the whole situation exhausting.

“It affected my relationship with him as he was hard to connect with and I couldn’t understand why he was always so unhappy all of the time.

Other people just saw him as a fussy baby but his father, Ashley, and I knew different.”

At eight-months-old, Joe was diagnosed as being dairy intolerant and was referred to a dietician. His parents cut dairy out of his diet and within 72 hours his symptoms cleared.

Katie said: “He is due to meet an allergy specialist and we finally have a better understanding of his needs.”

However, the couple encountered other hurdles such as a lack of awareness when eating out and poor attitudes when

BEST START FOR BABY

NHS Kirklees has developed a scheme to provide free vitamins to all pregnant women, mothers with babies under the age of one and children up to four-years-old.

It forms part of the statutory national Healthy Start programme and is designed to act as a nutritional safety net for disadvantaged families.

Marie Haigh of the Yorkshire Children’s Centre explained that the vitamins element of the scheme is not means-tested or linked to benefits.

She said: “We are all aware of how important it is for pregnant women and young children to have a balanced diet and these supplements are specially designed to ensure that they are getting the recommended daily allowance.”

In addition, qualifying pregnant women and families with young children are provided with vouchers for milk, infant formula and fresh fruit and vegetables.

To be eligible for vouchers, you must be pregnant or have a child under four-yearsold and be in receipt of either Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance or Child Tax Credit.

Application forms are available from health professionals or can be downloaded from www.healthystart.nhs.uk.

Those not eligible for the voucher element of the Healthy Start programme can still be referred for free vitamins via a doctor’s surgery, health centre or children’s centre.

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they have asked about the ingredients used. The lack of support encouraged Katie to set up the group, initially on Facebook. She has since recruited four other Huddersfield women to help run it – Lindsay Miller, Dayna Harrison, Vicki Armstrong and Faye Ratcliffe.

Katie said: “Food allergy and intolerance can feel very scary, very isolating and it’s really hard to understand until you’ve experienced it. We hope to reach the people who need us and offer them the support we never had on our journeys.”

You can join the Facebook group by visiting www.facebook.com/#!/ groups/217100398424948/.

HEALTH

HEALTH and FITNESS

WITH JACKIE BRADDOCK i, I’m Jackie, a nutritionist living in Brighouse. I’d like to tell you my story of why and how I developed my interest in following a healthy lifestyle.

H

I was physically active during most of my teens and twenties and was never off sick until I began to suffer with Crohn’s Disease in July 2000.

Crohn’s is an inflammatory bowel disease and symptoms include severe cramping, sickness and diarrhoea. I could barely keep food down and my weight rapidly plummeted from seven and a half stones to just six stones.

Initially I was told it was irritable bowel syndrome but after being referred to a specialist in November 2001, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s.

In January 2001, the inflammation was so severe I had to undergo a resection operation where the restricted bowel section is removed and joined up again.

Unfortunately, the doctors had not realised how malnourished I was and the resection collapsed the next day, resulting in septicaemia, pneumonia and peritonitis with just a five per cent chance of survival.

I survived, though by then I only weighed five stones and had to have a temporary ileostomy bag fitted. The types of food I could eat was very restricted and I was advised to avoid fruit and vegetables in favour stodgy dishes such as pie or processed food.

It was not until I had reached eight stones – three months after my resection - that I was allowed to go back to work and have my ileostomy removed in December 2001.

Due to scarring from the procedures I underwent, I remained quite inactive for several years and now have asthma, eczema and arthritis related to my Crohn’s Disease.

Once my weight reached 10 stones, I decided to start introducing good food back into my diet and so began my nutrition journey.

Due to the operation, I am not able to absorb nutrients very well which means I need to eat healthily so that I can keep my digestive tract clean and keep inflammation at bay.

Today I am doing a job that I am passionate about. Due to busy lifestyles, many people are still eating the wrong types of food, using incorrect portion sizes or still eating even though they are already full. This has resulted in an increase in obesity and obesity related illnesses.

I help people get to grips with what they eat and drink, showing them how to make the necessary lifestyle and dietary changes so they can turn their health around.

In future, Jackie will be examining a range of health and fitness related issues in The Scallymag - be sure to check out her Feel Good Naturally page for top tips on how to keep your family in shape.

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PRE-SCHOOL DIARY

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Little Acorns Parent, Baby & Toddler Group 9.00 – 11.30 Seasons House & Community Centre, 45 Willwood Avenue, Oakes, Huddersfield 01484 222209 Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

Gym Tots Cathedral Mice Parent & 9.30 – 10.15 Toddler Group Huddersfield Sports Centre, Pine 9.30 – 11.30 Street, Huddersfield 12.30 – 2.30 01484 223630 Cathedral House, St Thomas 3 – 4 yrs Road, Huddersfield 01484 514088

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Lindley Methodist Church Greenhead Park Parent, Baby Parent & Toddler Group & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.15 9.30 – 11.30 Lindley Methodist Community Community Room, Coletta Centre, East Street, Huddersfield Pavilion, Greenhead Park, Huddersfield 01484 517750 07960 797320

Rhythm Time Class (Babies) Huddersfield Breastfeeding Support Group / Baby Bistro 1.00 10.00 – 12.00 Lindley Methodist Church, East National Children’s Centre, Brian Street, Lindley, Huddersfield Jackson House, 2 New North 07792 849779 Parade, Huddersfield 01484 223380

Stay & Play Session 1.00 – 3.00 Birkby Children’s Centre, Halifax Old Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 223940

Gym Tots 10.00 – 11.30 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 18 months – 5 yrs

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Fixby Parent & Toddlers 1.00 – 2.45 St Francis’ Church, Fixby Road, Fixby, Huddersfield 01484 420970

Jungle Beats 11.00 – 11.30 Fizzy Lizard, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 6 months+

Pyjama Drama (Raindrops) 1.00 – 1.35 Greenhead Park Community Room, Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Huddersfield 0844 310 4921 20 months – 2 and a half yrs

Toy Library 1.00 – 2.15 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge Huddersfield 01484 234231

Cathedral Mice Parent & Popkidz Toddler Group 9.30 – 10.30 Popkidz, 41a Westbourne Road, 9.30 – 11.30 Cathedral House, St Thomas Marsh, Huddersfield Road, Huddersfield 07581 191537 01484 514088

Buzz About Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 Birkby & Fartown Community Centre Wasps Nest Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 420386

Terrier Tots 12:30-1:30 The Zone, St Andrews Road, Huddersfield 01484 484189 2 – 4 yrs

Baby Cafe 1.00 – 3.00 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

Sticky Angels Parent & ToddlerLittle Ninjas Group 10.00 – 10.45 9.45 – 11.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Lockwood Baptist Church, Street, Off Chapel Hill, Lockwood Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield Huddersfield 07738 208586 01484 548423 Under 4s

Mount Pre-school Babies n Toddler Group 9.15 – 11.15 Mount Methodist Church, Moorlands Road, Mount, Huddersfield 07947 449619

Lindley Methodist Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.15 Lindley Methodist Community Centre, East Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01484 510137

St Cuthbert’s Under Fives Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.00 St Cuthbert’s Church, Linden Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 534564

Boogie Babes 10.00 Central Methodist Church, Commercial Street, Brighouse 07779 154126

Babyballet (Tiny Toes) 10.45 – 11.20 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 18 months – 3 yrs

Baby Swim Class 1.30 Huddersfield Sports Centre, Southgate, Huddersfield 01484 223660

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

Cathedral Mice Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.30 Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield 01484 514088

Babyballet (Mini Movers) 10.00 – 10.35 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 3 – 4 yrs

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance 5 St Johns Road Huddersfield 07883 636 794 2 – 4 yrs

Young Parents Group 1.30 - 3.00 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

St Matthew’s Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.15 St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126

St John the Divine Parent & Toddler Group 9.45 – 11.15 St John the Divine Church Hall, St John Street, Rastrick, Brighouse 01484 713386

Babyballet (Tiny Toes) 9.45 – 10.20 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 18 months – 3 yrs

Stay & Play 10.00 – 11.30 St Thomas’ Primary School, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 226557

Babyballet (Mini Movers) 10.30 – 11.05 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 329471 3 – 4 yrs

Songbirds 9.30 Wonderland Play Gym, New Street, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield 07751 519699

Jo Jingles Jubilee Melody Makers Parnet 9.40 & Toddler Group Waring Green Community 9.45 – 11.30 Centre, Garden Road, Brighouse Huddersfield Community Church 01422 820425 Jubilee Centre, Market Street, 2+ yrs Paddock, Huddersfield 01484 414887

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Gym Tots 10.00 – 11.30 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 18 months – 5 yrs

Jo Jingles (Jingle Toddlers) 10.40 Waring Green Community Centre, Garden Road, Brighouse 01422 820425 Walking – 2 yrs

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

Ark Tots Parent & Toddler Group 9.45 – 11.30 Royal British Legion Club, Hanson Lane, Lockwood, Huddersfield gemmagallant@yahoo.co.uk

Jo Jingles (Jingle Toddlers) 9.45 St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01422 820425 Walking – 2 yrs

Bongo Beats 10.30 Wonderland Play Gym, New Street, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield 07983 581349

Crocodile Chefs 11.00 – 12.00 Fizzy Lizard, Cathedral House, St Thomas Road, Huddersfield 01484 467321 2+ yrs

Shake, Rattle & Roll 1.00 – 2.30 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Road, Huddersfield 01484 221799

Buzz About Parent & Toddler Group 9.30 – 11.30 Birkby Fartown Community Centre, Wasp Next Road, Fartown, Huddersfield 01484 352621

Bongo Beats 9.45 Wonderland Play Gym, New Street, Slaithwaite, Huddersfield 07983 581349

The High Park Parent & Toddler Group 10.00 – 12.00 The High Park, 269 Bradley Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 534226

Jo Jingles 10.45 St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01422 820425 2+ yrs

Jo Jingles 11.45 St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01422 820425 2+ yrs

Jo Jingles (Jingle Babies) 1.00 St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01422 820425 3 months - walking

Tumble Tots 9.00 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 Walking – 2 yrs

Baby Ballroom 9.00 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788444555 2 – 5 yrs

Woodland Glade Playgroup 9.15 – 12.15, Lunch Club 1.15 The Pavillion 62 The Green, Woodland Glade Bradley, Huddersfield 077602 48545 2 - 5 yrs

Tiny Tots Ballet 10.30 KT Dance, Lindley Methodist Church, Huddersfield 07733447807 3+ yrs

Nursery Rhyme & Fairy Tale 10.45 Dancers Barre Studios, Market Walk, Huddersfield 01422 374946 / 07920 204570 2 and a half - 4 yrs

Mini Moovers 11.00 – 11.45 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Road, Huddersfield 01484 221799 3 – 5 yrs

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 9.00 – 10.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 4 yrs

Pre-School Ballet 9.15 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 3 - 4 yrs

Tumble Tots 10.00 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 2 - 3 yrs

Nursery Rhyme & Fairy Tale 10.45 Dancers Barre Studios, Market Walk, Huddersfield 01422 374946 / 07920 204570 1 – 2 and a half yrs

Tumble Tots 11.00 The Zone, St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield 01484 484163 3 – 5 yrs

Pyjama Drama (Rainbows) 11.15 – 12.00 Active Bodies, Chapel Street, Huddersfield 0844 310 4921 2 and a half – 5 yrs

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance 5 St Johns Road Huddersfield 07883 636 794 2 – 4 yrs

Rhythm Time Class (Toddlers) 1.40 Lindley Methodist Church, East Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 07792 849779

Story Time 2.00 – 2.45 Birkby & Fartown Library & Information Centre, Wasps Nest Road, Fartown, Huddersfield 01484 223098

Suga Cubes 4.00 – 5.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 5 yrs

One Stop Shop & Baby Clinic 1.30 – 3.30 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

Rhyme Time 2.30 – 3.15 Lindley Library & Information Centre 01484 222172

Little Ninjas 4.00 – 4.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 With younger siblings under 4

M&M Swim School 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573 3+ yrs

Mums n Chums 1.00 – 3.00 Huddersfield YMCA, Laund Hill, Salendine Nook

St Stephen’s Church Parents, Trinity Tiddlers Parent & Carers, Toddlers & Babes Toddler Group Group 1.30 – 3.00 1.00 – 3.00 Holy Trinity Church, Trinity St Stephen’s Church, Lidget Street, Huddersfield Street, Lindley, 01484 426784 info@ststephenslindley.org.uk

Bumps & Under 1s Group 1.30 – 3.00 Birkby Children’s Centre, Halifax Old Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 223940

Action Kids 2.00 – 2.30 St Francis Church, Fixby Road, Fixby, Huddersfield 07595 864685

Stay & Play Session 1.00 – 3.00 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance 5 St Johns Road Huddersfield 07883 636 794 2 – 4 yrs

Bongo’s Baby & Toddler Group 1.30 – 3.00 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07983 581349

Pyjama Drama (Rainbows) 1.40 – 2.20 Greenhead Park Community Room, Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Huddersfield 0844 310 4921 2 and a half – 5 yrs

Trinity Tots 2.00 – 3.30 Holy Trinity Church, Trinity Street, Edgerton, Huddersfield 07738 364342

Baby Swim Class 2.15 Huddersfield Sports Centre, Southgate, Huddersfield 01484 223660

Baby Clinic 4.00 – 6.00 Chestnut Children’s Centre, 2a Chestnut Street, Sheepridge, Huddersfield 01484 234231

One Stop Shop 1.00 – 3.00 Birkby Children’s Centre, Halifax Old Road, Birkby, Huddersfield 01484 223940

Rhythm Time Class (Toddlers) 1.30 Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Cathedral House, Huddersfield 07792 849779

M&M Swim School 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573 3+ yrs

Jo Jingles (Jingle Babies) Babyballet (Mini Movers) 11.40 12.15 – 12.50 Waring Green Community Fizzy Lizard, Folly Hall, Centre, Garden Road, Brighouse Cathedral House, Huddersfield 01422 820425 01422 329471 Walking – 2 yrs 3 – 4 yrs

Gledholt Toddlers Parent & Baby Swim Class Toddler Group 1.30 1.15 – 3.00 Huddersfield Sports Centre, Gledholt Methodist Church, Southgate, Huddersfield Edgerton Grove Road, Edgerton, 01484 223660 Huddersfield 01484 641698

Baby Swim Class 2.15 Huddersfield Sports Centre, Southgate, Huddersfield 01484 223660

Crafty Lot The Catnap Club 12.00 – 14.00 1.15 – 3.15 Packhorse Gallery, Huddersfield Cowcliffe Methodist Church, South Cross Road, Cowcliffe, Huddersfield 01484 428081

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 4 yrs

Suga Cubes 4.00 – 5.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 5 yrs

Toddlers Ballet & Tap 1.15 – 2.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 2 – 4 yrs

Story Time 2.30 – 3.00 Lindley Library & Information Centre 01484 222172

Bumps & Babies 1.30 – 3.00 Lindley Methodist Community Centre, East Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01484 430612 / 07557 339794

Little Ninjas 2.00 – 2.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 Under 4s

Babyballet (Tiny Toes) Tots Stage Class 12.15 – 12.50 12.45 – 1.30 National Children’s Centre, Brian The Audrey Spencer School Jackson House, 2 New North of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Parade, Huddersfield Mills, Queen Street South, 01422 329471 Huddersfield 18 months – 3 yrs 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 3 – 5 yrs

SUnDAY

Gym Tots 1st Steps 1.30 – 2.15 1.30 – 3.00 Huddersfield Sports Centre, Pine Lindley Methodist Community Street, Huddersfield Centre, East Street, Lindley, 01484 223630 Huddersfield 3 – 4 yrs 01484 430612 / 07557 339794

Amphibi-Kids Swim Academy 12.30 – 3.00 The North Huddersfield Trust, Woodhouse Hall Road, Fartown, Huddersfield 07805 784058 3+ yrs

Pyjama Drama (Dewdrops) 2.30 – 3.00 Greenhead Park Community Room, Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Huddersfield 0844 310 4921 6+ months

Rugbytots 9.30 St Philip’s Community Centre, Briarlyn Road, Huddersfield 0845 313 3247 Rugbytots 10.00 Mirfield Community Centre, Wateroyd Lane, Mirfield, Huddersfield Huddersfield 0845 313 3247

M&M Swim School 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573 3+ yrs

These diary pages are the heart of The Scallymag; the main reason the magazine exists and probably the most useful part for parents and carers.

We aim to list as many activities for 0-5 year olds in the area. We do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date (there will probably be some changes every issue).

However we are not infallible. If you know of any changes, or of any new groups or courses that should be included, please get in touch by using any of the contact details on page 3. Listing in this section is FREE.

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OUT OF SCHOOL DIARY

14

Prep Ballet & Tap 4.00 – 5.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 4 – 6 yrs

M&M Swim School 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573

Hi 5 Netball Suga Brown Street Dance 4.30 – 5.30 5.00 – 6.00 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Road, Huddersfield Huddersfield 07883 636794 01484 221799 8 – 11 yrs 6 – 11 yrs

Commercial Pop 5.30 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555

Multi Skills 5.30 – 6.30 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Road, Huddersfield 01484 221799

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Senior Street Dance 4.30 – 5.30 Limelight Theatre School, St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126 10+ yrs

Little Ninja Beginners 4.50 – 5.35 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Little Warriors 5.00 – 5.45 Kane Academy, Unit 3a Perseverance Mill, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 544448 / 07732 801847 3 - 7 yrs

Intermediate Ballet 5.30 – 6.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Ninja Hattori Juniors 5.50 – 6.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Prep Ballet & Tap 4.00 – 5.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 4 – 6 yrs

Tuesday clinics 4-7 Years old 4.00 – 5.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484484189 4 – 7 yrs

Kids Ballet & Tap 4.15 Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 6 – 10 yrs

Drama For All 4.30 – 5.30 Limelight Theatre School, St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126 5 – 12 yrs

Primary Ballet & Tap 5.00 – 6.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 6 – 8 yrs

Grade 4 Ballet 5.00 – 6.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Little Ninja Beginners 4.00 – 4.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Diva Fever Dance Ninja Hattori Juniors 4.30 – 5.30 5.00 – 6.00 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Road, Huddersfield Street, Off Chapel Hill, 01484 221799 Huddersfield 5 – 11 yrs 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Rhythmix Street Dance 5.00 – 6.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 3 – 12 yrs

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 5.15 – 6.45 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 5+ yrs

Kids Ballet & Tap M&M Swim School 4.30 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573 Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 6 – 8 yrs

Rhythmix Street Dance 5.00 – 6.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 3 – 12 yrs

Birchencliffe (St Philip) 31st Lindley 16th Huddersfield Huddersfield Scouts (Beavers) North Scouts (Cubs) 6.15 – 7.15 6.30 – 8.00 St Philip’s Parish Centre, Briarlyn Lindley Methodist Church, East Road, Birchencliffe, Street, Lindley, Huddersfield Richard Eastwood – 01484 Sue O’Neill – 01484 536790 641389

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Little Warriors 5.00 – 5.45 Kane Academy, Unit 3a Perseverance Mill, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 544448 / 07732 801847 3 - 7 yrs

Grade 3 Ballet 5.30 – 6.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Senior Ninja Hattori 6.30 – 7.30 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 8+ yrs

Birchencliffe (St Philip) 31st Huddersfield Scouts (Cubs) 7.00 – 8.15 Birchencliffe St Philip’s Parish Community Centre, Briarlyn Road, Birchencliffe, Richard Eastwood – 01484 641389

Little Ninja Beginners 4.00 – 4.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Thursday clinics 8-11 Yrs 4.00 – 5.00 The Zone St Andrews Road Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484484189 8 – 11 yrs

Ninja Hattori Juniors 5.00 – 5.55 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 4 – 7 yrs

Grade 1 Ballet 5.30 – 6.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Oakes 36th Huddersfield North Senior Ninja Hattori Scouts (Beavers) 6.00 – 7.00 5.30 – 6.30 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Salvation Army Hall, New Hey Street, Off Chapel Hill, Road, Oakes, Huddersfield Huddersfield 07738 208586 8+ yrs

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

M&M Swim School 4.00 – 7.30 Woodland Glade, 62 The Green, Bradley, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573

Kids Additional Needs Class 5.00 Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 5.30 – 6.30 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 5+ yrs

Huddersfield Gymnastics Club Outlane 11th Huddersfield (Beginners) North Scouts (Beavers) 5.30 – 6.30 6.15 – 7.15 Paddock Youth Club, Beech Outlane Methodist Church, New Street, Huddersfield Hey Road, Outlane, Huddersfield 01484 548651 0844 414 2315

Shokk Youth Gym 4.00 – 8.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Beginners Irish Dancing 5.00 – 5.30 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 5+ yrs

Reach Performing Arts 5.00 – 7.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 5+ yrs

Intermediate Street Dance 5.30 – 6.30 Limelight Theatre School, St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126 7 – 9 yrs

Little Ninja Beginners & HattoriSenior Ninja Hattori Mixed 7.00 – 8.00 6.15 – 7.00 The Zone, Off St Andrew’s Road, The Zone, Off St Andrew’s Road, Huddersfield Huddersfield 01484 484134 01484 484134 8+ yrs

Junior Street Dance 4.30 – 5.30 Limelight Theatre School, St Matthew’s Parish Centre, Rastrick, Brighouse 07779 154126 4 – 6 yrs

Little Warriors 5.00 – 5.45 Kane Academy, Unit 3a Perseverance Mill, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 544448 / 07732 801847 3 - 7 yrs

Kids Drama Club 5.30 Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 6+ yrs

Kids Street Dance 6.15 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 6+ yrs £5

Salendine Nook 25th Huddersfield North Scouts (Cubs) 6.15 – 7.30 Salendine Nook Baptist Church, Moorhill Road, Huddersfield John Nunn – 01484 650826

Junior Aikido 7.00 – 8.30 Deighton Sports Arena, Deighton Road, Huddersfield 01484 221799 5 – 14 yrs

Shokk Youth Gym 9.00 – 3.00 The Zone, St Andrews Road Huddersfield, HD1 6PT James Hardy 01484484185 8 – 16 yrs

Saturday Soccer School 9.00 – 10.15 The Zone St Andrews Road Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484484189 4 – 7 yrs

Junior Stage Class 9.45 – 11.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Kids Dance Multi Style Club 10.00 – 12.00 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 Open Age

Drama & Vocal Coaching 10.30 – 11.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 4 – 6 yrs

Primary Ballet & Tap 11.00 – 12.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 6 - 8 yrs

Improvers Stage Class Grade 1 Modern Jazz & Tap 9.15 – 10.30 9.00 – 9.45 The Audrey Spencer Theatre The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Prep Ballet & Tap 10.00 – 11.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 4 – 6 yrs

Saturday Soccer School 10.15 – 11.30 The Zone St Andrews Road Huddersfield HD1 6PT 01484484189 4 – 7 yrs

Beginners Tap and Ballet 11.00 Intermediate Tap and Ballet 12.30 KT Dance, Lindley Methodist Church, Huddersfield 07733447807

Junior Street Dance 11.00 – 11.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Father’s Day - June 16th

Outlane 11th Huddersfield Irish Dancing (Beginners) 6.30 North Scouts (Cubs) 6.30 – 8.00 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Outlane Methodist Church, New Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield Hey Road, Outlane, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 0844 414 2315 £3

Body Popping 7.30 – 9.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 7+ yrs

Hattori – Over 8’s Beginners 6.50 – 7.45 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 8+ yrs

Grade 5 Modern Jazz & Tap 8.00 – 9.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Cowcliffe (St Hilda) 15th Huddersfield Scouts (Cubs) 7.00 – 8.30 Cowcliffe Scout Hall, Netheroyd Hill Road, Huddersfield Philip Pearson – 01484 314651

Oakwell Hall, Free entry for Dad Oakwell Hall, Nutter Lane, Birstall, Batley 12.00 – 5.00

Red House Museum, Free entry for Dad Red House Museum, Oxford Road, Gomersal, Cleckheaton 12.00 – 5.00

Tour & Cream Tea / Burger & a Pint Wentworth Castle & Gardens, Barnsley 11.00 – 4.00 Includes small gift for Dad To book: 01226 776040

5km Park Run Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Huddersfield 11.00 Based on the ‘Race for Life’ but just for men, supporting Kirkwood Hospice

Dates for your Diary

Commercial Pop 6.00 Tristan Dance Studios, Meltham Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 £5

Advanced Hattori 6.00 – 7.00 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 Mixed Ages

Lindley 16th Huddersfield North Scouts (Beavers) 6.15 – 7.15 Lindley Methodist Church, East Street, Lindley, Huddersfield Sue O’Neill – 01484 536790

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 6.45 – 8.15 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 5+ yrs

Limbering / Gymnastics 6.00 – 7.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Zumbatomic 6.00 – 6.45 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 7+ yrs

Birkby 26th Huddersfield North Cubs 6.45 – 8.00 St Cuthbert’s Church, Grimscar Avenue, Birkby, Huddersfield

Intermediate Ballet 7.30 – 8.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

NOTE:

Some of the activities have limited places, some only run in term time and some may be cancelled at short notice. We always advise where possible, phoning ahead before setting out to any activity and, for some of the courses or lessons booking is essential.

Grade 2 Ballet 6.30 – 7.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 6.30 – 7.30 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 5+ yrs

Oakes 36th Huddersfield North Lindley 16th Huddersfield Scouts (Cubs) North Scouts 6.30 – 8.00 7.30 – 9.15 Salvation Army Hall, New Hey Lindley Methodist Church, East Road, Oakes, Huddersfield Street, Lindley, Huddersfield Sue O’Neill – 01484 536790

Cowcliffe (St Hilda) 15th Outlane 11th Huddersfield Bradley (St Thomas) 41st Huddersfield Scouts (Beavers) North Scouts Huddersfield Scouts 6.30 – 7.30 7.30 – 9.00 Bradley St Thomas Church, St Cowcliffe Scout Hall, Netheroyd Outlane Methodist Church, New Thomas Gardens, Bradley Road, Hill Road, Huddersfield Hey Road, Outlane, Huddersfield Bradley, Huddersfield Philip Pearson – 01484 314651 0844 414 2315 Jenny Farrell – 01924 840375

Oakes 36th Huddersfield North Salendine Nook 25th Scouts Huddersfield North Scouts 7.15 – 9.15 7.45 – 9.30 Salvation Army Hall, New Hey Salendine Nook Baptist Church, Road, Oakes, Huddersfield Moorhill Road, Huddersfield John Nunn – 01484 650826 Birchencliffe (St Philip) 31st Cowcliffe (St Hilda) 15th Huddersfield Scouts Huddersfield Scouts 7.30 – 9.30 8.00 – 9.30 St Philip’s Parish Centre, Briarlyn Cowcliffe Scout Hall, Netheroyd Road, Birchencliffe, Hill Road, Huddersfield Richard Eastwood – 01484 Philip Pearson – 01484 314651 641389

SUNDAY

Salendine Nook 25th Huddersfield North Scouts (Beavers) 6.15 – 7.15 Salendine Nook Baptist Church, Moorhill Road, Huddersfield John Nunn – 01484 650826

Rainbows, Brownies and Guide Groups are available in the Huddersfield area.

For detailed information please contact Huddesfield Ramsden Division via email at julesbooth@ntlworld.com

Beginners Stage Class 11.30 – 12.45 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Beginners Modern/Freestyle Prep Ballet & Tap 11.45 12.00 – 1.00 Intermediate Modern/Freestyle HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, 1.15 Huddersfield KT Dance, Lindley Methodist 07883 636794 Church, Huddersfield 4 – 6 yrs 07733447807

Drama & Vocal Coaching 11.30 – 12.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 7 – 10 yrs

Kids Drama Club 12.00 Tristan Dance Schools Meltham Road Lockwood, Huddersfield 01484 300136 / 07788 444555 All ages

Hattori – Over 8’s Beginners 12.00 – 12.55 Active Bodies Centre, Chapel Street, Off Chapel Hill, Huddersfield 07738 208586 8+ yrs

Greenhead Gymnastic Club 10.30 – 11.30 St Thomas’ Church, Station Road, Bradley, Huddersfield 01484 420262 4 - 5 yrs M&M Swim School 12.30 – 3.30 The North Huddersfield Trust, Woodhouse Hall Road, Fartown, Huddersfield 07748 155017 / 07870 954573

U Can Draw 2 – Saturday Sketchbook June 22, 10.00 – 11.30 Drawing & painting for 7-11 yrs The Studio, 86b West Street, Lindley To book: 07773 460722 Make It and Take It Cookery Workshops – A Trio of Dips June 22, 10.00 – 2.00 Free drop-in cookery session Queensgate Market, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield

Olly Owls Big Weekend June 22 & June 23 Bouncy castle, donkey rides, crafts and train rides Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton West

Fairandfunky Family Fun Day August 4, 10.00 – 4.00 Holmfirth Market, Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth Making Markets Matter August 10, 11.00 – 3.00 Free family fun day Queensgate Market, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield Dotty the Dragon August 10 & 11, 11.00 & 2.00 Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield Tickets: 01484 430528 Day Out With Thomas August 16 - 19 Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton West

Huddersfield Eco Action Team - Den Making June 23, 2.00 – 4.00 Email: heatkidsclub@yahoo. co.uk Tel: 01484 850246

Make It and Take It August 17, 10.00 – 2.00 Free drop-in craft session Queensgate Market, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield

Huddersfield Fire Station Open Day 2013 June 29, 11.00 – 4.00 Fun for all the family Huddersfield Fire Station, Outcote Bank, Huddersfield

Huddersfield Eco Action Team September 1 Stirley Community Farm open day Email: heatkidsclub@yahoo. co.uk Tel: 01484 850246

Ravensknowle Children’s Gala June 30, 12.00 – 7.00 Traditional gala with fairground for younger children Ravensknowle Park, Wakefield Road, Moldgreen Make It and Take It July 6, 10.00 – 2.00 Free drop-in craft session Queensgate Market, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield

Make It and Take It September 7, 10.00 – 2.00 Free drop-in craft session Queensgate Market, Princess Alexandra Walk, Huddersfield Heritage Open Days at Castle Hill September 7 & 8, 12.00 – 4.30 Free admission Castle Hill,Huddersfield

Gala Day Day Out With Thomas September 14 & 15 July 20 & July 21 Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Kirklees Light Railway, Park Mill Way, Clayton West Way, Clayton West Heritage Day Xplorer Fun Family September 15, 1.30 – 4.30 Challenges Lindley Band, vintage July 25, 1.00 – 3.00 fairground, face painting, Explore, find markers and donkey rides and stalls complete the challenge Beaumont Park, Beaumont Greenhead Park, Trinity Street, Park Road, Crosland Moor Huddersfield Holmfirth Food & Drink Gala Day Festival July 28, 1.00 – 5.00 September 28 & 29, 10.00 – Music, fairground, face painting, 5.00 (some stalls until 8.00) donkey rides, stalls Holmfirth Market, Huddersfield Beaumont Park, Beaumont Road, Holmfirth Park Road, Crosland Moor

Drama & Vocal Coaching 12.30 – 1.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570 11+ yrs

Rhythmix Street Dance 2.00 – 3.00 HD1 Dance, 5 St John’s Road, Huddersfield 07883 636794 3 – 12 yrs

Saturday Sailing Club 2.30 – 5.00 Scammonden Water Sailing Club, Old Vicarage, Scammonden, Huddersfield 07805 630062

Grade 3 Modern Jazz & Tap 1.30 – 2.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Intermediate Stage Class 2.30 – 4.00 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

Intermediate Street Class 4.00 – 4.30 The Audrey Spencer Theatre School of Dance, Unit 3 Fairfield Mills, Queen Street South, Huddersfield 01484 303358 / 07983 419570

15

OUT & ABOUT NEWBY HALL - A SECRET GARDEN Newby Hall & Gardens, Ripon North Yorkshire HG4 5AE TEL 0845 40504068 www.newbyhallandgardens.com

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or those among us who remember reading ‘The Secret Garden’ by Frances Hodgson Burnett, you may recall the wonder you felt at discovering and exploring the scents and sights of the hideaway with Mary and Colin.

Nestled on the outskirts of Ripon, North Yorkshire, Newby Hall, like the fictional Misselthwaite Manor, enjoys its very own secret gardens which provide an enchanting, magical playground that children and their parents will never tire of.

The 40 acre site owes much of its design to Major Edward Compton, who inherited the estate in 1921, creating compartmented gardens, like rooms off the main passage of a house.

When we visited, we were lucky that the weather was on our side, so despite Newby Hall having been built in the style of Sir Christopher Wren with Robert Adam interiors, we managed to spend the entire day outdoors.

For families, Newby Hall, the historic home of the Comptons, has a lot to offer if you can entice the children away from

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playing hide and seek in the extensive gardens.

It is equipped with a large adventure playground suitable for all ages. We had six children in our group ranging from a one-year-old up to 14.

While the toddlers were kept amused by the swings, slides and sandpit, the older ones enjoyed the aerial slide, fort, rope swing and pedalo boats, which sit on a man-made stream which loops the playground.

For warm days there is also ‘Tarantella’ – an interactive water play area where six jets of water spring out of the ground forming arcs. Make sure you pack swimming costumes and towels!

Newby Hall Miniature Railway is possibly one of the best we’ve come across and believe me, having already had one Thomas the Tank Engine enthusiast in the family, closely followed by his younger brother, we’ve visited quite a few of them over the years!

It first opened in 1971 but has since been extended and now runs alongside the River Ure in the shape of a dumb-bell loop, offering wonderful views of the gardens.

While there is a designated picnic area, there are no such areas within the

gardens, most probably to discourage littering. However, it would have been nice to find a quiet spot within, so the children could play nearby while parents could relax and keep a watchful eye.

If it isn’t picnic weather though, I can vouch for the restaurant which serves a selection of homemade dishes from locally sourced ingredients and the most fantastic array of cream cakes. It isn’t difficult to find something for fussy eaters.

Newby Hall is open from 11am until 5.30pm daily until September 29, 2013, though is closed on Mondays in June and September.

Access to the house is by guided tour only, which takes about an hour, and is available on a first come, first served basis.

Tickets for the tour cannot be booked in advance unless it is for groups of 15 or more. As we had two restless toddlers in our party, we thought it best to skip the house tour on this occasion and make the most of the outdoors.

For a family of two adults and three children, a family ticket for the gardens costs £38. See the Newby Hall website for full details of ticket prices and discounts available.

By Elaine Jinks

NEWS NEED FAMILY LAW ADVICE?

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the West Yorkshire firm’s Huddersfield office on Queen Street said: “It is a drop in service so there is no need to make an appointment. We started holding the sessions because I think a lot of people are unsure about coming to see a solicitor Unfamiliarity with the law, the financial and think it is going to be a very formal costs associated with visiting a solicitor and scary experience. and the idea of speaking to a complete “People also get worried about being stranger about very personal spotted at a solicitor’s office, particularly problems are all off-putting. if they haven’t yet discussed But family law the particular problem specialists, Makin Dixon, with their partner or family. want to help families access On the other hand, Brian legal advice away from Jackson House has a lot of the formal and imposing families going in and out atmosphere of a traditional as family mediation takes solicitor’s office. place there along with all the They now offer a free activities associated with a family legal clinic on the Sure Start Centre.” first and third Thursday

She said in the four Family Solicitor of every month between months the sessions have Jennifer Stroud 2pm and 4pm at the Brian been running, people have Jackson Centre, New sought advice on contact North Parade, Huddersfield. issues when children have been in Jennifer Stroud, a solicitor based at care, adoption, domestic violence,

eeking legal advice on complex issues that affect family relationships can seem a daunting prospect.

A

injunctions on an emergency basis, marital breakdown, sorting out financial issues following a break-up and concerns about who the children will live with.

During the sessions Jennifer said she usually deals with up to three cases and if further action is required, Makin Dixon can offer guidance on how to apply for legal aid.

She said: “The people that we have seen so far have been really pleased about the sessions because they didn’t know who to turn to or where to go.”

DON’T TELL KIDS TO ‘STAY SAFE’ – TEACH THEM HOW

ll children are naturally inquisitive, ask a multitude of questions and enjoy exploring the world around them, but the majority of parents would agree that there are some topics that they find difficult to tackle.

We all want our children to stay safe and to know how to respond appropriately in potentially risky or dangerous situations, but how do we raise these issues without scaring them?

Freedom Personal Safety, a social enterprise project, run by Huddersfield based Julie Tweedale, offers radKIDS safety courses and workshops which aim to equip children with the necessary skills and confidence required to assess risks properly.

Julie, who founded the enterprise with Elaine Howard, initially trained in the USA with RAD (Resist Aggression Defensively) System and later qualified as a radKIDS instructor in 2010. RAD is the leading self defence organisation in North America.

She said: “As a parent, I know how difficult it can be talking to your children about keeping safe – we don’t want to

scare them but we know it is important that they have some awareness of risks and dangers.

“Our sessions focus on helping children make safe decisions and we use games and fun activities to engage children and help them learn by doing, not just listening.

“I believe it is important that our children are able to play outside and have some freedom – it is an important aspect of childhood – and we feel more comfortable doing this if we can give them some awareness and simple strategies to deal with tricky situations.”

The courses are available to children between three and 12-years-old and are delivered through schools, nurseries, children’s centres and community settings.

Workshops are offered on a number of different themes including road safety, starting school, keeping safe at home and when out and about, how to react in an emergency, responding to adults who try to trick you and dealing with bullying.

Sessions are tailored to the age of the children and size of the group and are taught through games and activities using techniques such as role-play and creative thinking.

Julie said: “Parents and carers learn to

discuss keeping safe with their children and can continue these discussions and games at home.”

Freedom Personal Safety also offers courses to parents on how to broach the subject of sex education with children, avoiding the need for a ‘facts of life’ talk.

The informal course covers physical and emotional changes, when and how to talk to your child, what they will learn at school as well as books and resources which can be used at home.

Personal safety courses are available for teenagers and women.

For more information, visit www. freedompersonalsafety.co.uk.

Julie Tweedale

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FOCUS ON CHILDCARE IS HIRING A NANNY MORE COST EFFECTIVE?

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any working parents may feel that hiring a nanny is a luxury afforded only by the rich and famous but Huddersfield and Holmfirth Nannies is keen to put that myth to bed.

Rachel Bradley, who has 23 years worth of childcare experience, took over the agency in 2011 and as mum to two young children, understands the emotional strain parents feel when faced with having to leave their child to return to work.

She said: “There are a variety of different childcare options.

Childminders and day nurseries are the best known ones but I think that nannies are often overlooked because they are seen as an expensive option only affordable to the rich and famous.

“This may have been the case in the past, however, nowadays with the introduction of Ofsted registered nannies, parents can put their childcare vouchers towards the cost of a nanny’s salary.”

For families with two or more children requiring regular childcare, a nanny can often be the most cost effective option as she is payable on an hourly rate, rather than per child.

A nanny can also help to resolve childcare issues for parents who work shift patterns. The average opening and closing times of nurseries, childminders and out-of-school clubs is 7.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday. However, nannies can be flexible for those that work nights and weekends.

H&H Nannies, which has been running since 2009, serves Kirklees as well as Halifax and Bradford.

Rachel said: “In this day and age children are woken up at the crack of dawn, breakfast is a rushed affair or even delayed until they arrive at nursery, their childminder or breakfast club at 7.30am.

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“They are out of the house all day, being stimulated to the max in a noisy room. As adults we all need some time to relax, be in our own surroundings and to have a little quiet time, so why should it be any different for children?

“A nanny will take your children where you would like them to go, whether it is to the park to feed the ducks, the library or spending an afternoon at home drawing or baking.”

While a nanny’s duties are primarily to care for the children, she can also lend a hand with tasks such as washing and ironing children’s clothes, cooking their meals or for an older child, supervising homework, taking care of the school run and accompanying them to after school activities.

All H&H Nannies have at least two years’ childcare experience and/or at least a level 2 qualification. They are interviewed face to face, must have completed a 12 hour paediatric first aid course and have a recent CRB check.

“References are thoroughly checked,” said Rachel. “Only those nannies most suited to a family’s requirements will be put forward for a family to meet. H&H Nannies can place night nannies, mother’s help, before and after school nannies, babysitters, and we provide emergency cover to parents, day nurseries and out of school clubs.”

Parents can feel daunted by employing a nanny but there are a number of payroll companies that can deal with the legalities on your behalf. There is no fee for families or nannies to register with Huddersfield and Holmfirth Nannies. For more information visit www.huddersfieldandholmfirthnannies.co.uk.

NEWS

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FANCY A COFFEE? n these times of austerity, everyone is finding life a little harder.

According to Oxfam, more than half a million Britons now regularly resort to using food banks to stave off hunger.

But thanks to global movement, Suspended Coffees, many cafes across Huddersfield are supporting a new scheme which enables people to get a free hot drink via the generosity of other customers.

Susan Dewhrst, who first read about Suspended Coffees on Facebook, said she loved the simplicity of the idea and decided to bring it to the town.

She explained that the way the scheme works is that a customer pays for a coffee and the empty cup stays behind the counter until the ‘suspended coffee’ is claimed by a homeless person for free.

“We have got five cafes signed up to take part,” said Susan, “Lindley Café at Lidget Street, Lindley, Hanson’s Café in Marsh and three in the town centre Queenie’s Coffee Shop at Queen Street, Time Circa 2010 at Hammonds Yard and Café Society at Byram Street.”

She said although the project had only been running for a short time, already she had head positive stories of children who had saved their pocket money to buy a suspended coffee and hoped others would see it as a way of making a small step towards helping others.

PARENTS SEEK SUPPORT FOR THEIR SURE START CENTRE

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arents associated with the Chestnut Children’s Centre are seeking new members for the Chestnut Family Forum which organises Sure Start supported events.

The forum meets at the centre at Chestnut Street, Sheepridge on the second Wednesday of every month during term time from 9.45am to 11.45am.

A free creche is provided if places are booked in advance – the next meeting will take place on July 10, 2013 and then on September 11, 2013.

The group also runs a walking group for parents who would like to get fit but struggle to find the time for exercise. The sessions are free, buggy friendly and take place at 12.30pm following the forum meeting.

Story and Rhyme Time is run in conjunction with the Chestnut Library and Information Centre on the last Wednesday of every month from 10am to 10.45am during term time.

Emma Stead, secretary of the forum, said: “Other sessions we are starting include a baby cinema, a mother and toddler group and a women only swimming session with their children.”

Katie Wade, who runs Lindley Café with her mum, Sheila, said: “We saw the scheme advertised on Facebook and thought it was a really good idea and a nice concept. Everyone we have spoken to about it has been very supportive.”

Participating cafes have Suspended Coffee displays in their windows or behind the counter and Café Society is trialling a voucher scheme to make it easier for people to claim the free drinks.

For more information or to get involved in the project, visit www.facebook.com/ SuspendedCoffeesHuddersfield.

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eVENTS

SATURDAY

JUNE 29TH ★ 1-4PM b b Fern Lea Recreation Ground, Lindley (behind the Black Bull Pub)

LINDLEY

CARNIVAL

LINDLEY COMMUNITY GROUP PRESENTS

LINDLEY 10K LIN

FU

N RUN

UK OF

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MEA

ON

St St ep

Refreshments available from 8.30am

SE

www.lindleycarnival.org.uk

Race Headquarters - Lindley Infant School - 7.30 am East Street, Lindley, HD3 3NE UR

FOOD ★ DRINKS ★ CAKES BOUNCY CASTLES ★ CLIMBING WALL BUCKING BRONCO ★ ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES PRETTY IN PINK PONIES & MORE

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St. Stephen’s Parish Church, Lidget Street, HD3 3JB

y dle in

Tickets: £5 on the door

All proceeds from the event go to “Building for Our Future”

JUNE 2013 TH 30

Fri - 7pm - by invitation only Sat - 10am - 4pm / Sun -12pm - 4pm Refreshments and Church n’s L he musical interludes throughout

HUDDERSFIELD

IA TI

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A FESTIVAL OF FLOWERS AND MUSIC

LINDLEY 10K OC

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entries will not be accepted after Friday 14th June 2013

ASS

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FLORA & GLORIA /

LINDLEY JUNIOR SCHOOL CHOIR & LINDLEY INFANT SCHOOL CHOIR

Entry Costs UKA Affiliated Club Runners - £8.00 Non UKA Affiliated Club Runners - £10.00 Fun Run Entry Cost - £2 Entry / Sponsorship & Volunteer Forms Available From www.lindley10k.org.uk

MUSICAL GUESTS ★★★★

LINDLEY BAND

Start Times Lindley 10K - 09:30am Lindley Fun Run - 09.00am

DLEY

OPENING BY MARK LILLIS - HUDDERSFIELD TOWN’S ACADEMY MANAGER

F R I 28 TH / S A T2

O

OL

CARNIVAL TIME FOR LINDLEY Lindley Carnival is set to be the best yet with games, rides, stalls, music and entertainment galore.

The annual event will take place on June 29, 2013, between 1pm and 4pm and this year, the theme will be Armed Forces Day. The carnival, which began in 1945 and was revived six years ago, will also raise money for the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice – The Scallymag charity for the year.

Councillor Cahal Burke (Lib Dem, Lindley), said: “I have been fortunate to be involved with the carnival since the beginning and the community group that support the organisations and running of the carnival work really hard and

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GROUP

JUNE 30TH 2013 b b

FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY ★★★★

COMMUNITY

S U N D AY

SC H

GROUP

T

COMMUNITY

LINDLEY INFAN

LINDLEY COMMUNITY GROUP PRESENTS

LY FUN DAY MI FA ds ien Fr

of Lindley

In fa nt s

Sc ho o

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FAMILY FUN DAY Venue Lindley Infant School Stalls, Games, Food & Refreshments £1 entry

Opening Time 11am - 3pm

can be very proud of what has been achieved over the last six years.

“Work takes place by the community group all year round to make the carnival the best it can be. Once again we are hoping for a good day for the carnival and people can come and enjoy the day as part of a weekend of activities taking place in Lindley.”

St Stephen’s Church at Lidget Street will also be hosting a flower show over the weekend and on June 30, 2013, Lindley 10k, Lindley Fun Run and a Family Fun Day at Lindley Infant School will take place.

eVENTS OH WE DO LIKE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE… Holmfirth Arts Festival will be breaking out the bunting and setting up the deckchairs for this year’s event, which celebrates the town’s unique role in the invention of the great British seaside.

The festival, which runs from June 13, 2013 to June 23, 2013, includes music, theatre, exhibitions, comedy, workshops, walks as well as an array of family and children’s events – many with a distinctly seaside theme.

Bamforth’s Beryl will grace the façade of the 100-year-old Picturedrome Cinema to celebrate sponsorship from the famous Holmfirth company, well known for its seaside postcards.

Deckchairs will be placed around the town from which visitors can write postcards saying what they think of the Holme Valley.

Festival director, Fiona Goh, said: “We may be 60 miles from the nearest beach but I’m fascinated by Holmfirth’s unique and unexpected claim – through Bamforth’s postcards – to be the inventor of the great British seaside.

“Our festival of ideas explores the town’s identity, past and present, and there’s no reason why we can’t bring the seaside to Holmfirth.

“In addition to our themed events,

visitors can take part in a postcard trail for a chance to win a hamper of Holmfirth goodies, and we even have illuminations and fire sculptures on the opening weekend.”

Families can enjoy The Last Resort, a free day of seaside themed entertainment, with Uncle Tacko’s Imaginarium and Flea Circus.

Dads will get the opportunity to experience den building in the woods on Father’s Day and younger children can be treated to a special performance by theatre company Tutti Frutti.

For full details of festival events, visit www.holmfirthartsfestival.co.uk.

Holmfirth Arts Festival - Family Events: Thursday June 13 – Sunday June 23

Holmfirth Driftwood - Free Fairandfunky have been working with several local primary schools to create a trail of giant postcards made from ‘Holmfirth Driftwood’ - recycled materials. Collect a postcard from participating venues, complete the trail by collecting a full set of stickers and post your completed card in the Festival Postbox, outside Imagine Toys, by June 22 for a chance to win a hamper of Holmfirth goodies.

Saturday June 15 – 10am – 4pm

Upcycling, Make Do and Mend Workshops at Holmfirth Market Hall - Free Six different textile workshops on offer and there may be a small charge for materials.

Sunday June 16 – 10am and 1pm

Into the Woods at Barnaby’s Nursery, Mearhouse Farm - £5 (£3 concession), family tickets £15 Father’s Day den building, exploring, natural art and enjoying hot chocolate over an open fire. Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs.

Sunday June 16 – 11am, 1pm and 3pm

Hue Boy at the Old Bridge Hotel - £6 (£4 concession) A heart-warming, interactive tale, suitable for children aged three to seven, presented by Tutti Frutti Theatre Company.

Saturday June 22 – 11am – 4pm

The Last Resort at Victoria Park – Free Get stuck into a sand sculpting workshop and enjoy all the fun of the fair with Uncle Tacko’s Imaginarium and Flea Circus.

REACH FOR THE STARS Reach Performing Arts is a dance and drama agency which encourages children to achieve their full potential at a fraction of the cost.

It was set up in 2011 by Natalie Pinnock-Hamilton, after her son, Rohan, trained in performing arts and gained a scholarship to The Urdang Academy in London. He has since appeared in productions of ‘Hairspray’, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ and ‘Riverdance.’

She said she realised there were many talented children unable to build a future in performing arts due to financial restrictions and founded Reach as a result.

She said: “We aim to open up avenues by giving young people an opportunity to take part in drama and other activities in preparation to attend auditions for stage, screen and television.

“This also includes modelling for the catwalk or fashion. We will work tirelessly to secure auditions to the best of our ability.”

Sessions take place on Fridays from 5pm to 7.15pm at HD1 Dance, St John’s Road, Huddersfield and include three disciplines – dance, drama and vocal training. Students are expected to participate in all of them.

Dance incorporates many styles from ballet to street dance, drama builds confidence, strengthens speech and encourages vocal projection, while vocal training includes musical theatre.

Admission to Reach Performing Arts is by application form and an informal audition. For further information, contact Natalie Pinnock-Hamilton on Mob. 07786 651831.

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LITERACY MUM TURNED CHILDREN’S AUTHOR

H

ave you ever fantasised of being the next Roald Dahl or J.K. Rowling?

Perhaps you’ve put pen to paper but never dreamed of letting anyone else read your work. Maybe you’ve tried your luck by sending sample chapters off to publishing houses only to have your hopes dashed with polite rejection letters.

Fiona Woodhead, a mum-of-two with a story to tell, turned to self-publishing her first book, ‘Once-upon-a-Slime.’ The book about three slimy slugs proved such a success, that she is now expanding into a whole series of children’s ‘Once-upon-a-Slime’ books based on a variety of creepy crawlies.

She said: “Since self-publishing my first children’s picture book in November last year, I have lost count of how many people have said that it has always been a dream of theirs to write a children’s book.”

The idea for the book was sparked by stories that Fiona’s father, Howard, used to tell her and her siblings as a child.

In 2010, while on maternity leave, she decided to write and illustrate a book for him as a Christmas present.

However, the book was rejected by a number of publishers and agents. Finally, she decided to take the plunge and pay to get a small number of copies printed to show to schools and shops.

She said: “I contacted a couple of local printing companies and searched Google before finding a printer that wasn’t going to break the bank.

“I did have to set up my own publishing company to obtain ISBN barcodes, but it was only a few simple forms to fill in.

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Registered with Ofsted

22

“It took just three weeks from making that decision to then being sat looking at 250 copies of ‘Once-upon-a-Slime’ – a garden tale about Max and three slugs. It was brilliant!”

Fiona, of Savile Park, Halifax, set up a website and a Facebook page and within two months, all 250 copies had been sold. Her second print run consisted of 1,000 copies.

“It is scary thinking of spending money on what could potentially be a disaster, but it’s so true – you don’t know until you try,” said Fiona. “Until you get some books in your hands and pop into your local shops, you don’t know what will happen.”

She is currently working on the second book in the series based on the character of Spindler the spider. Having printed a sample run to test on retailers and children, Fiona says she is about to order her next 1,000 copies.

Her popularity as a children’s author now regularly sees her attending schools to host craft and creative writing workshops.

For more information on the ‘Once-upon-a-Slime’ series, visit: www.onceuponaslime.com.

SUMMER READING CHALLENGE Libraries across Kirklees are encouraging thousands of children to take part in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge.

The challenge, organised nationally by literacy charity, The Reading Agency, encourages children aged between four and 11 to read six books during the summer holidays.

The theme for 2013 is ‘Creepy House’ and children can choose to read whichever books they like including fact books, joke books, picture books or novels, as long as they are borrowed from a library.

It is hoped that there will be reading champions to assist with the challenge at library and information centres in Huddersfield, Birkby and Fartown, Lindley, Holmfirth, Mirfield, Batley, Cleckheaton, Dewsbury and the Greenwood Centre in Ravensthorpe.

More than 3,800 children across the district took part last year with 73% completing the challenge.

Stephen Uttley, who specialises in English and Maths tuition at Ofsted registered NumberWorks’nWords, Huddersfield, explains why he believes the Summer Reading Challenge is a great opportunity: “It’s free and it’s fun to go and choose a book. One of the best gifts you can give your child is to show and share with them the pleasure you get from reading.

“Not everyone enjoys fiction. Children need to be allowed to choose what to read but should be encouraged to try other materials too, for example history books or books on a particular sport or a favourite activity.”

LITERACY All information kindly supplied by:

The Children’s Bookshop 37-39 Lidget Street, Lindley, Huddersfield 01484 658013

S Children’s SUMMER Reads

ummer is finally on its way so here’s some suggestions to keep little minds busy and stave off holiday boredom.

Summer Reads

Travel Sticker Book

by Usborne Activities (£5.99) Put stickers on the bus, airport and car ferry plus there are opportunities to add more detail to a camel train, an Amazon adventure and Venice. Bound to keep them busy on long journeys.

The RSPB Bumper Book of Wildlife Stories

by Pat Kelleher, illustrated by Daniel Howarth (£10.99) Packed full of outdoor related mazes and matching puzzles which are accompanied by a short animal related story. Perfect for when you’re out and about in the countryside.

Preschoolers

My Perfectly Purple Sticker Bag

by Gabrielle Mercer (£5.99) One that little girls will love – drawings, stickers and puzzles, all in a book shaped like a handbag.

There, There

by Sam McBratney, illustrated by Ivan Bates (£10.99) By the author of ‘Guess How Much I Love You?’, this is perfect for all toddlers and encourages their understanding and ability to move on from life’s little mishaps.

Young Readers

Can You See Sassoon

by Sam Usher (£5.99) This, like the following two books will suit fans of ‘Where’s Wally.’ Search for Sassoon, a stripy snake who is a master of concealment.

Where Are You Pip? Illustrated by Karen Bendy (£4.99) Pip is a black cat in a world of equally black cats. Trying to spot Pip and her possessions is totally addictive.

Find Chaffy

by Jamie Smart (£5.99) There are 10 Chaffies to find but they are difficult to spot because they are prone to shape shifting. This book requires a little concentration.

NEWS

Fiona Woodhead’s book, ‘Once-upon-aSlime’, see the feature opposite, is also available at The Children’s Bookshop.

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SUMMER ACTIVITIES at 10.00 – 2.00

EVERY WEDNESDAY

THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS

All events include a tea party! ADVANCED BOOKING ESSENTIAL – TICKETS ONLY! Wed 24th July Let’s get fancy at The Edge Bakery

ies & biscuits.

Decorating cupcakes, loll it kebabs! fru chocolate fountain and have your not y wh For an extra treat .00 £11 st Co d? nte face pai

Wed 14th August Disney Princess Ball

Let your little princess be pampered in time for the ball. icures, hair and accessories. man Mini Decorate your own tiara.

You never know a real princess may join you at the ball!

Cost £13.00

Wed 31st July Pirate Extravaganza

Let Captain Carl take you on an adventure across the high seas – with games and activities to help you on your way. Watch out for Polly Parrot & Little Dan! Find out your real Pirate name.

Best dressed Pirate win’s a prize!

Cost £10.00

ust Wed 28th Aug Safety Day

Fire Fire Man Sam & lp of Fireman Sam! he th wi ss Fire awarene fire brigade and the A special visit from the a real fire engine! on opportunity to sit joy. Cost £9.00 Games & crafts to en

7th August Peppa Pig Fun Day

Enjoy fun and games with Peppa!

Story time, singing & dancing.

Let us take your photo with Pep pa and take it home. Cost £10.00

st Wed 21st Augu nture Mini Beast Adve mini beast!

of the Explore the world olab – get your Zo m With a visit fro creepy crawlies! hands on some real nt n plant pot and pla Decorate your ow . me ho e tak to s some seed 00 cream Cost £14.

Enjoy a yummy ice

To book please ring 01422 377222 Or call in: The Edge Play Gym & Café, Park Road, Elland, HX5 9HZ Full payment in advance when booking!