The Press – Friday March 6, 2020 by Yorkshire Golfer

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32 years for arson death plot Driving instructor sent accomplices to torch house of former female colleague By Staff Reporters A BATLEY man has been jailed for 32 years for orchestrating a plot to kill an entire family in a house fire. Mohammed Azad, of Mortimer Avenue in Healey, was convicted of attempted murder after targeting the Heckmondwike home of a woman who left his struggling driving school business. The 45-year-old planned the attack but didn’t physically carry it out. Instead he sent accom-

plices Vishal Tharpar and Semia Hussain to douse the front door of the property, on Stonedene Court, in petrol before setting it alight. Leeds Crown Court heard Azad persuaded the arsonists to carry out the plan by telling them the house would be unoccupied. Tharpar, 32, of Brooke Street in Cleckheaton, and Hussain, 26, of Hawthorne Avenue in Batley, were found guilty of arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered. They were sentenced to nine years and six years in

jail respectively. The court heard that Azad targeted single mum Riqqat Hussain because she had left his company, A to Z Driving, while he was in extreme financial difficulty and set up her own rival firm. During the trial, Alistair Macdonald QC, prosecuting, told jurors the fire took hold at the property at around 3.40am on Sunday August 11, 2019. Ms Hussain, her 17-yearold son and two daughters, aged 16 and 11, were all inside the house at the time.

The court heard that Tharpar and Hussain returned to the property on several occasions to make sure the fire took hold. “It was a thoroughly determined effort to set this fire,” said Mr Macdonald. “Once they were sure that the house was well alight, they made off on foot, leaving the sleeping family in deadly peril.” Continued on page 2

Mohammed Azad, right, and the burned-out home on Stonedene Court which Riqqat Hussain and her children escaped from

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ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Long sentences for arson trio Deaths BOOTH JOAN Peacefully at home, formerly of Heckmondwike and Gomersal, aged 82, wife of the late Gerrard. Funeral service will take place at Woodlands Crematorium,

Family notices in The Press

Scarborough, on Friday March 20 at 11.15am.

Although we carry some abridged funeral notices, we cannot guarantee inclusion. However you can ensure information about your loved ones, whether that be a death/funeral notice, an acknowledgement or a birthday memory, reaches by far the most readers in North Kirklees. What’s more, Family Notices in The Press are significantly more affordable than other newspapers. For personal service, from a local business, call us on 01924 470296.

BYRNE EILEEN THERESA On February 14, suddenly at home in West Gate, Cleckheaton, aged 59, daughter of Eileen and the

late Vincent. Funeral service will take place at Huddersfield Crematorium on Monday March 9 at 1.15pm.

BRENNAN Christopher Patrick

Place your family notices by calling 01924 470296

On 29th February 2020, peacefully at Kirkwood Hospice, of Mirfield and formerly of Dewsbury, aged 68 years, Christopher, much loved husband of Judy, dearly loved dad of Misty and the late Declan, beloved grandpa of Dan, Leigh, Chloe, Raine and Tyler, a dear brother, brother-in-law and uncle. Requiem Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady & St Paulinus RC Church on Friday 13th March 2020 at 1pm followed by interment at Dewsbury Cemetery. Friends please accept this intimation and meet at the church. Flowers will be received at George Brooke’s Chapel of Rest, Dewsbury. R.I.P.

CAIRNS (NEE ROBINSON) BARBARA On February 27, of Westtown, Dewsbury, aged 79, wife of the late John. Funeral service will

LISTER Geoffrey On 3rd March 2020 peacefully at Kirkwood Hospice, of Batley, aged 89 years. Geoffrey, beloved husband of Margaret, dearly loved father of Susan, Mark and Philip a very dear father-in-law, grandad and great grandad. Funeral service will take place at Huddersfield Crematorium on Thursday 19th March 2020 at 1.15pm. Friends please accept this intimation and meet at the crematorium. Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu may be placed in the collection box provided or sent to: George Brooke Ltd, Funeral Directors, for the benefit of Kirkwood Hospice.

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take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday March 16 at 1.15pm.

ELLIOTT GERALD KEITH

STANLEY PAUL On February 25, of Heckmondwike, aged 70, brother of Keith, Stephen and Julie. Funeral service will take place at Holy Spirit R.C Church, Heckmondwike, on Tuesday March 17 at 12 noon.

TOWNSLEY (NEE WOOD) MARGARET

On February 29, aged 87, husband of the late Irene. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday March 16 at 10.30am.

On February 29, aged 87, wife of the late Norman. Funeral service will take place at St John’s Church, Dewsbury Moor, on Monday March 16 at 1.15pm.

HEELEY (NEE COLLIER) JUNE

WILSON (TONY) ANTHONY

On February 24, of Liversedge, aged 73, wife of the late Derek. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday March 16 at 12.30pm.

On February 24, of Cleckheaton and formerly of Hightown, aged 80. Funeral service will take place at Huddersfield Crematorium on Friday March 20 at 10.30am.

MILES Winston

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On 28th February 2020, whilst in the safe care of Kirkwood Hospice, of Hanging Heaton, aged 79 years, Winston, dearly loved husband of Brenda, much loved dad of Andrew, dear father-in-law of Sharon and a beloved grandad. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday 23rd March at 12.30pm Friends please accept this intimation and meet at the crematorium. No flowers by request, donations in memory of Winston may be given to George Brooke Ltd, for the benefit of Kirkwood Hospice.

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Continued from page 1 Everyone inside the home escaped with their lives, but teenage son Asad suffered a fractured spine and burns to his hand after jumping from an upstairs window at the semidetached house. He was placed on life support as a result of his injuries. Mr Macdonald said: “It takes no feat of the imagination to understand just how desperate Asad must have been to avoid the flames and fumes in his bedroom to jump from the top floor window onto the concrete area beneath.” He added that although Azad was not present at the address at the time of the incident, he was involved in the planning, obtaining a petrol canister, petrol, rubber gloves and cleaning products in the lead-up to the fire. Tharpar and Hussain left Azad’s house in a white Audi A3, travelled to an area close to Stonedene Court, and returned to his house once the fire was lit. Representing Hussain, Timothy Raggatt told the court she was a “simple girl” who had been manipulated by Azad and “did as she was told”. He added that his client had been in Azad’s “thrall for years”. But the judge rejected his submission and determined it was a revenge attack in which she had taken part. Sentencing the trio, Judge Jameson said: “Azad, believing that Riqqat Hussain and her children were at home, sent Vishal Thapar and Semia Hussain to set fire to their house intending that those inside would die.”

‘Targeted attack’ in Chickenley POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a robbery in Chickenley on Tuesday. Detectives say they are treating the incident as a “suspected targeted attack” on two men at a home on Bank View. Officers were called to the address at around 8.05pm after a group of seven or eight men forced entry to the property when an occupant answered the door. The suspects then assaulted the men inside and made demands before fleeing with items including a bicycle and a television. One of the men is described as tall, possibly of dual heritage, and is believed to have been wearing a salmon coloured jumper. The victims, two men in their 20s, were taken to hospital for further treatment to their injuries, which were serious but not life threatening. Detective Inspector Andrew Lockwood, of Kirklees CID, said: “We are investigating the circumstances of why this incident took place, and are currently treating it as a targeted attack on the individuals inside the house. “We believe the suspects The Press abides by the attended at the property in principles of the Independent two vehicles and I would Press Standards Organisation like to speak to anyone who and at all times attempts to saw the men attend at the report fairly and accurately scene, flee it, or who has and correct mistakes or any information which errors as soon as possible. could assist our enquiries.” In the first instance, contact Anyone with information the editor, otherwise we will should call 101 referencing be happy to give details of the crime number Independent Press 13200113551. Standards Organisation. If you notice a factual inaccuracy, please email news@thepressnews.co.uk. You can also write to The Press, 31 Branch Road, Batley, WF17 5SB We adhere to the Editors’ Code of Practice as enforced by IPSO, who are contactable for advice at: IPSO, Gate House, 1 Farringdon Street, London, EC4M 7LG Website: www.ipso.co.uk Email: advice@ipso.co.uk Telephone: 0300 123 2220

Meeting

NORTH KIRKLEES: Another meeting will be held by the WASPI campaign group following the success of an information day in Mirfield. The Women Against State Pension Injustice (WASPI) group will meet at the Railway pub on Huddersfield Road between 5.30pm and 6.30pm on Wednesday, March 11. Attendees will be updated on the current situation, how women can become involved with the campaign and upcoming events.

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Bird’s eye view is just the job A CHURCH in Cleckheaton used drone technology to check its roof was still in good condition following the recent storms. A major restoration of the roof and bell tower at Whitechapel Church was completed back in 2007 and it needs to be checked regularly. In the past extendable safety ladders had to be used – but Kia Rika-Rayne, of Rayne Drop Productions, stepped up this time to do the survey after fears it could have been damaged by Storm Ciara. Church warden Ann Naylor said: “This was quite exciting and it was good to learn that the roof, gutters and flue pipe flashing were all in sound condition.”

Floods force canal closure for a year Major damage at the Figure of Three Locks on the Calder and Hebble Navigation Canal

News In Brief Coronavirus scare was ‘a precaution’ BATLEY: Fears about a potential coronavirus victim in Batley proved to be groundless. A dramatic photo of a patient on Mill Lane being carried into an ambulance by medics in white protective suits was circulated on social media this week. Residents witnessed the ambulance arrive at 8.15am on Tuesday and saw the patient taken inside the vehicle by staff wearing hazmat (hazardous materials) suits. It was later found that the patient had gone into a diabetic coma. The ambulance workers had worn protective clothing as a precaution, as the man had recently travelled to the UK from Indonesia where he had attended a family funeral.

Day of celebration DEWSBURY: International Women’s Day will be celebrated by local members of the Soroptimist organisation on Sunday. The achievements of women have been celebrated on International Women’s Day, March 8, for more than a century and this year there will be a call to accelerate equality. Soroptimist International of Dewsbury and District was formed in 1942 to improve the lives of women and girls. It holds two meetings a month and has a varied programme of entertainment and social events.

PHOTO: ASH MILNES

By Jane Yelland DAMAGE caused by recent storms has forced the closure of a section of the Calder and Hebble Navigation Canal. The Figure of Three locks near Dewsbury will be shut for a year and is expected to cost more than £2m to repair. Floodwater surged from the adjacent River Calder and severely damaged the lock system and banking, close to Hostingley Lane, between Thornhill and Horbury Bridge. Sean McGinley, Yorkshire

director of the Canal and River Trust, said that the Yorkshire section of the charity’s 2,000-mile network had been been hit the hardest by Storms Ciara and Dennis in February. He said it was “heartbreaking’’ to see West Yorkshire so badly affected by floodwater so soon after the 2015 Boxing Day floods. “Rochdale Canal and the Calder and Hebble Navigation are the most affected waterways in the region,’’ said Mr McGinley. “While our initial esti-

mates indicate that Figure of Three Locks will be closed for 12 months and repairs will cost in excess of £2m, these figures will be refined in the coming weeks with the assistance of our engineers and contractors.’’ Boaters can still use the rest of the canal but there is no way of getting through the Figure of Three locks. The 21-mile Calder and Hebble is part-canal and partriver. It has 28 locks in total and connects the Yorkshire and Pennine canals.

MP Tracy showcases successful women TRACY BRABIN MP is holding an event to celebrate International Women’s Day tomorrow (Sat). The all-day event, held at Batley Community Centre (10am), will feature a marketplace of local businesses, charities and community groups run by women. There will also be displays, live performances, a pop-up cafe and a host of guest

speakers. Julia Townend, who has spent 25 years working in the film and television industry, and Lin Davie, who worked on the set of hit TV shows Doctor Who and The Stranger, are amongst those giving talks on the day. Ms Brabin said: “We have so many brilliant, successful women in Batley and Spen and this is an opportunity to

celebrate them. “Women still face so many more challenges than men in business, the workplace and everyday life. But these women are prime examples that with hard work, talent and determination you can smash these barriers and have a successful career.” For more information email ingrid.scott@parliament.uk.

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News In Brief

Friday March 6, 2020

Flood defences ‘too costly’ By Tony Earnshaw Local Democracy Reporter

Audrey’s a winner NORTH KIRKLEES: Press reader Audrey Brook picked up a £25 voucher from Tesco Batley after winning our recent Pancake Day competition. Audrey, of Dewsbury, correctly identified there were 17 tiny frying pans hidden in our special feature.

Bradford Road crash BATLEY: Part of Bradford Road was blocked on Monday morning following a two-car crash. Police were called to the junction of Batley Field Hill and Bradford Road in Batley at 9.26am after an Audi and a Peugeot collided at the crossroads. The male driver of the Peugeot was taken to hospital for precautionary checks and both cars were removed by 10.23am.

THOUSANDS of homes across Kirklees are likely to remain at risk of being overwhelmed by river water because vital flood defences are “unaffordable”. Experts fear the funding formula for the Government’s Flood Defence Grant in Aid programme (FDGiA) will not allow it to generate enough money to pay for what is needed. Analysis of the location and size of flood risk across the borough’s 23 wards has identified more than 8,000 homes and 2,000 businesses as being at risk. They risk flooding from two sources: fluvial (river) and surface water. Data is based on storms and other extreme weather that have a one per cent chance of occurring in any given year. It is known as one per cent AEP and is the level of risk that the Government currently judges to be an “acceptable” level of risk. Kirklees Council is now reviewing its seven-year-old Local Flood Risk Management Strategy and looking at what progress has been made since it was last refreshed in 2019. But it has warned the size and scope of flood defence schemes for the worst-hit areas are likely to be too big to be affordable. In an appendix to its main report the council says it better understands the location and size of flood risk and that a pro-

national Flood Grant in Aid programme is such that it won’t generate significant amounts of grant funding to make such schemes affordable.” The council has completed assessments of some high flood risk locations including north Mirfield, which were among 11 measures left outstanding from 2013. Others are ongoing. A project to identify and document highest risk private flood defence and drainage assets is set to be completed by October 2020. A report to the council’s Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee next week (March 9) says the authority will ensure developers comply with regulations on water run-off. The council is also focused on educating residents and businesses on the flood risks they face.

Floods closed Granny Lane gramme of mitigation measures can be developed “to address the locations at highest risk with greatest impact”. But it cautions: “In broad terms, the risk of flooding from fluvial sources (the main river network, including the Colne, Holme, Calder, Spen, Dearne and Batley Beck) is such that major

flood defence schemes to reduce the risk to property are likely to be unaffordable. “Whilst a substantial number of residential properties in the district are at risk from river flooding, and a significant amount of historic industrial buildings lie adjacent to the river, the funding formula for the

Council help towards damage costs BUSINESSES, community groups and residents affected by flooding can now apply for financial help from Kirklees Council. A grant of £750 is being made to any household where water has entered the main living areas of the property and small and medium sized businesses and registered charities can apply for a grant of £3,000. Coun Shabir Pandor, leader of Kirklees Council,said 80 residential properties and 50 businesses had been hit by flooding. “We have not waited for the

Government but have acted swiftly to provide financial assistance to those who have been affected by these terrible weather conditions. Our package of measures, including grants and relief on council tax and business rates, will go some way to helping those who have suffered to recover from this situation. “We will not stop there and will continue to lobby Government to ensure we have the right flood defences in place and ensure there is further financial assistance and grants when needed.’’

Households in receipt of a grant will also be considered for a 100 per cent discount on their council tax for a minimum of three months or until they are able to return home. Businesses will also be considered for a 100 per cent business rate discount for up to three months or until the business is able to resume trading from the premises. The council is also offering free bulky waste collections for homes affected by flooding. To apply for a grant visit www.kirklees.gov.uk/floodsupport

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ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Cruel gang of coldcall fraudsters jailed Conmen targeted the vulnerable and elderly By Staff Reporters A GANG of conmen trading out of Cleckheaton have been jailed for a combined total of almost 20 years. Mohammed Mansha Abbas, Mohammed Zulfgar Abbas, Mohammed Vaqaas Abbas and Imran Shan – of Bespoke Home Security Ltd and Bespoke Home Improvements Group Ltd – were sentenced at Leeds Crown Court for a “sophisticated fraud” on Tuesday. The court heard the company, which was based at Ridings House on Westgate, overcharged customers for unnecessary security and home improvement products. A four-year investigation carried out by Trading Standards unearthed a total of 28 victims, who were predominantly vulnerable and elderly – including an 89-year-old blind woman who suffered from Alzheimer’s. The defendants deliberately focused on pensioners by buying

call-data for homeowners over 60 and would repeatedly target customers with whom they had success in the past. Mansha Abbas, Zulfgar Abbas, Vaqaas Abbas, all from Heckmondwike, and Shan, of Leeds, were all given lengthy sentences. A fifth defendant, Nasir Munir, will be sentenced at a later date for his part in the fraud. Victims of the fraud were initially cold-called by National Survey Line Ltd staff, who had been provided with dishonest scripts. The victim would be told of rising crime rates and persuaded that there was a need for further security products to be installed in their home. If the victim agreed to a home visit one of the five defendants, who each carried out the role of salesman, would attend at the property. They would stay in the victim’s home for several hours, encouraging them to immediately sign a contract for work that was often

over-priced or unnecessary. In several cases the victims believed they were receiving a government grant, which didn’t exist, towards the price of the works. A number of the victims had loans taken out in their names to pay for works without their knowledge. The group set up bank accounts using the victims’ ID to make the repayments. Others had loans taken out in their names even though they hadn’t had any work done by the company. On one occasion the defendants even took a victim’s bank card details in order to make purchases themselves and set up online banking facilities in the victim’s name in order to control their finances. West Yorkshire Police began investigating the men in March 2017 and found one male victim had been conned out of £3,500 after the gang posed as representatives of a solar panel company. They approached the man and pretended to give him a refund

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for his solar panels via a chip and pin card machine. Instead, they extracted the money from his account. During the course of the police investigation an iPhone seized from Munir was examined. Officers found a series of WhatsApp messages exchanged between the defendants in which they discussed the people they were targeting. One read: “Perfect profile. Single lady, 89 years old, blind, disabled, Alzheimer’s.” Reacting to the sentencing, PCC Mark Burns-Williamson said: “This is another shocking and cruel example of exploitation perpetrated against the vulnerable. “These sentences and outcomes should act as a strong deterrent to others. Results such as these really do help to keep our communities safe.” Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 proceedings will now follow to recover the defendants’ benefit from criminal conduct and compensate their victims.

RINGLEADER: Mohammed Mansha Abbas

Full sentence details for the gang: • Mohammed Mansha Abbas, of Leeds Old Road, Heckmondwike, pleaded guilty to three counts of conspiracy to defraud and was sentenced to nine years. He was also banned as a director for a further 10 years. • Mohammed Zulfqar Abbas, of Greenfields, Heckmondwike, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud and was sentenced to four-and-a-half years. He was banned as a director for seven years. • Mohammed Vaqaas Abbas, also of Greenfields, Heckmondwike, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud and was sentenced to three years. • Imran Shan, of Leeds, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud and was sentenced to three years. • Another defendant in the case, Roman Le, who sourced the card machine used in the fraud, was convicted of money laundering and sentenced to 12 months, suspended for two years. He was also ordered to undertake 150 hours of unpaid work.

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

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LIFE IN BLACK AND WHITE Danny Lockwood

One flu over the cuckoo’s nest ELLOOOO? Is there anyone out there? If you’re one of the few survivors of the coronavirus apocalypse, are you reading The Press while wearing your grandad’s old World War II gas mask and a pair of woollen mittens? Bit of a bugger trying to turn the pages, isn’t it? Well, I’m not having it, all of this doomsday nonsense. No sirree. Nope, nyet, non and as many other linguistic variations on the definitive negative as you can conjure. No. Yes, there is a global pandemic, but it’s only vaguely related to the Chinese flu that’s seen off a relatively small number of elderly folk and others with serious preexisting health conditions. Surprisingly I’ve not seen

Greta Thunderer jumping on the coronavirus bandwagon yet – but it can only be a matter of time, because just about everyone else in the media landscape has been swept along by the wave of mass hysteria that’s infecting the globe. I imagine Greta’s probably hunkered down in a bunker right now surrounded by her climate extinction puppeteers, trying to conjure a link between a runny nose and carbon emissions. It’s worrying, it really is – but not the Chinese flu; the sight and sound of the world losing its marbles. What on earth has happened to a sense of reasoned perspective? Why the panic stations? And amongst we stiff upper lip Brits of all people? I can understand highly

After 14 days Bob reckoned it was safe to nip down to the paper shop strung ‘newer’ nations like the USA and Australia throwing a mass wobbler because that’s generally what they do. They just love a drama.

Indeed I’ve just come through Los Angeles airport and it was like a scene from that Brad Pitt film World War Z, with people all masked and gloved up, trying to navigate a busy terminal without getting within six feet of each other. Given how many Chinese and Korean residents LA has, I had a sudden urge to start snogging every masked person who looked like they’d be a dab hand at whipping up a tasty won ton soup. (Although considering the nervous dispositions of local law enforcement officers, it would have been a toss-up whether I was sectioned or riddled with bullets. Either way, I wouldn’t have been returning next year for my annual rugby reunion). HAT’S supposing anyone’s flying anywhere anytime soon, such is the rabid hysteria seizing previously sensible people, as politicians and organisations race to outdo each other in their bid to overreact with frantic reactions to the latestdoomsday predictions. There’s one level at which I can understand the institutional panic. Can you imagine being the Prime Minister or Health Secretary who tells the frantic children running our major media organisations to grow a pair – that this is a new strain of flu that will come and go like every other? And that yes, some people will be a tad poorly, some

quite ill, and others will kick the bucket – much as they would if they contracted any strain of flu? The politician who tried saying that would find his career on life support before you could say ‘a-choo!’ And if, heaven forfend, this actually is a doomsday plague (and it isn’t) there would be a headlong rush to unplug his metaphorical ventilator. Y PAL Andy is a pharmacist, and his surgery was told this week to avoid sending people to two specific hospitals at all costs, because they were beyond capacity. Know why? The flu. The common-or-garden variety that kills thousands a year, despite our vaccination programmes. But that’s not ‘new’ as in ‘news’ so nothing for our over-excited media to get its knickers in a twist over. Thus, afraid of being seen to ‘not be taking it seriously’ everyone with any form of public responsibility follows the herd, feeds the hype and turbo-charges the panic. Another pal in Western Australia reports local supermarkets running out of bog roll, of all things, as people panic buy. Good grief. Meanwhile the cost to worldwide economies is already phenomenal. Billions in lost trade as supply chains break down, heaven knows how many jobs lost because huge events are cancelled, with the possibility of even the Olympics being thrown under this runaway bus.

I’ve seen scientific predictions of 50 million dead worldwide and our own Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty suggesting we could see 20 per cent of the entire workforce down with it. And yet in front of MPs on Thursday, Prof Whitty admitted “the great majority” of people who are eventually infected will fully recover – even people in their 80s. Most people who get it have only mild symptoms, and many don’t get infected at all. As such, am I being naively glib when I wonder why, short of stopping every flight, every public transport journey, closing every schoool, office ... indeed, isolating the world for weeks on end (which is obviously impossible) we bother at all? As I write there have been 3,214 CV deaths, but just for reassurance, and to put that into some kind of perspective, from January 1 to March 2 some 9.9 million people died across the world. Alarmed? Don’t be – there were 23.6 million births in the same timespan, so the global population had grown by 13.7 million. In fact coronavirus needs to start upping its game if it’s to make a dent on those numbers – because there’s no way we can make enough wind turbines, solar panels and vegan-friendly knitted jumpers to cope with the estimated extra 110 million people by year’s end. Maybe that’s what wee Greta’s busy drawing up a cunning plan for...

Patel’s a pretty tough boss P W RITI Patel, the Home Secretary – pictured – sounds like a particularly unpleasant piece of work, I have to say. Doesn’t seem to be the most touchy-feely, empathetic boss to work for. Still, when you have the number and weight of nationally vital issues on your plate that she has, there’s probably not much time for pretty-please management. It strikes me that Ms Patel won’t be crying herself to sleep over concerted attempts from within Whitehall’s bureaucratic bunkers to bring her down. When Whitehall grandee Sir Philip Rutnam resigned with an unheard of public attack on his boss – and it sounded like he thought things worked the other way round – he fully expected

her to be axed by messrs Johnson and Cummings. Thank goodness they’ve stood firm, because this was an existential moment in their battle to bring the self-important civil service into line. But they might want to have a quiet word in Ms Patel’s ear...

HAT is it about young women these days? I’d rather eat my own appendix than watch Love Island, but I’ve just seen a photo of one of its ‘stars’ Olivia Attwood, who looks like someone’s hit her in the mush with a cricket bat. It’s lip-filler, apparently, and it’s everywhere from Beverly Hills to Batley. I saw two young women walking into Asda and to say they weren’t exactly bonny is to rather understate matters – so why they thought pumping their lips up like bike tyres would be an improvement, I’ve no idea. This week I sat next to a very pretty lass on the plane – but she was the same, lips like a baboon’s backside. I know I’m turning into Victor Meldrew, but really, it’s not just me, is it?

Friday March 6, 2020

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Ramblers’ corner FORTHCOMING walks with the North Kirklees Group of the Ramblers – non-members are always welcome. Please call the walk leader for more details.

SATURDAY MARCH 7 NORWOOD GREEN AND JUDY WOODS Starts at 10.30am at War Memorial Gardens, Bailiff Bridge (HD6 4DX, SE147253) 6.5 miles – moderate Contact: Norma 01274 685343 nleppingwell@outlook.com

Open mic shot for all you writers BUDDING writers, poets and musicians are encouraged to attend an ‘open mic’ night in Morley. Hosted by Kathleen Strafford, the monthly event takes place at the Morley Dashers pub on High Street

(6pm-9pm). Guests are invited to read, sing or just listen to talented writers. Locally-published writers appear as guest speakers and afterwards there is an open mic session.

Taking place on the second Sunday of every month, there’s cake available and a chance to win a bottle of cava or gin from the raffle. For more information visit the website: www.runcible spoon.co.uk.

Dave On Film The Invisible Man Review by Dave Woollin

*****

EIGH WHANNELL brings the story of the Invisible Man back to the cinema, ready to terrify audiences again. Gone are the bandages wrapped around Claude Rains’ head (although one throwaway shot in this film does give a nice nod to it) as they are replaced with great CG and trickery to shoot new life into the horror tale. Elisabeth Moss is Cecila, a woman trapped in an abusive relationship from which she escapes in the first scene of the film. Seemingly safe, Cecila goes to live with friends and keeps in contact with her sister, but things start to go terribly wrong as she soon finds out that her ex has committed suicide, leaving her a massive fortune of money. But things begin to unfold as Cecila is haunted by her ex, convinced that his death was a hoax and he has found a way to make himself invisible to come after her. As events begin to unravel around her, Cecila is torn between whether she thinks her ex is actually out to get her or whether it’s all in her own mind. This 2020 remake of the 1933 original is brought right up to date with the use of technology and special effects which work really well. I had heard the film was scary, but it’s not jump-scare scary, despite Leigh Whannell constantly unnerving you with odd camera shots into the corners of rooms and suchlike. The psychological effects of this film are its best bits. A little predictable, yet uneasy at the same time, this is a good watch and probably one of the better recent horrors out there.

Top 5 in 5 Sonic The Hedgehog – Family computer game-related fun Dark Waters – Truly terrifying real-life drama Downhill – Deeply unfunny Will Ferrell rubbish The Call Of The Wild – CG dog, Harrison Ford. Entertaining. Harley Quinn – DC’s best recent film fun

• Read more of Dave Woollin’s reviews at DaveOnFilm.co.uk. • Leeds Film Club meets on the third Thursday of every month at the Starbucks inside Cineworld Leeds, White Rose Centre, at 6.30pm. Search on Facebook for Leeds Film Club.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 11 CHURCH, CALDER AND CANAL Starts at 11am at Mirfield Parish Church (WF14 9HX, SE212203) 5 miles – moderate Contact: Jim 01924 469700 janderegan@hotmail.co.uk

An engaging and entertaining production DEWSBURY ARTS GROUP is to stage a production of ‘Ask Me Tomorrow’ by Stan Barstow and Alfred Bradley. The show focuses on aspiring writer Wilf Cotton, who relocates to a city in order to extricate himself from his family ties. The action takes place in a West Yorkshire boarding house where there is a hint of romance and colourful characters in the form of Wilf’s landlady, his brother and a fellow boarder. Ask Me Tomorrow is a collaboration with Alfred Bradley from the novel by Stan Barstow, who was born in Horbury and educated at Ossett Grammar School. The show takes place at 7.30pm on Saturday March 14 and then from Monday March 16 to Saturday March 21 at the David and Judith Wood Theatre at Artspace on Lower Peel Street, Dewsbury. Tickets cost £10 and are available by ringing 0333 6663366 or by going to www.ticketsource.co/.uk/dewsbury artsgroup.

Top tribute to Sir Elton

A new chorus SINGERS from the Royal Northern College of Music are to star in a performance of Handel’s Messiah at Dewsbury Town Hall this Easter. Vocalists from the Manchester-based conservatoire will perform solos as part of a choir assembled by director Jane Hobson, specifically to perform The Messiah. The singers have not performed together before but members have been rehearsing weekly every Friday since the start of the year. Their name, Coro Amici, translates from Italian as Chorus Friends, which everyone is expected to be by the time of the performance in April. The Messiah was originally written in 1741

as a work for Easter and premiered in Lent. However, over the years it has changed so that now, and particularly in Yorkshire, it is more commonly sung at Christmas. Coro Amici will take the work back to the time of year it was originally written for. Publicity officer Viv Jebson said that for Messiah enthusiasts a treat is in store with mesmerising choruses, uplifting solos and compelling orchestral accompaniment by a hand-picked baroque chamber orchestra. The performance will take place on Sunday April 19, at Dewsbury Town Hall at 3pm. Tickets cost £15 and £17 (under 16s £5) and are available from the town hall box office on 01484 225755 or online at kirkleestownhalls.co.uk.

GET ready for take-off as the number one tribute to one of the greatest musicians of all time comes to Morley Town Hall on March 20. No-one else recreates the flamboyant Sir Elton John with as much vigour and brilliance as world renowned tribute artist Jimmy Love. The amazing live band will take you down the Yellow Brick Road with two hours of Elton hits, from Crocodile Rock, to Philadelphia Freedom and the beautiful Your Song. Are you ready for love? Tickets for the 18+ event (6.30pm to 11pm) cost £26.10 for a seated table and £21.15 for balcony seating.

Tragic topic up next SPEN Valley Historical Society’s next meeting is on Wednesday March 11 when Christine Leveridge will give a talk titled ‘Local Disasters and Tragedies’. Meetings are held in the Catholic Church Parish Hall on Dewsbury Road, Cleckheaton, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments served from 7.15pm. The cost is £2 per meeting for members, £4 for guests and membership is £10 per year. For more information email scooper@thecoopersonline. org.uk.

Step On and meet legend Shaun HAPPY MONDAYS legend Shaun Ryder is coming to Morley next week. ‘An Evening With Shaun Ryder’ comes to the town hall on Friday March 13. Born in 1962, Shaun is an

English singer, songwriter, TV personality and author. As the lead singer of the Happy Mondays he was a leading figure in the Manchester cultural scene during the late 1980s and 90s. Join Shaun as he discusses his

life, career and the music industry, and there will also be a chance for fans to ask him a question during the Q&A session. Guests will be treated to live music, from an act yet to be confirmed, along with a fully licenced

bar. Tickets for the 18+ event cost £20 per person. There are also 30 VIP tickets available, which include a meet and greet and photo with Shaun, at the price of £50. For more information call 0113 378 8575.

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Community can’t cope Over the past year I have read with interest the many letters in your paper regarding the building of large numbers of houses in areas which are not suitable due to many reasons, and the numerous letters complaining of how Kirklees Council are riding roughshod over the plight and feelings of the community in general. We now have a new contender entering the ‘Ring of Deceit’. Last year Birstall lost its last bit of green space, namely the land between Smithies Moor Lane and Huddersfield Road, already a very traffic-laden area and prone to flooding. Only last week some houses on Park Street and gardens in Mill Street were flooded. Last year Kirklees Council allocated the land at Smithies in their Local Plan, essentially confirming the land is prime for development of 262 new houses.

SALE NOW ON

Letter of the Week: David Harrison, Birstall

The land was originally green belt and is owned by the Diocese of Leeds. Its value is estimated to be in excess of £6m. Now here’s the rub. It would appear that the disposal of this site (according to a recent article published in the St Patrick’s parish bulletin) has had “over-

whelming support” by its parishioners. So this small band of people have it in their power to give the go-ahead for this scheme, which could put an extra 400 vehicles daily through an already heavily-congested junction at Birstall Smithies. We are already bursting at the seams being close to the M62 corridor and Junction 27 Retail Park. How much more traffic and pollution can our village take? In a world now in crisis over climate change, surely this scheme needs a re-think by everyone who has agreed to this.

Time for a change I never forget my of Kirklees control? Jewish heritage From: Harry Teale, Mirfield

From: Ruth Wood, via email

Due to the adversarial behaviour of political parties, the public is subject to the whims of the puppet masters of the majority party in control after any local council elections. Since the creation of Kirklees in 1974, council tax-payers have had to endure the detrimental effects of the same political party year after year. There have been numerous examples where Kirklees Council has given ‘outsider’ interests priority over local taxpayers. In May the locals can follow the lead of the national electorate and rearrange the political parties in Kirklees and change the future of the district by allowing the ‘other party’ to take control for a few years. Many voters have had more than enough and so let’s see what the ‘others’ can do by changing the ‘colour’ of the political spectrum! If things take a turn for the better, in 2022 the voters can then implement the final blow and the citizens of Kirklees could look forward to a future for the area instead of the ridiculous situations experienced lately.

Having read Mike Popplewell’s story of the small Jewish community in Dewsbury at the outbreak of war I was reminded of my own ancestry. My great great grandfather Napoleon Bernstein, was a Russian Jewish immigrant that settled in the Liverpool area in the 19th century. His grandaughter, Gertrude Barker, moved to Chickenley with her brother and sister, Rueben and Sarah, just after the First World War and took a job in service with the vicar of St Mary’s, Gawthorpe. Rueben got a job with the Electric Board where he met my grandad Clifford Ward, and they worked alongside Betty, later Baroness, Lockwood. It was through this work connection that my grandma Gertrude met Clifford and they married in 1922 – my dad, John Barker Ward, being born the same year. St Mary’s is now demolished, and the Bernstein name never quite made its way to Dewsbury, from where the family had settled in Liverpool, but though

Continued on p10

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Continued from page 9 now much watered-down I have never forgotten that element of my Jewish heritage. In fact both Gertrude and her son could both have been listed on that 1939 Jewish community census through matrilineal descent, ie from Napoleon Bernstein’s daughter Gertrude.

Shouldn’t they come down? From: Stephen Boden, Birstall As usual the Christmas lights in Birstall went up in December. The money to do this I think is raised by local people. This is okay, but why don’t they take them down after New Year? Two of the larger features above the dry cleaners and Watson’s estate agents were never taken down from the year before. With all the bad weather and wind two of the features are hanging down from the lamppost, probably damaged. If they were taken down, as

Friday March 6, 2020

in other local towns, they could be stored safely for the next time. We have still got Christmas trees above a lot of the shops. I have lived in Birstall for more than 60 years and I think this looks bad when other people drive or walk through the town centre. The only thing that has been removed is the large Christmas tree. Come on whoever is in charge. Sort it out; otherwise we will still have them up in December. Or is that the plan?

No defences where needed From: LR Hirst, Mirfield People of my old age must laugh when they hear councillors with extraordinary titles say they were not prepared for flooding, despite Yellow weather warnings in other areas than their own. Councillors who were members of Mirfield Urban District Council years ago knew that Granny Lane, Lower Hopton and Station Road were all areas prone to flooding after heavy rain had

fallen in other places, thereby filling the River Calder and that that was the cause of the floods in Mirfield, not the rain that fell here. They should have built flood defences years ago as they did in Dewsbury and district, to prevent flooding in the town centre: Aldams Road, Savile Town roads, not forgetting Bradford Road and Thornhill Road. These areas have not had floods since. The planning committee were also told that the fields around that district were an old floodplain. Another intelligent councillor who we taxpayers finance, stated that building on a floodplain was ‘worth the risk’. She should have lived there when the floods came this month. I read that Kirklees Council leader Shabir Pandor is going to compensate all the flood victims. I trust the money will come out of £200m that’s going to Longcauseway in Dewsbury to turn it into a garden and one-way road. If it happens it will be four times that of the town centre has been altered in my lifetime, and I have the

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More changes since debate From: David Honeybell, Heckmondwike At the North Kirklees Clinical Commissioning Group (NKCCG) event in Batley Town Hall there was an item about the cost to our NHS of prescribing paracetamol. It was suggested that paracetamol should no longer be routinely prescribed as it was so cheap to buy over the counter. The idea was welcomed by most of the people present – although I and two or three others spoke against the proposal on the grounds it was the thin end of the wedge and once paracetamol was not prescribed it would lead to other medication and treatment being added to the list and where would it end? It was also pointed out, it only affected those on free prescriptions as they would now have to pay, whereas the rest of patients would pay the over-the-counter price anyway and only have the prescribed items dispensed that couldn’t be bought over the counter. I can appreciate the need to save money as our NHS is under-funded, but since the debate on paracetamol a further 35 items have been added to the list.

Let’s ruffle a few feathers From: D Green, Mirfield Regarding the recent floods in Mirfield, when the River Calder spilled over onto Steanard Lane by the Ship Inn. It was not raining hard, the water table was at its

highest and the ground was saturated; anything like the downpour from the two recent storms and we would have been in very serious trouble. There are no flood defences in Lower Hopton or Mirfield. After years of increasing rising water, the local Tory group has done nothing. As usual they sit back and blame nature. Climate change has happened, flood defences in Mytholmroyd, Todmorden, and Hebden Bridge impact the flow into Mirfield and beyond. Councillor Martyn Bolt’s assertion to contain flood water in the sewage works at Cooper Bridge was probably the most ridiculous nonsense to date. Former mayor Coun Sean Guy kindly informed us that there is a 4x4 rescue service in Mirfield, should we need it. Well thank the Lord for that comforting bit of information. Someone has been watching far too many episodes of Thunderbirds. You see, this is how it works, when our houses flood we all start screaming and then people like our MP and councillors are pressured into doing something positive about the situation instead of blaming the weather and the Environment Agency. Now here’s a thought I heard the other night, there is an election due shortly, wouldn’t it be good fun to ruffle a few blue feathers by voting tactically in our favour? I remember a few years back when the town council got chucked out of their building because it was ‘a bit damp’. I wouldn’t trust many people who couldn’t keep a roof over their heads, would you?

Troubled times but interesting From: Alec Suchi, Bradford Derek Cartwright (Feb 21) is correct to express concerns regarding our increasing population and the implications it has in terms of demands on services, housing and infrastructure. It is also concerning that

there has been suggestions that the national census may be abolished after 2021 as its contents expose the demographic changes which the authorities conspire to withhold at every opportunity. There is little justification for continuing immigration either for supposed economic reasons or via a flawed and bogus asylum system when those claiming refuge have passed through many safe countries. However the liberal left or progressives favour open borders as a means of demographically altering our population, together with the promotion of multiculturalism, diversity, feminism, homosexuality, transgenderism and egalitarianism. In the process the progressives endeavour to transform a traditional and patriotic society to that of a leftist dystopia. Colin Walshaw is correct to question the importance bestowed to David Attenborough’s warnings regarding climate change and the questionable correlation asserted between rising carbon dioxide levels and rising temperatures. As Mr Walshaw had stated, CO2 only comprises 0.04 per cent of air in our atmosphere, or 416 parts per million and it is absurd to claim that a slight increase will irreparably alter the world’s climate. On a geological timescale current CO2 levels are much lower than previously and in the Cambrian period levels were 32 times higher than today! In reality the world’s climate has always changed and will continue to do so, independent of our own actions. We must not confuse the effects of pollution with socalled climate change; these are two separate and unrelated processes which people such as David Attenborough confuse and conflate. The extremist group, Extinction Rebellion has seized to take advantage of the current climate change hysteria to attack western society, and not being in the least concerned with the pollution generated by China or India. We live in troubled but interesting times!

LATEST PLANNING APPLICATIONS Sarah Shaw, building for occasional teaching, Hartshead Junior & Infant School, School Lane, Hartshead. M Barker, three dwellings, land adjacent to 2 New Street, Hanging Heaton. S Bi, single and two-storey rear extension and side access ramp, 32 St John Street, Westtown. M Younis, single-storey rear extension, 21 Headfield Road, Savile Town. K Bent, two-storey side and singlestorey rear extension with balcony and alterations, 44 Shirley Road, Gomersal. JP Carbutt, single-storey rear and side extensions, 34 Mill Street, Birstall. Dervish Grill Ltd, advertisement consent for erection of illuminated signs, Royal Hotel, 616 Huddersfield Road, Ravensthorpe. W Akhtar, alterations to convert former public house to cafe/take-away

and installation of replacement shop front, 489 Huddersfield Road, Ravensthorpe. A Adam, demolition of existing garage, bay window and canopy and erection of two-storey and singlestorey side extension and singlestorey rear extension, 78 Bennett Lane, Hanging Heaton. E Sheldrake, single-storey rear extension and rear dormer extension, 8 Moat Hill, Birstall. Elite Habitat Ltd, demolition of former public house and erection of five dwellings with associated parking (modified proposal), Old Packhorse Inn, Highmoor Lane, Hartshead Moor. P&J France, first floor side extension with carport below, 783 Leeds Road, Shaw Cross. N Williams, single-storey front side and rear extensions, 75 Frances Road, Earlsheaton.

C Brown, erection of extensions, increase in roof height and alterations, 43 Park View, Huddersfield Road, Mirfield. H&H Holdings, change of use and alterations to dwelling to form four dwellings with associated external works, 16-22 Trinity Street, Mirfield. G Miller, two-storey side and single storey rear extensions and alterations, 876 Bradford Road, Birkenshaw. BGHS Visual Arts College, discharge condition 5 (Phase 2 report) on previous permission 2019/92912 for erection of single storey ancillary building, Windmill Lane, Birstall. K Jones, extensions to existing bungalow to form two-storey dwelling, 57 Hey Beck Lane, Woodkirk. Dervish Grill Ltd, installation of retractable awning, external seating and barrier, Royal Hotel, 616, Huddersfield Road, Ravensthorpe.

Friday March 6, 2020

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Friday March 6, 2020

FOOD FOR THOUGHT...

Home-made burgers & twice-cooked chips HO doesn’t love a good burger? Sometimes, you just fancy a bit of a treat, and burger and chips seems like the only thing that will hit the spot. But wait! Before you reach for that takeaway menu, why not have a go at making your own? They’re surprisingly easy to make, cost-effective and every bit as delicious as ordering one in. When it comes to burgers, I personally prefer thinner patties that you can stack in your bun. Thinner patties cook quicker, are more economical and you get more of the crispy, golden bits that everyone loves. Speaking of crispy and golden, my recipe for twice-cooked chips will blow any frozen chips out of the water. Crispy on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside, they’re the perfect partner to a juicy, succulent burger. The best thing about burgers is the customisation, loading them up with toppings, sauces and cheese. This recipe here is just for basic cheeseburgers and chips – the toppings, sauces and accompaniments are up to you!

heat the oil to 180c. If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil with a little bit of potato. If it sizzles, you’re good to go. Carefully add some of the chips to the oil – the trick is to not overload the pan. Fry the chips in batches, and when golden, remove and place on kitchen paper to drain the excess oil. Add a little olive oil to a frying pan over a medium heat and add your burger patties. Gently press down on each patty with a spatula. Fry for four or five minutes each side, until crisp and golden. Once the burgers are nearly done, add cheese to one side of each patty and cook until the cheese is melted. Toast your buns, and lay two patties onto the bottom layer of bread. Then add any sauces or toppings that you fancy, and get that lid on. Toss the twice-cooked chips in a bowl with a little salt and pepper, place alongside the burger, and serve immediately.

What you need – serves four For the burgers: 500g lean beef mince 50g breadcrumbs 1 egg 1 onion, finely chopped. 2 garlic cloves, crushed or finely chopped Salt and pepper Cheddar cheese Any salad or sauces you fancy for toppings Burger buns – brioche are best but any will work For the twice-cooked chips: 6 or 7 good-sized potatoes Salt and pepper Vegetable oil In a large mixing bowl, add the beef mince, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic and salt and pepper, and mix well with your hands until the ingredients are all incorporated. If the mixture is a little soggy, add a little more breadcrumbs or flour. Split the mixture into eight, and form into patties. You could use a cookie cutter for this, or just roll into balls and press into thin patties. Put in the fridge to help them firm up.

Peel the potatoes, and cut into thick slices, and then into chips. Add to a large pot of cold, salted water and bring up to the boil. Simmer for five minutes. Carefully remove the chips from

the boiling water and place on kitchen roll, patting them dry. Grate or slice your cheese. Add a few inches of vegetable oil to a medium-sized pan on a medium heat. If you have a thermometer,

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Friday March 6, 2020

Pandor ‘not worried’ over Labour lack of candidates By Tony Earnshaw Local Democracy Reporter LABOUR in Kirklees may not have enough candidates to fight local elections in May. That’s the view of a party insider, who says Labour members want answers over the General Election “stuffing” in the two months before polling day on May 7. But Labour group leader Coun Shabir Pandor has sought to assuage concerns with a bullish rebuttal. “We have never struggled to find candidates,” he said. “We are not going to be in a position where nobody is going to stand in a ward.” Seats in all 23 Kirklees wards are up for grabs this year. Town hall insiders say the Conservatives, fired up after trouncing Labour in the General Election, are hoping to make as many as six gains. And among the seats they are targeting is Coun Pandor’s ward of Batley West. A Labour member who spoke to the Local Democracy Reporting Service criticised the Labour Party Local Campaign Forum (LCF), which is in charge of running council candidate selections for the local elections. Asking to remain anonymous, they said they had been “left stunned at the state of the Labour Party not just in Huddersfield but in the whole of Kirklees”. They said: “We feel pretty fed-up after December. We got quite a stuffing. “However there’s always another election and we’re looking forward to May. But from the way we’re going we don’t have the numbers to stand. There aren’t enough people putting themselves forward and there are going to be wards where potentially we don’t have any candidates.” They added: “There needs to be some steer from the LCF. That’s what it’s there for. We are a few months away from the elections and they are still shrugging their shoulders and scratching their heads. “Members are wanting answers but they are not getting them.” Alongside Coun Pandor, other senior Labour figures are up for election this year. They include Cabinet members Graham Turner and Naheed Mather, and chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee, Steve Hall (Heckmondwike). Coun Pandor described the Labour group as “pretty upbeat” and flatly denied it faced a shortage of candidates. He said the General Election campaign had led to the temporary postponement of candidate selection and that all parties faced the same delay. He said: “We always field candidates in every single ward. We are not finding it a problem.” Asked to address the risk of Labour losing its majority he said: “I take the elections very seriously. I’m not complacent. I don’t take anything for granted. But we always fight for ordinary folk and do the best we can.” The Lib Dems’ Kath Pinnock (Cleckheaton), a veteran councillor and former council leader, said there was “a general weariness” among politicians following the tussle over Brexit and multiple elections. She commented: “Labour know they have a hard fight on in the elections in May and that they might lose. I know they always struggle to find people to fight Cleckheaton. “That’s part and parcel of finding it difficult to find candidates because people know they don’t have a chance (in some wards). “After the General Election the Tories will have a headwind behind them. But from what I’m picking up the cloud of Brexit has disappeared and voters are looking much more at local issues.”

No half measures!

In Brief

THE Halfway House Inn at Birkenshaw has received the Pub of the Season award from the Campaign for Real Ale. Mike Roebuck, Heavy Woollen area branch manager for the group, presented the award to Halfway House management team Eileen Geater and her husband John at their pub on Whitehall Road East. The aim of the award is to recognise establishments where the management have made great efforts to boost the popularity of their pub and in particular their hard work in providing customers with good-quality real ales. The Heavy Woollen area branch of the Campaign has a membership of 400 and about 115 pubs and clubs selling real ale.

CLECKHEATON: Two entrepreneurs are joining forces to help other local businesses with their marketing and social media skills. Fiona Shackleton, of Fine and Dandy Marketing, and Rebecca Firth (Rebecca Firth Marketing) are putting on a workshop next week, designed to give small businesses tips and tricks on sourcing content for social media and PR stories. The ‘how to turn your business activity into exciting market content’ workshop takes place on Thursday March 12, 9am-12.30pm at Hub 26 in Cleckheaton. For more email fiona@finedandymarketing.co.uk or hello@rebeccafirthmarketing.co.uk.

Tanisha targets Council seat Tanisha Bramwell, pictured centre next to exboxing champion Gary Sykes, with some of her Dewsbury West supporters

By Jane Yelland LOCAL woman Tanisha Bramwell has launched her campaign as an Independent councillor for Dewsbury West in May’s elections. Tanisha, 25, lives in Dewsbury Moor and has decided to stand because of the amount of work she already undertakes in her community. “I made the decision to run as an independent because the community asked me to,” said Tanisha. “I have always had a good relationship with Labour councillors and don’t want to smear anyone but friendship is not good enough – there is never any positive change and actions speak louder than words.” Tanisha will run against incumbent Labour councillor

Mussarat Pervaiz. She aims to snatch the ward from Labour – because she believes people in her community do not know who their councillors are, as they only see them on election day. “Anything that people need they come to me. If they have a problem with their housing they come to me, as they know there is no point contacting their councillor,” she added. After leaving Westborough High School Tanisha studied at Huddersfield New College where she undertook a BTEC in sport. She volunteered with a local youth centre and was employed by Kirklees Council as a community co-ordinator. Tanisha also helps run the Bramwell Sports Development Team, which confronts antisocial behaviour, helps people

with housing issues and fights for better local NHS services, especially mental health. She revealed that she had tried to run as a Labour councillor but felt the party was not interested in her. She wants to fight against decisions such as the closure of the Arena youth club in Westtown. “There was no consultation, nothing. There was such an outcry but it was too late,” she said. Last year Aleks Lukic, leader of the Dewsbury Borough Independents, successfully ousted veteran Labour councillor Eric Firth and the group is hoping to repeat that success this year and wrest control of Kirklees from Labour’s grip – they have a majority of just one councillor. Hanging Heaton businessman Chris Stoner will stand again as

an Independent in Dewsbury East for the seat currently occupied by Labour’s Eric Firth after the sudden death of Paul Kane. Mr Stoner, 50, said: “In Dewsbury East we voted for an independent councillor last year and the big parties suddenly started trotting out all kinds of promises. “But Dewsbury Hospital is still missing intensive care and consultant-led maternity care, the green belt is still facing inappropriate development and we still don’t have local control in Dewsbury over how our Council Tax and business rates are spent. “We need to keep up the pressure by building a strong team of independent councillors for Dewsbury. The only way to strengthen the independent voice is to vote for it on May 7.”

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Friday March 6, 2020

Homes plan for former hospital Project to relocate Muslim girls’ school revived as major housing development An artists’ impression of how the new hospital homes project could look

Third Age open day at Oakwell A SOCIAL group for the over-50s will host an open day in the barn at Oakwell Hall next weekend. Dewsbury and District Third Age is promoting the host of entertaining and educational activities it offers. Thirty different sports and skills will be highlighted at the event on Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15 from noon until 4pm. Art for beginners, local history, Tai Chi and playing the ukulele for fun are just some of the opportunities available to Third Age members. Classes are all very friendly and informal and run for two 10-week terms a year – although some run to three due to popular demand. Examples of members’ work will be on display at the open day, along with practical demonstrations and members will be on hand to answer questions. Sandra Bligh, chairwoman of the group, said: “We have almost 700 members attending more than 30 classes. The open day is a great opportunity for people to see what the charity can offer.” For more information visit www.dewsburydistrict3age.co.uk or phone Sandra Bligh on 07842 284778.

By Tony Earnshaw Local Democracy Reporter A FORMER hospital in Batley is set to be renovated and turned into apartments. And a senior planner on Kirklees Council has said: “I cannot wait for this scheme to get up and running.” The vacant Batley & District Cottage Hospital, on a three-acre site on

Carlinghow Hill, would be partially demolished under new plans to create 20 apartments and 20 terraced and detached houses. Built in 1883, the hospital is within the conservation area and considered to be a ‘non-designated heritage asset’. And whilst it is not listed it is said to be of “high quality and historical importance”. Closed for around 30 years, the Victorian for-

mer hospital was damaged by fire in October 2017. Councillors who considered the plans at a meeting of the council’s Strategic Planning Committee were warm towards the proposals. Coun Andrew Pinnock (Lib Dem, Cleckheaton) said the committee was “very favourably disposed” to the plan but were keen to see all details nailed down. Coun Carole Pattison

(Lab) said members recognised the historical relevance of the former hospital building and were “most concerned” that it was restored. She asked how building work would be phased and sought reassurance to ensure any developer would not walk away after houses were completed on the site. She said: “We would not want to see all the houses built – or even part of them – and then

the developer walks away and the building is not restored.” Her comments followed a brief private session, in which members discussed the financial viability of the scheme. Committee chairman Coun Steve Hall (Lab, Heckmondwike) asked if original stone on the hospital site could be reclaimed and used in any new-build. Addressing Batleybased applicant Fernbrook Associates he added: “Personally I can’t wait for this scheme to get up and running. “The people of Batley will be watching but I am sure you will do a damn good job.” The property was bought by the trustees of the Zakaria Muslim Girls’ High School with plans to convert it into a new base – plans which fell apart in mid-2018, amidst concern about the use of money which had been loaned from local people to the project. Developers Fernbrook are based at Batley Technology Centre and their directors are listed as Sadiq Ravat and Hasan Dadibhai.

Grant is a positive for SKY girls

Girls from Batley charity SKY Positive Minds, which has received a £5,000 grant from UK Youth.

By Tony Earnshaw A BATLEY charity supporting young girls through mental health issues, bullying and exam stress has received cash from a national charity. Female empowerment project SKY Positive Minds was awarded £5,000 out of a £1.16m pot from Londonbased UK Youth. The money will go towards supporting monthly mentoring sessions known as SYNC Together for Change, which seek to increase confidence and self-esteem in a safe space for young girls. The girls from SYNC have spoken at various charity events, held topical workshops on mental health, body shaming and social media, exam stress, and self love. More than 160 organisations and community groups across England received grants ranging from £360 to

£20,000 to fund youth-focused work. SYNC Together for Change was set up following consultation with 50 young girls in Kirklees. They identified that they lacked a community hub for girls and that there was no safe space for them to discuss issues that were affecting them. In every session the girls take a lead on the topic to be discussed and then they deliver this to up to 20 girls who attend. Around 200 girls in Batley are set to benefit from the grant money. A spokeswoman for SKY Positive Minds said the grant will allow it to extend its monthly sessions by taking girls out on team-building activities and offer specialist one-to-one coaching. She added: “The funding will enable the SYNC Hub to extend the number of hours we spend during our monthly

sessions. Currently they run each session for two hours and is usually spent at the support hub. “However, the girls want to be able to do activities outside of the hub for a longer period of time. “They have suggested activities such as trekking, boat trips, day trips, etc – SKY have found that girls are more likely to open up about their issues when more time is allocated for bonding activities.” The charity is also in the process of launching its Young Social Entrepreneur (YSE) programme for SYNC – Together for Change where it will be mentoring up to 12 girls between the ages of 14 to 22 to set up and run their own charity store. The project is funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. All profits will go to charitable causes.

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Councillors focus on new facilities By Tony Earnshaw Local Democracy Reporter COUNCILLORS in Dewsbury are pushing for the massive Dewsbury Riverside housing scheme to be built in phases to ensure local people do not miss out on facilities. Labour trio Masood Ahmed, Nosheen Dad and Gulfam Asif (pictured) say developers need to be held accountable for what they build – and not be allowed to skimp on key infrastructure such as schools and GPs’ surgeries. The Dewsbury Riverside project – a flagship development within Kirklees Council’s Local Plan – will eventually see 4,000 houses

built on a vast swathe of land at Thornhill Lees between Ravensthorpe and Mirfield. Approximately 1,869 homes will be built over the next 11 years on 70 acres of councilowned land. The first stage of the plan will involve the demolition of a mosque and playgroup centre, and the removal of allotments, which will be replaced at a cost of £750,000. The remaining 2,131 homes will be built after the council has bought a further 11.5 acres of land, which is owned by the Diocese of Leeds, part of the Church of England. Over the next two years the council will spend just over £1m removing the allotments,

allotments off Lees Hall Road, and specifically the ‘central gateway’ into the land. “We have expressed a specific desire to ensure that the first phase of the development results in benefits for the local community through on and off-site provision,” he said. “We have been instrumental in helping and supporting the masterplan through local community events and drop-in sessions. “At these meetings we have discussed with (building consultants) Spawforth Associates key issues such as highways, walking and cycling routes, drainage, schools, a doctor’s creating an access road into Dewsbury South) said they surgery, community infrathe site and drainage. had worked extensively on the structure, the type of houses Coun Ahmed (Lab, proposals for the Ravenshall and how employment might be created.” Coun Asif (Lab, Dewsbury South) added: “One key issue we have A DRIVER escaped with minor injuries after pushed is that this is done his car flipped onto its roof. in stages, so there’s The Mercedes collided with a Volvo on accountability and work to Gelderd Road in Birstall last Thursday at be completed before they around 6.30pm. Emergency services were move to the next site. called to the scene where they discovered “Too often these sites the vehicle upside down. tend to leave things halfThe collision caused delays on the main completed such as roads road between Nab Lane and the roundabout and footpaths. for the Junction 27 Retail Park and Showcase “The Riverside is going Cinema. to start next year and will A spokeswoman for West Yorkshire Police take around 20-plus years said: “On attendance, officers ascertained to complete.” that two vehicles had collided – the Mercedes A report on the proposand a Volvo. als was approved by the “The man driving the Mercedes sustained council’s decision-making slight injuries. Police arranged for the vehicle Cabinet at a meeting on to be recovered.” Photo: YappApp February 25.

Lucky escape

RVS plans activity sessions THE Royal Voluntary Service has a number of activities planned in the district next week. Starting on Monday (March 9) there is the weekly movement and games session at Batley Community Centre from 10.30am12pm, with the ‘conversation, coffee and cake’ group meeting at the same time at Batley Butterfly House in Bagshaw Museum. On Tuesday, pilates returns to the community centre (12pm1pm), while Wednesday is the generations united session. Bring a packed lunch and join in activities with students from local secondary schools. Thursday is groovy grannies at St Andrew’s Community Hall (10.30am-11.30am), before the lunch club at the community centre from 11.30am-1pm. Then on Friday there is another movement and games class, this time at Birstall Community Centre at 10.30am-12pm.

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Over the next 12 months we will be following on from our series on life between the wars to take a look at wartime and post-war life in both the Heavy Woollen District and Britain at large, writes MIKE POPPLEWELL. We are entering an era that I can personally recall and, as always, comments and memories from readers are welcomed. This year’s theme is ‘2020 vision’, where we will look at historical events from today’s viewpoint and, as ‘the person with hindsight has 20-20 vision’, we will be taking an ‘if only we had known’ look at events...

Bells rang out across district to mark the end of hostilities AST WEEK we looked at the newspaper headlines from April 21, 1945, and saw how the progress of the war suggested it could soon be over.

Well, they weren’t wrong! On Tuesday May 8, just 17 days later, The Daily Mirror announced ‘VE-DAY It’s over in Europe’. VE (Victory in Europe) was only part of the resolution of the global conflict of course as Japan was fighting on in the Far East. But at this moment celebrations broke out across the nation, and the towns and villages of North Kirklees were no exception. The bells of the cathedrals and minsters rang loud and clear, as did those of parish churches across the district. Street parties were laid on, flags and bunting were strewn everywhere, countless victory bonfires were lit, and while crowds gathering in Dewsbury’s Town Hall Square were able to hear a victory broadcast by Winston Churchill over loudspeakers, churches right across the district held services of thanksgiving and remembrance that week. Even Daily Mirror comic strip pin up girl Jane joined in the celebrations. That comic strip was created by Mirror cartoonist Norman

Pett, and Jane’s adventures ran for 27 years in The Mirror before she walked off into the sunset in October 1959. We had a copy of The Mirror dropped through our letter box every day and I remember reading the comic strips every morning – like millions must have done over the years. ‘Jane’ was originally posed by Norman’s wife Mary but as the stories became more risque he decided to use a professional model, and when he discovered blonde life model Chrystabel Leighton-Porter, at his old art school in Birmingham in 1939, she found herself a job for life. The cartoon was a moralebooster for the troops all through the war and Chrystabel went on to develop a career making public appearances, as Jane, as well as appearing in films and stage shows. She once earned the title ‘The Venus of Kent’ and as an eightyear-old I saw her open a firework display in the village of Headcorn, about 10 miles from Maidstone, in Kent, where I spent a few months in school. Chrystabel lived long after Jane had disappeared from the scene. She was 87 years old when she died at her home in Horsham, West Sussex, in 2000, and though she may not have been recognised by the general public any-

more there wasn’t a British Second World War veteran alive who would ever forget her.

Charity show ‘Blueprint’ shop is Can they at Ponderosa open to showcase kick it? town centre plan A FASHION show will be held at Ponderosa, Heckmondwike, on Monday, to raise funds for the residents of Ashworth Grange care home in Dewsbury. The event will feature a catwalk where models will display this season’s musthave items and demonstrate how to style them. After the show, on March 9, there will be an opportunity to shop for high street brands at discounted prices and win prizes in a raffle. Doors open at 6.30pm and the show starts at 7pm. All funds raised will be donated to the Ashworth Grange residents’ fund, which will go towards the residents’ rock ‘n’ roll themed summer ball. Tickets cost £5 and must be bought in advance. Contact Colette Senior, lifestyle co-ordinator, on 07467 486687 or email colette.senior@ idealcare homes.co.uk for more information.

A SHOP dedicated to the recently-announced £200m transformation of Dewsbury has opened in the town. The ‘Dewsbury Blueprint’ was launched by Kirklees Council last month – and now residents can look at some of the plans and have their say. Kirklees will run a shop in the old TUI premises on Market Place on Wednesdays and Saturdays (10am-4pm) until March 14. It’s a chance for people to see the plans, which include pedestrianising Longcauseway and a revamp of the town’s historic Arcade, talk to the team about what the blueprint means for Dewsbury, and to complete a survey. Work on a new higher skills centre for Kirklees College is due to be finished at Pioneer House ready for September, while the council has already started on improving the town’s public spaces and hopes to complete the acquisition of The Arcade by the end of March. Coun Peter McBride, deputy leader of the council, said: “We know that people still feel uncertain about the future of this great market town, years of austerity prevented us from making the changes the town needs, but we are confident in our plans and it’s important that local people get involved in shaping the details.”

POPULAR children’s author Tom Palmer visited Upper Batley High School to inspire pupils and run workshops. Tom, the author of three series of books for Puffiin, met year seven and eight pupils. He explained how he began to write books, where he got his ideas from and what inspired him. The author, who focuses on football stories, rewarded those who answered questions correctly with the chance to participate in a penalty shootout. The winner was awarded a football trophy. A school spokesperson said pupils loved the sessions with Tom and his visit had inspired learners to seek new sources of information prior to writing, such as newspapers and magazines.

Friday March 6, 2020

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Five new faces at Ascensor DIGITAL AGENCY Ascensor is celebrating a 57 per cent increase in business over the last year and has filled five new roles to support its growing client base. The company, owned by local man Andrew Firth, is on track to exceed £2m turnover this year and has taken on three managers and two executive-level roles to support the growth. The agency, which recently moved from Birstall down to Gelderd Road, has won a number of fintech clients such as Shelby Finance and is recruiting for more roles to increase capacity. Richard Miles joins the team as service delivery manager and Jonathan Bailey as paid media manager. Miles has eight years in IT service desk analyst roles, the majority within financial services support companies and he will build a service desk team. Bailey comes with six years’ experience in affiliate and digital marketing roles and he will increase the agency’s capacity within the paid advertising team. Two junior roles have also been added to the agency. Evie Wadkin, a journalism student and freelance content writer, has been appointed as client success executive and Corey Thompson joins as digital marketing executive. A new office manager role has

NEW STARTERS: L to R Andrew Firth, Jonathan Bailey, Corey Thompson, Evie Wadkin, Richard Miles and Grace Hilbourne been filled by Grace Hilbourne who has nine years’ experience in

London financial businesses including global hedge fund and banking

and investment houses. Managing director Andrew Firth

said: “We are doing more and more work within the financial services sector where providing high levels of governance and rigour around security are vital for our clients’ success. “Bringing Richard and Grace in who already have a significant understanding of compliance and regulation is important, as well as the need to strengthen our client administration capacity. “Digital marketing is a highgrowth area within our portfolio and continual new client wins have necessitated our increasing capacity. We are committed to training and development and recruiting skilled juniors such as Evie and Corey who will be trained by our experienced team – it is great for everyone involved. “Jonathan and these new recruits will allow us to continue to deliver exceptional results for our clients through paid search, organic marketing and customer services.” Firth added: “Everything is on track for Ascensor to deliver another year of growth and now we’re in our new premises our recruitment is in full flow. “We’re delighted to welcome these five exceptional new colleagues, and once they are fully onboard we’ll be starting the next phase. This will include developers, client success managers and a head of testing.”

‘Heart’ of the village returns as comedian relaunches butchers

THUMBS UP: Comedian Billy Pearce with Jordan Fretwell, a new addition to the Hopkins team

BILLY PEARCE was the special guest at the re-launch of a butchers described as ‘the heart of Birkenshaw’ on Monday. The comedian, who lives in Tingley, cut the tape at P&I Hopkins Butchers to mark its return to trading. And owner Paul Stone has announced the business will now be offering a plantbased meat substitute as part of the new venture. Brothers Ian and Paul Hopkins ran the butchery business on Bradford Road for 32 years before deciding to hang up their cleavers in the lead-up to Christmas. But Mr Stone, a property developer and singer who grew up in Birkenshaw, said he couldn’t bear to see the pair go out of business and

reached a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ to buy the shop. “If we’d have lost this butchers we would have lost a huge part of the village, it’s important to me to keep the high street as it was,” he added. Ian, 54, will continue to work with the company, whilst 62-year-old Paul has agreed to do the odd shift. Jordan Fretwell, 21, who has just completed five years at butchery college, is a new addition to the team. As well as the return of the famous pork pie and locally-sourced meats, customers will also have the option of a plant-based meat alternative. Speaking on the decision to introduce the item Mr Stone said: “I want to bring

new ideas to a traditional butchers. The sustainable meat angle is incredibly important. “I am aware that someone who is vegan would not necessarily want to come into a butchers, but a lot of people are now looking to plantbased foods for health reasons.” After sampling the pork pie Mr Pearce, who has worked with Mr Stone during his parallel career as a musical performer, wished his friend well. “I wish them all the very best,” he said. “It’s nice to see a shop like this on the high street. “We need to support these family-run businesses because they form part of the community.”

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Jack’s going out of his comfort zone on mammoth cycle trip

GREAT CAUSE: Jack Hustwick is cycling for the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice

Time to vote for Mirfield’s best folk! VOTING has opened for the annual MyMirfield Community and Business Awards. The event is being held for the sixth time, when hundreds of different retailers, businesses and organisations are recognised for what they have achieved for Mirfield and its community over the year. Winners will be announced at a black-tie evening on Saturday March 28 (6pm) at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford. Following over 1,000 nominations, community group MyMirfield created a shortlist for each award category. Co-founder Richard Hartley said: “It was both warming – as we read the comments – and frustrating knowing we had to create a shortlist. “In the end the decisions became easier as many of those with the most number of nominations also had the most community-based reasons attached to them. “We wish to thank everyone who nominated, and encourage everyone who didn’t make the shortlist to keep up the good work.” Last year’s winners included Mirfield Team Parish Pantomime, Salvia Restaurant, Newgate Garage and Mirfield in Bloom. There are eight awards in total – activity organisation; community support group; event or attraction; community action group; community-focused; established business; new business and sporting organisation. There’ll be entertainment on the night including dancers, singers and live music, as well as a three-course meal. The evening is also a fundraiser, with all proceeds going towards Andy’s Man Club which helps men struggling with mental health problems. Voting closes on March 20. To vote and to buy tickets visit www.mymirfieldawards. co.uk. Any prizes for the five-star auction and raffle can be donated via info@mymirfield.co.uk.

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FITNESS instructor Jack Hustwick is to demonstrate his own prowess when he undertakes a 170-mile charity ride in just one day! Ossett-based Jack, who works at the Stadium Health and Fitness Club in Huddersfield, has just become a new father and was inspired to undertake the gruelling challenge on March 20 to raise funds for the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice. “I wanted this to be a real challenge so picked something that would push me,’’ he said. “I am not a frequent cyclist so this will really be taking me out of the comfort zone but I am determined to do it.’’ Jack, 27, is to cycle the coast-

to-coast Way of the Roses route which will take him from Morecambe in Lancashire to Bridlington in Yorkshire. The route opened in 2010 and takes in the scenic Forest of Bowland, Yorkshire Dales National Park and the Yorkshire Wolds. Normally the journey takes three days but Jack is condensing it into only one. “This is a solo effort so this will be mentally as well as physically challenging,” added Jack, who lives in Ossett. Jack said he was spurred into action after hearing Louise Addison, regional fundraiser for Forget Me Not, speak at a staff meeting at the Kirklees Active

Leisure gym next to the John Smith’s Stadium. “Listening to Louise talk about the work the charity does made me realise that, as a parent, you never know when you might need this sort of support and how vital the service they offer is. “I was also surprised to learn how much they rely on donations: £300 could go towards a day of specialised care for a child at their hospice.’’ With only a month to go Jack is well on with his training, trying to get out on his bike as much as possible, but the recent bad weather has forced him indoors where he has had to join studio cycling classes and training in the gym.

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

Marketplace Turn your unwanted items

into cash £££s 1) Ring Angela on 01924 470296 (9.30am-4.30pm). Have your advert ready and you can pay by debit card. 2) Call into the office at 31 Branch Road, Batley WF17 5SB and pay by cash, cheque or debit card. 3) Post your advert and include your name and a contact number, along with cheque for payment. ADVERTS must be no longer than 50 words. (We cannot accept the following items: Motor vehicles, caravans, livestock. All listings will stay in Marketplace for a maximum of two months. If you wish to amend your listing, or cancel when sold, contact or call 01924 470296. NEW Dolls house complete with most furniture. Choice of two, £90. Tel 01924 469135. (2566) Dewalt drill and charger, 18v. New, old stock, £55. Tel 01924 469135. (2566) Approx half hundredweight of mixed Lego including 200 figures and weapons for figures etc. £250. no offers. Tel 01924 469135. (2566) Debenham made-tomeasure curtains 90” D x 2 widths wide (100”) Taupe colour with rust pattern. Excellent condition, £50. Tel 07908 089283. (2567) Large dark oak coffee table, 36” x 48”. Excellent condition, £50. Tel 07908 089283. (2567) 44 x Catherine Cookson novels. Mix of hardbacks and paperbacks plus some sets, £40. Tel 01924 455921. (2568) 18 x Jack Reacher novels (Lee Childs) numbers 1-18, £15. Tel 01924 455921. (2568) 18 x Rebecca Tope Cotswold mystery novels, £15. Tel 01924 455921. (2568) JVC 42” colour TV. Very good working condition, £150 ono. Tel 07919 673206 (2569). CLOTHING Ladies raincoat with detachable hood. Beige with navy trim. Size 14. Worn twice. £8, tel 01924 518904. (2554) Vivienne Westwood men s trainers, black/grey. Size 9. Worn once. £10, tel 01924 518904. (2554) DIY Table saw (Ferm) 10 circular saw, 1800 watts. Table extensions to 3 sides. Ideal for the handyman or on-site work, £65. Tel 01924 495713. (2560) Aluminium 4-piece folding ladder, 3 positions, £30. Tel 07582 662715. (2561)

New wheelbarrow with pneumatic tyre. Unwanted gift. £25. Tel 01924 441978. (2556) Clarke Torque wrench 3/8 drive. Unused, still in box. Retail £24, will accept £12. Tel 07563 968522. (2548) ELECTRICAL/ ELECTRONIC Black X Box 360 and 4 games including Black Ops 3 and controller £20 Tel 07533 209056. (2564) X Box One game COD Modern Warfare. Not used just seal broken on box £15 Tel 07533 209056. (2564) Nikon Coolpix P50 compact camera. 3.6x zoom. Boxed. Mint condition with Lowepro camera case and carry strap, £25. Tel 01924 491306. (2557) Beko fridge freezer. Good condition, £50. Tel 07533 209056. (2539) FURNITURE Round dining table (36 inch) complete with 4 padded chairs. Very good condition. £100 Buyer to collect. Tel 07764 300959 (Liversedge) (2563) Modern mahogany book/display unit. 5 adjustable shelves. 137cm H x 90cm W x 28.5cm D. Excellent condition, £50. Tel 01924 440392. (2562) Small attractive mahogany entertainment unit. Storage for CDs if required, central glass display. 106cm W x 73cm H x 45cm D (cost £500 McDonagh Fine Furniture). Excellent condition, £50. Tel 01924 440392. (2562) Black TV stand with chrome legs and two shelves. Suitable for TV up to 43-inch. Excellent condition, £30. Tel 07876 411694. (2558) Dining table (170cm x 100cm) with six high back chairs. Medium colour in real wood. All in excellent condition (seat pads still have protective cellophane on them), £120 ono. Tel 01132 523709/ 07716 186487. (2551) 2 x Canterbury office chairs, black, unassembled in box, £40 each.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? ITEM bands

Cost per item

Up to £7: £8 - £25: £26 - £50 £51- £100 £101-£200 £201-£500 £501-£1450 £1,451 plus Tel 01924 469537. (2542) Two mirror-backed display cabinets in silver. One corner, one straight unit. As in current Argos catalogue, £60 each or £100 for both. Buyer to collect Tel 07746 245435. (2544) Two seater sofa, scroll arms style with chocolate and beige chenille fabric cushions. Eight months old (size 58 L x 35 D). Very good condition. £100 ono, buyer to collect. Tel 07508 580211. (2546) Two-seater sofa, a little dated but very seldom sat on. Very good condition. Colour light brown, £200 ono. Tel 07563 968522. (2549) Phoenix 3ft single adjustable electric bed base (no mattress). Good condition. Buyer to collect, £100. Tel 07740 717701. (2541) Three-seater leather settee. Good condition, £45. Tel 07533 2090. (2539) GARDEN Electric garden shredder, £20. Tel 01924 524232. (2547) HOUSEHOLD Green/pink/peach lined full length curtains (fits floor to ceiling). Each curtain measures 10ft 6ins W x 7ft D. Includes matching pelmets, tracks, fixtures & fittings plus brass holdbacks. Very good clean condition, £50 ono. Tel 07475 109308. (2565) Clarke mobile gas heater, 1.5-4.2 KW. Nearly new, £50. Can deliver locally. Tel 01132 537019. (2552) 3 x winter warm oil filled radiators 1600 watt £25

£1 £2 £3 £4 £5 £7 £9 £11

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BOXING

Purge boxers claim six titles at Yorkshire finals SIX fighters from Purge Boxing Academy became Yorkshire champions in last weekend’s regional finals, making the Batley club the most successful in West Yorkshire. David Anthony Varey, Lewis Smith, Amaar Farooq, Abu Farooq, Zayaan Ahmed and Archie Smith all claimed titles in the regional finals of the ABA England Junior Championships last Sunday at the Hunslet Club in Leeds. Gym owner and head coach Mohammed Amin Patel said: “It was an amazing achievement to be the only club in the whole of Yorkshire to have eight juniors in the regional finals. “Being open only four years, the club has progressed massively, having six national titles, winning an English title and now six Yorkshire champions, taking the tally to 24 Yorkshire titles.” The ‘little wizard’ David Anthony Varey had a bye to be crowned champion at 34-36kg so first up was Lewis Smith, who made light work of his opponent in the 40-42kg cate-

PURGE FAMILY: The Batley gym claimed six Yorkshire titles gory to win unanimously. Next came John Price in the 4850kg category, who came up against an undefeated two-time national champion and GB champion. In a brilliant junior bout, Amin believed it was the “wrong decision” when

the win was given the other way. Amaar Farooq then defied a cold to show slicker and shaper work for a unanimous win in his 57-60kg final. Abu Farooq showed all of his showmanship in his 48-50kg final, entertaining the crowd and winning

his bout by a unanimous decision to become Yorkshire champion. Up next was Zayan Ahmed, a national finalist for Purge last year and a three-time Yorkshire champion and Hull Box Cup champion, who gave a very mature and con-

FOOTBALL

Bottomley double fires Liversedge into top two NCEL Premier Division

BRIDLINGTON TOWN LIVERSEDGE

0 2

LIVERSEDGE head into this weekend’s home tie with Albion Sports in second place in the table after Michael Bottomley’s brace secured an impressive midweek win at Bridlington. Jonathan Rimmington’s side stretched their unbeaten run to 11 games with victory over their promotion rivals on the coast. Two second-half goals from midfielder Bottomley took them into the top two ahead of two home fixtures in the coming week. Albion Sports, who are secondfrom-bottom heading into the weekend, visit Clayborn tomorrow (Saturday, kick-off 3pm) before Sedge welcome mid-table Thackley on Tuesday night (March 10, kick-off 7.45pm). Bottomley started on the bench

at Bridlington, with Joe Kenny taking his spot in the only change to the team which had won at Goole three days earlier, but he would come on to have quite the impact. He replaced the injured James Ghaichem in the 34th minute following a cagey start to the game which saw more fouls and cards than goal-scoring chances. The hosts fired a free-kick over

and Oliver Fearon aimed likewise with his own strike from the edge of the box in the final minutes before half-time. Seven minutes after the break, Bottomley struck. The ball was won back well in midfield and Liversedge moved it forward quickly to find the substitute, who cooly beat the goalkeeper from the edge of the area. The away team kept up the

NCEL Premier Division

Hot Sedge hit Goole for six

GOOLE LIVERSEDGE

2 6

AFTER three weeks out of action due to the weather, Liversedge returned with a bang last weekend as they hit six goals past Goole to climb into the promotion places. They made a flying start with the first goal inside three minutes. Liam Marsden’s long throw caused chaos and Joe Walton got on the end of his delivery to score.

Marsden’s throw proved lethal again soon after as the defence failed to clear and Oliver Fearon tapped home from close range. Goole were caught on the counter for 3-0 with Fearon finishing off a swift break for his second. Liversedge and Walton were even quicker out of the blocks for the second half, with the striker catching Goole cold in the opening seconds to round the goalkeeper. Jack Hardacre’s shot was turned

pressure and had a two-goal cushion in the 67th minute. It came from another break, with Walton crossing from the left and Fearon leaving it for Bottomley to fire into the net again. The three points looked secure seven minutes later when a Bridlington player was shown red for a cynical foul on Liversedge forward Paul Walker, and they easily saw out the win.

round the post, Alfie Raw drove wide and Fearon fired high before a sublime play-off from Paul Walker gave Walton his hat-trick. Fearon missed another chance for his own treble before Adam Fowler’s goal gave the home crowd something to cheer. A great Hardacre through ball allowed substitute Mark Simpson to make it 6-1, before Fowler added a second for Goole two minutes from time.

CRICKET Plenty of Premier Division derbies to enjoy this season... By Mike Popplewell THE ALL Rounder Cricket Bradford Premier League season gets underway next month with one or two admin tweaks having taken place during the close season. It’s hardly groundbreaking but the Conference Division is no more – instead we have the Premier Division and both First and Second Divisions like last season but the Conference has been re-branded ‘Division Three’. Over the next four weeks we will be looking at each division and the changes in personnel so far at Heavy Woollen clubs. The promotion of Batley and Morley throws up the prospect of

some interesting derby games in this division in 2020. With Hanging Heaton, disappointed at not making a more concerted challenge for the title last season, lining up alongside Batley and Cleckheaton, and reigning champions Woodlands and promoted Morley just outside the Dewsbury and district boundaries, travel should be greatly reduced this time around. Batley will be concerned by the fact that their last stay in the top flight was somewhat transient but the club are convinced they have learned from their past experience and expect to put up a better show this time. As for Cleckheaton, they must be aware of the fact that just one

more maximum and four more bonus points could have kept Undercliffe up and sent the Moorenders down. So, what moves have been made by our three leading clubs to improve on last time around? No overseas signings have yet been registered from this district but there are plenty of transfers already completed with Batley securing Gharib Nawaz from Huddersfield League side Scholes, joining Imran Ravat (Mount), Seif Hussain (Baildon) and Imran Mahboob (Wakefield St Michaels). Hanging Heaton have Shahban Raheem from Shepley, Sam Drury (Scarborough), Josh Wheatley (Lightcliffe) and Finnley Morgan

(Ossett), while signs of activity in the transfer market at Cleckheaton are virtually nonexistent to all intents and purposes. The decision of Andy Gorrod, largely a part-timer in the past two years, to return to Gomersal from Cleckheaton is unlikely to have a great impact on events at Moorend. Oakenshaw-based champions Woodlands snatched Naved Siddique from Morley last week but there has been little other movement either in or out as yet. Still, with six weeks still to go before ‘kick-off’ there is sure to be negotiations going on across the board at this time and it is all a case of watch this space.

trolled performance to dominate every round from start to finish and take a unanimous win in style in the 52-54kg category. The last of the Purge winners was Archie Smith at 60-63kg, also winning by unanimous decision with a classy performance that saw him win every round. Amin added: “I want to congratulate all my fighters who performed exceptionally. Also I want to give a shout out to all my club coaches: Mohammed Aslan, Umar Arif, Ben Hargreaves, Bilal Dadhiwala and Haroon Arif, who put endless time and effort into the boys to get them ready. I couldn’t do it without these guys. “Lastly to all the parents, sponsors and supporters who came out; we had around 100 people turn up and Purge really took over the venue.” Purge are now the only club in Yorkshire to have six fighters progressing to the national stages of the ABA England Boxing Junior Championships.

Sport In Brief Slaz draw in derby HOCKEY: Slazenger men’s first team netted a late equaliser to claim a 2-2 draw against local rivals Wakefield 2nd last weekend Both teams came out looking to claim bragging rights and, after Danny Perry’s earlier goal, Richard Tuddenham blasted home a leveller with minutes left on the clock. Slaz’s second side lost 4-2 to Sheffield Hallam 5th despite Asad Baig and Ian Hedges goals in the first half. Their fourth team were 5-2 winners over Wakefield 7th and the fifths lost 3-0 to Sheffield Uni Bankers 7th, while the development team were edged out 2-1 by City of York 10th. Slaz’s ladies’ first team earned an excellent 3-2 win at home to Driffield 1st, with Alex Gilbert, Sarah Sykes and Holly Tyers all scoring goals. The second team also picked up a win with Phe Seckar and Mia Davis goals seeing off Acomb 2-0, while the thirds were beaten 8-2 by Horsforth and the fourth side lost 3-0 to Huddersfield Dragons 3rd.

Kestrels flying high RUGBY UNION: Cleckheaton’s second team recorded their eighth consecutive win last weekend, blowing away York 3rd 41-19 to consolidate their place at the top of the Yorkshire Merit League. The Kestrels hadn’t lost since early November although they were tested in the first half by York, leading 22-14 at the break with Tom Ford (2), Liam Goldthorpe and Harry Sutcliffe scoring tries. In the second half, Sutcliffe added a second, Wade Laycock and Ollie Clark also crossed and Richard Noble made it three conversions in total. Tomorrow (Saturday, kick-off 3pm), the Kestrels face a local derby at home to Morley.

Batley win big again HOCKEY: Batley Ladies continued their promotion push last weekend with a 7-1 thrashing of Bradford. They are level on points at the top of the table after a fifth straight win, which was started with a Kim Sharples goal. Rach Stewart doubled the lead and Gail Culshaw made it three shortly after half-time, before Sharples got her second. Defender Krystal Hemingway scored her first goal for Batley before Stewart and Sarah Fretwell completed the rout.

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

RUGBY LEAGUE

Trojans aim to build on thrilling cup run Thornhill head into the season with a new head coach in Danny Ratcliffe and, after relegation back to NCL Division One last term, the early signs are good with a dramatic run in the Challenge Cup... AST MONTH, Thornhill Trojans were just a minute away from achieving one of the most famous upsets in the club’s history. An unfortunate slip saw Doncaster claim the victory in the third round of the Challenge Cup, but Thornhill’s performance gave them plenty to be proud of and plenty to be positive about heading into the new league campaign. Their whole cup run had been impressive, upsetting NCL Premier Division side Thatto Heath Crusaders and thumping Normanton Knights before coming up just short against League One opposition, providing renewed optimism for a team in recovery following relegation. Having gone from the bottom tier to the top in just four seasons, just four wins all season and an instant return to Division One wasn’t what many people were expecting last term. Danny Ratcliffe retired from playing at the end of the season, bringing a career that included Wakefield, Dewsbury, York and Hunslet to a close. He took over the head coach role from uncle James Ratcliffe, who had led that impressive charge back up the divisions before stepping down at the end of last season. Right from the start, the younger

SOMETHING TO BUILD ON: Thornhill Trojans impressed in their Challenge Cup exit to Doncaster last month PHOTO: Thornhill Trojans Ratcliffe had his mind set on a good run in the Challenge Cup to kickstart his reign and that is exactly what the Trojans delivered. He said: “People asked when we first started training if we had any friendlies, but I said the Challenge Cup would be our friendlies. Luckily we performed really well and managed to get a decent run. “The thing that we said after that Donny game was that we’re not finished yet, we’ve got to kick on. We’ve got to go up another level

which we have over the last few weeks.” The numbers in training are improving again as the intensity steps up ahead of the NCL Division One season, which starts for Thornhill tomorrow (Saturday) with the visit of Stanningley to Overthorpe Park. Ratcliffe set out his stall early with the squad and made it clear they would not be in for an easy ride under his charge. “We had a squad meeting before

FOOTBALL

There is little that the head coach can do to influence their injury list but there is plenty he can do about discipline, and a better ethic is top of his aims for the season. “We had a squad meeting at the beginning of this year and we put some things out there: working on our discipline, our team spirit, respecting each other; and that means turning up for training and putting the effort in like your teammates are. “Those personal goals that I’ve set them, if we can bring all of them together and perform, then promotion will hopefully come without us worrying about it. “We took the pressure away from everybody. (We said) achieve those little goals and enjoy yourself, and hopefully it will all fall into place.” Thornhill topped the Division One table in 2018 with only four defeats all season and the squad has remained largely unchanged over the past couple of years. Promotiontalk may be forbidden but the evidence on show so far suggests more success is within reach. “You speak to a lot of people and they say Division One is the hardest to get out of,” said Ratcliffe. “We’ll give it a good effort and hopefully if we perform throughout the year like we did against Doncaster, it could be quite a successful season.”

RUGBY UNION

Ossett dumped out of cup in Cumbria Integro League Cup

WORKINGTON OSSETT UNITED

pre-season started and we said there that we would work quite a lot on fitness,” he explained. “Not just physical fitness, but mental fitness, pushing yourself further than you can go. “The lads have all bought into it. We had a really tough week last week and the lads should be really proud of what they’ve done. Hopefully we can take that into the start of the season this Saturday.” The Trojans were being tipped by some for a Premier Division title challenge at the beginning of last season but things did not go to plan, and Ratcliffe believes that as well as their mental fitness, injuries and discipline were crucial. “We’ve made a point of working mentally this year,” he said. “I think people were tired, they were taking a step back instead of pushing themselves that extra step. “Injuries were quite big last year, we had injuries to key players and we had to reshuffle players about. “Our discipline was very poor and I don’t think that was to do with people personally, that was frustration from the results and how the games went. “Discipline is something that we’ve worked on this year, not just on the field but off the field as well. If you can do it off the field, you should be able to take it on the field as well.”

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OSSETT UNITED exited the League Cup in the third-round stage with a comfortable defeat at Workington on Tuesday night. A decimated squad took only 13 players across to Cumbria, including full-back Harry Gagan who signed on loan from Barnsley earlier that day until the end of the season. Gagan took his place in a particularly inexperienced backline and Ossett were behind within three minutes. Scott Moloney did well to save the initial effort but Nathan Waterson was following up to tap the ball in. Moloney had to make two top saves to keep the game at 1-0 and then made an excellent double save while his team were down to 10 men, as Jack Stockdill limped off to be replaced by Tom Greaves. Greaves came as close as anybody to an equaliser when his effort was blocked by the goalkeeper midway through the second half, but Workington put the tie to bed 11 minutes from time when Daniel Wordsworth’s header deflected in. Ossett have been boosted by the signing of another full-back, Edward Busfield, ahead of tomorrow’s (Saturday, kick-off 3pm) home league clash with Marske United. Busfield is a former Wrexham, Nostell Miners Welfare, Eccleshill and Brighouse player who last featured in Sweden for IFK Mora. Ossett also play on Tuesday night (March 10, kick-off 7.45pm) in a rearranged away match at Ramsbottom United.

Cleckheaton overcome play-off rivals North One East

CLECKHEATON RUFC DRIFFIELD

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CLECKHEATON strengthened their grip on second place by completing the double over a battling Driffield last Saturday, despite being outscored by three tries to two in the game. They were coming up against their closest challengers for the play-off place heading into the game but Dale Breakwell’s 13 points helped Cleck over the line for a vital win. Cleckheaton were at full strength with an unchanged team from the defeat at Durham two weeks earlier. Ben Dearing, Archie Rika-Rayne and Chris Piper warmed the bench after their day out with the Kestrels the week before. The Moorend pitch was in reasonable condition despite the recent heavy rain and the game started in bright and breezy conditions, with the home team making most of the early going. However, Cleckheaton were forced into early changes when flanker Joey Carley hobbled off and Rika-Rayne replaced him, going into the hooking spot while Ben Thrower filled in at secondrow and Brad Marsden at flanker. Breakwell put the first points on the board with a 40-metre

penalty for an offence at the ruck after eight minutes. The scoreboard barely had time to register the score before Olly Depledge and James Wilson exchanged passes down the blindside with the full-back surging away for his seventh try of the season. Breakwell added the goal and then slotted another penalty over to extend their lead to 13-0 after 17 minutes. Driffield had hardly threatened in the first quarter but, after going through several phases, the second-row Alex Cullen got across the line for their opening score. The visitors were getting a foothold in difficult conditions but solid defence by the Cleckheaton pack kept the Woldsmen from adding to their score. Breakwell found a different way of applying pressure by putting up a series of towering kicks which had the Driffield defence in disarray. Three minutes before halftime, right wing Jack Marshall showed considerable skill which parted the Driffield defence and he romped away to score his 11th try of the season. Breakwell added the extras and Cleckheaton led 20-5 at the break. Early in the second half, with Driffield attacking down the right, Jack Seddon intercepted and raced away down the touch-

TOUCHDOWN: Jack Marshall goes over for a Cleck try line, but he was pulled down on the 22 and the defence cleared the danger. Driffield were monopolising the possession at this stage and when left wing Ben Blacker got into space, his opposite number Marshall cut him down with a magnificent tackle and also created a turnover to clear the Cleckheaton line. On the hour mark, Blacker scooted over from 10 metres as the defence got pulled into the middle of the field, with Watts adding an easy goal from under the posts to bring the away side back into the contest at 20-12. Driffield kept piling on the pressure and the home faithful were getting concerned, but solid defence was the order of the day as wave after wave of attacks were repelled. On 77 minutes, after a mistake from the visitors gave Cleckheaton a rare scrum inside the opposition 22, the referee

PHOTO: Gerald Christian

penalised Driffield for offside and Breakwell kicked his third penalty to take the lead out to 23-12. The game still had more drama to come though as a sweeping move up the right put winger Rueben Kelly over for the visitors’ third try. Cleckheaton needed to make sure they gave their opponents no more chances in a six-point game and, when Breakwell drilled a low restart towards the left touchline, Driffield couldn’t recover it and the game ended 2317. The Moorenders go into tomorrow’s (Saturday, kick-off 3pm) local derby away at fifth-placed Morley with Moortown now the side on their shoulder, trailing by two points, while leaders York are 11 points clear. Cleck will be looking to avenge a narrow defeat in early November, with Morley the only team to have beaten them on their own ground all season.

ThePress

Friday March 6, 2020

RUGBY LEAGUE

Lingard rues decisions in extra time Betfred Championship

BATLEY BULLDOGS SHEFFIELD EAGLES

ROBBED: Craig Lingard felt two key decisions went against his side in extra time

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Stephen Ibbetson at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium CRAIG LINGARD was left disappointed with the officials after two key decisions saw them on the losing side in the Championship’s first taste of goldenpoint extra time. Golden-point was introduced ahead of the new season with the twist that both teams would get a point after 80 minutes with the winners in extra time claiming an extra point. That gave Batley something of a consolation after Izaac Farrell, a former loan player at Mount Pleasant, gave Sheffield the win in the most dramatic of circumstances in the 88th minute. The Bulldogs recovered from 10 points down to level the game and there was no winner in the first half of extratime, with Shaun Lunt slicing the only drop-goal attempt under the bar. When they were pulled back for a Lucas Walshaw forward pass in the second period, Sheffield had their chance and Farrell slotted over for his side’s first league win of the season, but Lingard was left to rue two big decisions. “We got pulled back for a forward pass and it’s not a forward pass in a month of Sundays,” he said. “Even more disappointingly, for the drop goal Dane Manning has made the tackle and he’s seen that Farrell is setting up for the drop goal. He’s trying to get out and put pressure on and Scott

MATCH STATS DEWSBURY RAMS: Joe Martin Andy Gabriel Adam Ryder Matty Fleming Will Oakes Paul Sykes Liam Finn Martyn Reilly Sam Day Luke Nelmes Sonny Esslemont Michael Knowles Chris Annakin Subs: Frazer Morris Liam Johnson Jon Magrin Connor Scott Tries: Knowles (10), Day (30), Ryder (58). Goals: Sykes 5/5. WIDNES VIKINGS: Jack Owens Jake Mamo Jake Spedding Lloyd Roby Jack Johnson Danny Craven Joe Lyons Ted Chapelhow Logan Tomkins Pat Moran Sam Wilde Ellis Robson Kenny Baker Subs: Dec Patton MacGraff Leuluai Connor Dwyer Jay Chapelhow Tries: Robson (22). Goals: Owens 2/2. Referee: C. Worsley Half-time: 14-8 Penalties: 8-9 Man of the match: Michael Knowles (Dewsbury) Attendance: 1,048

7 8 8 7 7 8 7 8 8 9 8 9 8 7 7 7 7

6 5 6 6 6 6 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 5 6 6 6

Wheeldon has just grabbed Dane and held him back so he can’t put any pressure on. “We showed some character to get back into the game, level it and get a point for the draw, but I still think we should have done enough in the 80 min-

utes to see that game out.” On their failure to get the winning field goal, Lingard added: “It’s not something that you practice for. We had the first go and Shaun Lunt went for it. If it goes between the sticks people will call him a legend but unfortunately it

Superb Rams beat Vikings Betfred Championship

DEWSBURY RAMS WIDNES VIKINGS

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Stephen Ibbetson at the Tetley’s Stadium DEWSBURY RAMS secured another impressive victory as a full-blooded effort earned them a deserved success over play-off chasing Widnes Vikings. Following on from a win at Halifax in their previous league game, the Rams again showed that effort and desire can trump bigger budgets and pedigree as they fought through torrid conditions to claim the two points. The Rams led from the 10th minute onwards and coach Lee Greenwood felt that was crucial on a very muddy Tetley’s Stadium pitch. “I thought we performed well in the first two games and we felt it was just a case of carrying that on and we’d be somewhere near and it’d be hard for Widnes,” he said. “I think with the conditions and the pitch as they were, it was important for someone to get in front. It wasn’t a game for you to be chasing. We weren’t behind at any point so that was probably key to it. “The pitch isn’t brilliant so for both teams to complete at a decent rate and not drop the ball at every play-the-ball, hats off to both. I think we did well to get in the lead, we took the couple of chances that we got and then we defended like machines.” Widnes boss Tim Sheens admitted the opposition adapted better to the circumstances: “They held the conditions a lot better than we did. It’s their home ground so they know it well. “We were in the game at half-time and then we had the wind behind us. We didn’t defend well enough in my opinion, we didn’t win the tackles, and then we took some poor options and didn’t take our chances.”

The first try, after 10 minutes, was full of surprises. Centre Matty Fleming improvised a reverse kick in behind and the defender inadvertently kicked it back across into the path of Michael Knowles, who showed great footwork to dribble the ball forward and ground. Paul Sykes added the conversion and extended the lead to 8-0 with a penalty when the Vikings markers weren’t square. Widnes hit back three minutes after that with another unorthodox try. A Joe Lyons kick bounced off a defender and looped in the air above the try-line before Ellis Robson, one of three players on dual-registration from Warrington, reached high enough to bring it down and score, with Jack Owens converting. A much simpler try on the half-hour saw the Rams stretch their lead again when hooker Sam Day darted out of dummy-half and squeezed between two defenders, with the only response before half-time an Owens penalty on the hooter to make it 14-8. Both sides applied some pressure early in the second half but it was Dewsbury who proved the more clinical again. This try owed plenty to winger Andy Gabriel, who brilliantly palmed down a high Liam Finn kick to the corner, into the arms of his centre Adam Ryder. Widnes had their opportunities to get back into the game. Great work by Sykes to drill a drop-out into touch saw them escape a repeat set, and superb defence then saw Pat Moran held up before Connor Dwyer lost the ball over the line. Another addition from Warrington, Jake Mamo, got on the end of an exciting break but lacked composure when he rashly chucked the ball inside, and it looked at that point like it wouldn’t be their day. Further errors meant the Rams were untroubled late on, and could even extend their winning margin with the final kick of the game as Sykes slotted his fifth goal over with a simple penalty.

didn’t happen and Sheffield got the point.” Lunt was involved for the first dramatic moment of the game. A Danny Yates grubber caused chaos when Wheeldon’s kick failed to clear the danger and Lunt was illegally knocked off the ball as he attempted to ground, with the officials awarding a penalty try which Dale Morton converted. Sheffield did most of the attacking for the rest of the half but only in the final 10 minutes before the break did they register points. A quick passing move finished with brothers Joel and Izaac Farrell combining to send Ryan Millar into the corner. Ex-Bulldog Joel Farrell was sent to the sin bin for dissent for protesting a decision when the Eagles came close to scoring, but the extra man didn’t help his old side at the beginning of the second half as Aaron Brown dived onto a James Davey kick to give the visitors the lead for the first time. Not long after, Batley were suddenly 10 points down as Millar somehow acrobatically kept a kick in play and Brown claimed the ball to score again. The home side’s response came in just as unusual a fashion as their opening try. A kick close to the line was deflected off a foot, hit the base of the post, and Alistair Leak was the quickest to react, grasp the ball and touch down. Izaac Farrell added to his two earlier conversions with a penalty but a sixpoint cushion looked vulnerable with the Bulldogs heading down the slope and so it proved, with James Brown crashing over from Lunt’s short pass to set up the game’s mad conclusion.

MATCH STATS BATLEY BULLDOGS: Luke Hooley Wayne Reittie Keenen Tomlinson Lewis Galbraith Dale Morton Ben White Danny Yates James Brown Shaun Lunt Toby Everett Dane Manning Lucas Walshaw Anthony Bowman Subs: Alistair Leak Jack Blagbrough Michael Ward Tyler Dupree Tries: Lunt (6), Leak (54), Brown (70). Goals: Morton 3/3.

6 6 6 6 7 6 7 7 7 6 7 6 6 7 6 7 6

SHEFFIELD EAGLES: Josh Guzdek 6 Rob Worrincy 7 Zack McComb 6 Aaron Brown 8 Ryan Millar 8 Izaac Farrell 8 Anthony Thackeray 7 Scott Wheeldon 6 Greg Burns 6 Brad Knowles 7 Olly Davies 7 Joel Farrell 6 Frankie Mariano 6 Subs: James Davey 7 Blake Broadbent 6 Lewis Taylor 6 Paddy Burns 6 Tries: Millar (31), Brown (45, 50). Goals: I Farrell 3/4. Drop Goals: I Farrell (88). Referee: M. Rossleigh Half-time: 6-4 Penalties: 8-7 Sin Bin: J. Farrell (35, dissent) Man of the match: Aaron Brown (Sheffield) Attendance: 925

Batley grind out away win NCL Division Three

HENSINGHAM BATLEY BOYS

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AFTER seeing their game against Shaw Cross postponed the previous week, Batley Boys finally started their season with a win in Cumbria. Hensingham opened the scoring in the first half through Aaron Turnbull, but Batley – who had Liam Ward, Josh Clough and Sam Pickles making debuts – hit back from the kick-off as centre Tom Ripley picked a loose ball up to dive over in the corner. Ward missed a tough conversion to see the Boys go into the break behind, but they had the wind in their backs in the sec-

ond half and Aaron James came steaming on to the ball for a lead that they would not lose. Ryan Crossley was sent from the field for an alleged use of the elbow but they kept Hensigham at bay before Adam Bingham sealed the points with a try 11 minutes from time. Josh Richter was also sinbinned late on for the Boys, who have another long away trip tomorrow (Saturday) at Gateshead Storm. The other NCL divisions also get underway this weekend with Thornhill beginning at home to Stanningley in Division One while, in Division Two, Dewsbury Celtic welcome Barrow Island and Dewsbury Moor travel to Normanton Knights.

Sharks lose opening game NCL Division Three

SHAW CROSS SHARKS 14 EASTMOOR DRAGONS 40 SHAW CROSS Sharks were comfortably beaten in their opening game of the season against Eastmoor. The Sharks made the quicker start on Dewsbury Rams’ 3G pitch, scoring after just two minutes through full-back Callum Barker, converted by half-back Josh Pinder. Eastmoor soon took control however, with tries after six and 13 minutes. Man of the match Robbie Powell scored the first of his treble and was

soon followed by Reece Nicholson. It was a good day for the prop who scored his second try on the stroke of half-time, with Danny Johnson kicking his third conversion. As in the first half, Shaw Cross drew first blood at the start of the new period when Pinder slipped through to score. This seemed to sting the visitors into a response and Powell cut loose with two more tries to make it 30-10. The Sharks then claimed a third try through Brad Baines but the visitors finished strongly with two tries in the final 10 minutes. Jack Butterworth made it 34-14 before Michael Jedynak grabbed the final score and Johnson completed a six-goal haul to wrap things up.

Rams will head to Oldham full of confidence

CHARITY KIT: Cleckheaton RUFC wore a one-off shirt last week for Sapper Support, a charity for veterans and emergency service workers suffering from PTSD and other mental health issues. Cleck picked up a 23-17 win over promotion rivals Driffield at Moorend to strengthen their grip on second place REPORT: p26

Moor duo sign pro deals with Batley By Stephen Ibbetson BATLEY BULLDOGS have handed contracts to Dewsbury Moor pair Aiden Ineson and Tom Harrington ahead of this weekend’s trip to Toulouse. Harrington, who lines up predominantly at centre, trained with the club over pre-season but was unable to play in their friendlies due to a suspension. Half-back Ineson has been on trial with the Bulldogs over the past month, and both players have impressed enough to earn professional deals. Both have been involved in setups at Super League clubs in the past with Harrington previously in the Wakefield academy alongside new teammates Lucas Walshaw and Dale Morton, while Ineson is a former Castleford academy player. Ineson in particular is in contention for his debut at Toulouse tomorrow (Saturday, kick-off 5pm UK time), but both will get game time somewhere with Leeds’ reserves, with whom Batley are dual-registered, also an option. Tom Lillycrop is set to make a league return for the Bulldogs and reach the landmark of 100 club appearances in France while

front-row partner Tyler Dickinson is also expected to play for the first time since pre-season. Winger Johnny Campbell will also be back in contention after missing last week’s extratime defeat to Sheffield with a knock. There will be fresh absences for Batley too though, including Walshaw and Joe Taira who are unable to make the trip due to passport and visa issues. Forward James Brown played on with a rib injury suffered in the first tackle of the game last weekend and will miss out, as will fullback Luke Hooley with a minor shoulder injury. This weekend’s match will mark the first time the club have returned to Toulouse since the death of young player Archie Bruce, hours after his debut there last August. Batley requested a change of hotel for this trip and the sport’s governing body, the RFL, have agreed to pay the cost of alternative accommodation in the French city. Nevertheless, head coach Craig Lingard acknowledges it is certain to be a difficult return for everybody associated with the club.

IN CONTENTION: Aiden Ineson “It’s something that we need to speak to the players about,” he said. “There’s been a large turnover in players but there’s still a lot of the squad from last year who experienced that. “There is certainly a player welfare issue this week and that’s something we’ll have to take into consideration. It will bring up some bad memories for people. “The RFL have sorted a different hotel from the one they had last year which I think was important. It’s a place for people that going back to could be quite traumatic. We’re in a different environment which will

hopefully help.” Tomorrow evening’s game will see the Bulldogs face a Toulouse side who are top of the table with four wins from four, and Lingard is aware of the size of the challenge awaiting his team. “They’re a full-time team, they’ve got some great players,” he said. “They’ve been at the top end of the division for the last few seasons now so it’s not going to be an easy game going there. “There aren’t many teams who do go over there and get a win. We’re under no illusions how difficult that’s going to be.”

DEWSBURY coach Lee Greenwood says his team can head to Oldham with confidence this weekend as they look to turn “a good start into a very good start”. The Rams have won back-to-back games against better-resourced sides since showing promise in the opening round of the Championship season in defeat to Leigh. They have since triumphed at Halifax and then backed that up with a brilliant 20-8 success over Widnes last Sunday. They are level on points with the play-off places despite having a game postponed and not facing any of the sides expecting to be battling at the bottom end of the table yet this season. However, that is set to change this Sunday (kick-off 3pm) with a trip to Bower Fold in Stalybridge to take on Oldham, who have won one of their opening four games under new coach Matt Diskin. Greenwood (right) has been pleased to see the attitude and character of this season’s squad come to the fore in recent weeks, and wants to see that continue this weekend. He said: “We know the culture behind the scenes is good. We know it’s a really good group in training and preseason was good, but the proof is in the pudding with the results and we can’t really complain with what we’ve done so far. “We won but we’ve got a game next week, and if we lose at Oldham then we’re all sulking again. “We’ll be looking to go there and get two points to turn a good start into a very good start. If we can go three from four, I don’t think many people expected us to do that. “Matt’s a good coach and he’ll be knowing what to do to beat us next week, but we can concentrate on ourselves now. There’s no fear. It’s not like we’ve lost the first three and it’s now a desperate, must-win four-pointer. “We want to go win and we want to feel like we’re desperate even though it’s not a desperate stage. We can go a bit more relaxed, look at what we do well and what we need to do to beat Oldham, and we can go there with confidence.” Dewsbury will have hooker Dom Speakman available again this week after serving his onematch suspension, while there were no injury concerns following the Widnes victory. After the Oldham game, attention will have to turn quickly to the Challenge Cup, with the Rams’ fourth-round tie away at Whitehaven rescheduled for the Wednesday night (March 11, kick-off 7pm). The winners of the tie will travel to Newcastle Thunder in the next round on March 15, with the tie selected by BBC Sport to be screened on the Red Button and online.