ONE PAPER ... ALL THE NEWS from Dewsbury, Batley, Ossett, Mirfield, Liversedge, Birstall, Heckmondwike, Cleckheaton & Spen Valley
Friday February 14, 2020
No. 932
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MP gives trolls cold shoulder
‘My guide dog Charlotte was part of me’
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HEARTBREAKER Storm Ciara brings devastation to district’s homes and businesses By Connor Teale
on Sunday, resulting in flash flooding in large areas. Homes and businesses were hit across the district, with surging water affecting parts of Dewsbury town centre, Heckmondwike, Ravensthorpe, Liversedge and Cleckheaton, flooding dozens of houses. High winds also caused damage to scores of proper-
ties. But Mirfield again bore the brunt of the storm, expeRESIDENTS and businesses riencing water levels that have been left counting the surpassed the Boxing Day cost of Storm Ciara this week floods of 2015. with one business owner Flood-prone Steanard Lane describing the damage and Granny Lane suffered a caused by flood waters as familiar fate, and two roads “soul destroying”. leading into the town were The storm dumped record impassable as the River amounts of rain on North Calder burst its banks. Kirklees in a 12-hour period The Ship Inn on Steanard Lane, one of the most regularlyflooded spots in the district, was forced to close following damage to its exterior area and around 130 properties in Mirfield were left without gas for two days after water made its way into the gas mains. Steve Heaton, managing director at Design Contract Flooring on the Holme Bank Mills industrial estate, lost around £10,000 A canal barge fell victim, while Mirfield’s Station Road needed careful navigation worth of stock as a
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Steve Heaton’s business at Holme Bank Mills lost around £10,000 of stock to the floods result of the floods. The business park is situated on the banks of the River Calder. “The lads have all pulled together,” he said. “It’s happened to us before so I was aware of what we needed to do and how to approach things but it’s still a kick in
the teeth. It does take the wind out of your sails.” Graham Ervine, who owns Mirfield Mill Carpets – situated next to Mr Heaton’s business – also lost hundreds of pounds’ worth of stock. “It leaves so much devastation and mess behind. The clean-up effort is hard work,
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tiring, and it does get a bit draining,” he said. “Anything that the water touches becomes contaminated and has to be thrown out. It’s soul destroying.” This is the second time in less than five years that Mr
Continued on page 2
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ThePress
Friday February 14, 2020
Storm Ciara wreaks havoc Deaths
Family notices in The Press
BARLOW Gary Paul
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. Notices can be taken until 1.30pm on Thursdays.
On 4th February 2020, in hospital, of Soothill, formerly of Thornhill Lees, aged 59 years, Gary, beloved husband of Geraldine, much loved brother of Maria, Andrew and Stuart. Funeral service will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium, on Tuesday 25th February 2020 at 2pm. No flowers by request, donations in lieu may be given to George Brooke Ltd, Funeral Directors, for the benefit of Raptor Rescue at www.raptorrescue.org.uk.
ANDREWS DERRICK On February 8, after a short illness, husband of Sheila. Funeral service will take place at St Michael and All Angel’s Parish Church, Thornhill, on Thursday February 20 at 10am.
ARMITAGE AUDREY On February 3, of Batley, aged 93, wife of the late Roland. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday February 17 at 2pm.
Family Notices Call: 01924 470296
GLOVER JOHN On February 8, of Earlsheaton, aged 73, husband of Dot. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday February 24 at 10.30am.
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On February 10, of Heckmondwike, formerly of Batley, aged 83, husband of the late Shirley. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Tuesday February 18 at 1.15pm.
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MATTHEWS Joan Passed away on 26th January 2020. Wife of Alan, Mum of Alison, Mam of Jo Anne, Gran of Joni. Much loved by all of us. A private service was held on 6th February.
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ELLARBY David Ronald On 8th February 2020, peacefully at home, in Emley Moor, formerly of Dewsbury. David, aged 72 years, much loved husband of Yvonne, much loved dad of Darren and Dawn, brother to Michael and grandad to Kane, Denum, Lucas, Holly and Joshua. Much loved father-in-law of Clare and George. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Wednesday 19th February 2020 at 10:30am. Friends please accept this intimation and meet at the crematorium. Afterwards at Hanging Heaton Golf Club.
On January 31, of Birkenshaw, aged 84, wife of Geoff. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Wednesday February 19 at 1.15pm.
Place your family notices by calling 01924 470296 WHELAN Martin Denis Passed away February 8th 2020, peacefully in Milford Hospice, Limerick, Southern Ireland. Formerly from Dewsbury. Loving husband of Sarah, father of Lydia and Lucy. Brother to Aileen, John, Julia, the late Elizabeth, the late Mary, Trudy, Ann and Timothy, also a dearly loved grandad. Funeral service took place at Bodyke Crematorium, County Clare on the 12th February 2020.
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www.thepressnews.co.uk @ThePressLatest /ThePressNews Publisher: Danny Lockwood Editor: David Bentley Reporters: Zoë Shackleton & Connor Teale Sports Reporter: Stephen Ibbetson Photography: Mike Clark & YappApp Graphic Designer: Craig Moore Sales Manager: Lucy Tissiman Key Account Manager: Jo Gilbert Senior Sales Executive: Janet Black Classified Sales Executive: Rachael Hall Office Manager: Angela Hall
The flood waters flattened the boundary wall at The Ship Inn on Steanard Lane in Mirfield
Continued from page 1 Ervine’s premises have been affected by flooding, the first being the Boxing Day floods of 2015. And the 57-year-old is forecasting more problems for his business, and Mirfield as a whole, in the near future. “I think things are going to get worse,” he said. “With Storm Dennis coming over the weekend we could be in exactly the same position again on Monday. “If that does happen we’ll just have to smile and get on with it, but if this becomes a regular occurrence I’ll be forced to shut up shop. It really does get to you emotionally.” Leader of Kirklees Council Shabir Pandor says the local authority will provide financial support to local residents, organisations and businesses who have been left with damaged properties. “The impacts of flooding at the weekend have devastated some of our communities and it’s heart-breaking to see,” said Coun Pandor (Lab, Batley West). “Yes, we could always do more – along with other West Yorkshire leaders I am continuing to press the government to invest in flood defences. “We want to work with local people, organisations and businesses affected by the flooding to make sure they have the support they need. “Funding will also be available to help those who need to repair their properties following the extreme weather conditions.” Anyone impacted by flooding can contact the council on floodmanagement@ kirklees.gov.uk, or by calling 01484 221000. The Press abides by the principles of the Independent Press Standards Organisation and at all times attempts to report fairly and accurately and correct mistakes or errors as soon as possible. In the first instance, contact the editor, otherwise we will be happy to give details of the Independent Press Standards Organisation. 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
Funeral for Robert NORTH KIRKLEES: Hundreds of people turned out to celebrate the life of a Birstall man who died after being attacked outside his work. Robert Wilson, 53, died from multiple stab wounds following the late-night incident at the Thornton and Ross factory in Linthwaite on Thursday January 16. Family, friends and colleagues gathered at Christ the King Church in Battyeford on Wednesday to remember Robert, who was described as “good company” and “fun to be with”. Kiyran Earnshaw, 18, of Field Lane in Batley, and a 15-year-old boy from Huddersfield have been charged with the murder of Mr Wilson and will appear at Leeds Crown Court later this year.
ThePress
Friday February 14, 2020
Eastwood joins outcry at flood plain housing By Tony Earnshaw Local Democracy Reporter DEWSBURY MP Mark Eastwood has urged Kirklees Council to rethink its policy on approving building in areas prone to flooding. In the aftermath of Storm Ciara, planners who voted to build a housing estate in a notorious flood zone have been invited to see the area for themselves. Kirklees has said it would be “more than happy” to accept an invitation to visit.” The council has come under fire from residents for brushing off fears over flooding. One member, Coun Carole Pattison, said building on an ancient floodplain at Granny Lane was “worth the risk”. The council said a technical appraisal of the land had confirmed it to be “an appropriate site” for residential development. But Martyn Bolt (Con, Mirfield) urged the council and Environment Agency “to take notice of what has happened and the potential for what could happen”. He said Mirfield’s unique position as a meeting point for three rivers – the Holme, the Colne and the Calder – meant the surrounding area was historically prone to flooding but that concerns had not
been heeded. He said flood levels had officially exceeded a previous record set in 2015 but that the problem could have been reduced had flood measures been put in place. “In 2015 local businesses were telling us that the effect on them was into tens of millions of pounds,” said Coun Bolt. “If they get hit again by floods they may leave the area.” He added: “It’s not an exaggeration to say that lives are at risk from these decisions.” Mr Eastwood said he had emailed Kirklees chief executive Jacqui Gedman about the issue. “With other proposed development sites, I would ask that Kirklees Council stop ignoring local people, community groups and planning experts in a rush to push through inappropriate developments and has a complete rethink on its planning policy,” he added. Council director Karl Battersby said: “The Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA), Yorkshire Water and the Environment Agency were all consulted ... and together made changes to the proposed surface water drainage system and confirmed the site to be satisfactory.” Potential developers would have to submit plans which met the various authorities’ approval.
Tracy’s dress goes for £18,500 AN OFF-the-shoulder dress worn by Batley & Spen MP Tracy Brabin has topped £18,000 in a charity auction. The Labour MP was branded a “tart” by trolls on social media after wearing the black dress, which slipped off her shoulder when she leaned on the despatch box to address the House of Commons last Tuesday. She has since decided to sell the dress on eBay, with all proceeds going to Girlguiding – a charity for girls and young women in the UK. The auction was due to end yesterday (Thursday) and at the time of going to print, bids had hit £18,500. Ms Brabin said: “When I went into the chamber to raise an important point on press freedom, I never expected it to cause a stir in the way it has. “The debate has drawn awareness of how rife everyday sexism still is in society and how women
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News In Brief Labour’s TV debate DEWSBURY: Sky News is hosting a live TV debate between the Labour leadership contenders at Dewsbury Town Hall. Rebecca Long-Bailey, Keir Starmer, Lisa Nandy and Emily Thornberry will face an audience of 100 voters on Thursday Feb 27. It will be hosted by Sophy Ridge from 8pm. The news channel says it has decided to hold the debate in Dewsbury because it’s a seat the new leader will have to recapture after Labour lost to the Conservatives.
MP off to Kashmir DEWSBURY: MP Mark Eastwood is heading to Kashmir next week. The newly-elected Tory will travel to the disputed region as part of an All Party Parliamentary Group For Kashmir fact-finding trip. The visit to Azad Kashmir, which has been sponsored by the Pakistani government, takes place during a parliamentary recess. Mr Eastwood said he had been contacted by many concerned residents and added: “During the election campaign I made a promise to the Dewsbury Muslim community that I would visit the region at the first opportunity and unlike other politicians, I stick to my promises.”
are held to a higher standard than men, judged by how they look not by what they say. “I decided to auction off the dress to raise money for Girlguiding UK; it’s a brilliant charity that does so much great work to empower girls to become confident young women. “I didn’t expect the bidding to get this high and I’m grateful for all the support I’ve received in the past week.”
Death on railway MIRFIELD: A person hit and killed by a train near Mirfield Railway Station on Tuesday evening has been named as 17-year-old Sanya Hussain from Dewsbury. Miss Hussain was struck on the line shortly before 6pm. Emergency services were called to the scene but she was pronounced dead a short time after. A British Transport Police spokesman said the incident isn’t being treated as suspicious and officers are in the process of preparing a report for the coroner.
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ThePress
News In Brief ‘Strangle’ boyfriend in plea for help NORTH KIRKLEES: A man turned himself into police after ‘strangling’ his pregnant girlfriend at her Batley home, a court heard. Jordan Williams, 25, of Batley Road in Heckmondwike, phoned police after the incident on January 20 and admitted he needed help for mental health and anger management issues. Kirklees magistrates heard the victim, who was eight weeks pregnant at the time, refused to allow photographs of her injuries – but officers reported reddening to her neck. A full probation report was ordered before sentencing can take place. Williams had bail conditions imposed to not contact the victim or go to her home in the meantime.
Road stays closed THORNHILL LEES: Thornhill Road will be closed until next Friday (February 21). The route, which runs past the Weaving Lane household waste site, closed on Monday from its junction with Fall Lane to Huddersfield Road for resurfacing work to be carried out.
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Friday February 14, 2020
Park group’s cash
£100k payback
BATLEY & SPEN MP Tracy Brabin has picked community group Friends of West End Park as her charity of the month and presented them with £235. The group give up their time to maintain the popular Cleckheaton park to improve visitors’ experience and to keep it clean and tidy. They also launched a Bags of Kindness appeal last year which saw them collect bags of essential items – such as warm clothes and toiletries – which were distributed to the homeless and rough sleepers across Kirklees. Ms Brabin said: “The team at Friends of West End Park do a marvellous job in keeping the park clean and tidy, promoting biodiversity and making it a happier place to visit.” Group member Martin Webster (pictured with Ms Brabin) said the money would go towards filling 20 of the ‘street survival’ bags.
TWO dealers who were jailed for 14 years for their part in a multi-million pound drugs operation have been ordered to pay back almost £100,000 or face a further two years behind bars. Batley man Fateh Laher, 29, and 32-year-old Khawer Maqsood, were sentenced to 28 years between them in July 2018 for a conspiracy to supply cocaine and heroin in the region. Officers raided a house on Curzon Road, Bradford and discovered 12 kilograms of highpurity cocaine, more than £15,000 and a cashcounting machine belonging to the pair. At a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing Judge Jonathan Rose was told that a benefit figure of just over £1.2million had been agreed for each of them. Laher had available assets of more than £46,000 and Maqsood just over £52,000. Judge Rose gave them three months to pay or face an extra two years in prison. They would still owe the money upon their release.
Council ‘not ready’ for Ciara By Tony Earnshaw Local Democracy Reporter COUNCIL bosses have admitted they were not prepared for Storm Ciara’s heavy rain – and only planned for the high winds. The storm, which caused flooding and destruction across the country, arrived after days of weather forecasts warning of torrential rain. In a private email exchange responding to questions over its preparedness and the practical steps it took to minimise flooding, a senior Kirklees Council figure said the authority had been caught out by the storm severity. The council’s outgoing strate-
gic director, economy and infrastructure, Karl Battersby, said: “The reality is that the weather warnings were for severe wind rather than significant rain. Unfortunately we got both. “River levels were not an issue before the weekend. We have seen the highest river levels recorded, and pretty much unprecedented levels of rain in such a short period of time.” He added: “At this moment in time we are focused on recovery, and in particular making sure that those who are most vulnerable are safe.” Mr Battersby’s response was criticised by Conservative councillor Martyn Bolt, who repre-
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sents flood-hit Mirfield. He said early forecasts by the Met Office last week warned of heavy rain with up to 80mm falling on the hills. It issued a yellow weather warning for wind and rain ahead of the weekend. “Surely it shows that there was no emergency planning in place by the council and potentially other partners,” said Coun Bolt. “The question I am posing is: what is happening?” Coun Bolt said reservoirs could have had levels lowered to reduce capacity and asked what lessons had been learned from the 2015 Boxing Day floods. “There were no practical steps put in place following the early
Ciara warnings. They assumed it wasn’t to be of the level that the Met Office had predicted. Did they take their eye off the ball?” Mr Battersby responded: “I didn’t say it didn’t forecast rain, but it was a yellow warning and not of the scale we received.” A council spokesman said preparations had been made, but conditions became worse than forecast and the council is focusing on the worst-affected areas and sending out teams to support vulnerable members of communities. The spokesman added: “We led on this response and have been working closely with other organisations including the police and fire service.”
ThePress
Friday February 14, 2020
Lindsey remembers her guiding light By Zoe Shackleton LINDSEY MOORE has already raised thousands of pounds in aid of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association – and now she is hoping to go even further with her fundraising efforts in memory of her beloved guide dog who recently passed away. A professional singer from Gomersal, 48-yearold Lindsey was diagnosed with a sight condition known as retinitis pigmentosa around 20 years ago. Since then she has lost 70 per cent of her sight but she’s continued to be extremely active, largely down to the help of her guide dog Charlotte. Sadly after a short battle with lymphoma, golden retriever Charlotte died last month at the age of eight. Charlotte was a part of Lindsey and husband Craig’s life for just short of six years, but now they face a potentially long wait to find out whether they will be allocated another guide dog. And that’s down to a shortage of ‘puppy walkers’ in their local area. Guide dogs need volunteers – puppy walkers – to train them in their early years, but Lindsey and Craig could be waiting up to two years if there are no dogs available. In the meantime Lindsey, who was born and raised in Morley, says she will continue with her fundraising work to donate as much as she can to the Guide Dogs charity in Charlotte’s memory. Almost two million people in the UK are living with sight loss that has a significant impact on their daily lives. Of those, around 180,000 rarely leave their homes alone. She said: “It’s hard because we’ve lost our best friend. It’s not just impacted me, the hardest thing for me is to get up and out every day and do the things I do. “If I don’t do those things I’m not being true to how Charlotte changed my life. “It’s impacted on my husband because he used to come out with me – when Charlotte wasn’t working she was our pet dog. “And that’s really hard because the walks we used to do together, the times when she used to be playing and just a dog he’s missing that. “We’re missing her as a family member. She was so much more than my eyes, she was just me.” Lindsey has several fundraising events coming up – including a performance at the West Riding Refreshment Rooms, next to Dewsbury
HUGE LOSS: Lindsey says guide dog Charlotte was a part of the family
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Railway Station, on Tuesday February 25 (8pm onwards). Then on Thursday May 7, there’ll be live entertainment and a buffet at the Bull’s Head in Gomersal (£10 a ticket), and on Saturday July 4 there is a fashion show at Howden Clough Community Centre (1.30pm start, £5 entry). All the money raised will go towards helping Lindsey ‘Name a Puppy’ for the Guide Dogs charity. It costs £2,500 to give a new guide dog puppy a name – and she wants to be able to call one Charlotte in memory of her much-missed dog. Anybody wanting to donate can visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nameapuppy charlotte. • Read more about Lindsey’s story and her work with the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association in next week’s edition.
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LIFE IN BLACK AND WHITE Danny Lockwood
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Y
ered in York…” intones the BBC. ‘This is Huw Cue febrile Edwards reports of with the Chinese tourists main news and students headlines...’ being subject to apparent persecution. You’d think we were in Nazi Germany, circa 1936, to listen to some folk. “I don’t feel safe,” one attention-seeking ‘Chinese’ resident with a broad Yorkshire accent told a quiveringly excited local BBC radio reporter. “People look at me funny and put their hands over their mouths.” I’m not having that. York, like
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Leeds, has a very sizeable Chinese student population thanks to its universities and has a vibrant Chinese tourist trade – among the many thousands of others who trek there day in, day out. I must have passed a hundred Chinese/Asian people in York today … everyone’s just busy getting on with their lives. But don’t let the facts get in the way of a scaremongering headline. Anyway, two people are diagnosed with Coronavirus – or as I prefer to call it, ‘flu’ – and the city goes into meltdown? No, actually. That’s just what the BBC and other over-excited ‘journalists’ wish to convey. Flash forward a few days… “The number of people diagnosed with Coronavirus in the UK has doubled overnight … from four to eight!” Hold the front page, issue a nationwide health warning, call a meeting of COBRA in No.10 and, tell you what, why don’t we get Huw Edwards to broadcast the six o’clock news while wearing one of those paper mask thingies? That should put the wind up the remaining few lobotomised people who still take any notice of the hysterical BBC. T THIS point, it’s confession time – I’m as big a Jessie as any other bloke when confined to bed and feeling sorry for myself. However I don’t think I have ever actually had the flu. Not ‘proper’ flu. Received wisdom is that if you see a £10 note a couple of yards away and can’t physically pick it up, then you have flu, and anything short of
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that is a bad cold. Speaking as a ‘thrifty’ Yorkshireman, I reckon I could defy pneumonia, two amputated arms and still manage to retrieve that tenner with my toes or teeth, but I get the point. And as a brief aside, and with due respect to flu jabs which, as a lifelong asthmatic I’m supposed to have but only occasionally do, can I recommend the best preventative measure to combat all illness and not just colds/flu? Work for yourself. Be selfemployed or run a small business. It’s amazing how healthy you remain, even if much of your life is spent on the edge of a nervous breakdown. But at least that isn’t infectious (and I’m now running round touching every piece of wood I can find... aaaaa-chooo!) But to put things into some kind of perspective, do you know how many ‘excess deaths’ (as the Office for National Statistics puts it) there were in the winter of 2017/18? In England and Wales alone, 50,100 people died from flu and cold weatherrelated illnesses, above what the NHS would normally expect. The blame that year was put on a flu vaccine that didn’t match the strain of flu doing the rounds, yet I don’t recall a media meltdown. That 50,100 was the worst winter death rate in 40 years, although in 2014/15 it was nearly 44,000. Average flu deaths vary from 600 to 10,000. Yet here we are, with a handful of people in the UK a bit poorly and we’re all being told to wash our hands before we wash our hands … then wash our hands again. If there’s no-one left to read this in a month because Coronavirus has hit the levels of the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918/19 – between 50-100 million dead – then I’ll eat my words. Heck, if I’m one of the rare survivors I might even take a cheeky day off work. Maybe go for a flu jab.
And now for the breaking news
Locky’s staff pep talks just weren’t working like they used to...
READERS may note that one or two regular features in their copy of The Press appear to have shifted to different pages or parts of the paper this week. No, it’s not the editor coming down with dyslexia, or even my idea of playing silly so-and-so’s with you. It’s a case of needs must. We launched our Morley & District edition at the end of October, which was published every Wednesday until this week, when it switches to Friday, the same as our North Kirklees edition. Why? Well, the sight of the staff crawling into work on their hands and knees after hitting two demanding deadlines in three days was a clue. I mean, a boss can only kick them up the backside and shout “get a move on” so many times before the motivational value wears thin. It wasn’t as though we suddenly had double the staff to do double the work. But also, by printing as a change-edition of the core product (I’ll spare you the technicalities) it saves us more than a few bob. The downside is that only specific pages can be changed and some have to run common in both – for instance our Classified advertising and some other adverts. The bottom line is that we’re still battling to bring our readers relevant, informed, local news, unlike other weekly newspapers that stuff their pages with generic, region-wide content, dressing it up as local news. And what local news they have, is usually culled from the previous week’s Press! So stick with us folks, we’re doing our very best!
Electric dreams are a total nightmare ERE’S a little bet I’ll have with anyone who doesn’t mind waiting 15 years or so for the money to change hands: I’ll risk a crisp new £10 note that diesel and/or petrol cars are not banned from Britain’s roads by 2035. You may or may not have been encouraged by the government’s ‘radical’ pledge to rid the nation of its 32.5 million motors – which included wiping the smug smiles off
H MELTON STREET, CROSS BANK, BATLEY, WF17 8PT TEL: 01924 473821
07775 356 527
Email info@airbustransfers.co.uk or neil@airbustransfers.co.uk www.airbustransfers.co.uk
Hot, sweaty, feverish? It’s just the BBC flu... OU know what I blame the raging epidemic of Coronavirus hysteria on? Brexit. Really. Since it become irrevocably certain that we were exiting the EU a fortnight ago, there’s been hardly anything for the BBC-led MSM (mainstream media) to try getting the nation’s knickers in a twist over. Conveniently for the doommongers, along came good old – sorry, new – Coronavirus to scare the general population sh…., sorry, scare the general population ‘witless’ with screaming headlines on the hour, every hour. The BBC lead the way here, but the largely mediocre, sheeplike masses of other media seem to simply follow on obediently. “The first two UK cases of Coronavirus have been discov-
PICK-UPS MIRFIELD & SURROUNDING AREAS
eco-fluffy hybrid car owners. They’re for the bin too. We’re destined for 35 million electric cars, sitting silently but greenly on the still backed-up M1, but also entirely pointlessly in climateemergency terms. Emerging African, South American and Asian industrial nations will still be burning coal and oil at increasing rates that make the UK’s virtue-signalling commitment completely futile.
So we shouldn’t do it? I’m not saying we shouldn’t. I’m saying we couldn’t if we wanted to – not unless someone invents a miraculous new way of making batteries. To achieve all-electric – in just the UK mind – we’d need almost twice the world’s annual output of cobalt, three-quarters of its lithium and half its copper. No one will mind us having all that, will they? And what’s everyone else going to drive? At
least we’ll be able to sell all our diesel/petrol motors… But cop this – the shiny new all-electric VW Golf has to do 75,000 miles before it ‘breaks even’ on the CO2 emissions generated in making it. A bit pointless, no? Still, by 2035 it won’t be Boris’s problem. That’ll belong to whichever PM is still agonising over whether or not to go ahead with HS2 and a third runway at Heathrow.
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Friday February 14, 2019
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 FEBRUARY 15 CLECKHEATON RAMBLE Starts at 10.30am at Cleckheaton Town Hall car park (BD19 3RH, SE191254) 7 miles – moderate No dogs please Contact: Noel 07780 328561
Dave On Film
Double dose of hilarity... Review by Lynne Stainthorpe
The Oscars 2020 by Dave Woollin T AROUND 4.30am on Monday I found myself awake. I was cheering and celebrating a film winning the Best Picture Oscar which I haven’t even seen myself yet. How could this possibly be? Sunday’s Oscar ceremony live from Los Angeles proved to be one of the most surprising for years. Going in to the ceremony, 1917 for me had everything wrapped up. It was nailed on for Best Director, Best Film and Best Cinematography. But as the night and the glamorous ceremony progressed, it became clear that just about the only film I hadn’t seen out of all the main films that were nominated was about to make history. Parasite picked up the Best Original Screenplay Oscar fairly early in the night, and the accolades just kept pouring in. The South Korean comedy thriller (yes, it has subtitles, but never let this be something that stops you watching a film) went on to win the Best International Feature, which was to be expected, but when Bong Joon Ho picked up the Best Director Oscar over Sam Mendes, Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese and suchlike, it was obvious something was shifting. When the Best Picture was announced and Parasite became the first foreign film to ever win Best Picture, history was cemented in place. Unfortunately, through illness, I have been unable to see the film, but I will be attempting to get to the cinema as soon as possible to see this in all its glory. Its praises were being sung all night, I have friends who say it’s one of the best films they have ever seen, and I know I will enjoy it too. Also … director Bong seems like one of the nicest guys in Hollywood. What does this mean for next year’s ceremony? Will this start a wave of foreign best pictures? We will have to see.
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• 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.
BIRSTALL St Saviour’s Church welcomes Hammonds Brass Band for their annual Valentine’s Day concert tomorrow (Saturday, 7.30pm). Tickets cost £8 and everyone is welcome.
L-R: Helen Fox as Irene, Nick Jackson as Him, Stacey Fleming as Amy and Lucie Raine as Holly decided to create a new political party to save the world from itself. Jared and his mates – Jones, Mel and Phoebe, are all passionate about wanting to improve the world but their lack of knowledge and understanding of so many issues soon becomes obvious. The new fifth member, Duncan, thinks that he has been invited to an actual party, in celebration of his birthday and is more interested in the cake than the debates. Party is a comic play about small minds tackling big issues – China, climate change, sex trafficking, cycle lanes, unfair trade coffee and what to call the party. A great, fast-paced script brought to life by a talented set of young performers whose finely tuned interactions between characters make them all believable.
L-R: Aimee Allen as Mel, Catherine Bailey as Jones, Anya Firth as Phoebe and Daniel Lee as Jared
Snow White IT’S PANTO time again in Morley as St Andrew’s Church’s performance of Snow White begins today (Fri). Back for its 38th year, the cast and crew are made up of adults and children connected with the church on Bruntcliffe Road. Tegan Dean will portray the lead role of Snow White with Beth Kernick playing the prince.
HAPPY MONDAYS legend Shaun Ryder is coming to Morley next month. ‘An Evening With Shaun Ryder’ comes to the town hall on Friday March 13. 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. WHITECHAPEL Church in Cleckheaton is hosting its monthly free concert on Wednesday March 4. The church on Whitechapel Road enjoys different singers, choirs and entertainment on the first Wednesday of every month. There’s also afternoon tea and cakes on offer, and everyone is welcome. Next month’s concert is with Fixby Songbirds Choir. People are encouraged to arrive from 1.30pm to get a good seat, with the concert starting at 2pm. Contact Trevor Bowers on 01274 862635 for more information.
THERE was much laughter in the David and Judith Wood Theatre last week when Dewsbury Arts Group presented a double bill of two short comedies. The first play, Interior Designs by Jimmie Chinn, is about three women’s relationships with Him, a brash, arrogant odd job man. Amy, a frustrated housewife; Holly, a successful TV-am newsreader; and Irene, a solitary schoolteacher. Although of very different backgrounds, the three women share a common fate of loneliness and frustration. The play follows their yearning to fill the emptiness in their lives and their various attempts to trap the eligible Him. Stacey Fleming gave a strong performance as the downtrodden, deserted housewife Amy, delivering her many funny lines with great timing and pathos. Lucie Raine was very convincing as the attractive, self-assured Holly who, despite her professional success, was vulnerable and needy. Helen Fox gave a poignant portrayal of Irene, the frumpy, spinster schoolteacher who had long convinced herself that she was contented with her solitary life. Nick Jackson shone as Him, the odious odd job man and serial womaniser who wormed his way into the lives of all three women, to varying degrees, having his fun then moving on to his next job, leaving behind a sense of utter desperation. Director Maria Bailey did a good job getting the best out of her actors and the best out of the material she was working with. The second play, Party by Tom Basden, set in a garden shed, introduces four well-meaning but ill-informed teenagers who have
SATURDAY FEBRUARY 29 4 NIL Starts at 10.30am at Mirfield Library car park (WF14 8AN, SE203197) 8 miles – moderate Contact: Eddie and Andrea 01924 470091
The curtain goes up at the church hall for the first performance today at 7.30pm, with two shows on Saturday at 2pm and 7.30pm. Last-minute tickets are still available at £5 each or £3 for U14s. To book, call 0113 253 2717.
Circus time ALL THE fun of the circus comes to Morley Town Hall on Wednesday February
19 (2pm). The laugher-packed stage show, ‘Cartoon Circus Live’, combines the comedy of pantomime with the thrill of the circus. The 80-minute show features some of Britain’s funniest clowns, traditional slapstick comedy, magic, a giant dancing panda, high flying diabolos and even a performing piranha! Tickets cost £7 or £5 for groups of 10 or more. To book call 07906 854269.
BATLEY BULLDOGS chairman Kevin Nicholas is hosting a ‘pink’ black tie event at The Village hotel in Tingley tomorrow (Saturday). The Nicholas family raise money for Beverley’s Pink Weekend, in memory of Mrs Beverley Nicholas, who lost her battle with cancer last year. £50 tickets include threecourse meal, a band and much more. For tickets contact Alexandra on 07595 062669 or email kevin@nicholasandpartners.co.uk. DEWSBURY and District Rambling Club have two walks planned this weekend. Tomorrow (Sat) members can meet at Link Road at 9.30am for a walk in Garforth, then on Sunday there’s a walk at Wetherby Racecourse. Meet at the Wellington Road car park for 9am. ROBERTTOWN Players are presenting their annual panto show during February half-term. Aladdin will be performed at Roberttown Community Centre from Thursday February 20 to Saturday February 22. Tickets are available from Buckles Butchers and Gallery 172 in the centre of the village. OAKENSHAW Community Choir is looking for more members. Men and women of all ages are welcome and the first three weeks will be free for newcomers. No previous experience or auditions are required. The Oakenshaw Community Choir rehearse every Monday at St Andrew’s Church on Bradford Road from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. For more information visit www.oakenshawcommunitychoir.co.uk. GROUNDWORK Learning Centre’s free half-term ‘Go Wild’ sessions will return to West Ardsley next week. The learning centre, based on Merlyn-Rees Avenue, has been running half-term activities for the past four years, entertaining almost 4,000 families. Activities include den building, nature and scavenger hunts, giant games and crafts. The sessions, for 8-13 year olds, will take place on Monday February 17 from 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm; Wednesday February 19 at 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm; and Thursday February 20 (10am to 12pm). People should meet at West Ardsley Methodist Church, on Haigh Moor Road, before the group moves on to Ardsley Reservoir. Lunch is provided. There are a limited number of places and priority will be given to families in receipt of Universal Credit or disability benefits. To book, call 0300 303 3292 or email leeds@groundwork.org.uk.
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It’s about the issues, not sexism From: Ms A Rawat, by email Do clothes matter? I would say yes. It shows respect for your position, the occasion and the place. If not so, then why do we dress differently at different times? It says a lot about you if you just can’t be bothered. If Tracy Brabin MP had been caught off guard on her way somewhere else, then she should have explained that. But to cry sexism was just cheap of her. I have never seen any of the male MPs dress so inappropriately at their workplace. But I have often seen Tracy Brabin walk around, in my opinion, so inappropriately dressed to her position. If you have a brilliant mind and have an altruistic reason for an individualistic form of dress, like Gandhi did, then you can pull it off. I suggest that Tracy Brabin is not in this category. I am tired of fluff. I want an MP who wants to be grown up and do a grown up job with dignity, skill and accountability. I am not a Tory supporter, nonetheless I was disappointed that
SALE NOW ON
Paul Halloran split the leave vote and helped Tracy Brabin get through again.
Paula. ‘Greybin’ is a third rate MP, second rate actress and a first rate attention seeking ‘will never be’.
Appropriate? Not in my view
Natural havens on our doorstep
From: Anthony Doyle, by email
From: Margaret E Green, by email
Once again the Batley & Spen MP is in the news for the wrong reasons. I have worked for, worked with and had work for me many women over the last 50 years, who all knew what dress was appropriate in the work place. The same applies to men. I have no issue with women dressing as they please in the right environment. Tracy Brabin is an embarrassment. Would she have worn that dress on her visit to the Muslim Women’s Welfare? I think not! Had it not been for Paul Halloran taking the votes from the Conservatives at the General Election she would have been selling the Big Issue with her pal
I know of a field not far away called the Water Meadow, with woodland on two sides and a stream meandering along one edge as it comes down from Whitley with house and bungalows on the third side. The main road is on the fourth side. Violets and, if you know where to look, primroses, grow on the banks of the stream. In the wood bluebells in spring follow wood anemones and there are kingcups in the boggy bits where the frogs spawn every year. High on a branch a tawny owl watches and sometimes flies past quite low as if to let you know he is there, a woodpecker drums out of sight and squirrels scamper from
tree to tree. Sit quietly and you can spot tree creepers, nuthatches, blue tits, long tailed tits, dunnocks, sparrows, chaffinches, robins and jays. In summer butterflies, moths, bees and dragonflies are plentiful. Mice and voles keep the owl and its young well fed. I haven’t heard the cuckoo for a number of years, but keep listening in May and early June in the hope that they will return. This is not a fairy tale, but, it will be for our grandchildren. It might be worth mentioning that the Bronte sisters, whilst visiting friends close by in Hand Bank Lane, used to pick violets and primroses to give to their hostess.
Memories of Dewsbury From: Eric Humphrey, Birkenshaw I confess that although we live only a few miles away, we don’t visit Dewsbury very often. You see, this
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just isn’t the Dewsbury I knew in the 1940s and 50s. The news of the town’s planned rebirth is welcome. Now, some memories begin to stir – 1939. I’m only six years old but I remember my sister returning home after queuing for hours at the Playhouse Cinema and trying to describe a superb film she had just seen. So, ‘Gone With The Wind’ came to Dewsbury. It’s the mid-1940s. I’m sitting in an aisle seat at the Empire Theatre, watching variety acts. A roll of drums and there on stage is a very large lion. “Members of the audience are invited on stage to stroke him.” That was different. Suddenly, the lights went down. There came a roll of drums, a clash of cymbals – and a very large tiger on a lead came lolloping down the aisle about two feet from me (I think her name was Fenella). I cowered down in my seat! I’m cowering down in my seat again, it’s the mid-1950s. I find myself right on the front row of the Pioneer Cinema, practically taking part in the harrowing crucifixion scene from ‘The Robe’. So, ‘Cinemascope’ came to Dewsbury. Memorable times!
A waste of money From: Joyce Fletcher, by email Ref: £200m town centre blueprint. What will this achieve? Absolutely nothing. People can’t go for a walk anywhere near
Continued on page 10 ★
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★ JA N E T ★
EWART WHITE CRANNandST who came to her s friend family her all thank to like Would H BIRTHDAY PARTY TH T
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on Saturday 8th February
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NIGHT!★ WHAT A GREAT cards and flowers
I was overwhelmed with all your gifts, A big thank you to SheIla Foley for the catering,at Dave Whittaker DJ great music and the bar staff ★ St Mary’s Parochial Hall, Batley. ★ My Love and best wishes to you all, Love Janet ★ ★
KEEP ON ROCKING!
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You don’t need to cope on your own
Continued from page 9 Dewsbury or Savile Town, and be safe. The greenway is a death trap at best of times. It will be another playground for fast cars and drugs. Don’t get too excited you people.
Labour just not listening From: Alec Suchi, Bradford
Advertising Feature ANY people experience problems at some point in their lives. Life-changing events like losing a job, an accident, the loss of a loved one, a traumatic incident or even just moving house can lead to feelings that can be hard to cope with. Sometimes there may be no event that has triggered how you’re feeling. Problems like mild depression, phobias, anxiety, stress, panicking, nervousness, isolation and loss of sleep make it difficult for us to cope with life’s daily demands. One in four of us will feel like this, but you do not need to try and cope on your own. If you live in Kirklees or Calderdale and are over the age of 18, the IAPT service can help. Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) helps people get quick and easy access to the best type of therapy for their individual needs. We have a team of qualified and experienced professionals specially chosen to work with you. We can help you: • Address current problems, including
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how to deal with phobias such as a fear of flying; • Gain a new understanding of your difficulties and develop new ways of coping; • Talk about your difficulties in a nonjudgemental and supportive environment. Richard Holder, service manager for North Kirklees and Calderdale IAPT, said: “The festive period can be a difficult time for many people, as it can often make stressful feelings even harder to deal with. “Many people talk about making a change for the New Year so if you’ve been finding things hard, now is an ideal time to get in touch with our IAPT services. “By 2020/21 over 1.5 million people with common mental health problems each year will access psychological therapies. “Our trained team of health professionals provide effective techniques, tailored to individuals, to help people overcome and manage their feelings of stress, low mood and worry. “By reaching out to IAPT, you can get the help you need.” Visit www.askforiapt.co.uk to find out more.
Judging by the response of Labour’s leadership candidates it is clear that both they and the party as a whole do not appreciate both the manner and scale of their recent electoral defeat. Lisa Nandy had emphasised the need to “listen” to the concerns of the public but her views of the value and importance of immigration is not shared by many voters in Labour’s traditional heartlands and is indicative of irreconcilable differences. Labour’s traditional support came mainly from the white working class who considered their own economic interests better served by the party. However the working class have largely remained socially conservative and opposed to mass immigration and radical societal changes. In contrast a significant number of educated members of the middle classes and largely employed in the public sector together with a radical student element support policies considered “progressive” such as open borders, diversity and multiculturalism, but which are diametrically opposed by Labour’s traditional support. It is difficult to see how two very opposing aspirations can be successfully accommodated, and if the results of the last
general elections are to be repeated, Labour may continue to lose its traditional support if not permanently to the Conservatives then to a new patriotic organisation similar to UKIP but more grass root based. We await subsequent developments with interest.
An alternative view of things From: CM Westwood, Cleckheaton Having been made redundant and got tired of applying for jobs, being a ‘London School of Economics’ graduate, I have used my specialised knowledge to draft out a plan for the rapid reduction of our negative ‘balance of payments’ position. Further losses would involve the immediate closure of all manufacturing and associated industries, together with all European export drives. The manpower and effort thus saved would be directed towards the creation of wealth as follows: • The nationalisation of all hotels, breweries, public houses, betting offices, bingo halls, lotteries, football clubs and major sporting events; • Television and film copyrights would then be sold worldwide thus • FA Cup Final £70 billion • Wimbledon tennis £60 billion • Cricket test matches £40 billion • Grand National/Derby £30 billion • Royal Ascot £30 billion • British Open golf £20 billion • Boat Race £15 billion • Henley Regatta £5 billion ... etc, etc Added to this could be extra revenue from coronations (£100
billion), royal weddings (£100 billion), jubilees (£20 billion), general elections (£2 billion). Then the country would be well on its way to being ‘great’ again. To aid leisure and the refreshment of the mind, trains would leave for the coast every half an hour, fishing rivers would be re-stocked every week and benefits issued in voucher form for use in leisure activities and entrance to sporting events. PS: This is a mild satirical spoof, surely not many would think otherwise...
Floods expose planning folly From: Harry Teale, Mirfield I wonder how many councillors/planning officials from Kirklees dared to present themselves among the crowds looking at the floodwaters of the Calder today (Sunday February 9, 2020). Yet again, we note the profusion of silly planning permissions being passed by Kirklees during the period since the socalled People’s Party (aka Labour) once more became the dictators in 2018. Panic really set in when a certain Labour councillor lost his seat in the local elections in 2019! Unfortunately during the EUphoria of the General Election in December that person slipped back into his seat. Too many applications are being passed “on the nod” ignoring intelligent objections from residents, LLFA, YWA, WYTA et al. Roll on May 2020 when the electorate will repay the irresponsible political party by depriving them of their second (or more) lucrative tax payer funded ‘jobs’.
LATEST PLANNING APPLICATIONS Mohaddis-E-Azam Mission, demolition of existing building and erection of two-storey community centre, Quality Food Store, Ravenshouse Road, Dewsbury Moor. T Owens, single-storey rear extension and alterations, Cross Gables, Bierley Marsh, East Bierley. AB Patel, detached dwelling and first floor extension to existing dwelling (modified proposal), 125 Oxford Road, Dewsbury. B Seal, work to trees, 12 Cheviot Way, Upper Hopton. McDonald's Restaurants Ltd, reconfiguration of car park and drive-thru lane, installation of customer order displays, erection of overhead canopies and goalpost height restrictor and associated works to the site, 2 Northgate Centre, Northgate, Heckmondwike. Mr & Mrs Allan, alterations to convert existing garage to living accommodation, external alterations and erection of detached garage, 13 The Nab, Mirfield. C Martin, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 4.5m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 3.6m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 2.6m, 11 Hampson Street, Batley. London & Cambridge Properties Ltd, change of use from class A1 retail to class A3 artisan bakery, 6B Northgate Retail Centre, Northgate, Heckmondwike. R Jagger, work to TPO Sp2/70, 26 Latham Lane, Gomersal. C Swift, two-storey rear extension, demolition of existing garage and conservatory and
external alterations, 35 Meadow Lane, Roberttown. L Griffith, extensions, dormer windows, demolition of existing garage and internal and external alterations, 18A Littlethorpe Hill, Hartshead. R Patel, first floor rear extension and twostorey side and rear extension, Al Murad DIY, 66 Halifax Road, Staincliffe. Co-op Estates, variation of condition 13 (hours) on previous permission 2019/92301 for erection of extension to existing foodstore and alterations to building, car park and plant area, Millbridge Service Station, The Co-op, 364 Bradford Road, Littletown. G Hought, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 5.06m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 3.8m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 2.7m, 30 Merlin Court, Batley. K Goodwin, work to TPO SP2/70/t29, 16 Summerdale, Gomersal. S Ali, extensions to side and rear, raising of roof height to create rooms in roof space and erection of rear dormer, 23 Cowper Street, Savile Town. R Mehmood, single-storey rear extension, dormers to front and rear and removal of chimneys, 13 Laurel Mount, Heckmondwike. L Johnson, extensions and internal and external alterations, Ashmount, Moorhouse Lane, Birkenshaw. National Coal Mining Museum for England, discharge condition 7 (site investigation) on previous permission 2017/93593 for outline application for erection of stable (within a
Conservation Area), Caphouse Colliery, New Road, Overton. Holroyd Miller, demolition of existing buildings and erection of seven dwellings and associated garages (within a Conservation Area), Gomersal Hall, Oxford Road, Gomersal. Jack Lunn Ltd, discharge of condition 12 (Remediation Strategy) of previous permission 2018/91412 for erection of 17 apartments and formation of car park (within a Conservation Area), Private Car Park, Bradford Road, Batley. Kirklees Council, discharge of conditions 3 (part), 4, 5 (part), 6-10, 13, 18 and 19 of previous permission 2019/91491 for demolition of existing fitness complex and erection of Spen Valley Leisure Centre, Bradford Road, Littletown. M Whinfield, single-storey rear extension, 17 Farrar Avenue, Mirfield. Belmont (Yorks) Ltd, discharge conditions 3 (materials), 5 (boundary treatments) on previous permission 2019/92913 for demolition of existing garage and erection of a detached dwelling, land adjacent to 10 Norfolk Avenue, Staincliffe. c/o Agent, work to TPO 26/76, The Old Tannery, Whitley Road, Whitley. c/o Agent, work to trees 35a/97, Oakwell House, Nutter Lane, Birstall. Mr & Mrs Padgett, the proposal is for erection of single-storey rear extension. The extension projects 3.75m beyond the rear wall of the original dwellinghouse. The maximum height of the extension is 3.4m, the height of the eaves of the extension is 2.5m, 20 Tetley Drive, Birkenshaw.
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT...
My little slices of pastry heaven... Pesto chicken and roasted vegetable puff pastry tartlets with a simple rocket salad ASTRY tartlets are little slices of heaven, and they are so quick and easy to rustle up. I first made these in GCSE food technology lessons – they were actually the focus of my GCSE coursework. The brief was to make a healthy lunchtime snack. I piled meat and cheese onto a slice of puff pastry. Somehow, I passed. I’ve tried quite a few times to make my own puff pastry, but to be completely honest, I don’t see the point. Just cheat and buy some. It saves you so much time and it means a dish like this can be knocked up in under an hour. I prefer to use a pastry block rather than a sheet for these, as it allows you to flavour your pastry. I like to roll the block out a little, and sprinkle in a handful of cheese, before folding, rolling and repeating. This means you get cheese inside your pastry. The whole slice basically turns into a big cheese straw, and doesn’t that just sound glorious...
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What you need – makes four tartlets For the chicken: 4 boneless and skinless chicken thighs 2 garlic cloves, finely minced 2 heaped tsps green basil pesto 1 tsp balsamic vinegar 1 tsp dried basil Pinch salt Pinch pepper For the veg: 1 sweet pointed pepper 1 large red onion 5 chestnut mushrooms 1 tbsp olive oil 1 garlic glove, finely minced 1 tsp dried mixed herbs Splash balsamic vinegar For the slice: 1/2 block of puff pastry 1 beaten egg 50g cheddar cheese 1 ball mozzarella, drained, patted dry and sliced 1 tsp rock salt (not ground) 2stp green basil pesto For the salad: 1 bag ready to eat rocket 3 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar Splash of lemon juice Pinch salt Pinch pepper
Method: • Pre-heat the oven to 200C. Roll the puff pastry flat, and sprinkle 15g of cheddar cheese into the middle. Fold the pastry over, and roll again. Repeat one more time with another 15g of cheese. Leave to sit. • Slice the chicken into ribbons half an inch thick and add to a large mixing bowl. Add the minced garlic, pesto, balsamic, basil salt and pep-
per, and stir well. Cover with cling film and leave to sit. • Slice the sweet peppers into rings, and chop the red onion into slices. Roughly chop the mushrooms. Add to a bowl, and combine with the oil, garlic and herbs. • Roll the pastry flat into a square, and divide into four smaller squares and place on a cold baking tray. • Mark a half-inch border round the
edge of each tartlet. Add half a teaspoon of pesto to the centre of each slice, avoiding the border. Fold the pastry outside the border over onto itself, forming a crust. • Add the chicken and veg evenly across the tartlets, keeping within the border you have created. Add a slice of the mozzarella to each tartlet, along with a twist of black pepper. • Beat the egg and brush across the crust of the pastry. • Add the tartlets to the oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the cheese is melted. • Remove from the oven, and place on a wire rack. • For the salad, add the oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, salt and pepper to a small bowl or ramekin. Mix together, pour over the rocket and lightly toss. • Serve with the salad whilst hot if preferred, or wait to cool and plate up.
• I have my own food blog, called Dan’s Always Hungry, which is packed with my own recipes and even more ramblings about food. You can check it out over at dansalwayshungry.com, and follow me on Instagram at @Alwayshungrydan.
2020 EARLY SEASON BREAKS 24th February Weston-Super-Mare 27th February Llandudno 2nd March Lakeland Explorer
Smith’s Hotel 5 Days The Somerset Hotel 5 Days The Cumbria Grand Hotel, G.O.S. 5 Days * includes lunches and drinks vouchers * The English Riviera The Belgrave Sands Hotel, Torquay 5 Days Berkshire Warner’s Littlecote House Hotel 5 Days The Pearl of Wales The Lion Hotel, Criccieth 5 Days Eastbourne Haddon Hall Hotel 5 Days Thriplow Daffodil & Country Fair The Marriott Hotel, Huntingdon 3 Days Ilfracombe The Osborne Hotel 5 Days
£245 £195 £295
9th March 9th March 16th March 23rd March 27th March 30th March
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Friday February 14, 2020
MONDAY
WEDNESDAY
Scholes Cricket & Athletic Club 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Lily 07507 204210
Dewsbury Town Hall 9.30am, 11.30am Tel Amber 07471 826774
Cleckheaton St Pauls Church Cleckheaton 9.00am & 11.00am Tel Tracey 07970 722726
Thornhill Social Club Edge Top Road 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Sarah 07539 452622
The Trinity Centre Batley Carr 9.00am Tel Hameedah 07983 445501
Hunsworth Scout Headquarters Cleckheaton 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Paul 07848 958798
Earlsheaton, Dewsbury District Sea Cadets (behind Earlsheaton WMC) 9.00am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Amber 07471 826774 Staincliffe Cricket Club Halifax Road 5.30pm Tel Diane 07961 631257 Tingley Methodist Church Westerton Road 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Lyn 07792 032170 Mirfield Zion Baptist Church Mirfield 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Claire 07768 311351
TUESDAY Heckmondwike Comrades Club 9.00am, 11.00am, 5.00pm & 7.00pm Tel Sue 07790 590763
Roberttown Community Centre 5.30pm 7.30pm Tel Kathryn 07906 118636 Mirfield Trinity Methodist Church Hall 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Claire 07768 311351
THURSDAY Batley Town Hall 9.00am & 11.00am Tel Lynne 07988 662052 Batley Town Hall 5.00pm & 7.00pm Tel Lynne 07988 662052
Gomersal Public Hall Gomersal 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel Sharon 07904 650476
Westborough Ratepayers Club Dewsbury Moor 5.00pm & 7.00pm Tel Lucy 07730 264938
Shaw Cross Boys Club Leeds Road 3.30pm, 5.30pm, 7.30pm Tel Lynne 07988 662052
Millbridge Sports Bar Liversedge 5.00pm & 7.00pm Tel Kathryn 07906 118636
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Battyeford Christ The King Church 5.00pm & 7.00pm Tel Mandy 07793 732268
FRIDAY Thornhill Social Club Edge Top Road Friday 9.30am Tel Sarah 07539 452622 Battyeford Christ The King Church 9.00am Tel Mandy 07793 732268
SATURDAY Liversedge St Andrews Methodist Church 7.30am & 9.30am Tel Emma 07786 513072 St. Pauls Church Hall Hanging Heaton 8.30am & 10.30am Tel Lyn 07792 032170 Heckmondwike Comrades Club 9.00am Tel Sue 07790 590763 Cleckheaton Howard Park Community School 8.00am, 10.00am & 12noon Tel Paul 07848 958798 Mirfield Trinity Methodist Church Hall 8.30am & 10.30am Tel Angela 07745 894238
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Friday February 14, 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...
An all-round sportsman who got his big break in wartime LAST WEEK I talked about wartime football in the district, and I want to continue on a sporting theme with another man from the area who established himself as a professional sportsman in wartime – and that was George Dews. George was born in Ossett in 1921 to a long-standing family from the town. His great grandfather Squire Dews, born in 1816, was an agricultural labourer in Ossett in the first half of the 19th century, and his maternal grandfather was also born in Ossett where he worked as a willyer. Many old terms from the textiles industry have found their way into modern usage, but the definition of the job of a willyer doesn’t bear thinking about. Dictionary definitions refer to the word as ‘obsolete or historical’ and state that a willyer is one who uses a device for willying, ie combing wool with his willy (or willow). Some terms just don’t carry over to the 21st century!
But, back to George. Due to the absence of established personnel on active service, wartime did offer young sportsmen the opportunity to break into professional sport, and George was one such individual. Despite his deeply-embedded roots in this district, George was to make his name elsewhere. Initially, that ‘elsewhere’ was just within the broad acres up on Teeside, where he made his debut for Middlesbrough in 1945 alongside England legends Wilf Mannion and George Hardwick. He played 37 league games that year, scoring three times, and also made his debut in the FA Cup, but that ‘elsewhere’ became a very long way from Ossett when, in November 1947, after a successful season in top-flight peacetime football he was persuaded to sign for Plymouth Argyle and move to Devon. As if that travelling was not enough, in the summer of 1946 George made his first-class cricket debut for Worcestershire – and so began a 10-year stint as a dual sportsman.
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Above: George Dews. Left: The Yorkshire side who were County Champions in 1946
His final season as a footballer was in 1955-56 at Walsall, a little closer to his Worcester cricket base, and though he retired from the game that year his cricket continued to flourish and had his best-ever season with the bat in 1959 at the age of 38. At 40 his playing career came to an end and thereafter concentrated on golf at Stourbridge Golf Club. In his later years George suffered ill health and in 2003, shortly before his 82nd birthday, he died in a Dudley nursing home. Government legislation required companies to re-employ those called up for active service once they were demobbed, and that was no different in the world of sport where cricketers and footballers reappeared despite some being long past their best.
However, despite this influx to the ‘industry’, George held his own. He went on to play over 300 games in his footballing career and nearly 400 as a first-class cricketer despite the overlapping seasons restricting full completion of both for his respective employers. In any event, though not a name widely recognised, George Dews came out of wartime Ossett to become a man who is arguably the town’s greatest ever all-round sportsman and, like many others down the years, a great loss to Yorkshire sport. The summer of 1946 also saw a return to the first-class cricket programme and, just like the rest of the country’s workforce, Yorkshire reengaged their pre-war employees and took the field with what was arguably
their oldest-ever Xl. Back from the army came Maurice Leyland (45), Arthur Booth (43), Cyril Turner (44) and 45-year-old Wilf Barber from Gomersal. In addition skipper Brian Sellars was 39 and former POW Bill Bowes was 38 and still working his way back to full fitness under medical supervision. Yet, despite that, the old brigade came good. Barber was second in the averages with over 1,000 runs while Bowes and Booth were the top two bowlers with 140 wickets between them as Yorkshire finished the summer as county champions. But it was the ‘last hurrah’ for Leyland, Turner and Barber, who announced their retirement at the end of the season, as did many more footballers and cricketers at the end of what had been employment not always of the employers’ choice.
Reading spaces created thanks to bank’s donation ST PETER’S Primary School in Birstall has secured a grant of almost £3,000 to install a reading area in its grounds. The £2,914 award – provided by Lloyds Bank as part of their community groups scheme – will go towards dedicated reading spaces, for both pupils and parents, to use throughout the day and after school hours. Community group nomination bids are made via Lloyds staff nominations, with the winning project selected through colleagues’ votes. Lesley Evans, headteacher at the school on Fieldhead Lane, said: “We are so grateful for the donation. The children were overwhelmed to hear that we had won and there were many cheers and smiles.”
Katie Green (standing left) of Lloyds Banking Group, Mrs Lesley Evans (standing centre) and Mark Waters (standing right), also of Lloyds Banking Group, with pupils from St Peter’s
Tennis club receives funding boost THORNHILL Tennis Club will soon be able to offer free sports days to local schools after receiving a cash donation. The club, situated just off The Combs, got a £1,000 boost from local housebuilder Persimmon Homes
and their community champions initiative – which gives charities and organisations the chance to bid for funding. It means they’ll be able to offer free tennis sessions to youngsters and organise sports days for school
children. Some of the funding will also go towards repairing the tennis cabin roof at the club which was flooded after heavy rain. Zsuzsanna Puskas, club secretary at Thornhill, said: “We are so pleased to have
been awarded this generous donation from Persimmon Homes. “The funding boost will mean that we can provide local children with the opportunity to participate in sport through tennis sessions and the sports day.”
ThePress
Friday February 14, 2020
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Hilversum Northern Cemetery, where Fred Crowther is buried
Remembering Fred By David Bentley A DUTCHMAN is hoping to find out more about a Batley soldier who was killed in Holland 75 years ago. Gunner Fred Crowther lost his life in a road accident just after the end of the Second World War and is buried in the town of Hilversum, 19 miles south-east of Amsterdam. Now researcher Meindert Tepper is appealing for information on the 32-year-old former Healey man. Gunner Crowther, who was serving with the 115 Heavy Anti Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery, was killed when a child ran in front of a column of army vehicles in Utrecht on May 30, 1945. The tractor in which he was
travelling crashed into the trailer in front. He was buried with military honours the next day. Gunner Crowther’s grave is alongside 15 other British soldiers’ memorials in Hilversum Northern Cemetery. Tragically all were killed after the end of hostilities, including 13 from the Royal Leicestershire Regiment who died in an explosion whilst disarming German troops. Mr Tepper is seeking to find out as much as he can about their backgrounds. He said: “In the Second World War hundreds of British soldiers went to the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany to fight for our freedom, but who they were, what they did and how they died is often unknown. “I try to give them a face, a story and a past. Because of this
I honour them and thank these men and their family for giving everything they had for my freedom. So we don’t forget.” According to local news reports from June 1945, Fred was the youngest son of Keneely and the late Lilley Crowther and was married to Amy Crowther. He lived on Mortimer Avenue in Healey and worked at Henry Crowther and Co, on Wellington Street in Batley. Following the accident his wife received a letter from the unit’s commanding officer Major Daltry, which read: “It is with deepest regret that I have to inform you of the unfortunate accident which caused the death of your husband. “On May 30, in the course of his duties, your husband was driving his gun and tractor in a
column of similar vehicles through the town of Utrecht. “A small child ran across the road and caused the tractor and trailer in front of your husband to stop suddenly. “Your husband applied his brakes but in the resultant skid, due to the wet road, his tractor crashed into the gun in front and he was killed instantly. “It is a tragedy which has shocked the whole battery, where he was held in great esteem by officers and men alike, and our sympathy goes out to you and your child in your great loss.” Historian Mr Tepper, a 68-yearold former banker and Hilversum resident, would like to hear from surviving relatives of Mr Crowther (or anyone with links to him) via email at m.e.tepper@gmail.com.
onth Dish Of The M Valentine’s Day Tomato and Basil Gnocchi With Valentine’s Day at the heart of it, February is, without a doubt, the month of love. If you’re looking for romantic inspiration, look no further than Italy, because if there’s one thing Italians are well known for it’s romance. In Italy, San Valentino – or La Festa degli Innamorati (the festival of lovers) – is also celebrated on 14th February. They say that the best way to a person’s heart is through their stomach so I started thinking about dishes you can make for your valentine this year and, inspired by Romeo and Juliet, I opted for a dish thought to originate in Verona. Gnocchi are small dumplings made from potato, semolina, or flour, most often served with a sauce – which, in Verona, will usually be tomato. So, to help you impress your loved one this year, I’ll be talking you through how to make your own gnocchi at home, with a delicious tomato sauce to serve it in. One thing is for sure though, if you are planning on kissing your loved one later in the evening,
Ingredients 425g potatoes 250g plain flour 1 egg 1 onion 1 garlic clove 800g chopped tomatoes 2 tsp sugar 2 tsp balsamic vinegar Extra virgin olive oil Basil leaves Salt and black pepper Grated Parmesan Method
The late John Appleyard (left) and Max Rathmell (right) from Spen Valley Civic Society inspect the large air raid shelter next to Birkenshaw roundabout A PROJECT to uncover the Spen Valley’s hidden World War Two past has been launched in memory of a much-missed local historian. Spen Valley Civic Society member John Appleyard died in July 2019 but before his death he proposed a scheme to find and document local relics and remains relating to the Second World War before they disappear or
Help document Spen Valley’s wartime past
are forgotten. With the 75th anniversary of VE Day coming up in May, the civic society is taking up John’s idea. Chairman Max Rathmell is asking people to post a message via the svcs.org.uk website to tell the society about hidden World War Two history in the Spen Valley. He said: “We think it would be in the public interest to identify and record as many surviving structures and remains as possible.
“If you know of an air raid shelter or other structures built specifically for the war effort or in response to the war, please get in touch, so we can take details and obtain a photograph. “A record will be kept of anything relevant that is identified. “Depending on what this project turns up the society will create a digital document or may even publish a booklet.”
1. Bring a large pan of water to the boil. Add your potatoes (unpeeled) to the pan and cook for roughly 15 minutes, until they are tender, but still firm. 2. Drain the potatoes and set aside to cool before peeling. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork. 3. Measure 250g mashed potatoes and place into a bowl and add 250g plain flour and an egg before kneading the mixture to form a dough ball. Perfect dough won’t be gooey or dense. 4. To make the gnocchi shapes, divide the dough into four portions and form a snake-like shape with each one, roughly 1.5cm in diameter. Cut each snake into 1.5cm pieces. Press the top of each piece lightly with a fork to make a pattern. Set the gnocchi aside until you are ready to cook. 5. To make the sauce heat 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan. Dice your onion and add to the pan. Add the chopped garlic to the pan and cook until the contents soften. 6. Stir in the tomatoes, the sugar and the balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer before cooking slowly for 45 minutes-1 hour. Stir a few basil leaves into the sauce. 7. When the sauce is ready bring a pan of salted water to the boil. Drop the gnocchi in and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi has risen to the top. Once the gnocchi is ready, drain and add to the pan of sauce. Toss the gnocchi in the sauce and serve immediately, seasoned with salt and pepper and topped with Parmesan cheese and basil leaves.
Bradford Road, Batley, WF17 6JD Tel: 01924 473970 www.zucchinirestaurant.co.uk
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Friday February 14, 2020
Knitting for good cause WOMEN from St Andrew’s Church in Liversedge have been knitting and nattering over the last few months to raise funds for a local children’s hospice. The church’s ‘knit and natter’ group have hand-made various items, from Easter chicks and bunnies to Christmas tree decorations, which they then sold at Tesco Cleckheaton. And last week they were able to hand over a cheque for £400 to the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice. Melanie Cropper, community champion at Tesco, said: “It has been a pleasure to help out the group. They are planning another stall before Easter when they’ll be selling some of their new creations.”
Mixed feelings for blueprint KIRKLEES officials last week unveiled their radical £200m plan to revamp Dewsbury town centre. The news received a mixed response, with new Dewsbury MP Mark Eastwood decidedly lukewarm in his backing of the council’s new ‘blueprint’. Mr Eastwood (Con, Dewsbry & Mirfield) told The Press: “In the past, Kirklees Council have produced a number of plans to improve Dewsbury, including the most recent one, the Strategic Develoment Framework. “All of which have come to nothing and made little improvement to the town centre, therefore, it would be easy to be cynical about the council’s latest strategy. “However, I am willing to give Kirklees Council the benefit of the doubt on this occasion and will happily work with officers and councillors to ensure these plans come to fruition and lead to a much-needed long-term improvement to our town.” Paul Ellis, president of Dewsbury Chamber of Trade, was more optimistic about the project. He said: “The comprehensive vision for the town revealed by the Dewsbury Blueprint was welcomed by our members. “It was good to see so many of the issues which we have lobbied the council about for so long dealt with so comprehensively. “The council clearly has a real vision for the town. “We are keen now to see the council move beyond the bricks and mortar vision and deal with the human element. “I was pleased to hear the leader of the council state that funding for the ‘community safety and policing team’ has already been released. “The new team will bring an improvement in safety in the town even without any physical changes. “The council also needs to ensure an effective community consultation process throughout the 10-year timeframe of the project. “We would also have liked to hear more about solving the long-running parking problems which are so often quoted as the reason that people no longer visit Dewsbury.” We also asked our readers their thoughts on the new blueprint. Here’s what some of you had to say online… Keith Mason said: “Too many doom mongers here, let’s just see what happens.” Juneanne Spoon wrote: “Too little too late!” John Donohoe added: “Waste of money. Dewsbury is a ghost town.” John Sheen said: “Sounds promising. Unfortunately you can’t believe a word Kirklees print. The 4,000 new homes planned for the Ravensthorpe/Mirfield Riverside project will be log jammed as the bypass planned many years ago has still not seen the light of day. The road through Ravensthorpe frightens potential investors as you just can’t move in or out without massive queues of traffic.” Tony Jackson said: “Most intimidating town in the Heavy Woollen. “Never go there after dark. It’s past being helped.”
Asbestos death plea By Staff Reporters THE FAMILY of a Batley man who died from an asbestosrelated disease have made an appeal for his former workmates to come forward. Austin Calvert died in 2018 at the age of 78, with a post-mortem stating that asbestosis – scarring of the lungs caused by exposure to asbestos – was one of several factors which contributed to his death.
Following Austin’s death, his son John instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers to investigate his exposure to the dangerous substance and whether it may have occurred during his time at Imperial Chemical Industries. Austin worked at the Huddersfield-based chemical company from 1961 to 1993, and legal experts Irwin Mitchell are calling on anyone who may have worked there at that time to provide information on the condi-
tions he would have faced. Austin grew up and attended schools in Batley, marrying Patricia in 1962 – with whom he had four children. Son John, 53 and from Mirfield, said: “It was truly devastating losing dad and more than 12 months on we still have so many questions regarding everything that he went through in the final weeks of his life. “While the inquest told us that he was exposed to asbestos at ICI, we now need more information
to determine exactly where and how dad was in contact with the substance that led to his death. “We would be grateful if people could come forward to help us and any detail about working alongside dad or even doing similar work would make a massive difference.” Anyone with information is asked to contact Dominic Riley at Irwin Mitchell’s Leeds office on 0113 3946829 or email dominic.riley@irwinmitchell. com.
Dream still alive for Brad LOCAL lad Bradley Walmsley has made it through another round on BBC show ‘The Greatest Dancer’. The Roberttown dancer, 21, is part of the Brothers of Dance group which keeps wowing audiences week after week. Mum Rachel Walmsley, the founder of Heckmondwike-based Timestep Community Dance, said she was “bursting with pride” following the troupe’s performance on Saturday which saw them through to the next round of the live finals. The group is made up of nine young men from up and down the country, put together especially for the show. Mentored by former Girls Aloud singer Cheryl, the boys could bag £50,000 if they win the whole competition. They’ll be performing again tomorrow (Saturday, 6.45pm BBC One).
Guilty plea after stealing aunt’s car A HECKMONDWIKE man who stole his aunt’s car and attempted to evade police is facing a jail sentence. Kirklees Magistrates’ Court heard police received a report that Israr Mahmood, of Victoria Street, was driving a stolen VW Golf at 6.30am on April 24, 2019. When officers located him, on Longfield Road, the 20-year-old failed to stop and was only caught after crash-
ing into a wall on Cemetery Road. Toni McCann, prosecuting, said the vehicle belonged to Mahmood’s aunt and that the defendant didn’t have a full driving licence at the time of the incident. Magistrates heard Mahmood had previous convictions for failing to stop and driving with no insurance and otherwise than in accordance with a licence. He pleaded guilty to dan-
gerous driving and faces jail. Aftaab Hussain, mitigating, said: “He panicked and the reason why is he’s a provisional licence holder. He should have listened to officers but, due to his condition at the time, he was not in a fit state of mind to do so.” Magistrates ordered a full probation report before sentencing can take place on February 18. He was banned from driving in the meantime.
A POLICE officer was assaulted when he attempted to break up a row between two brothers at Dewsbury & District Hospital, a court heard. Ibrar Ul-Haq, 18, was tackled to the floor and threatened with pepper spray because of his violent behaviour. Kirklees magistrates heard that police were called to the hospital shortly after 12am on September 30, 2019. Toni McCann, prosecuting, said: “(Officers) tried to speak with the defendant but he became aggressive. “He shouted at them, telling them to: ‘Get the f*** out of here now!’ “He got up from his seat, shouting and screaming, threw his head forward as if to headbutt the officer, then kicked him in the leg.” The teenager, of Dearnley Street in Ravensthorpe, pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker. Ian Whiteley, mitigating, said his client, who has 14 offences to his name, suffers from mental health issues. Ul-Haq was given a community order with 36 hours of activities at a senior attendance centre and fined £175 costs.
Friday February 14, 2020
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Friday February 14, 2020
Out and About ... at half-term – attractions to keep the kids entertained
Ways to keep the kids busy during the school holidays JANE YELLAND takes a look at some of the activities from the adventurous to the studious, both on our doorsteps and further afield ... ITH the half-term holiday upon us, finding fun, family activities is no problem in and around the district, with a wealth of activities on our doorstep or just a short drive away. From winter-sports fans who will love the outdoor giant Ice Cube rink in Leeds’s Millennium Square, to indoor thrills at Adrenaline International trampoline park in Liversedge, there’s no end of things for your youngsters to enjoy. Adrenaline International, which promises to get your heart racing and your blood pumping, hosts a staggering array of trampolines so children, teenagers and even parents can bounce away their excess energy. In addition to the 69 trampolines in the main court and 28 in the freestyle area there is also a Slam Dunk basketball activity, two dodgeball courts and an airbag which the brave can launch themselves onto from a trampoline. The very young are not forgotten either as the Lost City soft play area offers a host of funfilled equipment for toddlers and children up to the age of 12. On a similar theme Skyfall, on Huddersfield Road, Mirfield – above Roy Ellam’s
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TAG X, at Batley Sports and Tennis Centre in Howden Clough, has a whole new take on fun and games!
gym – also provides youngsters with the chance to experience the thrill of trampolining. TAG X at Batley Sports and Tennis Centre is a new real life, active gaming experience that challenges players to participate in a variety of games. Players must collect points on a wristband by swiping against different illuminated TAGs hidden within the different games within the arena. Designed for children aged eight and over it is designed to test speed, strategy, bravery and ability. The high-tech multi-level play arena takes its inspiration from the likes of Ninja Warrior and Crystal Maze and promises to exceed all the family’s expectations! CE Cube returns to Leeds and remains until February 23. The covered family-friendly rink enables people to enjoy an outdoor ice skating experience whatever the weather. Located in the heart of Leeds in Millennium Square, the venue provides general skating but also offers lessons, a Penguin Club for parents and younger children and accessible sessions for wheelchair users and other disabled persons. In addition to fun on the ice, older children and adults may care to sample other challenging attractions on site. The Starflyer provides the opportunity to experience the nearest thing to flying by soaring more than 30m into the sky while spinning
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Top – flamingos are among the more exotic birds visitors can expect to see on a trip to Lotherton Hall, while (above) the Ice Cube attraction will be in Leeds’s Millennium Square until February 23 through 360 degrees. The Ice Jet gives thrill seekers the chance to jump aboard a bobsleigh and zoom around at breakneck speed while the Ice Slide features a funfilled fast-paced glide. Planet Ice, also in Leeds, at Elland Road, has now opened after a number of setbacks and Bradford Ice Arena on Little Horton Lane also offers skating sessions. For the more studious young people who are fascinated with history, ancient Egyptian Kingdom of Osiris can be experienced at the Bagshaw Museum, in Wilton Park, Batley. Exhibits inside the museum feature information about local institutions such as Fox’s Biscuits and Batley Variety Club while the Egyptology gallery uses dramatic lighting to recreate the atmosphere of a tomb. Housed in a Victorian former mill owner’s home, the museum is set in 36 acres of parkland where you can stretch their legs after viewing the indoor exhibits. AKWELL Hall, at Birstall, one of the area’s star attractions, has burnished its excellent reputation further with the introduction of a mountain bike trail. The 1.4km trail opened last summer and features two uphill sections, two downhill sections, some rock gardens/drop offs and banked corners. It is classed as a blue trail which means it is suitable for most riders, even those with no experience of mountain biking. The trail was devised by rangers at Oakwell along with bike advocacy group Ride Kirklees and was built
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by Sheffield-based BikeTrack. With today’s Valentine’s Day in mind, wildlife – and especially bird – enthusiasts might want to head to Lotherton Hall, which is just off the M1 near its junction with the A1. The former Edwardian country manor features landscaped gardens, stables, playgrounds and country walks, but in half term week has a Love Birds theme, with activities that will encourage little ones to take a closer look at an array of feathered friends, from Humboldt penguins to bright pink flamingos. Families can set off on the Love Bird trail around the bird garden, then head to the craft station to make your own nest box.
OR the more adventurous, the acclaimed Royal Armouries museum is always on the ball during the holidays and this February is no exception. Running until February 23 is a chance for the kids to meet their favourite comic book and movie characters as well as checking out all the weapons and armour they use. In one jam-packed visit, you can watch them perform cool stunts, get your face painted and even design your own armour to take home. For the ‘Height of Adventure’ Treetop Nets at Lightwater Valley, Ripon, provides families with the opportunity to create new memories. The nets provide giant
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trampolines, walkways, slides and tunnels all made out of netting and suspended 12 metres off the ground. Boundless fun for any age is promised in the beautiful woodland setting. Unlike traditional rope courses people are surrounded by four metre-high walls of netting, leaving families safe to explore the treetops without a harness. Treetop Nets is suitable for children aged three and upward with adult supervision.
Below - the superb Bagshaw Museum, based in Wilton Park, Batley
ThePress
Friday February 14, 2020
Staincliffe pair jailed for cash exploitation By Staff Reporters A BATLEY man and woman have been jailed after admitting to stealing from vulnerable victims on a housing estate. Amanat Tariq, 37, and Alliah Bradshaw, 40 (both pictured) who are from the Staincliffe area, were both jailed at Leeds Crown Court last week after pleading guilty to offences including burglary, fraud and harassment. Tariq was sentenced to six years and six months in prison
on four charges of burglary and four fraud offences. The court also imposed a 10-year Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) on him. Bradshaw was jailed for three years for one offence of harassment and one of burglary, and she was also made subject of a 10year CBO. The pair were convicted following a series of offences on the Manor Way estate between February and July last year. During that period they targeted, befriended and then exploited four vulnerable victims to obtain
News In Brief Carlton Road school gets good rating
money from them. The offences came to light after Yorkshire Building Society staff noticed a number of suspicious money withdrawals made by one of the victims, and contacted Kirklees police. The pair are banned from entering a designated part of the Kirklees district unless pre-conditions are met. Neither are they allowed to take money or property from anybody that is not a family member within the district unless they have written permis-
sion from the person. Inspector Dorian James, of the Batley & Spen NPT, said: “We welcome the sentences given to Tariq and Bradshaw for what were awful and insidious offences in which they preyed on vulnerable residents in the local community in Staincliffe. “The CBO orders attached to their sentences mean that if they re-offend on release they can be immediately arrested and potentially find themselves straight back in prison, providing an extra deterrent.”
Station building’s a fair cop Former Batley police HQ is listed at ‘knockdown’ bargain price of £185,000 THE former Batley police station will go under the hammer later this month. The two-storey building, in Market Place, had been up for sale for almost a year but failed to reach its £325,000 guide price. Now the station is to be auctioned at Leeds United’s Elland Road stadium on Thursday February 27 – with a guide of £185,000. The station hasn’t been used for some time, with officers deploying from Heckmondwike to conduct patrols and call-outs in the town. In online marketing material the 6,892 sqft station is described as a “substantial prominent two-storey office building … constructed in attractive stone under a pitched tiled roof, the property offers a mix of open plan
and cellular office space”. The building is not listed but lies within the Batley Market Place conservation area. Original features include a ‘statement entrance’ and a holding cell block to the rear. Pugh Auctions managing director Paul Thompson said: “This is a fabulous heritage building in a unique setting. The police station itself is not listed but there are several nearby listed buildings in Batley’s market place, which itself is in a great location next to the memorial park. “We are hoping that the lower guide price will encourage an investor to take the unrivalled opportunity to give this landmark building a new future. We are already seeing lots of interest
19
DEWSBURY: Carlton Junior and Infant School has been rated ‘good’ by Ofsted. The education officials praised the school on Upper Road for its provision of maths, sports and personal development opportunities. A recently-published report also said the level of behaviour among pupils was exemplary and that they are excited to learn. Headteacher Rizwana Ahmed said: “To think that we were a significantly under-performing school fitting the stereotype of deprived communities, to where we are now, is a remarkable achievement for our school and its community.”
Floods close centre MIRFIELD: The Little Deer Wood activity centre has had to close due to flood damage from Sunday’s severe weather. It will reopen after the half-term holidays on Tuesday February 25.
Bus station sealed off after robbery HECKMONDWIKE: The town’s bus station was closed in the early hours of Saturday morning following a violent robbery. The station, off Northgate and Westgate, was taped off by police for several hours following the incident at around 6am. The male victim was approached by a group of men who hit him in the head before taking his mobile phone. He was taken to hospital with a non-life threatening head injury. A police spokesperson confirmed enquiries remain ongoing and urged anyone with information to contact 101, quoting crime reference 131200070479.
Bulldogs jobs fair BATLEY: The Bulldogs’ Sporting Charitable Trust is hosting a jobs, volunteering and training fair today (Friday). The event will take place at the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium (11am-2pm) and organisations including Ikea, Oxfam and Kirklees Council will be in attendance. For more details on the event contact 07475 019009.
Hospital visits led to missing probation from potential buyers and there are a wide range of potential alternative new uses to which this proper-
ty could be put, subject to any investor gaining the necessary planning consents.”
For more information and to view the full auction catalogue, go to www.pugh-auctions.com.
College ‘motor mentor’ Ex-boyfriend punched and stole from woman David passes away A FORMER Dewsbury College lecturer has died at the age of 72. David Ellarby spent his working life in the motor vehicle industry and in the 1970s became one of the youngest lecturers teaching the subject at the old DABTAC college. David had started work as an apprentice at the Fox’s Biscuits factory in Batley. He died peacefully at his home in Emley Moor on Saturday February 8, leaving behind his wife Yvonne, son Darren and daughter Dawn. His family said he was a “fantastic caring man” who was “a mentor to many”. David’s funeral will be held at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Wednesday February 19 at 10.15am.
A WOMAN was left feeling ‘sick with pain’ after being assaulted by her ex-boyfriend, a court heard. David Matthews, of Hazel Close in Chickenley, punched the victim “four or five times” before stealing money from her. Toni McCann, prosecuting, told Kirklees magistrates that the incident happened at the victim’s Heckmondwike home on November 8, 2019. She said Matthews showed up at around 9pm after a night of drinking and the pair began to argue. “He punched her four or five
times and she’s fallen to the floor feeling extremely dizzy and sick with pain,” said Ms McCann. “He’s punched her again whilst she was on the floor and continued to be verbally abusive.” The court heard the victim managed to get up and go to the bathroom but Matthews followed her, grabbed her by the arm, and threw her against the toilet. Matthews denies charges of assault and theft and faces trial on February 26. He was granted conditional bail and is not allowed to contact the complainant or go to her address in the meantime.
DEWSBURY: A man has been fined for missing court-ordered appointments to take his special needs sister to hospital. Abdul Ajaz, of Park Road in Ravensthorpe, was handed a community order after being convicted for driving-related offences. Kirklees magistrates heard he missed two of his compulsory appointments with a probation officer on December 17 and January 6. Probation officer Sharon Lees said Ajaz “gave no explanation in relation to the missed appointments”. But Ian Whiteley, mitigating, explained that the 28-year-old had a legitimate reason for missing the appointments. “He has a sister who has special needs. She breathes through a ventilator and is in and out of hospital on regular occasions,” he said. “He was assisting his family to look after his sister.” Magistrates fined Ajax £40 for the breach.
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Friday February 14, 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 Nikon Coolpix P50 compact camera. 3.6x zoom. Boxed. Mint condition with Lowepro camera case and carry strap, £25. Tel 01924 491306. (2557) Black TV stand with chrome legs and two shelves. Suitable for TV up to 43-inch. Excellent condition, £30. Tel 07876 411694. (2558) Scalextric-type car race game. Includes four cars, flyover, 28ft (8.5metres) track and track circuit counter. Good working order, £15. Tel 01924 495713. (2559) 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) 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) 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 New wheelbarrow with pneumatic tyre. Unwanted gift. £30. Tel 01924 441978. (2556) Howden joinery worktop template with pegs, in very good condition, £20. Tel 01924 441978. (2555)
7 x metal scaffold poles 250cm long (former garden pergola) £21 Tel 01924 465760. (2543) Clarke Torque wrench 3/8 drive. Unused, still in box. Retail £24, will accept £12. Tel 07563 968522. (2548) ELECTRICAL Beko fridge freezer. Good condition, £50. Tel 07533 209056. (2539) Six outdoor post lights, Georgian style, white (mains only), very good condition, £24. Tel 07943 114801. (2534) FURNITURE Kingsize two-drawer divan bed in excellent condition, clean and hardly used by one lady owner needing to downsize. Comfortable pocket sprung silk covered mattress. Cost £1,000, will accept £98. Buyer to collect. Tel 01924 724680/ 07743 586001. (2553) 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. 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 set-
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 tee. Good condition, £45. Tel 07533 2090. (2539) Two x three-seater settees with beige dralon velvet seat cushions. One sofa has 5 large orange/ gold scatter cushions. The other sofa has two beige back cushions plus four orange/ gold scatter cushions. Plus brown leather-effect foot stool. £200 ono, buyer to collect. Tel 01924 430088. (2536) Attractive Italian leather 4-piece suite comprising of 3-seater, 2-seater, chair and storage pouffe. Black with red trim (bought from DFS), £550. Buyer to collect. Tel 07876 411694. (2535) Dropleaf oval dining table with four chairs. Medium wood colour. Buyer to collect. £100 ono. Tel 01924 401280 (Heckmondwike). (2533) GARDEN Electric garden shredder, £20. Tel 01924 524232. (2547) HOBBIES Small collection of unworked tapestries with wools plus other embroidery articles, from £5 each. Tel 0113 253 4632. (2532) HOUSEHOLD 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 each. Tel 01924 469537. (2542) Ikea pendant light, 35cm, white and copper, £25. Tel 07746 245435. (2544)
£1 £2 £3 £4 £5 £7 £9 £11
Copper and white light shade, £10. Tel 07746 245435. (2544) KITCHEN/ DINING Kenwood Chef Gourmet shredder FP596. Never been used, £60. Tel 01924 490266. (2538) MOBILITY Four-wheeled mobility rollator walker with seat. One year old, used once and in excellent condition. Bargain at £45. Tel 07821 194749. (2550) MOTORING Hood motorcycle jeans, unworn, waist 36 L29 . Complete with knee and hip armour. Navy blue. Retail £160, will accept £100. Tel 07563 968522. (2548) MUSICAL Goldring Lenco GL72 record player turntable. Amplifier, 2 speakers + microphone. Excellent working order, £225. Tel 07720 958377. (2549) Very nice Reynolds Bb tenor trombone In its original hard case showing Reynolds USA logo. The gold lacquer is about 90% full & nice inner legs of the slide. Ideal for a beginner to professional player, £145 ono. Tel 01924 477016 (cash only). (2531) OUTDOORS Harris Dry walking boots, size 8, colour brown. Guaranteed waterproof & washable. Hardly worn. Retail £70, will accept £35. Tel 07563 968522. (2548) SPORTING GOODS Cannon 57 two-piece snooker cue. Complete with original case. Hardly used, £40. Tel 07508 162369. (2540)
ThePress
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Classified Want to advertise in our Classified section? Call 01924 470296 or 0113 457 2900 or email advertising@thepressnews.co.uk
Friday February 14, 2020
BUILDING & LANDSCAPE SERVICES
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4Year
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Tel: 01924 441294 Mob: 07922 017909
Providence Mills, Wormald Street, Heckmondwike, WF15 6AR Tel: 01924 403212 Email: george@english-textiles.co.uk
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CAR BODY REPAIRS
Residential & Dementia Care Home
Providing 24-hour Care, Respite & Day Care 27 Church Street, Heckmondwike 01924 404122 CAR BOOT SALE The Area’s Biggest and Best Car Boot Sale every Sunday at Dewsbury Rams, Owl Lane, Dewsbury OPEN AS USUAL DURING GROUND DEVELOPMENT WORK Price £12 per car, opens at 6.00am, ring 01924 465489 for further details
01274
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SPLASHING UT BATHROOMS A family-run business supplying & installing high quality bathrooms, ensuites & cloakrooms
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Family Run Business Open 7 Days
Designs and Visuals available
173-175 Bradford Road, Cleckheaton, BD19 3TJ
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(Next to The Horncastle Pub)
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Office 39, RCM Business Centre, Dewsbury Road, Ossett, WF5 9ND Tel. 01924 275275
Email: james@davidghorner.co.uk
SWEEP
EST 50 YEARS
KWIK SWEEP TEL:
01924 469944
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Professional Cleaner I am friendly, trustworthy & reliable Experienced in House & Office Shop Cleaning Security Checked PLEASE CALL SUSAN
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Professional Clearance & Courier Services We offer a range of packages! From residential / commercial clearances to house/office removals and courier services. REGISTERED WASTE CARRIER, BROKER AND DEALER TEL 01924 488279 07599022715 EMAIL INFO@PROCCSERV.CO.UK WEB HTTPS://PROCCSERV.CO.UK
COACH TOURS
Carols Travel QUALITY COACH TOUR HOLIDAYS
Prices include excursions Wheelchair & Scooter Friendly No Single Supplement Executive Coach Travel with Hostess Service All Our Chosen High Quality Hotels Are Ensuite Up To 4* Rating Spenborough & Mirfield Pick-ups are Door-ToDoor at No Extra Cost 93 Killinghall Road, Bradford, BD3 8AB
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Call Tim Riordan Tel: 01924 490241 / 07770 462239
www.calderclean.co.uk
Steven Clay Composite Doors
u.P.V.C Double Glazing. Large range of quality, affordable composite doors. Many styles & colours Double glazed windows 30 years experience Fully backed by Certass Trust Marked Approved Please ring for no obligation quotes
07778 615829
Email: s.clay757@gmail.com
25
years service
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Friday February 14, 2020
COMPUTING
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ANYTHING ELECTRICAL
DEWSBURY IT. Ltd
07976 877 768 23 Years Experience
• No Repair, No Charge • No call out charge • We repair on site Bradford Road, Dewsbury CYCLES
HARGREAVES cycles
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MOUNTAIN - ELECTRIC BMX - ROAD - KIDS ACCESSORIES CLOTHING COMMUTER/LEISURE MAINTENANCE Finance Available Free Delivery
www.hargreavescycles.co.uk Mon: 9:30-6pm, Tues: CLOSED, Wed-Sat: 9:30-6pm, Sunday: CLOSED 27 Bradford Road, 01924 Dewsbury, WF13 2DU 461283 10mins M62 jn28
DOORS, DECKING & TIMBER
DECKING
SOFTWOOD HARDWOOD COMPOSITE
01924 469726 400 Huddersfield Road, Ravensthorpe, Dewsbury, WF13 3EL
www.draysontimber.co.uk ELECTRICIANS
J. Peel Electrical Local Domestic Electricians Fully Qualified and Certified Father & Son Team Over 30 Years Experience (working in peoples homes)
All Work Undertaken (ranging from putting up a light fitting to full house rewires)
No Call-Out Charge Contact
Jason
07929 850056 Email:
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and more!
Tel: 07580 107241 (Andrew) or 07808 931714 (Louise)
All type of fencing, gates, decking, flagging & patios etc All types of property repairs, general handyman work.
Any Odd Jobs Big or Small
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01924 402578
RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY OPEN 7 DAYS
FRESH FISH, COOKED TO PERFECTION!
TEL: 0113 253 5376 Britannia Road, Morley, Leeds, LS27 0BA
Tel: 01274 864902 Tutti Frutti 141 Birkenshaw Lane Birkenshaw, Bradford BD11 2HD
Reliable and Professional with over 25yrs experience
• Internal/External Doors • Flooring • Skirting Boards • Locks Changed • No Job Too Small • uPVC Doors & Windows
01924 476107 07769 660358
NELSON STREET, DEWSBURY, WF13 1NA
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Concrete Garages & Sheds Dismantle & Bases Garage re-vamps Garage Doors 230 Bradford Rd, Batley Tel: 01924 461996 dencroftgarages.co.uk
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MOTOR CARE
Car body repairs Imperial Motor Company 107 Bradford Road, Dewsbury Tel: 01924 461607 or 07860 754984
KEEP WARM A.T BELL THIS WINTER & PLUMBING SERVICE YOUR & HEATING BOILER 10 years
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11557
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ThePress
Friday February 14, 2020
REMOVALS & CLEARANCES
ROOFING
HARVEYS SIMPSON DENNIS REMOVALS (Roofing Services) All roof repairs. Insurance work .COM Re-roofing, lead and chimney Full/Part House Removals House Clearances Ebay/Online Items Collected Single Item Pick-ups/Delivery Home and Garden Waste Cleared Full Packing Service Available (call for details) No Job Too Small
FAST FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL SERVICE Call Michael on 07740 815883
work – Reduction for OAPs All work guaranteed, free estimates Established 25 years Tel Mirfield
Domestic & commercial
01924 497776 Mobile 07768 298739 www.simpsondennis-roofing.co.uk
Approved by leading insurance companies
ALL SIZES OF SKIPS 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE KIRKLEES RELIABLE SKIP HIRE COMPANY AFFORDABLE SERVICES SECOND TO NONE
Unit 10, Westend Mills, Brick Street, Cleckheaton, BD19 5EH Tel: 01274 851120
RW Roofing & Property Repairs Pointing, guttering and general maintenance work ALL INSURANCE WORK UNDERTAKEN
07901 750921 • 01924 485168
FURNESS ROOFING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ALL TYPES OF ROOFING REPAIRS • New Roofs • Flat Roofs • GRP • Chimney Stacks • Gutters, Pointing • Fascia and Soffits • Insurance Work • General Building Work • Leadwork • Velux Windows
ALL WORK GUARANTEED email: mark@furnessroofing.co.uk 01924 406941 07850 786270 www.furnessroofing.co.uk
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info@chemscaffolding.co.uk www.chemscaffolding.co.uk
All Types of Metal IMMEDIATE PAYMENT
• Copper • Brass • Lead • Aluminium and all types of cable 01924 469409 14 Heckmondwike Road, Dewsbury, WF13 3PH
No Job Too Small
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NOW IN
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WILKINSON BROS
kandmmetalsltd.co.uk
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS! Contact 01924 470296
Smithies Mill 883-887 Bradford Road Batley, WF17 8NN Phone: 01924 474 384 Fax: 01924 420 199
SELF STORAGE
First class service with over 35 years experience
07743 134616 S.D Metals Recycling
HOME VISITS POWERS OF ATTORNEY ASSET PRESERVATION
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Collection & drop-off available
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Providing excellent service since 2006 Fast, Reliable Service & Competitive Rates
Email:
Skip hire available from 8-40 yard
BEDSIT FOR RENT Good residential area C/H, D/G, Parking £75 p.w incl bills DSS welcome 07740 991421
WILLS FROM £99
194 Oxford Road, Gomersal, BD19 4HA Phone: 01924 036888
www.westfieldfs.co.uk
OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
WINDOWS • DOORS • REPLACEMENT GLASS UNITS • HANDLES • LETTERBOXES • ANTISNAP CYLINDERS • LOCKS & SERVICES Window cleaning services also available
CALL JASON 07954 150983 01924 504216
email: windowsapane@gmail.com www.windowsapane.co.uk
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ThePress
Friday February 14, 2020
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FOOTBALL
Weakened Ossett lose windy tie in Cumbria Northern Prem N/West Division
WORKINGTON AFC OSSETT UNITED
2 0
AN UNDER-STRENGTH Ossett United put in a commendable performance in a windswept away game against promotion challengers Workington but it wasn’t enough for any points. Goals either side of halftime earned the Cumbrian side the win as Ossett, who had a host of players out through injury and named only two substitutes, gave a decent account of themselves against one of the top sides in the league and in challenging conditions. Goalkeeper Brett Souter, along with skipper James Knowles, couldn’t recover from injury in time for the game, meaning that there was a debut between the posts for Scott Moloney, who joined on loan from Huddersfield Town’s academy. Ossett had a lot of defending to do in the early stages
with the wind very much against them. Ross Hardaker cleared the ball off the line and Moloney saved the follow-up in the nerviest early moment. Moloney made another stop and Workington’s David Symington struck the post with a strike from distance before the breakthrough came after 41 minutes. A quick break saw the ball crossed in for Scott Allison to poke in from close range. Early in the second half, the hosts made things more comfortable with another goal on the counter, this time finished off by Symington. With conditions a little more favourable for them going in the other direction, Ossett were able to start applying some pressure, with a freekick from substitute Brodie Litchfield hitting the top of the crossbar. Litchfield and Tom Greaves forced saves late in the day but couldn’t find a goal. Ossett were due to travel back to Workington again three days later, but Tuesday’s
PHOTO: John Hirst
BATTLE: Marko Basic takes the ball against Workington League Cup clash was postponed due to the weather conditions with a new date yet to be arranged. Tomorrow (Saturday, kick-off 3pm) United have a league clash away at Ramsbottom United. Their ground was flooded last weekend but the water has cleared up considerably in recent days and the game could yet go ahead. Meanwhile, winger Luke Porritt this week departed the club.
Setback in Sedge promotion push NCEL Premier Division
LIVERSEDGE FC AFC MANSFIELD
1 1
LIVERSEDGE failed to move back into the automatic promotion places as they were held to a draw by struggling AFC Mansfield. They dominated much of the game only to go behind with 10 minutes left when Ross Duggan slotted the ball in, but Mark Simpson’s header in the final couple of minutes saw them snatch back a point. While undeniably two points dropped for the second week in succession, it least allowed them to extend their unbeaten run to nine matches, although they remain outside the top three on goal difference. The wind played its part in making this a tricky match – at one point in the first half, visiting goalkeeper Hugo Warhurst tried to pass out from a goal kick and managed to put the ball straight out for a corner. There was little in the way of chances in a scrappy start to the game, with the first save being made by Warhurst midway through the first half to keep out Michael Bottomley’s stinging half-volley from distance. Liversedge came much closer a few minutes later as Liam Marsden’s trademark longthrow caused havoc for Mansfield and the ball fell for Emile Sinclair to turn and smash against the post. They continued to build pressure with successive corners resulting in Oliver Fearon heading at the keeper from close range. Tom Jackson had an effort blocked and Bottomley was kept out by Warhurst as the visitors held
on to half-time. Mansfield still had a threat on the counter and they fired a warning shot at the start of the second half as Gavin King flicked a corner over the bar. At the other end, Bottomley’s fierce drive from the edge of the area looked destined to finally break the deadlock only for Warhurst to again come to his side’s rescue with a great save to palm it wide. The stopper wasn’t done there, displaying brilliant reactions to stop a shot from centreback Jack Steers going in after another Marsden throw. The chances dried up as the second half wore on and Mansfield started to gain some confidence. Matt Wilson and Jordan Annable both headed wide before Duggan cut inside from the right following a counter and his low effort managed to sneak underneath goalkeeper Josh Lill at his near post. Simpson failed to convert two big chances, heading a free-kick wide and then seeing Annable block his point-blank effort, before getting an opportunity he couldn’t miss as a corner fell all the way through to him at the back post and he nodded in from just a couple of yards out. Skipper Jackson’s dissent saw him sent to the sin bin and Sedge had to see out injury time a man down to settle for the draw. Liversedge’s League Cup tie at Penistone Church was postponed on Wednesday with a new date yet to be arranged. They aren’t in action this weekend but will look to put the pressure back on the leading sides at the top of the division when they make the short trip to mid-table Eccleshill United on Tuesday (February 19, kick-off 7.45pm).
Sport In Brief BOWLS Cleck junior call-ups Chris wins sweep Will Tiger go for historic treble? before finals day
RACING PREVIEW WITH MIKE SMITH
ILL HE, or won’t he? TIGER ROLL is only 50-50 to bid for an unprecedented hat-trick of successive victories in the Randox Health Grand National at Aintree in April after he was given top weight. Only the legendary Red Rum has won the world’s most famous steeplechase three times, although not in consecutive years, and Tiger Roll’s connections have spent the past 10 months warning that their 10-year-old would not attempt the hat-trick if they considered he had been treated unfairly by the handicapper. Eddie O’Leary, racing manager for his brother Michael’s Gigginstown House Stud, told Sky Sports Racing: “This horse loves the discipline – any horse competing around Aintree loves the discipline, they wouldn’t be there otherwise. These horses come alive at Aintree over the fences, they absolutely love the discipline. “It’s not a welfare issue – he was always going to carry 11st 10lb, we understand that, but it’s how he’s compressed in regard to other horses. “Native River – a Gold Cup winner – hacked up last Saturday. He’s been compressed 2lb and we have to give him 4lb. I see something very unfair there. “The handicapper has his job to do and he’s done it. We wanted more (compression in the handicap). The decision is now in our hands whether we
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run or not. Tiger is invaluable to us and we have to look after him.” A four-time winner at the Cheltenham Festival, Tiger Roll had a setback earlier in the season and is due to return in the Boyne Hurdle at Navan this weekend. He is then likely to head to Cheltenham for the Cross Country and good performances in both might make it easier for trainer Gordon Elliott to persuade the hard-nosed Ryanair boss that he should give punters the right to see history in the making. Haydock’s Grand National Trial tomorrow (Saturday) is under threat from Storm Dennis but if the meeting does go ahead, the Paul Nichollstrained YALA ENKI looks each way value at 7/1 with Carrigill’s. Back at his favourite venue and on ground likely to suit, he looked in decent
shape at Taunton last month where he overcame a couple of late mistakes to beat Rock The Kasbah. It could be a huge day for Nicholls as QUEL DESTIN looks the one to beat over 1m 7 1/2f in Wincanton’s Kingwell Hurdle at 2.45. He enjoyed dropping back to the minimum trip at Sandown last time out, staying on strongly to beat Call Me Lord. Ascot’s headline race is the Betfair Ascot Chase, where CYRNAME is the big jolly at his favourite stomping ground, but there are better betting heats at the Berkshire track and the progressive staying chaser SAM BROWN can rack up a hat-trick in the Grade 2 novice chase at 1.50. Anthony Honeyball’s strapping eight-year-old hasn’t been the easiest to handle with only six appearances over the last three years, but when he does make it to the racecourse he’s very hard to beat. The 3m trip is just what he needs with no concerns going right-handed as he’s won at the likes of Wincanton in the past. CARRIGILL’S NAP: (money back as a free bet if it finishes outside top four. Write Augur on your slip to qualify): YALA ENKI, Haydock, Saturday, 3.15. AUGUR’S BEST BET: SAM BROWN (e/w), Ascot, Saturday, 1.50.
RUGBY UNION: Two Cleckheaton junior stars are set to become the first girls to represent the club at county level. Last weekend a handful of their Under-15 girls attended the Yorkshire county trials and two of their players, Pippa Curley and Scarlett Harley, have been selected for upcoming festivals against Lancashire and Cheshire. Both will also attend several training and development days run within the county, getting the chance to play in both 15-a-side and sevens. Scrum-half Pippa has played all of her junior rugby at Cleckheaton, while centre Scarlett joined earlier in the season having played rugby league for several years.
LAST WINNER: Chris Mordue (left) with Peter Ellis CHRIS MORDUE won the final round of the Spen winter sweep ahead of tomorrow’s (Saturday) finals. Each week’s final is usually a tight affair but this was an exception as a red-hot Mordue beat Joe Cranston 21-5. Cranston had bowled well all afternoon but Chris was unstoppable, with the wily old veteran 13-2 up after 10 ends. Things barely improved after that as Joe only managed another three chalks to make it the most one-sided final in many years. Despite his day’s work, Mordue was still one win short of Chris Bly, who took the coveted title of finishing in top place for the season. All eyes are now on the finals, which start tomorrow at 9.30am with the top 16 bowlers battling it out for the Geoff Brough Trophy. Bly takes on Andrew Gallacher in the first round while Michael Sweeney will come up against Gareth Coates, Kez Smith faces Andy Thornton and Mark Regan will play against Derek Hewitt. Cranston starts off against Anthony Rukin, Ash Tattersley comes up against Garry Walker, Gary Wike and Mally Walker go head-to-head, and Mordue meets Jimmy Hynes. Twenty other bowlers will also compete in the Supplementary Cup.
Batley continue form HOCKEY: Batley Ladies recorded a third straight win last week, earning a 7-3 success away at Slazenger thirds. Gail Culshaw slotted home the first before Sarah Fretwell’s penalty corner was neatly tucked away by Rach Stewart for 2-0. Another great cross from Stewart allowed Culshaw to score her second, with the next coming after half-time when Ash Hallas fired in following good work from Kim Sharples. Another set-piece between Fretwell and Stewart made it five before Culshaw and Stewart added further goals for Batley, who are second in Yorkshire Division Four West.
Slaz lose to leaders HOCKEY: Slazenger’s men’s first team suffered a six-goal defeat in a tricky assignment against top-of-the-league Bradford. The second team won 4-2 at an icy York, with Alex Stacey and Damo Greig getting goals before an Ian Hedges reverse-stick strike and Stacey’s late second secured the win. The thirds suffered a 5-3 defeat at Tadcaster but the fourths won their game against Halifax 3-0 thanks to two goals from John Sykes and one from Pete Gunning.
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ThePress
Friday February 14, 2020
RUGBY LEAGUE
Heaton aims to keep Celtic on a high Paul Heaton takes the reins at Dewsbury Celtic from Brendan Sheridan on the back of a stellar year which saw promotion and a trip to Australia, and he hopes to keep the club in its strong position... HEN Brendan Sheridan earned a move to professional side Oldham as assistant coach, there was no better man for the Dewsbury Celtic top job than Paul Heaton. A player at the club from the late 1990s, Heaton has stayed put ever since doing almost every role imaginable – “from chairman to tea boy”, as he puts it. He led the open age team from 2009 to 2012, taking them through the first years of the new National Conference League, before returning to coaching junior sides at the club. Now he is in charge of the team again, taking over a young side high on confidence after earning promotion to NCL Division Two at the end of last season through the play-offs. Heaton acknowledges the brilliant work that Sheridan did in his two years at the helm to turn the open age side around. “Brendan did a brilliant job,” he said. “He took the lads over two seasons ago when they were at a low ebb. They finished at the bottom of Division Three and then he came in and put some good processes in place. “He’s a really committed and dedicated coach. He got them back on the right track with some good young lads, and obviously got them promoted at the end of last year which was really pleasing. “He’s got a professional role which he more than deserves and I think he’ll do a great job there. He’s
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BACK IN CHARGE: Head coach Paul Heaton (right) with Celtic chairman Dean Foley really dedicated and he gets all the little details right so I’m sure he’ll go on to do well at Oldham.” It proved to be a superb 140th anniversary year for Celtic, not only for the success on the field which saw them reach the Division Three play-offs, triumphing away at Heworth in the final to earn promotion.
The club also embarked on a ground-breaking tour to Australia at the end of October, spending over a week in Sydney and playing two fixtures against local sides. Heaton said: “It was an amazing trip, 77 people actually travelled and another 10-15 people met up with us and travelled themselves. “With the experience that we had,
that blend of a holiday and a rugby trip, we seemed to do it right. We did enough excursions but then left enough time for the training and the lads loved it. It was a great experience.” Celtic hope to retain ties with the clubs that they played Down Under with player exchanges possible in the future. For now, focus has had to quickly turn to the upcoming season, with the tour giving them a much shorter turnaround than usual before the season starts at home to Barrow Island on March 7. To make up for lost time, Heaton went for a risky approach: training sessions at 5am. “We didn’t start until January 6 because the lads had a really long season,” he said. “They’ve all bought into what we’ve been doing. They’ve been training three times a week at five in the morning which took a bit of commitment.” That paid off with a 42-6 friendly win over Shaw Cross last Saturday, but Heaton isn’t setting any aims for what the Green and Whites can achieve in 2020. “We haven’t talked about goals as such,” he said. “We just want to know that we’ve done ourselves justice every week and we can look in each other’s eyes and say we tried our best, whether that’s winning or losing. “We haven’t talked about where we’re going to finish. There are some good teams who will all be new to us so it’s exciting. “But there is a lot of potential in the team and if they want to dig in
I’m sure they can do well.” There may be a change in coach but the squad will have a similar look to it. George Senior will be missed after the youngster earned a deal with Batley Bulldogs but otherwise last year’s team are sticking together, with the addition of former Celtic junior Andy Bates. It is still a very young team but one which has plenty of experience, gained the hard way from being thrown into open-age rugby early. “This squad has had to do it tough until Brendan came along because they were really young, playing at open age level when they were 16, 17 or 18,” said Heaton. “Now they’re getting into their twenties, they’re filling out so they can handle themselves a little better.” He adds his own ambition for the club, based on another Celtic side in football: “If we could put a team on the field one week that had only ever played for Celtic, that would be my dream box ticked. Like Jock Stein’s team where they won the European Cup and they were all born within a few miles of Parkhead. “We had a team last year where we put 15 out who had only ever played junior rugby at Celtic. That would be a great achievement if we could put a team on the field one day that has only ever played for Celtic.” There could be nobody better to lead that team out than a coach who is truly Dewsbury Celtic through and through.
RUGBY UNION
Cleckheaton hit top form to dismantle leaders York North One East
CLECKHEATON RUFC YORK
37 24
A RAMPANT Cleckheaton put in one of their best team performances of the season to see off the league leaders York at Moorend. Thiu Barnard’s side had suffered a big setback in their chase at the top of the table with a last-gasp defeat to struggling West Hartlepool the week before, but they produced a brilliant performance to bring down York and close that gap to six points last weekend. Brad Marsden picked up the man of the match award after scoring two tries while Mikey Hayward scored a brilliant try in a dominant first half, before Cleck managed to hold out through their opponents’ late resurgence to claim maximum points. Marsden returned to the team in the second row for the game while Damian Pearson dropped to the bench with Archie Rika-Rayne and Gus Milborne. York kicked off with the wind at their backs and looked dangerous with ball in hand in the early going. The first score came with five min-
utes gone when the winger George Davies was worked into space to cross in the right corner. Minutes later, Tom Lillycrop was penalised at the breakdown and Hessay kicked the goal to give York an 8-0 advantage. This seemed to fire up the home team and, on 16 minutes, following a penalty 10 metres from the York line, Marsden secured good lineout possession and the maul rumbled forward with Joey Carley on the spot for his first try of the season. Dale Breakwell added the goal to narrow the gap to a single point. York seemed to be getting dragged into midfield and were making some handling errors in the face of powerful tackling by the socalled ‘soft’ Cleckheaton forwards. On 27 minutes, quick thinking by Breakwell saw a cross-kick land in the hands of wing Hayward on his own 10-metre line, and a mazy run left a trail of green and black shirts in his wake as he recorded his 17th try of the campaign and a spectacular one at that. Breakwell added the goal again and Cleckheaton had the last for the first time at 14-8. Just five minutes later, some classy play between Ollie Depledge and Jack Marshall sent Marsden
galloping along the right-hand touchline before touching down under the posts for a first try of the season, which was again converted. York were guilty of coughing up possession and, as half-time approached, Cleck took control of a rolling maul which went 20 metres before a jubilant Marsden touched down for the bonus-point try. Breakwell kept up his 100 per cent record for a superb 28-8 lead at half-time. Game management would be important in the second half and Breakwell slotted a 30-metre drop goal to extend the lead by another three points. The next 10 minutes saw both sides probing for openings but defences were on top. York had the territorial advantage but the immaculate Breakwell cleared the ball downfield away from danger. Andy Piper was shown the yellow card for an offence at the ruck and when Rika-Rayne came into the front row, replacement Milborne was sacrificed for 10 minutes. All this allowed York their best spell and they scored three quick tries. Firstly, Hodgson and then Maud scored after driving mauls, before a long pass saw the left wing Hodges cross in the corner for their bonus-
SPECTACULAR SCORE: Mikey Hayward completes a great try point try. Fortunately for Cleckheaton, Hessay couldn’t convert any of the tries and it was an edgy game at 31-23 with 12 minutes to go. Into the last 10 minutes, the cool head of Breakwell slotted two penalty goals to settle the game down and, while York applied pressure as the clock ran down, the home side ran out winners.
PHOTO: Gerald Christian
As well as cutting the gap at the top, Driffield’s defeat at Malton and Norton means Cleck are now six points clear of third place as their promotion push steps up. Tomorrow (Saturday, kick-off 2.15pm), Cleckheaton travel to Durham, who are third from bottom in the table but have won seven of their nine home matches this season.
ThePress
Friday February 14, 2020
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RUGBY LEAGUE MATCH STATS WIDNES VIKINGS: Jack Owens Jack Johnson Lloyd Roby Jake Spedding Deon Cross Danny Craven Matty Smith Ted Chapelhow Logan Tomkins Pat Moran Sam Wilde Shane Grady Macgraff Leuluai Subs: Joe Lyons Joe Edge Kenny Baker Owen Farnworth Tries: Spedding (3, 39), Cross (13), Baker (48), Grady (52), Owens (79). Goals: Owens 4/7. BATLEY BULLDOGS: Luke Hooley Wayne Reittie Keenen Tomlinson Lewis Galbraith Dave Scott Ben White Danny Yates James Brown Alistair Leak Toby Everett Dane Manning Lucas Walshaw Anthony Bowman Subs: Michael Ward Jack Blagbrough Shaun Lunt Shaun Pick Tries: Galbraith (25), Leak (28). Goals: Hooley 2/2. Referee: T. Grant Half-time: 16-12 Penalties: 5-9 Man of the match: Matty Smith (Widnes) Attendance: 3,577
7 7 7 7 7 7 8 6 7 6 6 8 6 7 7 7 6
6 6 6 7 6 6 7 7 7 7 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
VIKINGS STORM PAST BULLDOGS Betfred Championship
WIDNES VIKINGS BATLEY BULLDOGS
32 12
at the DCBL Stadium WIDNES VIKINGS stormed past a resilient Batley Bulldogs in horrendous weather on a day which saw most other sporting action postponed. While the 4G pitch was never going to cause a problem, the conditions made it a challenge for the visiting team and spectators to make their way over to Cheshire. The kick-off had to be put back by 15 minutes as the Bulldogs squad only arrived at around 2pm. They made a suitably slow start when the game did get going, and did likewise again in the second half after battling back to leave coach Craig Lingard disappointed. “We gave Widnes a two-try start and then in the second half, after we got back into the game, again we came out and conceded two tries before we managed to get going. That was pretty disappointing,” he reflected. “I think I might have been a bit harsh on the players after the game. When I looked back, I didn’t think we’d done as badly as I thought we had done. “As much as we want to win every game and perform in every game, I think you’ve got to be realistic about where we are as a team and a squad compared to the budgets in that league.” On the challenge brought by the conditions, Lingard added: “To be fair the weather in the first half was pretty decent, minus a bit of wind, but 15-20
minutes into the second half it absolutely came down with rain, hail, snow, everything that could be thrown at us. It was treacherous in those last 20 minutes.” Jake Spedding got Widnes off to a flier after only three minutes of action when the superb Matty Smith launched a towering kick that Shane Grady got on the end of to put the four-pointer on a plate. Ten minutes later the Vikings were in again as Deon Cross dived over in the corner. Skipper Jack Owens knocked over the conversion with the help of the wind and the upright. It was everything Widnes deserved after a very dominant first 20 minutes, building on their rout of Oldham the previous week. They should have turned up the heat after Owens had
sent over a 30-metre penalty, but they left the door ajar for the Bulldogs to rampage through. They didn’t have to be asked twice and, led by the impressive James Brown and Toby Everett, they began to get a stranglehold in the game after being outgunned in the first quarter. It was Brown who led from the front. The burly lock bustled his way through the heart of the Vikings midfield and he laid on a neat effort for Ben White, who should have scored. The Bulldogs weren’t to be denied and on the very next play they sent in Lewis Galbraith. Hooker Alistair Leak added to that by burrowing over from close range, with Luke Hooley’s two goals levelling it up. The Vikings had played the more enterprising rugby league, but had
Batley and Dewsbury receive tough away ties in Challenge Cup BATLEY BULLDOGS and Dewsbury Rams both face away trips to fellow Championship sides in the fourth round of the Coral Challenge Cup. Batley received an away tie at Leigh Centurions, which will take place on a Friday night (February 21, kick-off 8pm). Meanwhile, Dewsbury must make the trip to newly-promoted Whitehaven, with the date and time still to be confirmed. Bulldogs head coach Craig Lingard said: “It’s a challenge against another top team. We’ve played top teams in pre-season, we’ve played two expected top five teams in the first two league games, then we’ve got Leigh next week.
“If nothing else, we’re going to be battle-hardened for the season. Hopefully that will stand us in good stead. You never know, it’s cup football and anything can happen on the day.” Rams boss Lee Greenwood said: “I’m happy that we’ve drawn someone in our division. If I do give people a chance to play in that and they perform, I know they will have done it against a team in our division, so I can be confident of putting them in (for league games). “It’ll be a test for the lads who play in that and it’s good that we’ll get to see ourselves against Championship opposition.”
Ratcliffe proud after last-gasp try denies Trojans Coral Challenge Cup
THORNHILL TROJANS 20 DONCASTER 24 Stephen Ibbetson at the Tetley’s Stadium
THORNHILL TROJANS coach Danny Ratcliffe expressed his pride in the effort of his players after a last-gasp try denied them the famous scalp of semi-professional side Doncaster in the third round of the Challenge Cup last weekend. A phenomenal performance, including fantastic tries from Declan Kaye, George Stott and Nick Mitchell and Liam Morley’s majestic controlling of the game, had them 20-18 ahead with just a minute of the game left to play and the opposition hemmed in their own half. However, a tragic Stott slip allowed Papua New Guinea international Watson Boas to break through the line and break their hearts. Ratcliffe said: “I’m absolutely proud of what they’ve done. They’ve not just matched them, they were better than them throughout the whole game. “We’ve been working hard on our fitness and our team spirit and that team spirit really showed out there. When it got a bit nitty gritty we dug deep. “They dug in for each other and it showed at half-time when they came in. I just said to them when you go back out there we don’t switch off and we do exact-
naively surrendered the lead and were now involved in a dog fight. After smelling blood, Batley were showing signs of turning the screw, but like Widnes had done for 15 minutes previously, they lost concentration. Just before the break Spedding touched down out wide after excellent work from Smith, Owens and Logan Tomkins. Smith was at it again for Widnes as his delayed pass then put the charging Kenny Baker over, and the game was over as a contest on the 52-minute mark as Widnes defied the challenging conditions to run in two further scores. The excellent Grady, who pushed Smith close for man of the match, barged over with a charging run and Owens had the final say a minute from time.
ly the same. “They (Dons) came out quick in the second half and probably took us by surprise a little bit, but once we got that try that we needed we switched back on. Just unfortunately it didn’t go our way in the last minute.” Ratcliffe added: “Liam Morley has been about for a while, he’s been amateur, semi-professional, represented his country and come back here. That’s one of the best games I’ve ever seen him play. He should be really proud of himself.” Thornhill made their ambitions clear from the outset. On the first set a brilliant Morley kick put Doncaster on the back foot and Jack Logan then knocked-on to put them in attack. The ball was shifted wide with Will Gledhill’s pass finding Kaye to convert an overload into the first points of the game after just two minutes, with Casey Johnson adding the extras. The Dons responded with their own first attack of the match though as Boas kicked deftly in behind the defence and Aaron Ollett touched down, with Logan’s conversion levelling. Thornhill had to see out a period of pressure as their opponents looked to set the tempo, but instead they got the next score themselves. Sam Smeaton’s late shot on George Woodcock gave them position and Stott gathered Johnson’s short pass and managed to defy strong pressure to carry it over the line. Johnson again converted and,
Sport In Brief Perfect 10 for Stags RUGBY LEAGUE: Mirfield Stags made it 10 from 10 in the Pennine League with a 16-14 victory away at Drighlington. In a repeat of the Yorkshire Cup final between the sides in December, Casey Canterbury and Dom Flanagan scored tries while Flanagan added a conversion and Wayne Wilson kicked three goals to take Mirfield six points clear at the top. Elsewhere in the top flight, Hanging Heaton were beaten 20-4 at home to Upton despite Luke Hinchliffe’s try.
PERFECT START: Declan Kaye scores in the second minute as Doncaster struggled to bring the ball away from their line through mistakes and forced errors, he knocked over a penalty six minutes before half-time to make it 14-6. By that point the League One side were also down to 12 men, as Ross Peltier showed his frustration in an appeal to the referee which saw him sin-binned. Only with a full complement back on the field into the second half did they begin to make some headway against the Trojans. Logan made a break down the wing and Kieran Cross then cleverly weaved his way through from dummy-half to reduce the gap to two points. Jason Tali failed to find Tom Halliday for a certain try but Doncaster were on the board again soon after as Smeaton found Sam Doherty to finish a well-worked try in the corner and put them ahead for the first time.
Lesser amateur sides would have wilted at this point, but not Thornhill. Instead, just five minutes later, they scored a great try of their own, started and finished by Mitchell. His powerful carry earned them a penalty and, after a Harry Woollard offload found Jamie Searby, Mitchell was found on the right to finish and put his side back in front at 20-18. The final 20 minutes would be all about defence, and the Trojans rose magnificently to the challenge with Woodcock preventing Ben Howe from burrowing over and several men committing to keep Russ Spiers from grounding. Penalties gave Doncaster more chances to attack and Doherty was held up in the corner on the last tackle of one set. With a minute to go the resistance was broken by Boas in the cruellest of circumstances, but every Trojan could hold their heads high after a monumental effort.
Heavy Woollen draw RUGBY LEAGUE: The draws have been made for this year’s Heavy Woollen Cups. In the Jim Brown Cup, Thornhill Trojans will host Dewsbury Moor in the preliminary round, with the winners heading to Shaw Cross Sharks in the semi-finals. The other last-four tie will see Dewsbury Celtic welcome Batley Boys. Ossett Trinity Tigers have a bye to the semi-finals of the John Kane Cup, where they will travel to the winners of the first-round match between Birstall Victoria and Dewsbury Moor A. Thornhill Trojans A and Shaw Cross Sharks A will face off in the first round while Batley Boys A host Dewsbury Celtic A.
Two blanks at Ossett RUGBY UNION: Ossett had a week to forget with neither of their sides registering a point. The first team lost 15-0 at Halifax Vandals and remain ninth in Yorkshire Division Three, while the second team lost out at home to Leodiensians 27-0 in the Northern and Western League. Tomorrow (Saturday) the firsts host Castleford and the seconds go to Selby thirds.
Rams prepare for another ‘Fax mudbath
PHOTO: Gerald Christian
WATERLOGGED: The pitch at Swinton last Sunday
BIG WIN: Brad Marsden scored two tries as Cleckheaton RUFC produced a brilliant performance to earn a 37-23 win over North One East leaders York at Moorend last weekend, closing the gap at the top of the table to six points ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Durham MATCH REPORT: p26
LEEDS’ DUPREE JOINS INJURY-HIT BULLDOGS By Stephen Ibbetson Sports Reporter sport@thepressnews.co.uk
BATLEY BULLDOGS have signed prop forward Tyler Dupree on a month’s loan from Leeds Rhinos to boost their injury-hit pack ahead of this weekend’s home clash against Swinton Lions. With up to five forwards potentially ruled out, Batley have moved to bring in 20-year-old Dupree from Leeds, whose reserve side the club have also agreed a dual-registration agreement with in the past week. Dupree is yet to make his Super League debut but featured four times in the Championship for York last season and featured once in 2018 for Featherstone. The 20-year-old has earned representative honours with Yorkshire Academy and Bulldogs head coach Craig Lingard says he has an opportunity to show what he can do. “He’s only a young kid but he’s got plenty of size about him. It’s about him trying to fulfil some of the potential that Leeds see in
him,” said Lingard. “It’s difficult as a young kid to play in such a demanding position as prop. You often mature in your mid-to-late twenties so it’s difficult for young props to cement their place in a Super League side or even a Championship side because you’re still learning, still growing and playing against some experienced older heads. “It’s a chance for Tyler to come to us and show Leeds what they can expect from him as and when they call him into the first team.” The club have also secured a partnership with the Rhinos which will see some of the Bulldogs’ squad players feature for Leeds’ reserve side this season. “We can send our first-team players over there to get some game time so people who are coming back from injury or haven’t played for a couple of weeks can get some game time over there,” said Lingard. “We’ll send Leeds a list of players who are potentially available for the next reserve game, they’ll have their meeting to decide how many players they need and in what positions, then they’ll let us
know and we’ll take it from there.” Batley welcome Swinton to the Fox’s Biscuits Stadium on Sunday (kick-off 3pm) and, despite being only two weeks into the new season, Lingard is aware of how important a game it could be after defeats to big-spending Featherstone and Widnes. “It’s massive, and we’ll be telling the players that,” he said. “When you play Featherstone and Widnes everyone outside the club expects you to get beat and you can play without that added pressure. We performed okay in parts of both games but we’ve come away with zero points. “Now we’ve got a home game against Swinton, and Batley fans will be expecting us to win that. Swinton finished above Batley last year, they won at Whitehaven (in their opening game) and kept a clean sheet which is never easy to do. “We know that the positive attributes that we’ve shown in the season so far – the work ethic, attitude and desire to work for each other – that’ll have to be there in abundance this week, as well as the execution and a little bit of skill and flair.
“We are under no illusions that, even in the third game of the season, this is a huge game. We need to pick up as many points at home as possible, certainly against the sides that you’d expect to be in and around us at the end of the season.” They are set to be missing a number of players for the game though, particularly in the middle of the pitch. Tyler Dickinson (back) remains out while Joe Taira (elbow) only returned to training this week. They could be joined in the stands by Shaun Pick and Anthony Bowman, who suffered neck and hand injuries respectively in last week’s stormy defeat at Widnes, while James Brown is set to see a specialist over his hand problem, although he was able to play with it last week. Dale Morton (quad) was a late withdrawal from the team against the Vikings with Dave Scott filling that spot on the wing, but he is expected to be back in contention against Swinton along with fellow wide man Johnny Campbell, who has missed the first two matches with a hamstring injury.
LEE GREENWOOD is hoping that this year’s Dewsbury Rams side are better equipped for a wet and muddy battle at Halifax than last year. When Dewsbury travelled to The Shay last March they fell to a 26-0 defeat in torrid conditions, and the same sort of weather is expected again for this Sunday’s contest (kick-off 3pm). Storm Ciara put paid to the Rams’ fixture away at Swinton last week and Storm Dennis is now set to bring more wind and rain over the weekend. Greenwood hopes that his squad, which lost their season opener against Leigh two weeks ago, is now better equipped for the ugly game which lies ahead. “It’s not going to be the prettiest,” he said. “That was one of our poorest performances last year. It was torrential conditions so to lose so comfortably was hugely disappointing. “I’m hoping we’ll be a better team than we were last year. Halifax are obviously hoping that they are too so it’ll be interesting to see what happens on Sunday.” Halifax won their opening game against Sheffield before also seeing last week’s fixture postponed, and Greenwood says that their opponents, who he spent six seasons with as a player, will be expecting to win as they look to improve on last year’s eighth-placed finish. “They will be wanting a big improvement on last year,” said the Rams boss. “They are another team that spend a lot more than us, they are traditionally a bigger club and they’ve done well in this division. “They got a good start against Sheffield and I’m pretty sure the players, coaches and fans will have put a tick next to Dewsbury at home for another win.” The Rams will head across West Yorkshire with an almost full-fit squad, with only Jason Walton still unavailable. They may have the services of Matty Gee, who signed on dual-registration from Hull KR last week and was set to be the first player Greenwood had used as a coach through dual-reg until their game was postponed. On the addition of the former London Broncos second-row, Greenwood said: “He hasn’t quite got into Hull KR’s 17 but I am sure he won’t be far off it. He was good for London in Super League last year and that is why Hull KR signed him. “He’s a similar size to (Chris) Annakin really: a stocky, robust sort of fella who likes to get stuck in, particularly in defence. I think he’ll just slot in nicely to what we have.”