FAMILY RUN BUSINESS ESTABLISHED OVER 45 YEARS
• Curtains • Blinds • Poles T: 01924 471578 25 Commercial Street, Batley
ONE PAPER ... ALL THE NEWS from Dewsbury, Batley, Ossett, Mirfield, Liversedge, Birstall, Heckmondwike, Cleckheaton & Spen Valley
Duo jailed for brutal assault
Friday March 13, 2020
No. 936
First case of coronavirus in the district
p4
Paul Kane’s death ruled as suicide
50p
p2
Former Dewsbury East councillor Paul Kane was Mayor of Kirklees in 2015/2016
Coroner stresses that inquest aimed at ‘how’ Labour man died, not ‘why’ By Staff Reporters FORMER Dewsbury East Labour councillor and Kirklees Mayor Paul Kane was being treated for depression before he committed suicide in November, an inquest was told this week. Senior Coroner Martin Fleming heard how Mr Kane had seen his doctor suffering from stress, been prescribed medication for depression and to help him sleep, and had suffered a panic attack in the two weeks before his stepson Michael
Thornton found him hanging from the loft hatch in the bedroom at his bungalow in Bywell Close. Post mortem and toxicology reports revealed no evidence of alcohol or other drugs in Mr Kane’s system and Kirklees Police Det Sgt Mike Smith told the inquest no suicide note was left in his “tidily kept” bungalow. Likewise, DS Smith said nothing had been found on his laptops or phones to indicate why he took his life. His long-standing GP, Dr Hanume Thimmegowda, said in a statement
Metals Limited kandmmetalsltd.co.uk
01924 453824
that he had seen the 62-year-old on October 23rd and said “he looked sad, was not sleeping well and was irritable”. It was stated that Mr Kane had said he was not feeling suicidal – something he repeated the following week in another visit to his GP. However, close friends of Mr Kane, including his girlfriend of the past two years, have criticised the proceedings at Bradford on Monday, saying it “whitewashed” some of the serious issues troubling him, including his attempt to retract his resig-
nation from Kirklees Council a few days after submitting it, and potential evidence of online threats towards him from Labour activist Paul Moore. The Coroner, Mr Fleming, said
Based in Dewsbury Buyers of ferrous and non-ferrous metals Skip hire available from 8-40 yard Collection & drop-off available First class service with over 35 years experience WE BUY
• Cast Iron • Copper • Bronze • Lead • Aluminium • Brass • Steel • Metal scraps of cars and vans
Mr Kane had been concerned about a “police investigation”. Shortly before his death the long-serving former councillor had been
Continued on p3
2
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
No details on virus victim SYKES KENNETH
Deaths BLAMIRES JUNE On March 2, of Dewsbury, formerly of Cleckheaton and Hightown, aged 72, mum of Matthew and Peter. Funeral service will take place at Butterfield House, Private Chapel of Rest, Cleckheaton, on Thursday March 19 at 10.45am.
BRAY (NEE BROOK) MARY On February 29, at Eden Court Nursing Home, Birkenshaw, of Thornhill, aged 97, daughter of the late George and Gladys Brook. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Wednesday March 18 at 1.15pm.
band of the late Sheila. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Wednesday March 18 at 9.45am.
HAW THOMAS ‘TOM’ On March 3, at Kirkwood Hospice, of Mirfield, aged 78. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Thursday March 19 at 11.15am.
On March 4, aged 97, husband of the late Marian. Funeral service will take place at Central Methodist Church, Batley, on Wednesday March 18 at 2.30pm.
VINEY HARRY On March 2, of Thornhill, formerly of Mirfield, aged 70, husband of Jenny. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Thursday March 19 at 3.15pm.
PRIESTLEY ELSIE
WAILES MICHAEL JOHN
On March 2, aged 94, wife of the late Harry. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Monday March 16 at 10am.
On March 9, aged 71, husband of Barbara. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Thursday March 26 at 1.15pm. Place your family notices by calling 01924 470296 or visit our office at 31 Branch Road, Batley, WF17 5SB
Telephone 01924 472178
THE FIRST case of coronavirus has been identified in Kirklees. The exact location of the patient has not been revealed, but council officials say they are working closely with Public Health England to minimise risk to the public. Rachel Spencer-Henshall, director for public health in Kirklees, said: “We have had our first case of novel coronavirus in Kirklees, something we have been anticipating and preparing for. “Our thoughts are with the person and we wish them the very best in their recovery. I’d like to reassure residents that we are continuing to work closely with colleagues in the health service to stop the virus spreading. “Specialists at Public Health England are taking swift action
Targeted attack on man A MAN was repeatedly hit with a baseball bat during a targeted attack in Thornhill Lees on Saturday night. Footage appeared online of the victim
Acknowledgement
BOLLANDS (BIRSTALL)
CHILD Harry
Funeral Directors
The family of the late Harry Gibson Child wishes to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness and support shown following their sad loss.
Prepaid Funerals Funeral Flower Service Contact Robert Edmond 24 hours Available
18 KIRKGATE, BIRSTALL, BATLEY, WF17 9PB www.bollandsfuneraldirectors.co.uk
CLIFFORD BRIAN
SIMPSON PAUL
On March 6, aged 86, hus-
On March 1, of Earlsheaton, aged 73, husband of Gill. Funeral service will take place at Dewsbury Moor Crematorium on Friday March 20 at 10.30am.
Many thanks to everyone at Earlsheaton Medical Centre, especially Dr. Yaaqub Hussain, the doctors and nurses on Ward 43 at Pinderfields Hospital as well as the team at Manorcroft Nursing Home. Special thanks to Revd Canon Mark Umpleby for his poignant service, the Directors and Staff of Dewsbury Rams RLFC and Eric F. Box Funeral Directors for their efficient and friendly expertise.
A Family Business providing a complete and caring service for over 65 years Golden Charter Pre-Payment Plans 24 Hour Service
ThePress Friday March 13, 2020 Issue No: 936
George Brooke Ltd
Head Office - 14 Sharp Street, Dewsbury Chapel Of Rest - 9 Battye Street, Dewsbury Room Of Repose - 14a St Paul’s Road, Mirfield
01924 454476 / 497352
www.georgebrooke.co.uk
Professional & Caring Cremation Service from £1765 This includes all necessary third party fees. No hidden costs
01274 653115/891335 Southfield Terrace, Birkenshaw 53 Bradford Road, Cleckheaton
Pre-Paid Cremation Funeral Plans Fully Guaranteed From
£1550
01274 852885 Available 24 Hours Fully guaranteed funeral plans from £1714 Funeral directors AND necessary third party fees fully guaranteed
Golden Charter Double Award-Winning Funeral Planner of the Year and Butterfly Award Finalist
Necessary disbursements & funeral director’s fees fully guaranteed offered by award-winning funeral director At Need Cremation Funerals From Includes All Fees & Disbursements
£1200
www.gatewayfuneralservices.co.uk
Proudly caring for families for 60 years
to follow up with the contacts of all confirmed cases, ensuring they receive the correct medical advice and guidance. “In the meantime, good hygiene is the very best prevention, and there are some simple steps we can all take to protect ourselves, our families and communities. “This includes washing hands regularly for a minimum of 20 seconds, and following NHS advice in relation to coughs and colds – catch the sneeze in a tissue, bin it … and kill the germs. “The best way to stay informed is to regularly check official advice from organisations such as Public Health England and the Government.” Find out more by visiting www.nhs.uk/conditions/corona virus-covid-19.
31 Branch Road Batley West Yorkshire WF17 5SB Tel: 01924 470296 Fax: 01924 472561
www.thepressnews.co.uk @ThePressLatest /ThePressNews Publisher: Danny Lockwood 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
being assaulted in a street brawl on Slaithwaite Road shortly before 11pm. It is believed a taser-style weapon was also used during the fight. Police were called to the scene, outside Thornhill Lees CofE Infant and Nursery School, and the main road was closed for most of the night. The 23-year-old man was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Det Insp James Bellhouse, of Kirklees District CID, said: “We
are treating this as a targeted attack and working to establish the circumstances of what has taken place. “We have extensive enquiries ongoing to trace those involved in this unacceptable incident of violent behaviour. “A number of witnesses have already been spoken to but I would urge anyone else who has any information which could help our ongoing enquiries to please contact Kirklees CID, quoting crime reference 13200121484.”
Stabbed in the neck and back 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
RAVENSTHORPE: A man was stabbed in the neck and back during an attack on Wednesday night. Police were called to an address on Sackville Street at 9.16pm to reports of a male with stab wounds. Enquiries suggest the initial incident happened close to Tanhouse Street at around 9pm. The man in his 30s was taken to hospital for further treatment, but his injuries aren’t thought to be lifethreatening. Anyone with information is asked to contact Kirklees CID on 101 with the crime reference 13200129107.
Got a story? Call The Press on 01924 470296, email news@thepress news.co.uk or visit our office at 31 Branch Road, Batley, WF17 5SB
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
Inquest ‘ignores’ concerns over hate messages from activist
Kane found by stepson Continued from page 1 involved in an altercation with Paul Moore at Chickenley Community Centre over social media posts attacking him. The incident resulted in Moore alleging an assault against him, which Mr Kane denied. Mr Fleming stated that he had submitted his resignation to Kirklees Council on October 28th, but did not mention his attempt to retract it – something which was turned down by Chief Executive Jacqui Gedman. After the inquest, close friends said that as a councillor, Mr Kane’s relationship with Ms Gedman had “totally broken down” and he saw her decision as being “a chance to get rid of him”. The Press can also reveal that the day following his death at home in Bywell Close, the former Heavy Woollen Planning chairman was due to give evidence in a fly-tipping case against Dewsbury businessman Tahir Zaman. Mr Kane was being called as a witness by Zaman over the allegations at a mill development in Eastborough.
The trial against Zaman and his two sons at Huddersfield Magistrates’ Court was adjourned after Mr Kane’s death and was due to resume at the end of February but was further adjourned because Zaman was out of the country. At the inquest, Mr Fleming made clear that it would be concerned primarily with the facts of “how” Mr Kane died, and not “why”. He had spent the previ-
Assault allegation – Paul Moore
ous evening with his girlfriend and work colleague Mira Fadel at her flat in Morley, before returning home. When he failed to answer phone calls and messages the next day, Ms Fidel, plus stepson Michael and Mr Kane’s son James, went to his bungalow at around 5pm. Michael let himself in, and told the others “Paul’s done something silly,” before returning outside and phoning the emergency services. DS Smith
told the inquest there were no signs of any third party involvement, and Mr Fleming recorded a narrative verdict, stating: “This is a case where he (Mr Kane) was suffering from stress and depression and had expressed it to the GP. There’s nothing to suggest he was harbouring intentions to hurt himself in this way. On November 5, 2019, Paul Kane was suffering from depression and intended to take his own life.”
Councillor denied chance to ask questions EWSBURY East Independent councillor Aleks Lukic spoke after the inquest’s conclusion at his frustration at being refused permission by the Coroner to be considered an ‘interested person’ and raise a number of questions. Mr Lukic told The Press he wanted to raise issues that emerged after Paul Kane’s death, particularly in relation to his relationship with Kirklees Council and other Dewsbury East Labour members. He attended the inquest to observe as a member of the public and expressed disappointment at how important matters were apparently glossed over. Meanwhile Ms Fadel, whose broth-
D
er owns the Morley company Alfa Power which Mr Kane was a consultant for, said matters she brought up in her statement to police were completely overlooked. “Paul was consistently under pressure from Eric Firth and Paul Moore to resign,” she said. “They blamed Paul for Firth losing his Dewsbury East seat (to Aleks Lukic) saying he hadn’t campaigned for him, but in fact he was very ill, he had had major surgery. “Moore said some very nasty things about Paul on social media. He deleted them when Paul died but I know they were on Paul’s phone and laptop, yet the police never mentioned them in the inquest.
Children dress up for the day
YOUNGSTERS at a nursery in Dewsbury celebrated World Book Day by dressing up as their favourite characters. Outfits ranged from Goldilocks to Snow White as children at Child’s Play Nursery marked the national event which aims to promote the benefits of reading books. The ‘baby room’ enjoyed their very own teddy bear’s picnic, while the ‘toddler room’ brought in their favourite stories to share with their friends and the pre-school children decorated their own bookmarks.
www.facebook.com/ThePressNews
“Now we’ll never know what drove him to this. Firth and Moore hounded him into resigning, but he was much more upbeat after he emailed his retraction. “He wanted to keep going until his term of office finished in May, then retire with dignity. “We had exciting plans to launch a new charity venture inspiring arts projects for local young people. He was devastated when he heard that his resignation wouldn’t be withdrawn. “He was going to stay at my flat, but was restless and went home. He sent me a text message saying he was fine. But that was the last I heard from him.”
3
News In Brief Thug’s threat to ‘slit officer’s throats’ MIRFIELD: A dangerous thug who threatened police officers with a kitchen knife has been jailed for two years. Daniel Bellamy, of Northway, had broken into his former girlfriend’s flat on Preston Street in Batley on December 6 last year when she contacted police. The 27-year-old used knives to damage the flat and started cutting himself before telling the officers he would slit their throats. Leeds Crown Court heard details of the incident as Bellamy was sentenced for various other offences between October 2019 and January 2020. The offences included harassing and assaulting his former partner. He pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker, affray, criminal damage, harassment, two counts of assault and two of theft. Bellamy was jailed for two years.
Body found in river may be missing man DEWSBURY: The body of a missing man from the town has been found in the River Calder. The man, thought to be in his 60s, was discovered in Horbury on Saturday. Formal identification is yet to take place but police confirmed the family of a male reported missing earlier that day have been informed of the discovery. Patrick Roddy, 62, was reported missing from Dewsbury on Saturday March 7. The death is being treated as ‘non-suspicious’ and a file has been prepared for the coroner.
4
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
Burglary ‘grass’ ends in fair cop
In Brief Body found at Batley home
POLICE got more than they bargained for when they attended reports of a burglary at a building in Batley. Officers were called to a business premises close to the town centre on Friday February 28, where they came across a sophisticated cannabis farm. The high-value plants were removed by officers who also spent a full day removing equipment used for the cultivation of cannabis from the premises.
BATLEY: The body of a woman was found inside an address on Carlinghow Lane on Sunday. Officers were called to the home at around 3.20pm where they discovered the woman, believed to be in her 50s. A police spokesperson confirmed the death is being treated as ‘nonsuspicious’. A file will now be prepared for the coroner.
Meet the artist MIRFIELD: Renowned local artist Richard Gawthorpe is launching a new exhibition next month. ‘Watercolours by Richard Gawthorpe’ will be on display in The Art Shop at Ilkley from April 6 to May 4. There’ll also be a chance to meet the Northorpe-born artist on Saturdays April 11, 18 and 25 from 11am until 4pm.
Rambling plans this weekend RAMBLERS: The Dewsbury and District Rambling Club have two walks planned this weekend. Tomorrow (Saturday) ramblers can meet at Link Road for 9.30am for a walk in Bramham. On Sunday there is a walk planned in Ripley, meeting at the Wellington Road car park in town for 9am.
Photo – Facebook: West Yorkshire Police – Batley and Spen
Broken bottle robbers jailed By Staff Reporters
Carroll (left) and Shah
TWO men from Dewsbury have been jailed for a combined total of more than 22 years for what detectives have described as a ‘brutal assault’. Richard Carroll, 30, of no fixed address, and Ali Shah, 34, of Barber Walk, were jailed at Leeds Crown Court on Friday for robbery and wounding. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of August 15, 2019, saw the victim assaulted and stabbed with a broken bottle outside Dewsbury Sports
make his way to the Asda supermarket on Mill Street West to summon help. ‘Strong evidence’ led to detectives arresting Carroll the day after the incident. Shah was arrested a few days later. Carroll was jailed for 12 years, with five years on extended licence, after pleading guilty to Section 18 wounding and robbery. Shah was given five years and five months behind bars for robbery and possession of a bladed weapon.
Centre on Longcauseway. Carroll and Shah stole the man’s wallet and phone before leaving him on the
floor with serious injuries to his face and body. The court heard the victim, in his 20s, was able to
Det Sgt Oliver Coates said: “We welcome these strong sentences for what was a brutal assault which could easily have had even more serious consequences. “The level of violence used in this incident was quite shocking and fortunately we were able to quickly arrest these individuals and build a very strong case against both men. “I hope the strong sentences will bring some comfort to the victim and act as a stark warning that the use of such violence will result in a lengthy spell in prison.”
Tanisha hits back at fake Facebook troll By Zoe Shackleton AN ELECTION candidate has slammed attempts to derail her campaign after social media comments were posted claiming she had pocketed cash from a fundraising event. Tanisha Bramwell said she contemplated quitting her bid to become an Independent councillor for the Dewsbury West ward after seeing the post, which came from an apparently fake Facebook profile, on Sunday night. The poster, using the name ‘Arthur Willoughby’, alleged that the 25-year-old was paying for people to vote for her. It also suggested that she had taken money from a fundraiser she organised to cover funeral costs following the death of her childhood friend Luke Manton last year. Tanisha, who runs the Bramwell Sports Development Team which helps residents in her local community, said: “I was crying, I was even thinking about pulling out. “I was thinking to myself, they’ve gone against a family that’s lost someone and they’ve made them feel awful, they’ve made me feel awful, are they going to go against my family next? “Are they going to go for local people that I care about, who don’t deserve it? All because I’ve exercised my right to run for councillor? “I definitely thought am I going to carry on and is it worth it? “But my local community rallied around me and told me I can’t quit.” Tanisha has since reported the fake profile to police and it was taken down within half an hour of posting the original comment. Though she has no concrete evidence who set up the profile, she believes it may have been initiated by rivals in an attempt to
smear her name. She said: “I’ve got a bit of an idea who it could be, but until there’s evidence I don’t want to make any accusations – but it does seem like a strategic move and I think it’s fallen back on them, and they’ve realised quite quickly it wouldn’t end well so they’ve deleted the account.” Tanisha will be up against Labour’s Mussarat Pervaiz at the May 7 elections and is aiming to become the second Independent councillor in the district after Coun Aleks Lukic took a seat in Dewsbury East in 2019.
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
5
No need to panic-buy goods By Connor Teale SHOPPERS have been reassured that supermarkets will continue to “run smoothly” throughout the coronavirus crisis – despite images of empty shelves in local stores this week. Asda’s Morley store, on Howley Park Road, reportedly ran out of toilet paper on Saturday as residents rushed to stockpile supplies amid fears of an imminent ‘lockdown’ due to the spread of the virus, known as COVID-19. Supermarkets in Batley sold out of hand sanitiser this week, with supplies of dry pasta also running low. But the British Retail Consortium, a spokesgroup for major retailers,
GONE: The handwash section was emptied at Asda in Morley PHOTO: TRACEY SENIOR
has moved to cool fears, maintaining supermarkets are “well-versed” to deal with increased demand. Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium (BRC), said: “Our members are working hard to ensure consumers have access to the products they need. “Even when there are challenges, retailers are well-versed in providing effective measures to keep retail sites running smoothly, and they are working with suppliers to increase the supply of goods. “Retailers are currently facing a rise in demand for certain products unprecedented outside of the Christmas period, however, this has largely been limited to hygiene and
longer shelf-life products. “The BRC and its members are also working with the Government to find ways to mitigate the impact of coronavirus. Together we are looking at ways of supporting all consumers, including those who are self-isolating. “The BRC has given government a list of regulations where relaxation would ease pressure in the supply chain, including extending drivers’ hours and giving flexibility on delivery times to stores.” She added: “Meanwhile, we urge all customers to follow Public Health England’s advice: to wash hands frequently with hot water and soap for 20 seconds, or use alcohol hand gel.”
LOW STOCK: Tesco in Batley was cleared of dry pasta
6
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
LIFE IN BLACK AND WHITE Danny Lockwood
The PC brigade are going nuts HAT a week of talking points, and being a bit of a sports nut – pun soon to be revealed – can I start with a comment from my son, who is playing a season of cricket in Adelaide. He took objection to England rugby prop forward Joe Marler giving Wales captain Alun Wynn Jones’s tackle a tickle, so to speak, last Saturday at Twickenham. Son didn’t quite demand Marler’s castration for the outrage (he suggested a ban of 8-10 weeks) although I’m sure there were plenty of mortally offended people who want Marler placed on the sex offenders’ register. What a load of … yes, it was only a matter of time … balls. Some people need to grow a pair. You could see from the smirk on Marler’s
W
face he was only joshing, after a ‘brawl’ which in rugby terms was like watching Italian waiters having an arm-waving competition over a dish of spilled minestrone. I so wished the Wales skipper had just laughed and blown Marler a kiss back, instead of pontificating that he hoped World Rugby would take a serious look at it. Good grief. You only have to turn the telly on to see that we’re all supposed to take women’s rugby immensely seriously these days (no mention that coverage of it is cheap as chips, in order to fill airtime) let alone dare to say that it’s mostly dire fare. At this rate, we’re emasculating the men’s game at a rate of knots. How long before shaking hands at the
Who’s a pretty boy then? Joe Marler and Alun Wynn Jones get to know each other a little better... ND swiftly on to Trevor Phillips … forget Covid-19, you know how far madness has infected society when a black former chairman of the Equality and Human Rights Commission is metaphorically hung, drawn and quartered for daring to have a view on Britain’s Muslim community. People like me can get away with it, mostly because after years of left-wing haters trying and failing to have me prosecuted for speaking unpalatable truths, they gave up. Trevor Phillips is fair game though, because he’s a seriously big beast and lots of people listen to him. So when he says it’s disappointing that so few Muslims wear a poppy, why is he banged about the head with a reminder of how many brave Commonwealth Muslims gave their lives? He’s talking about now, not 1945, if anyone hadn’t noticed. And to say many – not all – British Muslims have receded into a communal identity separate from the mainstream is not racist. It’s not even provocative. It’s true, as anyone familiar with towns
A
final whistle is replaced by a hug and a kiss on both cheeks? “Missing you already….” And if the gender
equality brigade wants to give me a kicking over those comments, can I hastily add that men have no chance of ever being as good as women at giving birth, breast feeding, kissing children’s bumps and bruises better, plus a thousand other things that separates us as sexes. And just don’t get me going on the inevitable place in a future Olympics for transgender rugby. The way we’re going, it might be the only way Joe Marler gets another game. He’ll have to lose the beard though.
like Dewsbury and Batley and their overwhelmingly separatist and self-governing communities will know. If it actually is a criticism that Trevor Phillips is making, then surely anyone wanting an inclusive, onenation future, would welcome the chance to debate it and explore ways of breaking down barriers. But no, instead we get the usual stooges from the Muslim Council of Britain pontificating from their high horses – and they’re the worst separatists by the way – before, predictably, along comes rent-a-gob Sayeeda Warsi with her three-pennorth. Since being ostracised from mainstream British politics, Baroness Warsi of Dewsbury has set herself up as a sainted defender of the faith, which is both hilarious and hypocritical on every level. But there’s no Muslim drum she won’t bang loud enough these days, when the left-wing media gives her a platform. The only way the Phillips furore was raised to even more ridiculous levels was by it being the anti-semitic Labour Party chastising him. Not got a view on that Sayeeda love?
‘Dirty’ cash is a lousy joke G IVEN that she pockets £300-odd quid a day for signing into the House of Lords, plus various other corporate gigs, perhaps Lady Warsi (see story above) can dig deep and help out the cash-stricken Mount Cricket Club, at their fabulously titled ‘Field of Dreams’ cricket ground in Staincliffe. After all, her family’s firm, Shire Beds, has been a prominent sponsor of Yorkshire CCC. The Mount lads, who took over the club from what was Staincliffe CC, are reportedly hard up because they refuse to accept lottery funding, with it being a proceeds of gambling and they being a Muslim team. Now hold your doggone horses a minute here, folks. Firstly, Mount say they need £2 million to upgrade their facilities. Say what? You could flatten and rebuild Staincliffe for that! Are they planning on signing Ben Stokes (not sure they’d appre-
ciate Benny boy’s ability to chug a few lagers) or are they building a Lords-type stand butting up to Halifax Road? Secondly, and really hold on a cotton-picking minute here – Muslims not accepting lottery money? Is someone having a giraffe? A brief reminder here, that several years ago The Press exposed a whole series of fraudulent Lottery Fund claims
all emanating from mostly fictitious community groups … based at the Taleem Training and Community Centre in Savile Town, Dewsbury. One grant even included a cricket club, but all of them were happy to pocket the dosh from ‘haram’ gotten-gains. And just to cement the point that either the Mount CC are all literally holier than thou, or taking people for fools, I’ve just Googled lottery grants in Batley and Spen … and first up? A tidy little £10,000 to the Pakistan and Kashmir Welfare Association, followed by £9,980 to Muslim Women’s Aid. I don’t know who’s trying to kid who here, but it’s a shame the Mount lads couldn’t have prevented their young Savile Town cousins from rendering the town’s premier cricket ground uninhabitable, before the impressive stand was burned down. That cricket ground was good enough for Yorkshire, once upon a much gentler time…
Friday March 13, 2020
ThePress
7
ThePress
8
Friday March 13, 2020
Ramblers’ corner FORTHCOMING walks with the North Kirklees Group of the Ramblers – non-members are always welcome. Please call the walk leader for more details.
SATURDAY MARCH 14 CLAYTON WEST AND HIGH HOYLAND CHURCH Starts at 10.30am at Skelmanthorpe Co-op car park (HD8 9DA, SE232106) 7.5 miles – moderate Contact: Andy 01484 866968 deacstimson@yahoo.co.uk
Every second Sunday is your chance BUDDING writers, poets and musicians are encouraged to attend an ‘open mic’ night in Morley. Hosted by Kathleen Strafford, the monthly event takes place at the Morley Dashers pub on High Street
Dave On Film Onward Review by Dave Woollin
*****
NWARD unfortunately feels more like backward in Pixar’s new film about wizards and old magic, which fails to cast a decent spell. It would be easy to compare Onward against Pixar’s other amazing films, so I am going to avoid that and talk solely about this as a standalone effort ... and it certainly feels like an effort watching it. Set in a fantasy world which once knew magic, Tom Holland plays Ian Lightfoot, an elf boy turning 16 years old. He’s a bit of a sap with no real get-up-andgo about him. Chris Pratt voices Barley, his older brother who spends most of his time playing Dungeons and Dragons-type fantasy games, which he believes are all based on a time before the world settled into using technology rather than the ancient magic of the land. On his 16th birthday, Ian is presented with a gift his late father (it’s not a Disney film without a dead parent) left for him. It’s his old wizard’s staff, and Ian and Barley are given a spell to bring him back to life for just one day. Barley has vague memories of his dad but Ian, having never met him is keen to see him. They attempt the spell but it goes wrong and only the legs come back, leaving the boys with a dilemma. Do they just have their dad’s legs for 24 hours or go on a quest to find a new crystal which will help them complete the spell and see their dad? Spoiler alert … they go on the quest. And from there, the whole film kinda fizzles out. Pixar have always found the perfect balance between kids and adults for me, but whilst watching this I couldn’t help but think that nothing in there was pitched at me as an adult, yet too much was aimed over the heads of kids … so just what is the audience for this film? It’s not particularly funny, and underwhelmed me so much after seeing a trailer which really made me think this was going to be an emotional roller-coaster of a film, but in the end it lacked heart and definitely lacked laughs.
O
• 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.
(6pm-9pm). Guests are invited to read, sing or just listen to talented writers. Locally-published writers appear as guest speakers and afterwards there is an open mic session.
Taking place on the second Sunday of every month, there’s cake available and a chance to win a bottle of cava or gin from the raffle. For more information visit the website: www.runcible spoon.co.uk.
Tomorrow’s the big night DEWSBURY Arts Group is set to stage a production of ‘Ask Me Tomorrow’ ... starting tomorrow (Sat). The show, by Stan Barstow and Alfred Bradley focuses on aspiring writer Wilf Cotton, who relocates to a city in order to extricate himself from his family ties. The action takes place in a West Yorkshire boarding house where there is a hint of romance and colourful characters in the form of Wilf’s landlady, his brother and a fellow boarder. Ask Me Tomorrow is a collaboration with Alfred Bradley from the novel by Stan Barstow, who was born in Horbury and educated at Ossett Grammar School. The show takes place at 7.30pm on Saturday and then from Monday March 16 to Saturday March 21 at the David and Judith Wood Theatre at Artspace on Lower Peel Street, Dewsbury. Tickets cost £10 and are available by ringing 0333 6663366 or by going to www.ticketsource.co/.uk/dewsburyarts group.
SATURDAY 21 MARCH ABOUT N ROUND Starts at 10.30am Oakwell Hall bottom car park (BD19 4LL, SE211267) 8 miles – moderate Contact: Eddie and Andrea 01924 470091
Jimmy Loves Sir Elton GET ready for take-off as the number one tribute to one of the greatest musicians of all time comes to Morley Town Hall on next Friday night. No-one else recreates the flamboyant Sir Elton John with as much vigour and brilliance as world renowned tribute artist Jimmy Love. The amazing live band will take you down the Yellow Brick Road with two hours of Elton hits, from Crocodile Rock, to Philadelphia Freedom and the beautiful Your Song. Are you ready for love? Tickets for the 18+ event (6.30pm to 11pm) cost £26.10 for a seated table and £21.15 for balcony seating.
Free entry at church HANGING HEATON’S Ebenezer Methodist Church is hosting a coffee morning and various stalls on Saturday March 28. The church, on Kirkgate will be open from 10am to 12.30pm and entrance is free. All proceeds will go to church funds.
Two celebratory concerts planned MIRFIELD’S Choral Society will host their Spring Concert on Saturday April 4. The group will perform Stainer’s Crucifixion and other Easter anthems at Dewsbury’s Longcauseway Church (7.15pm). Tickets cost £10 or £5 for U18s and students. And later this year, Mirfield’s Choral Society will celebrate their 80th anniversary with a concert, in conjunction with Morley Choral Society, at Dewsbury Town Hall on July 11 (7.30pm). For more information, email mirfieldchoral@gmail.com, or call 01924 494708.
A cancellation... L-R: Sue Saville as Mrs Poppy Swallow, Hugh Raine as Wilf Cotton, Catherine Bailey as Marguerite Fisher and Karen Riding as Sylvia
NEXT Tuesday night’s regular swing music event with Eddie Martell and the Ronnie Bottomley Trio at Millbridge Sports Bar has been cancelled.
Shaun brings his story to life HAPPY MONDAYS legend Shaun Ryder visits Morley tonight (Fri)! The music legend is bringing his ‘An Evening With Shaun Ryder’ show to the town hall. Born in 1962, Shaun has beome well known worldwide as a singer,
songwriter, TV personality and author. As the lead singer of the Happy Mondays he was a leading figure in the Manchester cultural scene during the late 1980s and 90s. Join Shaun as he discusses his
life, career and the music industry, and there will also be a chance for fans to ask him a question during the Q&A session. Guests will be treated to live music along with a fully licenced bar.
Tickets for the 18+ event cost £20 per person. There are also 30 VIP tickets available, which include a meet and greet and photo with Shaun, at the price of £50. For more information call 0113 378 8575.
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
A dreamland experience The other night I had the most dreadful dream, or should I say nightmare. My house in Lower Hopton was flooded, yet again; our family-run business in the same vicinity was also underwater. The railway station was out of bounds and thousands of Mirfield residents were unable to go to work to pay their bills. Time stood damply still. To add further misery to my horrific dream I had been diagnosed with the coronavirus. I was not in the best of spirits, but my subliminal grey matter was already conjuring up a cunning and spiteful plot of revenge. Another storm system was on its way and our local councillors, MP and environmental agency were due in a day’s time to professionally gawp at another grey expanse of aggravated lakeland known as Lower Hopton. I knew that water in the Calder at full flow takes one-and-a-half hours to reach Mirfield from the almostflooded plains of Mytholmroyd further up the Calder Valley.
SALE NOW ON
Letter of the Week: ‘Percy Tinkletons’, Lower Hopton I had done my calculations at the zenith of the last storm with an improvised rubber duck fitted with a tracking device. My plot was hatched. After drinking three gallons of water I made my way up the Calder Valley, and at a pre-determined time I climbed the parapet of Tenterfields Bridge spanning the raging Calder just downstream of Mytholmroyd. I checked my watch and, right on time, I added my bit of gusto to the raging torrents below. In one-and-a-half hours’ time, the Calder would be inspected by our selected peers at Ledyard Bridge, just in time for my homegrown viral part of the Calder to arrive. It was stormy and the Calder was already
throwing up spray, so with a bit of luck I should cop the lot of them. My dream was broken when I woke up. Looking out of the bedroom window it was still pelting down and the Calder was rising again. I thought about my unfinished nightmare and wondered what would have been the outcome of my malevolent watery deeds. Was it: A) I was arrested and charged with an act of terrorism B) I was arrested and locked up under the Mental Health Act B) Nothing at all – the environment agency, MP and councillors forgot to turn up. Work out the answer yourselves, because anything can happen in dreamland.
Amazing history and value From: John Dewhirst, by email Today I attended the last in a series of five talks relating to the history of industry and transport in the Spen Valley. The first three talks explained the background as to why Spen Valley seemed to attract a wide range of industries. These talks were delivered by Richard Grylls and were very detailed, informative and gave a very comprehensive review of locallybased industries. The final two talks centred on the development of local railways, again with detailed information about the two main stations, namely Cleckheaton Central and Cleckheaton Spen. These two talks were delivered by Max Rathmell, who explained how rail transport fitted into the way railways developed both locally and nationally. These talks were very informative and detailed and sought to explain how the advent of steam power was enhanced by a series of very practical innovations. The venue for these talks was Cleckheaton Town Hall and came as
9
part of a programme delivered by Cleckheaton U3A (University of the Third Age). The local U3A provide a wide range of courses each year, which start in late September and finish mid-March. However some of the courses are extended to run through the summer. There is an enrolment fee, which is in no way prohibitive and the courses like the one I have outlined represent amazing value. The courses are open to retired people or what are sometimes described as ‘senior citizens’. The course epitomises the saying “You are never too old to learn.”
Second-class folk From: Anthony Doyle, via email Four weeks ago I contacted Kirklees Council to report a fault on the lightcontrolled crossing outside the Co-op on Low Lane in Birstall. For quite a while the traffic flow control sensor has not worked. Normally when the button is pushed, if there is no traffic pedestrians would get the green light and cross safely. Now when the button is pushed
Continued on p10
10
ThePress
Continued from page 9 nothing happens, even when there is no traffic. The result is pedestrians are left waiting at the kerb. Some try to cross against the lights, which causes frustration to drivers who travel with the lights. Several minutes later the lights will change, there will be nobody waiting to cross, frustration abounds. I was put through to the Highways department, reported the fault and asked for my contact details. I was told it would be deemed an emergency as it was dangerous. Guess what? Nothing has been done. Does someone have to be injured for the crossing to be put right? My guess is if the crossing was on the main street in Huddersfield it would have been put right weeks ago. Obviously the people of Birstall are second class.
A good night out From: Alan Greenwood, Trafalgar Street Batley means a lot to me.
Friday March 13, 2020
There’s nowhere else I’d rather be. And when the winter starts to pall, I get myself to Brimer Hall For Audio Visual Showcase night It always fills me with delight. We journey round the world on screen To places I have never been. It’s always entertaining and There’s tea and biscuits close at hand! So come and watch and quench your thirst March twentieth and twenty first. The Audio Visual Showcase will be at Brimer Hall on Friday March 20 and Saturday March 21 at 7.30 pm. Entry is £5 including interval tea, coffee and biscuits.
It’s a start... From: Stephen Boden, Birstall Just a follow-up note from last week about the Birstall Christmas lights. Last Sunday I noticed that the lights on the lampposts and buildings had been taken down over the weekend of March 7-8. Whether it was my letter in The Press on the 6th of March or not I don’t know. The small Christmas trees
on the shops are still there, but at least it’s a start. Thank you to whoever did the work.
Few options From: Name and address supplied Attending Dewsbury Hospital to have the tubes in my hearing aids changed, I was told the ear canals were blocked and needed attention. I commented I would have it done at my local health centre in Birkenshaw but this facility is no longer available there or in Birstall. Given a referral number on contacting the NHS website, I was told no appointments were available at Dewsbury Hospital. On again contacting them on Thursday March 5, as instructed, I was told no appointments were available for 40 weeks, until January 2021, at Dewsbury, Pontefract or Pinderfields hospitals. The choice of Specsavers in Manchester – two ears for £50 – or a private clinic quoting up to $3,500, as you can appreciate, is no choice. We in this country have the finest health service in the world, as can be seen by the present virus problems and our reaction to it.
Should I now go to a hospital’s emergency department?
Adding to a lost generation From: PH Rhodes, Mirfield Every child should have a fair chance in life, but how can they when 20-30 souls are applying for every mediocre job? Having voted in different ways to postpone Brexit, the Batley MP now wants increased family allowances. Fair enough, for present families, but to my mind, and many others, the last thing we need to see is more and more youngsters being added to the ‘lost generation’. Has anyone seen the swarms of kids pouring out of school? I honestly feel sorry for them, unless they’ve got ‘A’ passes in 1,001 subjects. Moreover, look at what is facing them! The infrastructure (roads, housing, schools etc) is not designed for almost 70 million people – experts say only 30 million. Been in a traffic jam lately? Also, the Batley MP is voting in a Labour election for a woman who left school at 16 with a child (Angela Rayner). The ‘absent father’ syndrome has been proven lately to supply us with a high percentage of the younger offenders who are marauding around our towns and cities, or are in jail.
They’re talking a load of tripe From: Harry Teale, Mirfield Having been born, and lived ever since, in the Heavy Woollen district, I believe that I am suitably qualified to point out that D Green, Mirfield (Mar 6), is ‘talking a load of tripe’ to be polite! Before the creation of ‘Kirklees’ Council, the Urban District Councils of Batley, Dewsbury, Heckmondwike,
Mirfield and Spenborough controlled the local areas. The councillors in those days were unpaid local businessman and professionals who had the interests of the locals at heart. From 1974 the overpaid dictators controlling ‘Kirklees’ Council have no interest whatsoever in the locals. The dictators employ ‘the best’ (at obscene pay packages) from outside the locality. After a couple of years ‘the best’ disappear leaving the area worse off than before. The present-day town or parish councils have no powers to provide infrastructure – only to put forward constructive criticism which Kirklees totally ignore! Mirfield Town Council was formed in 1988. What did Kirklees do about residents complaints regarding the flooding of Calder Road, Granny Lane and Steanard Lane prior to 1988? As for the stupid comment regarding our MP only reacting when we start screaming – what does he/she think the people have been doing for the last 45 years or so since Kirklees was created? Anyone with intelligence would not be concentrating on flood defences upstream/ upriver. They would be dredging the river mouth at the coast and then working upriver. The Kirklees councillors in their infinite wisdom have been allowing builders to concrete over land anywhere, thus depriving the terrain of their ability to absorb surface water, which then takes the easiest path to the river and canal, both of which cannot cope with the extra water flow. Add to this the ‘Strategic Planning Committee’ chaired by Councillor Hall has allocated sites on notorious flood plains for house-building, with another Labour councillor quoted as saying “it’s worth the risk”! The strategic planning department of Kirklees ignores local residents totally! The only sensible thing from D. Green is that we must change the make-up of the parties in Kirklees by reducing the number of Labour councillors to less than the major party.
We want your unwanted stuff From: Tim Wood, Mirfield Any old iron? Well not quite, but nonetheless I’m at the
scrounge yet again, this time for any unwanted gifts, Christmas presents, birthday presents and so on. We, the Mirfield Rifle Volunteers, shall be putting on a gala auction and raffle with the proceeds going towards worthy causes around the greater district. I shall be donating seven brand-new dressing gowns I have amassed over the last 18 months. Why my elderly relatives keep buying me dressing gowns and socks I do not know – I have not worn socks in over 25 years. I thought you only wore dressing gowns in hospital, and the last time I underwent surgery was when I had my tonsils removed at the age of eight. Anything will be gratefully received as long as it’s tidy and boxed or packaged. My Great Aunt Edna stopped doing jigsaw puzzles recently and has donated her entire collection of Edwardian classics. I went down to see her the other week and the dining table was covered in bits of stuff. I said: “What are you doing Aunt Edna?” “I’m doing this giant cockerel...” I looked at the box and said: Ahem, they’re cornflakes Aunt Edna.” “Oh really,” she squinted back, “it’s taken me three weeks to try and get the corners right...” So if you’re into dressing gowns, jigsaws or whatever fantastical unwanted array of goods we can have donated, our future auction date (to be announced) will be a truly magnificent occasion. You can call me on 01924 496920. Oh, by the way, no cages of budgies this time.
No help for our flood victims From: Peter Abbott, by email Spare a thought for all the bigwigs on six-figure salaries at Department for International Development and their flunkies scratching their heads on how to spend just short of £16 billion of overseas aid. All while local people, people in the Hull and Doncaster areas, Wales and the Midlands are still underwater. Homes, businesses and farmland ruined, but no help for them, not one penny, sweet FA.
LATEST PLANNING APPLICATIONS LGS Construction, two rear balconies, 12 Valley Road, Thornhill. T Ellis, demolition of existing store, erection of garage, store, office and canteen for existing works with a domestic garage element, Fall Lane Farm, Fall Lane, Hartshead. M A Irfan, garage/storage area, Paradise Indian Takeaway, 4 Princess Street, Chickenley. S Mehmood, two-storey rear extension, 38 Beech Walk, Eightlands. H Barker, installation of new window openings (within a Conservation Area), 37 New Road East, Scholes. N Graham, two-storey side and single-storey rear extension, 52 Bennett Lane, Dewsbury. A H Qayum, two-storey side extension, singlestorey rear extension, front porch and alterations, 82 Ravens Avenue, Scout Hill, Dewsbury. M Crowther, single-storey side extension and alterations to access, Stone Edge, 107 Scholes Lane, Scholes. N Pollitt, single-storey rear extension (within a Conservation Area), 994 Bradford Road, Birstall. Mr & Mrs Murphy, single-storey rear extension and decking, 28 Magnolias, Birstall. JM Rhodes, work to trees TPO 60/93, 110A Oxford Road, Gomersal. Mr & Mrs Schofield, two-storey side and singlestorey front extensions, 24 Moorlands Road, Birkenshaw.
J Hartley, single- and two-storey side extension, 244 Norristhorpe Lane, Norristhorpe. M Thompson, certificate of lawfulness for proposed erection of single-storey rear extension, 139 Church Lane, Gomersal. D Sowden, detached garden room and fence, 16 St Mary’s Walk, Mirfield. B Karolia, discharge condtion 2 (materials) on previous permission 2018/61/90330/E for reserved matters application pursuant to outline permission 2015/92068 for erection of one detached dwelling, land adjacent to 26 Track Road, Batley. G Soloman, single-storey rear extension and alterations to convert integral garage to extend living accommodation, 18 Thornleigh Drive, Millbridge, Liversedge. Mr & Mrs I Malik, non-material amendment to previous permission 2019/93705 for erection of single and two-storey rear extension (modified proposal), 14 Vernon Road, Heckmondwike. M Saeed, extensions to front, side and rear and front dormer, 56 Parker Road, Thornhill Lees. Croft Carehome Ltd, extensions and alterations to convert two dwellings into one dwelling, Holme Cottage, Oxford Road, Gomersal. K Smithson, prior notification for change of use from Class A1 (retail) to one dwelling, 58 St Peg Lane, Cleckheaton. Z Ahmed, increase in roof height, erection of front
and rear dormers and alterations to warehouse to form one dwelling, 1st-3rd floors, rear of 100, Ward Street, Dewsbury. I Wightman, discharge conditions 3 (materials), 5 (highway works), 6 (trees) on previous permission 2018/92006 for erection of detached dwelling with integral garage (modified proposal), 4C Crowlees Road, Mirfield. J Bulmer, demolition of existing garage, erection of two-storey side extension and single-storey rear extension, 2A Crowlees Road, Mirfield. H Moosa, the proposal is for erection of singlestorey rear extension. The extension projects 5.01m 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 2.8m, 383 Lees Hall Road, Thornhill Lees. Cleckheaton Construction Ltd, discharge condition 14 (site investigation) on previous permission 2018/92005 for demolition of existing industrial units and erection of new industrial units and formation of car parking, Flush Mills, Westgate, Heckmondwike. D China, non-material amendment to previous permission 2018/91707 for erection of extensions and alterations, 18 Sycamore Drive, Moorbottom, Cleckheaton.
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
11
What does the Budget mean for your business? HE BUDGET this week was the first following the General Election and the UK officially leaving the EU, but also was announced in the throes of the coronavirus crisis. The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, put in place a number of measures to try to alleviate the problems which might impact upon individuals and businesses as a result of the virus, such as: • Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) to be paid from day one, plus businesses being refunded up to two weeks’ SSP for each eligible employee. • Help for the self-employed through the social security regime. • HMRC support for taxpayers suffering from financial distress, as a result of the virus, in respect of the late payment of tax. • A temporary Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme to support businesses to access bank lending and overdraft facilities.
T
Super Steve’s big home run By Zoe Shackleton A FORMER boxing world champion is gearing up for a huge charity effort which will see him run 96 miles from Hartlepool to Dewsbury. Steve Conway, who is originally from the seaside town but moved to Dewsbury when he was nine years old, is taking on the mammoth task to raise funds for Kirkwood Hospice. The 43-year-old, who works at Morley Glass and Glazing, hopes completing the venture will help his grieving process after losing his mum, sister and brother within months of each other. Describing it as “the worst time of my life”, Steve’s mum Linda Conway died in February 2019 after a long battle with metastatic breast cancer, having decided to give up on her treatment following the death of son Shaun and daughter Sheena the year before. Linda was cared for by Kirkwood in her later stages at her home in Dewsbury – and Steve says he will stop at nothing until he’s completed the run. Steve, who won the IBO Light Middleweight title in 2006, said: “Kirkwood made (my mum) comfortable and I can’t thank them enough. “If I can raise a bit of money that’ll help. Everybody I know has been or will come into contact with Kirkwood, whether it’s a friend or family member. “I didn’t realise what they did until I was put in the position with my mum where we needed their help. “They are absolutely fantastic and if I can raise a bit of money towards making somebody else comfortable, then that’s part of my grieving.”
BACK IN THE DAY: World champion Steve Conway in 2006
For Business On the tax front, the corporation tax rate was to have dropped to 17% but this has been overturned and the rate remains at 19%. Large companies who carry out research and development work will be rewarded with an increase in the Research Development Expenditure Credit relief from 12% to 13%. A carrot-and-stick approach has been adopted by the Chancellor to encourage both business and individuals to use Co2-friendly/electric vehicles by offering tax incentives to do so whilst increasing the tax charge for those who fail to fol-
Tax Tales with Jones Accountants
low the Government aims. Due to the delay in rolling out this Budget, certain announcements had been made prior to it. One of which was that for certain qualifying businesses the retail discount for business rates will be increased to 50%, and the qualifying criteria has been extended to include music venues and cinemas. Public houses with a rateable value of less than £100,000 will get an additional relief of £1,000, which has now been commonly referred to as pub relief. The annual threshold where a business suffers employers’ national insurance (NI) from April 2020 will no longer be in line with that of the employees NI threshold having been increased only in line with inflation up to £8,788. The employment allowance, which can be offset against the employer’s national insurance liability, will be increased to £4,000 from £3,000.
For Individuals The annual national insurance
threshold, at which point an individual pays national insurance on their earned income, has been increased by 10% up to £9,500. For a typical employee and self-employed individuals it could result in an annual saving of up to £104 and £78 respectively. The personal allowance for individuals will remain at £12,500. Those individuals who have been caught by the pension tax charge because their income is high, will find some respite, as the Government has increased the criteria threshold at which point the charge comes into play. The capital gains tax exemption threshold has increased to £12,300. • Get your copy of the Budget at www.jones accountants.co.uk. Type your email into the ‘Let us keep you up to date’ section.
Dinah Jones
Ask a question ... Dinah@JonesAccountants.co.uk
Steve now lives in Chickenley with his partner and their two young children. He is setting off from Seaton Carew beach on Saturday April 4 and will finish his epic run at Dewsbury Town Hall. He said: “Nothing is going to stop me, I know what it’s for – if I have to walk all the way I will. “Hail, rain, snow, I’m not bothered. It could be the equivalent of three marathons in three days but if it takes me all week, it’s getting done regardless.” Donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/stephenconway-april2020.
ThePress
12
Friday March 13, 2020
FOOD FOR THOUGHT...
The easiest, most delicious pasta you’ll ever make... OW, that headline is a bold claim to make, but stay with me. I’m a big fan of simple cooking. Sometimes you come home from a long day, and just want something delicious that can be on the table in 10 minutes. Give this one a go! This dish uses just four ingredients, takes 10 minutes to make and is one you will use again and again. It has a needlessly fancy name though – Pasta aglio e olio. That’s pasta with oil and garlic to me and you. The four ingredients are – spaghetti, olive oil, garlic and chilli flakes. That’s it. And the method couldn’t be simpler. All we are doing is slowly cooking some garlic and chilli in olive oil to impart all of its wonderful flavour, then tossing the pasta in the flavoured oil. The trick is to cook the garlic and chilli slowly. If garlic burns, it becomes very bitter, which will ruin the whole taste of the dish. It may seem like a lot of garlic, but cooking it gently means you will get a lovely subtle flavour, not
N
a big garlic slap around the face. This works best with a long pasta, like spaghetti or linguine, but it really can use any pasta you have in your cupboard. The great thing about this is it is a wonderful base to experiment with and grow your confidence in the kitchen. It stands as a wonderful dish on its own, but you could throw in pretty much anything you have and customise it. You could up the veggie count with some thinly sliced peppers and mushrooms, or if you’re catering for a house of meat eaters, thin strips of chicken or some chorizo would go down an absolute storm. I quite like to have this with pangritata, an unnecessarily fancy word for crispy breadcrumbs. Often called ‘poor man’s parmesan’, all you do is whizz up some stale bread or toast in a food processor with some herbs, and fry in a pan until crispy. It’s as easy as that, but it really lifts a plate of pasta. If you’re ever stuck for what to make, give this a try – it’s one you’ll use over and over again!
instructions – about 10 minutes usually. Chop the garlic into thin slices. Add the olive oil to a cold frying pan, and add the garlic and chilli flake to the oil, and set on a medium low heat. Add a little salt and pepper, and slowly cook the garlic and chilli in the oil until golden, stirring regularly. Once the pasta is cooked, take a mug of the pasta water and set aside. Drain the pasta, and toss in the flavoured oil, adding a little splash of the pasta water. Serve immediately, with a twist of pepper.
Ingredients – serves two 200g spaghetti; 3 tbsps olive oil; 3 garlic cloves;
Fat pinch of chilli flakes. Add the pasta to a large pan of boiling salted water, give it a good stir and cook per the package
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
Friday March 13, 2020
ThePress
13
14
ThePress
In Brief Stoma meeting NORTH KIRKLEES: The Dewsbury and District Stoma Support Group is holding its first monthly meeting of the year on Thursday March 26. It starts at 7pm in the Oak Room at Dewsbury Hospital’s Oakwell Centre. The group supports people and their partners or carers who have undergone, or are about to go through colorectal surgery. For more information email dews.ssg@gmx.com.
Correction WHITE LEE: In the February 28 edition of The Press we printed a story on page 16 about antisocial behaviour hotspots. In the article we wrote that there were 36 incidents listed on Brighton Close, according to the Home Office’s Police UK website. It should have read that 36 incidents were recorded ‘on or near’ Brighton Close.
Friday March 13, 2020
Housing whodunit What happened to results of mystery traffic census? By Steve Martyn IT’S turning into the ‘Northorpe Mystery Traffic Census’ – who exactly commissioned a report on traffic movement directly outside the site of a controversial planned housing development? There’s an ongoing battle between local residents trying to halt the plan for 48 new homes on land off Northorpe Lane, which is backed by both planning officers and councillors. As things stand, the battle centres on a wide grass verge which belongs to the Northorpe Hall Trust, but which Kirklees is trying to claim it can develop. Protestors say Northorpe Lane is totally unsuitable on a variety of levels – but now want to know who carried out a traffic census directly outside the house of land owner and applicant John Cowell, which would have to be demolished for access if the development proceeds. Residents say the census took place either side of July 16 last year, when the planning application was submitted. They tracked down the sub-contractor from Wrexham who carried out
The controversial verge, opposite the planned site access on Northorpe Lane the work, but have not established who commissioned it – and why the results have not come to light. “The only reason we can imagine they would have been suppressed, is if they didn’t help the cause of the people wanting this development,” said resident Richard Gawthorpe. Kirklees Council planning and highways officers claim to be completely in the dark about any survey. And this week the developer’s agents, Huddersfield company Acumen Designers and Architects,
gave The Press a cagey reply when asked if it was their operation. A spokesperson said: “All the information commissioned by our client has been sent to the Council and is in the public domain, and easily visible for anyone to see. “The census you refer to may have been commissioned by another developer looking to build any of the proposed 400 houses in the area.” Mr Gawthorpe rubbished the idea that it could possibly be intended for any development other than the
one it was adjacent to. As part of the application’s intended approval Kirklees Council wanted to remove a grass verge to assist access and provide parking for 12 vehicles. Residents say the narrow lane is already gridlocked at peak times. At a Heavy Woollen Planning sub committee meeting in January, campaigners were left frustrated when the application was deferred and they were not allowed to voice their arguments against it. However they have since discovered that Acumen’s town planning expert is well known to the local authority – Hamish Gledhill was a former Principal Planning Officer for Kirklees, who was allowed to resign following an internal investigation which showed he had also been working privately for a developer. At the time of his resignation in 2011 the council said it was accepting his resignation in order to “protect the integrity of the Local Development Framework” – the longterm plan to build thousands of houses across Kirklees.
Drug dealer returned to scene of crime A DRUG dealer climbed over a wall and through a hole in his neighbour’s fence in a bid to escape from police, a court was told. But when Jemaine Shazad was caught nearly £25,000 worth of drugs was found in his Batley home. He was jailed for four years at Leeds Crown Court after admitting drugsrelated offences. Paul Nicholson, prosecuting, said police visited the then-home of Shazad on Common Road, Staincliffe, on April 24, 2018. Shazad, also known as Jemaine Davies, came out via the back door and police told him he was under arrest on suspicion of supplying class A drugs. He then climbed over a wall and through a fence to escape before returning home shortly after. Police called for backup after hearing the toilet being repeatedly flushed and suspected that evidence was being destroyed. They entered the property and arrested Shazad, 31, in the bedroom. Police found 52.1g worth of cocaine of 92 per cent purity and nearly a kilogram of ketamine, worth a combined value of around £24,600. They also discovered smaller bags of cocaine, ketamine and MDMA. In addition, scales with the residue of white powder on them and a list of people in debt to Shazad were found, along with a Rolex watch, Louis Vuitton items and £4,569 in cash. Shazad, of Bank Grove, Earlsheaton, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply a class A drug, possession with intent to supply a class B drug, possession of a class A drug and possession of criminal property. He has 17 previous convictions for 35 offences including possession with intent to supply heroin, violence, breaching a nonmolestation order and shoplifting.
Make the right childcare choice Advertising Feature PARENTS on the lookout for a new nursery for their youngsters are invited to an open day at Nik Nik’s Bizzy Bees tomorrow (Saturday). The nursery opened in November 2019, but owner and manager Nicola TaylorKilkenny has worked as a childminder since 2004. She is qualified to Level 4 in Advanced Childcare Practice and Management and is currently studying Level 5 Diploma in Leadership & Management for Children & Young People’s Workforce. Situated on The Town in
Thornhill, the team of seven offer daycare services as well as pre- and after-school clubs. Nik Nik’s also offers homecooked meals for all its children and boasts a five-star food hygiene rating. Activities planned by the nursery include yoga, music and movement, messy play and music classes. Nik Nik’s also organises outings in the community and the group frequently visits the local library and care home. Nicola said: “We started caring for a few children and in 2012 we doubled the number of children we could look after. Then, in 2019 we could-
n’t take any more in at my home so we opened a nursery.” One parent said: “It’s not easy choosing a nursery but they held settling-in sessions and the staff are lovely, they have a brilliant bond with the children, we are so glad we chose Nik Nik’s.” Nicola is currently looking to welcome 20 more children, from newborns up to the age of 12. Nik Nik’s Bizzy Bees is open from 7.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday. For more information call Nicola on 07920 272975 or have a look at their Facebook page: Nik Nik’s – Childcare.
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
Sex attacker housed on victim’s street By Zoe Shackleton A WOMAN who was sexually assaulted when she was 12 years old has been left living in fear after her attacker moved into a house on the same street as her. And she has accused Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing (KNH) of not doing enough to help her find somewhere else to live with her young children. The young mum from North Kirklees has lived in the same home for the last six years. She says she noticed the man, who was also a minor at the time of the attack, move into the KNH property just a few doors away from her several weeks ago. “The council didn’t really seem interested (when I told them),” she said. “My housing officer rang me and said ‘why can’t you just live there, because he
might move?’ “She’s basically saying I have to live on a street with someone that attacked me. I don’t feel safe.” She added: “The council see it as ‘he’s done his time now, you get on with your life’. That’s how it’s making me feel. “I have tried to be strong, but then I had a breakdown. I’m trying to be strong but I’m not, I can’t be. “It makes it worse when I see him – it does bring flashbacks, I’ve got bad anxiety and I can’t sleep. “Now he’s on the street it’s a lot worse, I’m drained. I am actually poorly because of it.” The sexual assault occurred 13 years ago and the injunctions imposed on the man at the time have since lapsed – meaning there is no legal issue preventing
him from living at the property. But the woman says she doesn’t feel safe living in such close proximity to the man who attacked her. She says she has had help from police and added: “A safeguarding officer is coming to see me. They are helping if anything happens, but the council are just fobbing me off.” Ideally she wants to move into a three-bedroomed house where she and her children can live longer-term, instead of having to move every few years. She said: “I haven’t got money, I’m a single parent so it’s hard. I get child maintenance from my ex-partner but it’s not much. “I’ve got to scrimp and scrape, I’ve been in here six years and I’ve not even finished getting the house as I want it.” A member of her family added:
“She shouldn’t have to move in the first place but if that’s the case, then can we not just have a bit of flexibility? “We’re not asking for a lot, she’s being emotionally forced out of the house.” One local Kirklees councillor has also offered their help. They said: “I have made enquiries with local housing officers on behalf of the family as I believe this is an exceptional case. “I am disappointed with the response and have therefore asked Coun Cathy Scott to review the case as cabinet member for housing. “I hope that we can minimise further distress and disruption for the family.” A spokesman for KNH said: “We would not comment on individual tenants.”
Tracy battles for disabled train passengers By Steve Martyn MP TRACY BRABIN has written to the Government asking for urgent investment to make Batley’s railway station fully accessible for disabled passengers. The Batley & Spen MP is calling on the Government to modernise the station, off Back Station Road, by making it fully wheelchair accessible. And Ms Brabin has also called for a bus service to and from the station, as well as the removal of “horrible” Pacer trains. Currently only one of Batley station’s plat-
forms has level, step-free access, meaning disabled passengers can only travel in one direction – towards Leeds. This often leads to disabled passengers having to make an extended or costlier journey. Writing to Transport Minister Chris Heaton-Harris, Ms Brabin recalled the plight of one constituent, a Paralympic athlete, who was forced to extend his journey home and pay for a taxi, due to not being able to leave his train at Batley. Ms Brabin goes on to tell the minister: “Disabled constituents face numerous barriers when they want to travel by train, includ-
ing access to their local station. “Since 2004 it has been written in law that railway stations should be fully accessible to disabled users. “The 2018 Transport Strategy said 75 per cent of railway stations had full disabled access, but Batley has still been left behind and forgotten to the detriment of local disabled people. This is simply unacceptable in this day and age. “It’s an outrage in 2020 that wheelchair users can’t get a train to or from their local station. Change has to happen and it needs to happen now.”
15
ThePress
16
Friday March 13, 2020
News In Brief
Long tailbacks BATLEY: A car crash caused long traffic delays on a main road during rush hour on Thursday morning. A blue Seat and black Audi were in collision just after 8am near to the BP garage on Bradford Road. The road was partially blocked until the Seat car could be moved. Emergency services attended but there were no serious injuries.
Cricket club’s £2m funding quandary
Pride celebration date
By Staff Reporters
BATLEY: A pride celebration has been confirmed for Saturday July 11 in Wilton Park. The third-annual ‘Pride in the Park’, which celebrates Batley’s diversity and LGBTQ+ community, will run from 11am to 5pm.
THE FUTURE of a long-established cricket club in Batley could be in jeopardy because it
won’t accept lottery-funded donations. Mount CC has plans for a £2million revamp of its facilities, but most of its members are Muslim and they won’t apply for National Lottery funding as they believe it is unethical to accept contributions funded by the gambling industry. Sport England gives out grants to community clubs wanting to improve their facilities, but two-thirds of that money comes from the National Lottery. Based on Halifax Road in Staincliffe, the club, founded in 1976, is heavily involved in the local community and hosts food banks as well as working with schools. Club spokesman Abdul Ravat said:
“The problem we’ll have is that we want to be able to serve our community in the ways we want to, but how can we do that if we can’t fund it? “You won’t find a club more ingrained in its community than us. “We are on the frontline in terms of fighting obesity and tackling isolation and mental health issues. “We’re a sports club, but we are at the heart of our community. “We get youngsters in at the club and we want them to be good role models in the community.” The club is open to players from all faiths and backgrounds, but is made up of mainly Muslim players. Abdul added: “We don’t believe in gambling, it’s as simple as that. “So we made the decision a long
time ago to not receive funding from sources that involve gambling.” The club, along with Batley & Spen MP Tracy Brabin, is calling on the government to “level the playing field” when it comes to funding. Abdul said: “We have a £2million project on the table, but that money has to come from Sport England and that is lottery-funded which is the problem for us.” Phil Smith, director of Sport England, said: “For those unable to accept National Lottery funding for religious reasons we have the scope to fund smaller projects from other sources. “If we can offer a grant, we will ensure that the grant does not come from National Lottery funding.”
Entering a new age 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... N AUGUST Bank Holiday Monday, 1945, Dewsbury found itself, like much of the country, facing torrential rain. A heatwave in the days leading up to August 6 had seen the people of the district enjoying a more positive outlook on life than they had experienced for the previous five years or so. With the surrender of Germany in May
O
Here for your plumbing & gas needs IF YOU need a trustworthy and competent gas and heating engineer at a fair price, then look no further. “l’m based in Birstall and have been running CR Gas & Plumbing Services for almost ten years after working as a British Gas engineer for 30 years. “I will take care of all of your heating and plumbing needs, from breakdowns to servicing, from boiler exchanges to fitting appliances and everything in between.
“
l’m Gas Safe-registered and I cover all of West Yorkshire, with no call-out charge and free quotes and estimates. “A major local lettings agency trust me to service all of the properties on their books and most of my work
comes from word of mouth after l’ve done a great job for a customer. ‘’I’m a local Birstall lad who’Il do quality work at a great price — just ask my clients! Call me today on 07921 151177. Clarke Rothwell, Owner
the district had marked the Victory in Europe with church bells ringing and parties in the streets but now it was a case of making the slow return to pre war normality. The problem of a belligerent Japan, in the Far East, was the last major uncertainty in the world. But on Bank Holiday Monday, while the rain fell on Dewsbury, a more deadly rain from the skies fell on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Brigadier General Paul Tibbets was the pilot of the USAF aircraft ‘Enola Gay’ that flew over Hiroshima that morning and released the world’s first atomic bomb to be used in conflict. Thirty five years later, close to the anniversary of the event, the New Wave synth rock band OMD released the song ‘Enola Gay’ as a single and it went on to
sell five million copies – but just how many of those record buyers were aware of the dark and very tragic story behind it. “You should have stayed at home that day,” sang composer Andy McCluskey. “It shouldn’t have turned out that way, is mother proud of Little Boy today, it’s 8.15 and that’s the time it has always been.” The lyrics encapsulate the events that arguably changed the world forever that Bank Holiday Monday. McCluskey’s song was challenging the necessity to drop the bomb on Hiroshima that seared the city to the ground and claimed 80,000 lives in an instant. The mother in question was Enola Gay Tibbets, the pilot’s mother whose name was given to the plane, and the ‘little boy’ was the nick-
name given to the bomb itself. The time of 8.15 was the time in Japan when the bomb landed with a blast of such power that clocks were stopped – and that’s the time it always was for them. “This kiss you give is never going to fade away”, is another telling line and it presumably refers to the subsequent radiation in the region that continued to cause deaths for decades after. The Daily Telegraph headlines on the following morning declared “Enemy Threatened with ‘Rain of Ruin’ from the air.” The rain in Dewsbury and District, and right across the country, would doubtless have had a pleasant cooling, and probably soothing, effect on those who had been spending too long in the sun. But, for many of those in Japan, who weren’t burnt beyond recognition, lives were destined to be lived under a shadow. Left suffering from radiation sickness, their bone function in producing blood cells began to fail, their immune systems failed and their bodies were effectively ‘burned’ away from the inside with multifarious cancers. Whilst the morality of the attack on Hiroshima, and the one on Nagasaki that followed, may be doubted the fact remains that Japan surrendered eight days later and the use of uranium to make the atomic bomb in this way actually paved the way for the nuclear power on which so much of the world today depends.
Friday March 13, 2020
ThePress
17
18
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
Never an easy career path, but times are changing It is 100 years since women were first legally able to practice law. Much has changed in that time and the law has become a popular choice for young women looking for a professional career. Jordans Solicitors, which has offices in Wakefield, Dewsbury and Horsforth, is a leading regional law firm. Managing partner CHRISTINE SANDS tells why she entered the profession and what the future holds for those who are thinking of following her example. What made you enter the legal profession? I would love to say it was my ambition from a very young age to enter the legal profession, but the truth was much more prosaic. As a teenager from a South Yorkshire comprehensive school, career advice was thin on the ground. Whilst not discouraged, as the school was keen to see its female pupils excel and my peer group ambitious; a future in the legal profession was never presented as a possibility. My love of economics at A-level took me to Newcastle University to study ecomonics and law and the sheer unique experience of studying the language and origin of our laws won me over; shaping my future career path.
When did you qualify as a solicitor?
Do women face any different challenges to men in the legal profession?
I qualified as a solicitor in 1994 having completed my articles at a niche commercial firm in Leeds.
Yes of course, the reality is that when it comes to having children and raising a family, women do have a different and more involved role. This is especially so during pregnancy and the period following the birth of a child. The fact of having a child is going to cause more disruption to the mother rather than the father. Despite the increasing number of women entering the law and achieving senior positions, and despite many firms and fellow professionals having modern positive attitudes, there are still situations where you may attend a meeting or court with a male colleague and it is often presumed that out of the pair you are the more junior, sometimes maybe even just a secretary.
When did you join Jordans? I joined Jordans in 2001.
When did you become managing partner? I was deputy managing partner since 2010 and appointed managing partner in October 2018.
Have you faced any prejudice or sexism as your career has progressed? Overall I believe I have been lucky as I have experienced very little prejudice or sexism in my career. The firms I have worked for have often had women in positions of authority, such as in charge of my training seats or partners in my departments, so my environment has often included positive female role models. Having said that, in early years as a trainee one was always aware of the older consultant who had a reputation for over-familiarity with female employees. The only sexism I have experienced is with a number of older commercial clients who were more comfortable being advised by male colleagues. Returning to work full-time in the late 90s after my first child, comments of surprise were made by senior male colleagues. I believe my commitment to my career was in question.
Christine Sands
Have you seen any changes in attitudes to women in law firms? Work-life balance has changed since I entered the profession markedly, and undoubtedly women have been the main drivers and beneficiaries of these changes. In the late 90s a bums-on-seats mentality ruled. In corporate work in particular, pulling an ‘all-nighter’ to finish a deal was commonplace. It was not unusual for women to equal men going into the profession but by their late 20s, women had a choice to make; career pro-
gression or a family. Rarely were the two together an option. Women who chose the family option either left the profession or returned to a part-time role for which they were over-qualified and were deemed to have forfeited any ambitions to develop their career. I have seen a sea change over the last 10 years. Part-time employees make up over half our workforce, men as well as women, and this is no bar to progression. I think the industry now allows more flexibility necessary for work/life balance and whilst still not an easy path, it is now possible to choose a career in law and a family.
Is it easier for a woman entering the legal profession now as opposed to when you became a solicitor? I would say that entering the legal profession is generally more difficult, whether you are male or female. There are now many more graduates trying to enter law and it is much harder to get a training contract than was the case when I qualified. I have to say that in our firm when interviewing for paralegal and trainee positions there is definitely no preference given based on gender. It is more important for us to find
the right candidate irrespective of gender. I expect however there are still a large number of firms who, whether subconsciously, may be giving preference to male candidates.
Are there any advantages to being a woman in your profession? Certainly in the area of work I have been involved in, which for the last few years has been heading up Jordans’ Child Abuse Team, I have found that many clients actually prefer to speak to a woman or have a female solicitor representing them. Whilst I know many child abuse solicitors who are very good at their job and make a massive contribution to this area of work, the reality is that many clients perceive that a woman will be able to deal with such matters in a more sensitive and caring way. Also the majority of the clients we have are male, often abused by males and this adds to their reluctance to open up to male professionals.
Do you have any advice for a young woman entering the legal profession? Research when applying for jobs and training contracts. Look for firms with female partners or females in senior roles in the firm. There are also networking organisations for female lawyers and professionals, which may be a good place to find support and practical advice from peers and others who are going through the early stages of their career.
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
19
Local Democracy Reporter TONY EARNSHAW with the latest news from Kirklees Council
No loss to college
Pioneer House which the principal of Kirklees College has said should open on time despite fit-out company Styles & Wood going bust KIRKLEES COLLEGE “has not lost any money” after news broke that the company fitting out a multi-million pound new campus building in Dewsbury had gone bust. College principal Marie Gilluley has sought to reassure staff that the restoration of Pioneer House is still going ahead and that the college hopes it will open as planned in September this year. Dewsbury MP Mark Eastwood has also urged that any delays be kept to a minimum. Styles & Wood, a construction firm based in Sale in Greater Manchester, went into administration on February 28 after experiencing cashflow problems associated with major sites. The company was undertaking the fit out of Pioneer House – a massive £3m transformation project aimed at aiding the revitalisation of the town centre as well as being a new campus for the college. Ms Gilluley, college principal and chief executive, said it was doing everything it could to ensure its proj-
ect hit deadline. She said: “Last Friday we received notification that our fit-out contractor undertaking the Pioneer Higher Skills Centre works had unfortunately entered administration. “Over the course of last week our focus has been on securing the site and commencing discussions with the sub-contract supply chain about their willingness and ability to continue working on the project, and the legal mechanism for this to happen. “Whilst we finalise those arrangements, there has been a short delay to the works, but we want to reassure staff that the project is still going ahead, the college has not lost any money as a result of this company failure. “We have a significant piece of work to undertake to re-contract and establish a revised project programme, and are doing everything we can to ensure no delay to opening.” Following a meeting with Ms Gilluley, Mr Eastwood said his initial frustrations had been assuaged.
He said: “My initial reaction following the news was one of shock and disappointment. “After years of frustrating delays waiting for Pioneer House to be brought back into use, the last thing we need is for the college to miss its deadline for opening in September. “However, having spoken with the principal at an urgent meeting, I am reasonably satisfied that she and her team has this difficult situation under control and they are doing their utmost to make sure the college opens on time. “At our meeting, I was also more than happy to offer the assistance of me and my team should any further difficulties arise.” Work on Pioneer House, which had been due to open in 2019, stopped last week. An observer who did not wish to be named said: “College managers were at the site on Friday protecting building materials and cables as workmen were taking items and undoing completed work.”
Bolt: Name and shame rule-breakers COUNCILLORS found to have broken conduct rules should be named, shamed and judged “in the court of public opinion”. That’s the view of one Kirklees councillor who has called on the authority to toughen its stance when enforcing its code of conduct. Martyn Bolt, who represents Mirfield for the Conservatives, said Kirklees Council should go back to publicising such matters as part of their legal notices in local newspapers. He said: “In the court of public opinion that’s where we are all judged.” His comments follow the highprofile case of James Dalton, a parish councillor in the Holme Valley, who received dozens of complaints last year after making provocative tweets referring to overweight health workers. As “principal council” Kirklees bears the cost of investigating the dossier of complaints against him. Holme Valley Parish Council sanctioned Mr Dalton, who represents the Democrats and Veterans Direct Democracy Party (DVP), for what it
described as “inappropriate actions”. It called on him to issue a written apology, delete the tweets and to undertake diversity training. Mr Dalton rejected suggestions he had breached the code of conduct and did not apologise. The thorny issue of code of conduct complaints was discussed at Kirklees Council’s Standards Committee on Wednesday. Members heard that councils like Kirklees are limited in what sanctions they can impose on members – and how they can be enforced. Legal experts said they must abide by current regulations, which do not allow councils in England to be as robust in their punishments as authorities in Wales and Scotland. The issue around sanctions was described as “really problematic” whilst the standards process “fails us in a lot of ways”. Coun Bolt said members made a declaration on being elected that they would abide by the council’s code of conduct. He added: “We make a promise. If, at the end of a process, a member refuses to accept the findings and
carry out whatever the outcomes were, that to me is a straight breach of the code. “As an elected member if they are breaking their solemn promise then that’s something people should know about. “If that declaration doesn’t mean anything then why do we do it? It’s not worth the paper it’s printed on.” He urged the council to be more assertive in its approach. Julie Muscroft, the council’s monitoring officer, said whilst there was no legal obligation to publicise standards issues it could be considered as part of an ongoing review of the code of conduct. She pointed out that decisions on standards issues were published on the council’s website. “The issue around sanctions is really problematic. We do not have any appropriate sanctions.” She said a draft code of conduct being considered by the Local Government Association lists some of the options available to councils but it doesn’t say what happens if someone is unwilling to comply with it. “There’s a whole load of things
that don’t get adequately dealt with as part of the standards process and the code of conduct.” Chair of the committee, Labour’s Coun Paul Davies, said given that Scotland and Wales had the power to suspend members the standards process in England was “a great frustration for us as decision-makers”. At the same meeting the council’s senior legal officer, David Stickley, said 18 complaints relating to breaches of the code of conduct had been received in the last six months. Ten related to district members on Kirklees Council and eight related to parish councillors. Three were not progressed and one was dealt with accordingly. The remainder are currently being investigated. Of the 46 complaints recorded in a previous report, which include those relating to Mr Dalton, 44 went through a formal assessment panel and subsequent decision-making stage. Mr Stickley said: “There remain some difficulties in enforcing the outcome of the decisions.”
Busy council leader Pandor won’t bid to be new WY mayor
West Yorkshire council leaders at the devolution launch in Leeds. L-R: Coun Shabir Pandor (Kirklees), Coun Tim Swift (Calderdale), Coun Susan Hinchcliffe (Bradford), Coun Judith Blake (Leeds) and Coun Denise Jeffrey (Wakefield) KIRKLEES Council Leader Shabir Pandor has ruled himself out of the top job as West Yorkshire Mayor as the county’s £1.8bn devolution deal was announced. Asked by the Local Democracy Reporting Service if he would throw his hat in the ring the leader of the Labourrun administration gave an unequivocal response. “No. I have got enough on in Kirklees doing what I am doing.” He added: “I will carry on doing everything I can to get the best outcome for Kirklees.” Coun Pandor (Lab, Batley West), who joined fellow council leaders in Leeds for the formal devolution announcement, said he had fought for “the best possible deal” for the borough in the run-up to today’s announcement. He described the £1.8bn deal as “a huge day for West Yorkshire and for us in Kirklees”. He added: “This gives us the funding and the power to take more of the decisions which affect our communities within the region.” The position of West Yorkshire Mayor will be created as a result of the deal with an election taking place in May 2021. The role will involve working with West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), a group of leading councillors and officers from West Yorkshire councils, plus York, that works on major infrastructure projects. In the coming years, the West Yorkshire Mayor will also exercise governance and community safety functions currently held by the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, similar to models in London and Greater Manchester. The planned Police and Crime Commissioner election in May will go ahead as planned. Coun Pandor said the deal will support his vision to secure more investment and opportunities for Kirklees.
In addition to significant funding, the deal announced in this week’s Government budget gives West Yorkshire far greater decision-making powers allowing the region to set its own priorities including ensuring a vibrant future for towns and rural areas while securing the economic success of cities. The deal is set to drive up living standards through better transport, improved skills and stronger businesses, while tackling the climate emergency has been secured for West Yorkshire. The agreement, announced at Granary Wharfe in Leeds, follows extensive negotiations between the leaders of West Yorkshire’s councils and Communities Minister Simon Clarke supported by officers from West Yorkshire authorities and WYCA. Coun Pandor said he was “proud” to have played a role in this and fought for the best possible deal for Kirklees during negotiations. He said: “This is a huge day for West Yorkshire and for us in Kirklees. This gives us the funding and the power to take more of the decisions which affect our communities within the region. “Every place is unique and what works in one area might not be right for another. It is only right that the decisions made for West Yorkshire are done here with local people’s interests at heart. “I’m proud to have been one of the council leaders working together in collaboration on this deal for West Yorkshire. “Throughout the process I have been fighting for the very best outcome for Kirklees and to make sure we get the best deal possible for our residents. “We are a council and a borough of real ambition and I will be a strong voice at West Yorkshire to make sure the opportunities within this deal come to Kirklees.” The deal will be subject to a public consultation and will also be voted on by full council.
20
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
Friday March 13, 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 Black & Decker electric hedge trimmer in very good working order. Long 51cm blade, £25. Tel 01274 862769/07519 288925. (2570) Hostess electric twin bottle wine cooler or warmer. Unused, still in original box £25 Tel 01274 862769/ 07519 288925. (2570) Brand-new bagless cylinder vacuum cleaner (Morrisons make), £20. Tel 07807 209021. (2571) Two pairs of glitter sandals, one size six, one size seven. £10 each Tel 07807 209021. (2571) Two wall-mounted radiators, 120cm x 40cm. New style. Includes wall fittings, £12 each. Tel 07943 114801. (2572) 6 x white outdoor post lights, Georgian style. Mains operated. £3 each. Tel 07943 114801. (2572) BOOKS 44 x Catherine Cookson novels. Mix of hardbacks and paperbacks plus some sets, £40. Tel 01924 455921. (2568) 18 x Jack Reacher novels (Lee Childs) numbers 118, £15. Tel 01924 455921. (2568) 18 x Rebecca Tope Cotswold mystery novels, £15. Tel 01924 455921. (2568) 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) COLLECTIBLES Dolls house complete with most furniture. Choice of two, £90. Tel 01924 469135. (2566) DIY Dewalt drill and charger, 18v. New, old stock, £55. Tel 01924 469135. (2566) Table saw (Ferm) 10 circular saw, 1800 watts. Table extensions to 3 sides. Ideal for the handyman or on-site
work, £65. Tel 01924 495713. (2560) Aluminium 4-piece folding ladder, 3 positions, £30. Tel 07582 662715. (2561) New wheelbarrow with pneumatic tyre. Unwanted gift. £25. Tel 01924 441978. (2556) Clarke Torque wrench 3/8 drive. Unused, still in box. Retail £24, will accept £12. Tel 07563 968522. (2548) ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC JVC 42 colour TV. Very good working condition, £150 ono. Tel 07919 673206 (2569). Black X Box 360 and 4 games including Black Ops 3 and controller £20 Tel 07533 209056. (2564) X Box One game COD Modern Warfare. Not used just seal broken on box £15 Tel 07533 209056. (2564) Nikon Coolpix P50 compact camera. 3.6x zoom. Boxed. Mint condition with Lowepro camera case and carry strap, £25. Tel 01924 491306. (2557) FURNITURE Large dark oak coffee table, 36 x 48 . Excellent condition, £50. Tel 07908 089283. (2567) Round dining table (36 inch) complete with 4 padded chairs. Very good condition. £100 Buyer to collect. Tel 07764 300959 (Liversedge) (2563) Modern mahogany book/display unit. 5 adjustable shelves. 137cm H x 90cm W x 28.5cm D. Excellent condition, £50. Tel 01924 440392. (2562) Small attractive mahogany entertainment unit. Storage for CDs if required, central glass display. 106cm W x 73cm H x 45cm D (cost £500 McDonagh Fine Furniture). Excellent condition, £50. Tel 01924 440392. (2562) Black TV stand with chrome legs and two shelves. Suitable for TV up to 43-inch. Excellent condition, £30. Tel 07876 411694. (2558) Dining table (170cm x 100cm) with six high back chairs. Medium colour in real wood. All in excellent condition (seat pads still have protective cello-
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
£1 £2 £3 £4 £5 £7 £9 £11
phane on them), £120 ono. Tel 01132 523709/ 07716 186487. (2551)
radiators 1600 watt £25 each. Tel 01924 469537. (2542)
2 x Canterbury office chairs, black, unassembled in box, £40 each. Tel 01924 469537. (2542)
Ikea pendant light, 35cm, white and copper, £25. Tel 07746 245435. (2544)
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) GARDEN Electric garden shredder, £20. Tel 01924 524232. (2547) HOUSEHOLD Debenham made-tomeasure curtains 90 D x 2 widths wide (100 ) Taupe colour with rust pattern. Excellent condition, £50. Tel 07908 089283. (2567) Green/pink/peach lined full length curtains (fits floor to ceiling). Each curtain measures 10ft 6ins W x 7ft D. Includes matching pelmets, tracks, fixtures & fittings plus brass holdbacks. Very good clean condition, £50 ono. Tel 07475 109308. (2565) Clarke mobile gas heater, 1.5-4.2 KW. Nearly new, £50. Can deliver locally. Tel 01132 537019. (2552) 3 x winter warm oil filled
Copper and white light shade, £10. Tel 07746 245435. (2544) 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) 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/EXERCISE Eco-motion folding electric assist bike with extras, helmet, inflator, rechargeable, lights, cove, etc. Excellent condition as new, very little use (health reasons) cost £495 plus extras. Accept £350 Tel 07764 300959 (Liversedge) (2563) TOYS/CHILDREN’S GOODS Approx half hundredweight of mixed Lego including 200 figures and weapons for figures etc. £250. no offers. Tel 01924 469135. (2566)
ThePress
21
ThePress
22
Classified Want to advertise in our Classified section? Call 01924 470296 or 0113 457 2900 or email advertising@thepressnews.co.uk
Friday March 13, 2020
BUILDING & LANDSCAPE SERVICES
PROSPECT BUILDERS & LANDSCAPE GARDENERS
CATTERY
STILL BARN CATTERY & DOG GROOMING
All building work, property maintenance & home improvements
Home-From-Home Environment
• Qualified Bricklayer & Plasterer • Building Work • Rendering • Gardening Work • Fencing • Decking • Flagging & Concreting • No Job Too Big or Small • 25 Years Experience • Free No Obligation Quotes • Damp Specialist • Timber Treatment • Basement Conversions • Wall Tie Specialists
Copper Stillbarn, Upper Batley Low Lane, Batley, WF17 0AW
01924 474851 or 07456 441100
Call Marc Tel 07834 383957 or 01274 887911 Email prospectbuilders@hotmail.com Follow us @PressMorley
www.facebook.com/PressMorley
BUTCHERS
CAR DEALERS
McFaddens Quality Cars Established 1965 Your Local Quality Butcher
5kg Chicken £28 2.5kg Chicken £15 5lb Steak Mince £12.99
Tradespeople A brand new voice
0113 285 3996
128 Huddersfield Rd, Mirfield
McFaddens carsales.co.uk
Covering Dewsbury, Mirfield, Ravensthorpe, Batley, Birstall, Cleckheaton, Heckmondwike, Morley, Churwell, Gildersome, Drighlington, East & West Ardsley, Tingley, Woodkirk plus all surrounding villages
01924 470296 AIR/GAS CYLINDERS
AERIAL & SATELLITE
CARPENTRY / JOINERY
For all your joinery & carpentry needs
We offer a quality, affordable and professional joinery / carpentry service
• • • • • • • • • • •
Windows Doors (Internal and external) Stairs Kitchens Wardrobes Skirting and architrave Bespoke work undertaken Floors Walls New Build Domestic
Please contact us via telephone to book a free quotation on
07894 878837 Niche.Joinery
10% DISCOUNT ON ALL AERIALS WITH THIS ADVERT
Reliable Drivers And A Great Service
Your local supplier of Air Products & Calor Gas Cylinders
The Airport Specialists
● Welding ● Cutting ● Helium for balloons ● Industrial gases such as Nitrogen, Oxygen, Helium and Hydrogen
ALL UK AIRPORTS SAME FARES 24/7 TAXIS & MINIBUSES
● Forklift Trucks ● Heating
68-99-99
Delivery or collection available
MALCOLM’S AERIAL SHOP
80 Town Street, Earlsheaton, WF12 8JL
• SKY TRAINED AUTHORISED ENGINEERS • AERIAL / SKY 2ND ROOM £39 • TELEVISION / PC & LAPTOP REPAIRS Open 7 Days until 8pm - Est 20yrs
FREEPHONE 0800 074 8967 or 01924 450 999
No other local paper can touch us on advertising prices!
AerialVision Established 1980
4Year
GUARANTEE
Reliable Local Family Firm • Aerial Installations Repairs and Extensions • Sky and FreeSat Work TV Wall Mounting • Burglar Alarms • CCTV Our Engineer has over 30 years experience Neat work, No mess
Tel: 01924 441294 Mob: 07922 017909
Providence Mills, Wormald Street, Heckmondwike, WF15 6AR Tel: 01924 403212 Email: george@english-textiles.co.uk
CARE HOMES
GARLANDS NICHE JOINERY
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
Cylinder Gas Agent
ON MAIN A58 DRIGHLINGTON
See instore for more details
T: 01924 492185
Call now for the most cost effective weekly advertising rates in your local area
Our Reputation Your Satisfaction
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
YOU PAY HOW MUCH TO ADVERTISE??
www.europrivatehire.com Euro Cars Private Hire Ltd, 387 Tong Street, Bradford, BD4 9RU
CALL US ON BATHROOMS
01924 470296 OR 0113 457 2900
BEDS
SPLASHING UT BATHROOMS A family-run business supplying & installing high quality bathrooms, ensuites & cloakrooms
BEDS & MATTRESSES
Free no obligation quotes
Designs and Visuals available
173-175 Bradford Road, Cleckheaton, BD19 3TJ
Visit our showroom
(Next to The Horncastle Pub)
www.splashingoutbathrooms.co.uk @splashingoutbathroomsltd
CHIMNEY SWEEP
DAVID G. HORNER
CHIMNEY
CHARTERED SURVEYOR VALUER BUILDING ENGINEER BUILDING SURVEYOR
COUNCIL APPROVED CONTRACTOR
SWEEP
EST 50 YEARS
Office 39, RCM Business Centre, Dewsbury Road, Ossett, WF5 9ND Tel. 01924 275275
KWIK SWEEP TEL:
01924 469944
Email: james@davidghorner.co.uk CLEANER
Professional Cleaner I am friendly, trustworthy & reliable Experienced in House & Office Shop Cleaning Security Checked PLEASE CALL SUSAN
07855 595340
COACH TOURS FOR YOUR PUBLIC Carols QUALITY COACH & LEGAL Travel TOUR HOLIDAYS NOTICES
CALL OUR OFFICE IN BATLEY ON
01924 470296 or 0113 457 2900
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
01274 85147
www.carolstravel.co.uk
Family Run Business Open 7 Days
Bradford Road, Dewsbury 01924 460239
CHARTERED SURVEYER
www.junction26beds.co.uk t. 01274 879100
COMPOSITE DOORS www.facebook.com/ThePressNews
Follow us @ThePressLatest
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING
CALDER CLEAN CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING • • • • •
Stain removal protection Anti-allergy treatment Curtains & blinds cleaned Insurance work undertaken Rug cleaning
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
CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM ON 01924 470296 or 0113 457 2900
Classified
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
COMPUTING
Computer Problems? Sick of Cowboys?
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
DECORATORS
DECORATORS Paul Grayshon
SPECIALISTS
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
Interior & Exterior Decorators FREE ESTIMATES Insurance work undertaken
Tel: 01924 477844 / 01924 443822 Mob: 07702 373315
DAMP PROBLEMS
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
ELECTRICAL
ANYTHING ELECTRICAL
ALARMS, OUTSIDE LIGHTS Electrical Cookers Repaired Supplied & Fitted, No Job Too Small, 35 Years Experience, Same Day Service Available Ring Batley:
0113 285 4563 or 07801 063911
Email:
jpeelelectrical@gmail.com Facebook search
J Peel Electrical
FISH RESTAURANT
TS FENCING & PROPERTY REPAIRS All type of fencing, gates, decking, flagging & patios etc All types of property repairs, general handyman work.
Any Odd Jobs Big or Small
Call Tony 07939 018428
01924 402578
The Mermaid Fish Restaurant
RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY OPEN 7 DAYS
FRESH FISH, COOKED TO PERFECTION!
TEL: 0113 253 5376 Britannia Road, Morley, Leeds, LS27 0BA
www.themermaidfishrestaurant.co.uk
GARAGES
DENCROFT GARAGES
HAIR & BEAUTY
T utti F rutti DRIVES & PATIO SPECIALISTS
Drayson’s E.J.GREENWOOD & PATIO Timber DRIVEWAYS SPECIALISTS DOORS TARMACADAM ALL TYPES
DECKING
SOFTWOOD HARDWOOD COMPOSITE
01924 469726 400 Huddersfield Road, Ravensthorpe, Dewsbury, WF13 3EL
www.draysontimber.co.uk
BLOCK PAVING INDIAN FLAGS etc ALL AREAS OF KIRKLEES & CALDERDALE COVERED
FOR FREE ESTIMATES CALL
07973 959968
N ails H air B eauty P ackages
• PAMPER PARTIES • WEDDING MAKEUP • PROM • SPECIAL OCCASION
Tel: 01274 864902 Tutti Frutti 141 Birkenshaw Lane Birkenshaw, Bradford BD11 2HD
FOR YOUR PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES CALL OUR OFFICE IN BATLEY ON
01924 470296 or 0113 457 2900
KITCHENS & BEDROOMS Makeovers, Facelifts, Revamps, Repairs, Alterations
Follow us @PressMorley
www.kitchenbedroom.co.uk
MOTORCYCLE LESSONS & MORE
Mirfield Hypnotherapy Centre Unleashing the power of your own mind, to help you make positive changes
Fears and phobias Smoking cessation
Weight management Anxiety management
Confidence building Fear of public speaking Appointments available 8am-8pm, 7 days
Obtain your HGV or PCV Licence With Ease Use The Professionals Over 30 Years Experience All Aspects Of Driving
and more!
enquiries@ mirfieldhypnotherapycentre.com www.mirfieldhypnotherapycentre.com
Tel: 01274 686211 www.atkinslgv.net MASTER LOCKSMITH
Paul Atkins JOINER
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
Independent
Locaithl Locksm
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Emergency Lock Replacement Locks Changed Locks Fitted Snap Safe Cylinders Fitted UPVC Specialised
Over 20 years in the business
07977 127676
PAINTER & DECORATOR
PLASTERER
PAINTING & TIM PRYKE DECORATING PLASTERING Exterior & Interior Telephone Steve
07884 495530 01924 476432
No Job Too Small Quality Workmanship! Free Quotes Telephone
01924 492272 07990 956685
www.facebook.com/ThePressNews
MASTER LOCKSMITH
HARFORD’S SECURITY LTD NELSON STREET, DEWSBURY, WF13 1NA
TEL: 01924 467269 FAX: 01924 430800 MASTER LOCKSMITHS ACCESS CONTROL INTRUDER ALARM INSTALLERS WEBSITE: www.harfordssecurity.co.uk
MOBILE HAIRDRESSER
MOTOR CARE
Elaine’s Over 37yrs experience
excellent service covering Dewsbury, Mirfield, Cleckheaton & Heckmondwike
Imperial Motor Company
Mobile Hairdressing
Call today for appointment
01484 714907 or 07940 900362
107 Bradford Road, Dewsbury Tel: 01924 461607 or 07860 754984
EASY way to book your advert:
☎
Follow us @ThePressLatest PLUMBING & HEATING
KEEP WARM A.T BELL THIS WINTER & PLUMBING SERVICE YOUR & HEATING BOILER 10 years
From a dripping tap, to a full central heating system, bathrooms designed supplied & fitted Check us out on
Car body repairs
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Free quotes 01924 506616 www.facebook.com/PressMorley
HGV TUITION
HYPNOTHERAPY
JOINER
Concrete Garages & Sheds Dismantle & Bases Garage re-vamps Garage Doors 230 Bradford Rd, Batley Tel: 01924 461996 dencroftgarages.co.uk
DOORS, DECKING & TIMBER
Want to advertise in our Classified section? Call 01924 470296 or 0113 457 2900 or email advertising@thepressnews.co.uk
Tel: 07580 107241 (Andrew) or 07808 931714 (Louise)
FENCING
23
01924 470296
(Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)
advertising@thepressnews.co.uk The Press, 31 Branch Road, Batley, WF17 5SB
guarantee available on selected boilers
Landlord Servicing & Certificates
Call Tony today for a quote on Mobile: 07831 260466 or 01924 492556 REMOVALS & CLEARANCES
11557
ROOFING
HARVEYS SIMPSON REMOVALS DENNIS (Roofing Services) .COM 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
All roof repairs. Insurance work Re-roofing, lead and chimney work – Reduction for OAPs All work guaranteed, free estimates Established 25 years Tel Mirfield
01924 497776 Mobile 07768 298739 www.simpsondennis-roofing.co.uk
Approved by leading insurance companies
24
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
ROOFING
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 ROOFING
COMPETENT ASPHALT Co Ltd
SCAFFOLDING SERVICES
TO LET
WANTED
BEDSIT FOR RENT
House Clearances
Good residential area C/H, D/G, Parking £60 p.w incl bills DSS welcome 07740 991421 WANTED
SCRAP CARS & VANS WANTED Cash paid & free collection Open 7 days a week
Tel: 01924 480992 Mobile: 07778 809295
Smithies Mill 883-887 Bradford Road Batley, WF17 8NN Phone: 01924 474 384 Fax: 01924 420 199
HAVE YOUR WILL DRAFTED IN YOUR OWN HOME, AT A TIME TO SUIT YOURSELF
www.competentasphalt.co.uk
info@chemscaffolding.co.uk www.chemscaffolding.co.uk
SELF STORAGE
WILKINSON BROS
CALL JASON 07954 150983 01924 504216
email: windowsapane@gmail.com www.windowsapane.co.uk
We replace Misted-Up Sealed Units Locks | Handles | Hinges Faulty Door Mechanisms
• Copper • Brass • Lead • Aluminium and all types of cable 01924 469409
and Much More!
HOME SECURE WINDOW MAINTENANCE T: 01924 412279 M: 07974 700789
14 Heckmondwike Road, Dewsbury, WF13 3PH
Find us on
SKIP HIRE & SCRAP SERVICES
www.repairs4windows.co.uk WINDOWS & DOORS
TIDYWASTE SKIP SERVICES
Unit 10, Westend Mills, Brick Street, Cleckheaton, BD19 5EH Tel: 01274 851120
www.westfieldfs.co.uk
Window cleaning services also available
Est 1990
IMMEDIATE PAYMENT
ALL SIZES OF SKIPS 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE KIRKLEES RELIABLE SKIP HIRE COMPANY AFFORDABLE SERVICES SECOND TO NONE
194 Oxford Road, Gomersal, BD19 4HA Phone: 01924 036888
WINDOWS • DOORS • REPLACEMENT GLASS UNITS • HANDLES • LETTERBOXES • ANTISNAP CYLINDERS • LOCKS & SERVICES
FED UP WITH STEAMY WINDOWS?
All Types of Metal
Domestic & commercial
WILLS FROM £99
OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
WINDOW REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE
SCRAP METAL MERCHANTS
SKIP HIRE & SCRAP YARD SERVICES
CALL ANDREW ON
07980 767167
WINDOW REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE
HOME VISITS POWERS OF ATTORNEY ASSET PRESERVATION
SCRAP METAL
VICTORIA COURT ARCADE
WILL-MAKING SERVICES
Providing excellent service since 2006 Fast, Reliable Service & Competitive Rates
Email:
NOW IN THE NEW
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS! Contact 01924 470296
WESTFIELD
Station Road, Bradley, HD2 1UW
Quality WATCHES BOUGHT Foreign Currency All available currencies bought & sold
07743 134616 S.D Metals Recycling
Chem Scaffolding Limited
Roofing Specialists Est Over 50 Years All Work Fully Guaranteed
No Job Too Small
Metals Limited Based in Dewsbury Buyers of ferrous and non-ferrous metals
Collection & drop-off available
Composite Doors 0113 252 2107
First class service with over 35 years experience
Unit Unit 6, 6, Asquith Asquith Avenue, Avenue,
Skip hire available from 8-40 yard
kandmmetalsltd.co.uk
01924 453824
CONTACT OUR SALES TEAM ON 01924 470296 or 0113 457 2900
Business Business Park, Park, Morley, Morley, LS27 LS27 7RZ 7RZ
Classified Want to advertise in our Classified section? Call 01924 470296 or 0113 457 2900 or email advertising@thepressnews.co.uk
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
25
FOOTBALL
Benn delighted for young hero Clarkson Liversedge hit six but Northern Prem N/West Division
OSSETT UNITED MARSKE UNITED
2 2
TEENAGER Carl Clarkson was the late hero for Ossett United as his 87th-minute goal rescued a point at home to Marske. Ossett twice fell behind and looked to be heading for a fifth defeat in six league games until 16year-old Clarkson got on the end of a cross from returning winger Aiden Chippendale to earn his side a draw. Wayne Benn has had to blood young players in recent weeks and he was very happy to see Clarkson take his chance coming off the bench. “It’s brilliant to see the young lads being chucked on and then getting the goal to equalise, he’ll feel 10 feet tall tonight and absolutely rightly he should,” said the Ossett manager. “Since we’ve come in, that’s what we’ve been about. We’ve had to use these young lads and bring them into the squad, and I’m delighted for Carl. “I’m delighted with the point against tough opposition. I don’t think we started great and there were a couple of dodgy decisions in there that I think everybody can see and agree with, but great character was shown by the lads and I’m delighted for them to earn that point.
LATE JOY: Carl Clarkson is mobbed by his Ossett teammates after equalising with his PHOTO: John Hirst first goal for the club “They stuck at it in difficult circumstances. We could have felt sorry for ourselves with two decisions that went against us, but they never did.” The first contentious decision against Ossett, who had Chippendale returning on a loan deal from Colne and defender Jake Bayram making his debut on work experience from Hull City, came after only a couple of minutes. Goalkeeper Scott Moloney made a fingertip save and Bayram’s foot was high as he attempted to clear
the rebound, with the referee awarding a penalty to Marske which Craig Goff confidently placed into the corner. If redemption was necessary, Bayram got it in the 31st minute when he nodded Daniel Greenfield’s delivery from a short corner back across from the far post, giving topscorer Tom Greaves a tap-in. Chippendale went close with several efforts while Lewis Maloney struck the post for Marske as the sides went into the break level. Ossett were very aggrieved with the goal that put the visitors back in front on the hour mark. A Marske defender won the ball with a boot at a similar height to that which gave them a penalty earlier in the game, but play was waved on and they were allowed to break with Glen Butterworth finishing. United would have the final word though as Chippendale’s perfect free-kick delivery was tapped in at the back post by Clarkson, three minutes after coming off the bench, to give them a point. Their trip to Ramsbottom was postponed for a second time on Tuesday night, but they will travel to fellow strugglers Kendal Town tomorrow (Saturday, kick-off 3pm) looking to extend their six-point advantage on Pickering Town, who occupy the relegation place.
CRICKET Local sides battling for top-flight spot By Mike Popplewell DIVISION ONE looks very much like the Bradford League tier most likely to demand our attention, with no fewer than five clubs out of the 12 located in our area and Bankfoot just two miles up Cleckheaton Road from Chain Bar. There were six, plus Morley, last season but the promotion of Batley and Morley, together with the relegation of Scholes, leaves Hartshead Moor, Ossett, Gomersal and East Bierley from last year and the addition of Birstall as runners-up to Carlton in Division Two. Bankfoot finished nine points behind runners-up Morley last season and there was an eight-point gap between them and fourthplaced Ossett, but only 22 points then separated Ossett, Baildon, Gomersal and Hartshead Moor in a tight grouping where one extra win or defeat could have turned it all around. The relegation of Undercliffe and Lightcliffe from the Premier Division makes them one of the unknown quantities in this division but, as in most seasons, the winter ‘merry-go-round’ of transfers could make all the difference to a club’s prospects for the new season - and not always positively! So, what has been happening on the transfer scene? The only overseas player engaged so far is Australian Jevon Kett, who has been engaged by Hartshead Moor after playing in the Cheshire League last year with Branhall. Kett has close to a dozen seasons in Victorian Grade cricket, mainly in the Melbourne area, and the fact that he has been so readily engaged by so many clubs does beg a question. Is he in high demand because of his abilities - or has he struggled to earn a second engagement? Having left behind a disastrous summer down under with fatal bushfires, will he set the Bradford League’s First Division alight or slink off home next September having sunk
into relative obscurity? In fairness, Moor have done well over the years with their overseas signings, and with Ghulam Hussain from Adwalton, Dave Macullam from New Farnley, and Alex Kennedy from Elland, they do have a fresh look about them. With no one being transferred out to date, this coming season should see them fielding a stronger outfit. Ossett, in fourth place last season, were the pick of the district’s sides in this division and, with the combative and vastly experienced Iain Philliskirk on board, there is unlikely to be a shortage of fight in the squad. On the recruitment front they have looked outside Bradford League circles to bring in Joe Seddon from Ackworth and Callum Issot from Denby Grange, while the signing of Hanging Heaton’s James Keen should prove a very useful acquisition for the club. At Gomersal, the Oxford Roaders welcome back Andy Gorrod from Cleckheaton. Gorrod made a sensational start at Gomersal in his last years at College but he never quite maintained the early promise when he stepped up to the Premier Division with Cleck and he became a little disillusioned with the game. If he bounces back this coming season then Gomersal could be in for some good times especially if the signing of Daniel Syme, from Jer Lane, proves successful. Birstall enjoyed great success at times in the Central Yorkshire League but their Bradford League record had not been a great success until last season. Just how well they do in the higher division this time remains to be seen - as yet, there have been no new signings and they have lost Richie Limbechaya to relegated Scholes. East Bierley’s fall from grace has been quite dramatic. Once one of the League’s leading lights, the South View side only just avoided relegation last season and, with no one moving in or out as yet, it looks like being more of the same this time.
weather strikes again NCEL Premier Division
LIVERSEDGE ALBION SPORTS
6 0
ALFIE RAW’S hat-trick saw Liversedge’s promotion surge continue with a thrashing of Albion Sports last weekend, but a midweek postponement means their run-in will be even more difficult. Oliver Fearon scored twice and Joe Walton also hit the target in their comfortable win last Saturday, keeping them in the promotion places and closing the gap on leaders Staveley to two points. However, their tie at home to Thackley had to be called off on Tuesday night due to a waterlogged pitch at Clayborn. The winter weather has seen a host of postponements. Their trip to Eccleshill United has been scheduled for a Thursday (April 9) and they will have to face a three-match week on another occasion to fit the Thackley game in before the end of the season.
Those demands would appear to be the biggest challenge to Liversedge’s promotion ambitions, as they made it 12 games unbeaten with victory over Albion Sports. The points were secure within 18 minutes as they struck four times in the opening stages, started with Raw’s first goal of the afternoon from Paul Walker’s lay-off. Walton scored his 24th goal of the season two minutes later after Liam Marsden’s long throw caused the usual chaos for the opposition. Fearon then netted twice in three minutes to put the game out of sight of a young Albion team. Liversedge continued to dominate although their keeper Jason White had to make a great save one-onone. The game was scrappy either side of the break but they established control again to score twice more in the space of five minutes. The first came from the penalty spot as Raw cooly converted following a foul on Walton, and he didn’t have to wait long for the hat-trick with another neat finish into the corner.
RACING PREVIEW WITH MIKE SMITH
Who to back in open Gold Cup...
T’S ALL about the Gold Cup at Cheltenham, where AL BOUM PHOTO can add his name to the list of chasers who have won the Festival’s showpiece event more than once. In a wide open contest today (Friday) there’s no clear favourite at this stage and half a dozen contenders are trading at between 7/2 and 7/1. A good case can be made for several candidates, including DELTA WORK and SANTINI who are both on the up, but AL BOUM PHOTO has clearly been primed for his repeat bid. Trainer Willie Mullins has given his charge deliberately light build-up towards his Gold Cup defence and has had the same preparation as last year, namely winning the New Year’s Day Chase again at Tramore. He faced only three rivals but a convincing six-length beating of Grand Nationalbound stablemate Acapella Bourgeois (wide-margin winner of the Bobbyjo Chase recently), conceding him the best part of a stone, suggests AL BOUM PHOTO is at least as good as ever in his bid to be the first since Best Mate to win two Gold Cups in a row. The other one worth mentioning is CHRIS’S DREAM, who’d be of most interest if conditions become particularly testing. He’s shown improved form for Henry de Bromhead on his last couple of starts, both of them in heavy ground, firstly winning the Troytown Handicap Chase at Navan in November with plenty to spare, and then dropping down in trip to take
I
the Red Mills Chase at Gowran last month. ÉCLAIR DE BEAUFEU’S victory in the Matheson Handicap Chase at the Dublin Racing Festival was certainly eye-catching. Sound jumping and never far off the pace, the Grand Annual looks a top target at the Festival, a race trainer Gordon Elliott has yet to win. A close second to Arkle favourite Notebook last October, he has other options for the meeting but has yet to go beyond 2m1f, so Cheltenham’s oldest race looks ideal and he looks each way value at 10s with Carrigill’s. Elliott has a special affinity for the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle - a race he won with Champagne Classic and Blow By Blow dating to his time under Pipe’s tutelage, and THE BOSSES OSCAR can claim this crown. The penultimate race on Friday’s often attritional card, it’s usually when punters are seeking a bar to drown their sorrows or toast their success after the Gold Cup. Bookie’s son Pipe trained
by touch and feel, with an innate understanding of what it took to make a champion, sometimes from the most unpromising stock. He was never one for stuffy conventions and neither is mechanic’s son Elliott, and this looks his best chance. Last year’s top two, HAZEL HILL and SHANTOU FLYER, are back for another bite at the cherry in the Foxhunter Challenge Cup and it would come as no surprise to see the former, who was recently turned over by MINELLA ROCCO in a tactical affair at Wetherby, bounce back to his best and turn the tables on Jonjo O’Neill’s charge now granted some cover in this larger field. It does look a deeper renewal this time around, though, and there are a couple of interesting Irish raiders to focus on. I like BILLAWAY, who gave 5lb and an eightlength beating to Enda Bolger’s STAKER WALLACE when they clashed over 3m at Naas in January. Although the runner-up was entitled to need that first run in almost three years, and has since picked up a point race at Nenagh, that only serves to boost the form line and heighten the appeal of the Willie Mullins representative. CARRIGILL’S NAP: (money back as a free bet if it finishes outside top four. Write Augur on your slip to qualify): McFABULOUS, Kempton, Saturday, 2.05. AUGUR’S BEST BET: THE BOSSES OSCAR (e/w), Cheltenham, Friday, 5.30.
26
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
RUGBY LEAGUE
Impressive start for Trojans NCL Division One
THORNHILL TROJANS STANNINGLEY
32 8
THORNHILL TROJANS kicked off their NCL campaign in impressive style with a convincing victory over Stanningley. Although far from faultless, this was a performance which showed that the Trojans mean business for the new league season. The margin of victory could have been far greater had Thornhill been able to convert more of their seven tries. Man of the match was the in-form Casey Johnson, with the loose forward’s leadership qualities there for all to see while he also weighed in with a try of his own. There was also an impressive performance from Jake Wilson with some strong in-play running. Debutant Jordan Ward also caught the eye with a confident performance. The Trojans opened the scoring with a try from Matthew Tebb when some quick-thinking from actinghalf saw the hooker burrow over for a try from close range. This try was swiftly cancelled out with a well-taken score from Stanningley. An offload in the tackle picked out Niall Murphy wonderfully and he sprinted through a gap
MAN OF THE MATCH: Casey Johnson to go over for an unconverted try. Tebb then became try creator when he managed to slip the ball out of the tackle to the supporting Rye Ward. The youngster showed great awareness to take the pass and dive over for a try, converted by Johnson. The longer the half wore on, the more Thornhill began to hold the upper hand, and as play reached the half-hour mark Will Geldhill plunged over for an unconverted try in the corner. Thornhill came out for the second
half leading 14-4 and the introduction of Jordan Ward gave their play further direction. His courageous run towards the tryline saw the home side’s lead extended. The second-half scoring continued when Liam Morley wound back the clock to score a vintage try. Morley took the ball and, with a sudden burst of pace, went on a direct run which saw him pick his way through the Stanningley defence. Midway through the second half, Stanningley made a break down the wing and, despite a couple of desperate last-ditch tackles from the Trojans, Carl McGuigan managed to ground the ball. However, this proved to be too late in the game any serious comeback and when Jordan Lowther took play close to the tryline, the pressure was on again. Lowther caused a back-to-one right on the line, and Johnson went over. The final try of the game was created when George Woodcock combined with Wilson. Space was created in the corner and Sam Ratcliffe went over to wrap up a great opening-day victory for the Trojans with plenty of positives to reflect on. The result puts Thornhill top of the table for the week, and they will look to build on that with their first away trip tomorrow (Saturday, kickoff 2.30pm) at Milford.
RUGBY UNION
Cleck revenge in derby thriller North One East
MORLEY CLECKHEATON
17 18
CLECKHEATON gained a revenge victory over Morley in a pulsating local derby at Scatcherd Lane. Morley are the only side to have beaten them at their Moorend home all season but Cleck earned a single-point victory to inflict only a second home defeat of the season on the Maroons in turn. Cleckheaton were behind with 10 minutes to go but, after earlier Mikey Hayward and James Wilson tries, Dale Breakwell landed a 40-metre penalty to edge back in front and they held on for victory to remain in second place in the table. They had a few injuries after their win over Driffield the previous week. Skipper Matt Piper was out with a thigh injury and Joey Carley hadn’t recovered from an ankle knock. Gus Milborne filled in at centre while Tom Austin returned in the back row, while player-coach Thiu Barnard was on the bench alongside Matt Wood and Archie Rika-Rayne. The pitch was very heavy in places and fitness levels would be vital as the game wore on. At the first lineout, Brad Marsden took clean ball and made several yards driven on by his pack. When Morley infringed at the maul, Breakwell slotted a simple penalty goal for a thirdminute lead. Cleckheaton extended that five
PHOTO: Gerald Christian
TRY: James Wilson touches down to Morley’s despair minutes later with a blindside burst by Jack Seddon. He fed Hayward who stepped inside the defence for his 19th try of a prolific season, although the conversion was wide of the posts. Morley got their act together and, on 12 minutes, a great break by the full-back down the stand side pulled the defence across and he fed the ball to Tom Richmond to power over the line, with Mark Chester adding the goal. Morley got back into the action with the forwards trying to batter their way down the middle, but they met solid resistance from Andy Piper, Ben Thrower and Niall Jackson in the front line. When the ball was shipped wide, Hayward, Jack Marshall, Ollie Depledge and Milborne put in some big hits to disrupt the home
team’s progress. The scrum was dominated by Cleckheaton, and Morley looked like the were bring overrun at times. On 22 minutes, with the away side going close through Piper and Josh Plunkett, Wilson popped up to crash over from short range for his eighth try of the season, converted by Breakwell for a 15-7 lead. Both teams were trying to get the ball to the wings but both teams defended well as half-time approached. Rika-Rayne replaced Ben Etchells at half time. Morley had the better of the possession early in the second half and, on 48 minutes, Chester made a fine break and turned an inside pass to Darrell Griffin who scored under the posts, with Chester’s goal making it a onepoint game.
Celtic right at home in Division Two with big opening-day win NCL Division Two
DEWSBURY CELTIC BARROW ISLAND
42 14
DEWSBURY CELTIC celebrated their return to Division Two in style with a comprehensive victory against Barrow Island. After achieving promotion through the play-offs last season, Celtic - now coached by Dean Foley - looked right at home in the third tier with a superb win. In total they scored eight tries, with full-back Charlie Heaton claiming 14 points courtesy of a try and five goals.
Centre Nathan Waring was another thorn in the Barrow Island side with two tries. Will and Harry Copley, Danny Lee and Billy Yarrow all got in on the try-scoring with Danny Thomas continuing the excellent form that earned him international honours with Jamaica last year and also getting over the whitewash. Island scored three tries through Ade Wright, Adam Jackson and Josh Banham, with Sam Jones slotting over one goal. Prop Ethan Ferry earned the man of the match award for Celtic, who are back at home tomorrow (Saturday, kick-off 2.30pm) against Bradford Dudley Hill.
Fighting Maroons beaten late NCL Division Two
NORMANTON KNIGHTS DEWSBURY MOOR
32 24
DEWSBURY MOOR Maroons made a stirring second-half comeback but were then beaten in the closing stages at Normanton. The first 40 minutes belonged to the hosts but only after Moor scored first. That try went the way of centre Ben Kershaw, converted by Brad Foster. Jack Millward scored the Knights’ first try after 12 minutes and Connor Wilson followed him to the line in the 20th minute with Jacob Crossland adding the first of two goals. Just as Dewsbury Moor appeared to be pressing, they gifted two costly
Moments later, Wilson was shown the yellow card for not rolling away and Chester knocked over the penalty to give Morley the lead for the first time. That was the only score in the sin bin period, so Cleckheaton showed some bottle to hang on for the 10 minutes. Marshall made 50 metres downfield in a mazy run, but a forward pass ended that chance. Coach Barnard entered the game replacing Rika-Rayne. Moments later, Depledge was put clean through the middle by Breakwell, but the referee saw a forward pass again and the move ended with a scrum. Breakwell missed one penalty kick but Morley continued to concede penalties at the ruck as Cleckheaton kept up the intensity. On 71 minutes Breakwell lined up a 40-metre goal, the ball was well struck and sailed over the bar for his side to regain the lead. What should have been a tense final eight minutes was dominated by Cleckheaton, so much so that Morley barely mounted a worthwhile attack. With time running out, they were camped on the Morley line but couldn’t quite finish the job off. They conceded the penalty and Morley advanced downfield but, when the Cleckheaton team forced the turnover, the ball was cleared and the final whistle was blown. Cleckheaton’s front row were magnificent on the day and were given the collective man of the match award. Tomorrow (Saturday, kick-off 3pm) they are back at home with Pocklington the visitors.
intercepts. Joe Crossland snared the first with Jack Slater going 80 metres for the second after 31 minutes. Jacob Crossland then turned try scorer, chipping over and collecting to extend Normanton’s lead to 24-6 at half-time. A stirring fightback from Dewsbury Moor brought them level. They scored three tries in 12 minutes from Bradley Adams, Jordan Foster and Tobias Richardson, and Foster kicked all three goals to level the game. A Danny Barker try on 65 minutes edged the hosts ahead again though, before two penalty goals in the final three minutes from Joe Crossland secured the points for Normanton. The Maroons head to Barrow Island for their second fixture of the season tomorrow (Saturday, kick-off 2.30pm).
Sport In Brief
Boys tie stopped RUGBY LEAGUE: A serious injury to Gateshead player Toby Hancock forced the abandonment of Batley Boys’ NCL Division Three clash last weekend. Play was delayed for 90 minutes while both teams awaited the arrival of an ambulance before the decision was taken to abandon the game. Batley had led 20-6 through Mike Mould, Josh Knowles, Matt Sheridan and Josh Scrutton tries, with goals from Luke Sheridan and Adam Bingham. Boys play tomorrow (Saturday) at home to Askam while Shaw Cross Sharks head to Waterhead Warriors in the same division.
Rams Easter camp RUGBY LEAGUE: Dewsbury Rams will host a junior Easter Rampage Camp on April 8. The day will consist of fun-filled activities, led by first-team players Martyn Reilly and Luke Nelmes. Boys and girls aged between 6 and 11 can be signed up for the camp, which will start at 10am and involve multi-skilled games including football and rugby. Places are limited, and can be booked by calling 01924 465489 or emailing media@dewsburyrams.co.uk to receive a booking form, or at the club reception.
Another Slaz win HOCKEY: Slazenger’s in-form ladies first team were 4-3 winners at Leeds Adel 2nd last weekend, with Katie Minchella scoring two of the goals while Sarah Sykes and Holly Tyers got the others. However, their men’s first team were on the wrong end of a 4-3 scoreline against Sheffield Hallam 3rd.
ThePress
Friday March 13, 2020
27
RUGBY LEAGUE
Dewsbury edge muddy cup contest Coral Challenge Cup
WHITEHAVEN DEWSBURY RAMS
16 22
Jordan Weir at Recreation Ground A FOURTH win on the bounce for Lee Greenwood’s Dewsbury Rams saw them defeat Whitehaven to move into the fifth round of the Challenge Cup. It was a game that could have gone either way on the night and came down to which side were more clinical with ball in hand, but it was the visiting Rams that overcame the difficult wet conditions and the mudbath that was the pitch at the Recreation Ground. It was the Rams who looked to have struck first after just five minutes as Liam Finn touched down from his own kick but was ruled out for his teammates being offside.
That meant it was the home side who got the opening try through full-back Sam Forrester, who went in underneath the sticks. This was after an Ethan Kelly offload found a returning Dion Aiye, who broke the line and passed inside to Forrester to score a try converted by Jake Moore. Dewsbury hit back just before the end of the opening quarter as Dom Speakman found some lazy home defence around the markers and dived over from dummy-half. Scrum-half Finn converted to level the scores. The half-hour mark saw déjà vu as Speakman crossed once again in a carbon copy of his first try, although this time the home fans were shouting for a knock-on as the ball bobbled when Speakman grounded. However, man-inthe-middle Jack Smith gave the try and the Rams led for the first time as Finn added the extras. The scores were levelled just before
Rams’ fine league start continues Betfred Championship
OLDHAM 6 DEWSBURY RAMS 24 at Bower Fold DEWSBURY believe they need at least eight wins to cement their place in the Betfred Championship for next year – and as this was their third victory in four outings this term, it’s little wonder there’s plenty of smiles in and around the Tetley’s Stadium right now. On a heavy Bower Fold pitch they dominated the second half to score 18 unanswered points with tries by Connor Scott, Joe Martin and Will Oakes, as well as three goals by Paul Sykes in the form of two conversions and a penalty. Oldham, who didn’t make the most of their first-half advantage down the slope towards the town end, were shown how to do it after half-time when the Rams got well on top and pinned the home side down at the bottom end of the ground. Evergreen halves Liam Finn and Sykes came to the fore in the second half when they masterminded Dewsbury’s battle plan to take the game away from the home side. Indeed, the only try the Roughyeds scored – even though they had a run of five consecutive penalties in the second half – was a somewhat bizarre score in which the Rams had the ball from a scrum deep inside their own half, but Danny Langtree pinched it in a oneon-one challenge on Matty Fleming. It caught the Rams completely on the back foot and a couple of passes later winger Ryan Ince was going over in the corner for an Oldham try which Dan Abram converted from the touchline. So far, so good for the Roughyeds, who rarely
looked like scoring again, but who defended stubbornly to keep their line intact until 26 minutes. Finn sold a dummy and went desperately close before Sykes unleashed a cut-out pass to the right which gave winger Andy Gabriel the chance to finish spectacularly in the corner. Sykes converted off the touchline and it remained at 6-6 until early in the second half when Dewsbury, for the first time, looked strong enough to take the game by the scruff of its neck. Substitute forward Scott, a real powerhouse, gave them the lead for the first time and you got the feeling, even at that early stage, that this was going to be Dewsbury’s day. Sykes converted and then added a penalty for a 14-6 lead, which was always going to give the Roughyeds a stiff hill to climb if not exactly a mountain. They didn’t help themselves with a succession of handling errors but they couldn’t crack the Rams’ resolute defence, not even when the visitors were heavily penalised for lying-on and were eventually put on a team warning. In fairness, they weren’t helped earlier in the game when winger Declan Kay had to quit with what appeared to be a back injury after taking a heavy tackle. With four forwards on the bench, coach Matt Diskin had to re-organise his troops with Cameron Leeming moving from centre to wing and Jack Spencer, a forward, returning from the bench to take over in the centre. The Roughyeds were always on the back foot though once the Rams went eight points in front, and it was no real surprise when the visitors finally put the precious league points under lock and key with late tries by Martin – after Finn and Sykes provided the
perfect link – and by blockbusting winger Oakes, who had a walk-in at the corner on a cut-out pass. Dewsbury chairman Mark Sawyer refuses to ‘count his chickens’, but he and his head coach Lee Greenwood must be delighted at what is rapidly becoming the Rams’ best and most encouraging start for years.
MATCH STATS OLDHAM: Dan Abram Ryan Ince James Worthington Cameron Leeming Declan Kay Lewis Charnock Dave Hewitt Phil Joy Gareth Owen Jimmy Beckett Danny Langtree Danny Bridge Jack Spencer Subs: Matty Wilkinson Ben Davies Matthew Fletcher Titus Gwaze Tries: Ince (16). Goals: Abram 1/1.
6 7 6 6 6 7 6 7 6 7 7 7 6 6 7 7 7
DEWSBURY RAMS: Joe Martin 7 Andy Gabriel 7 Adam Ryder 6 Matty Fleming 6 Will Oakes 8 Paul Sykes 8 Liam Finn 7 Martyn Reilly 7 Sam Day 7 Luke Nelmes 7 Sonny Esslemont 7 Michael Knowles 7 Chris Annakin 7 Subs: Dom Speakman 7 Liam Johnson 6 Connor Scott 8 Jon Magrin 7 Tries: Gabriel (26), Scott (46), Martin (70), Oakes (79). Goals: Sykes 4/5. Referee: S. Mikalauskas Half-time: 6-6 Penalties: 11-8 Man of the match: Connor Scott (Dewsbury) Attendance: 684
IN-FORM: Lee Greenwood’s Rams have won four games on the bounce the break however, as Haven scored the try of the game. They utilised an overlap on the left-hand side through several pairs of hands, the final being Andrew Bulman who ran past his opposite number and towards the sticks before grounding the ball. Connor Holliday added the conversion. The second half was a much more cagey affair with neither side wanting to give away the penalty or error which allowed the opposition to grab the winning try. However, the opening points were scored through the boot of Finn after the home side give a penalty away for dissent. But the home side soon hit back and regained the lead as centre Jason Mossop powered his way over the whitewash, and Holliday converted again. What followed was a sustained period of pressure from the home side, who were looking to secure their first win of
the season. The Cumbrians had a number of repeat sets but they lacked the clinical edge to increase the lead. They did get over the line as Jessie Joe Parker grounded the ball from a kick in similar fashion to Finn’s disallowed effort, where Parker’s teammates were offside and therefore the try was chalked off. That was the last of any try-scoring opportunities for the home side as the Rams were allowed to march up the field with a number of penalties and Finn levelled the scores with a penalty goal in the 65th minute. The game was decided eight minutes from time as Connor Scott put in a powerful run, helped by a number of missed tackles from the home side, to touch down and secure a fifth-round tie against Newcastle Thunder, just over 90 hours after the hooter sounded at the Recreation Ground.
Archie remembered as Bulldogs battle in France Betfred Championship
TOULOUSE OLYMPIQUE BATLEY BULLDOGS
34 14
at the Stade Ernest Wallon BATLEY BULLDOGS remembered their late teammate Archie Bruce as they battled hard in defeat at Toulouse. Before Saturday evening’s kick-off there was a moving minute of applause for the young Batley player who tragically died after the corresponding fixture last year. Despite the impression the scoreline might give, Batley came to Toulouse with serious intent and made life difficult for their hosts with very strong defence and some dynamic running, especially in the first half. The Bulldogs opened the scoring after 10 minutes when Dale Morton dotted down in the corner after a well-executed grubber kick by Aiden Ineson during Batley’s best spell. Their lead was cancelled out by a kick over the top by Johnathon Ford, gathered by Mark Kheirallah and finished off by Harrison Hansen under the posts. Just before half-time Batley took the lead thanks to a penalty slotted by Morton. Toulouse and the Bulldogs will have had reason to regret not taking their chances as, despite the dry conditions, both sides dropped too many balls in the opposition 20-metre zone. The penalty count was building, with
seven against Toulouse and three against Batley, and the referee handed out a general warning to the French side just before the break. In the second half Toulouse opened up the game and, on 45 minutes, a long miss-out pass found Paul Marcon, who just made it to the corner. Toulouse were still finding it difficult to break down the Bulldogs’ defence but, after 52 minutes, Stanislas Robin ran two-thirds of the way across the field on the 20m line and eventually found a gap in the wall and darted through to score. With the match still very much in the balance, the frustration of the two teams threatened to boil over when a scuffle broke out after a disallowed try. The referee decided to calm things down by sin-binning Justin Sangaré and Tyler Dickinson. Five minutes later, William Barthau also found himself in the bin. Despite being down a man, Toulouse continued to press with Kheirallah spinning out of a tackle to score next to the posts to take his points tally for Toulouse past the 1,500 mark. On 69 minutes, not for the first time, a Constantine Mika offload found James Bell and this time it resulted in a try under the posts. Batley were not finished, and a nice short pass put Toby Everett in under the posts. The final word, however, was for the French side as a sweeping move put young Hugo Pezet, a product of the Toulouse academy, in for a try on his senior debut.
MATCH STATS WHITEHAVEN: Sam Forrester 6 Brett Carter 6 Jason Mossop 6 Jessie Joe Parker 6 Andrew Bulman 6 Dion Aiye 6 Callum Phillips 6 Ethan Kelly 5 James Newton 6 Kris Coward 4 Jake Moore 6 Connor Holliday 6 Jake Bradley 5 Subs: Brett Phillips 6 Sam Dowsett 6 Tom Walker 6 Jamie Thackray 6 Tries: Forrester (12), Bulman (37), Holliday (48). Goals: Moore 1/1, Holliday 1/2. DEWSBURY RAMS: Matty Fleming Tommy Brierley Adam Ryder Will Oakes Davey Dixon Morgan Punchard Liam Finn Connor Scott Dom Speakman Jon Magrin Liam Johnson James Thornton Frazer Morris Subs: Sam Day Rhys Davies Luke Nelmes Martyn Reilly Tries: Speakman (19, 30), Scott (72). Goals: Finn 5/5.
6 6 7 6 6 6 7 6 7 7 6 6 7 6 6 6 6
Referee: J. Smith Half-time: 12-12 Penalties: 7-8 Man of the match: Dom Speakman (Dewsbury) Attendance: 427
MATCH STATS TOULOUSE OLYMPIQUE: Mark Kheirallah Tony Maurel Hugo Pezet Bastien Ader Paul Marcon Stan Robin Johnathon Ford Paterika Vaivai William Barthau Harrison Hansen Joe Bretherton Frank Winterstein James Bell Subs: Clement Boyer Justin Sangare Maxime Puech Con Mika Tries: Hansen (16), Marcon (45), Robin (52), Kheirallah (66), Bell (69), Pezet (78). Goals: Kheirallah 3/4, Barthau 2/2. BATLEY BULLDOGS: Johnny Campbell Wayne Reittie Lewis Galbraith George Senior Dale Morton Ben White Aiden Ineson Tom Lillycrop Shaun Lunt Toby Everett Dane Manning Keenen Tomlinson Anthony Bowman Subs: Tyler Dupree Alistair Leak Tyler Dickinson Jack Blagbrough Tries: Morton (10), Everett (76). Goals: Morton 3/3.
7 6 6 6 7 7 6 6 6 6 6 7 7 6 6 6 6
6 7 6 6 6 6 6 6 7 6 7 6 6 6 6 6 6
Referee: C. Worsley Half-time: 6-8 Penalties: 9-9 Sin Bin: Sangare (58, fighting), Dickinson (58, fighting) Man of the match: Stan Robin (Toulouse) Attendance: 2,817
Rams face Newcastle after ‘best win’ in Challenge Cup By Stephen Ibbetson DEWSBURY coach Lee Greenwood says his players are looking forward to taking on Newcastle Thunder in the fifth round of the Challenge Cup this weekend, after describing their fourth-round success at Whitehaven on Wednesday night as their “best win” of the season. The Rams edged a see-saw battle in a Cumbrian mudbath, in what was a rearranged game following the postponement of the original tie. Dewsbury made six changes to their team, including competitive debuts for Tommy Brierley, James Thornton and Rhys Davies, but still came out on top 22-16, with Connor Scott’s late try giving them their fourth win in a row in all competitions. A flying start to the Championship season has seen them defeat two better-resourced clubs, as well as triumphing at Oldham last weekend, but Greenwood ranked the win at Whitehaven as their best so far. “I said to the players before the game, this will be your biggest win of the season,” said the Rams boss. “Halifax away was big and Widnes at home was big, but to come here on a Wednesday night in these conditions, taking a half-day or day off
work and coming back in the early hours of the morning, with the changes we made and with the debutants in, this will be your best win. And it is our best win.” Greenwood commended both sides for how they coped with horrendous conditions, with players coated head-to-toe in mud. He said: “Both sets of players did really well not dropping the ball. Unless you’ve played in that, you can’t understand how hard it is to actually get up and play the ball properly without dropping it. We did really well in the first half, we didn’t make many mistakes. “We got into the lead just after half-time, we started off really fast, but after that it was 20 minutes on our own line and we just couldn’t get away from it. “As we’ve spoken about a few times, there’s a bit of character to this team. They didn’t crumble under that, they kept the game to a couple of points, and they did what they needed to do to get a win. Over the course of the 80 minutes we probably shaded it.” There is a quick turnaround for their fifth-round match away at League One side Newcastle on Sunday (kick-off 3pm), which will be screened live by the BBC online and on the red button. “When you’re winning, you want the next game to come pretty quick-
TRIBUTE: Dewsbury Moor wore their 2020 kit, featuring #ACB9 in tribute to Archie Bruce, for the first time in their opening-day defeat to Normanton Knights. Thornhill Trojans and Dewsbury Celtic started their NCL campaigns with wins REPORTS: p26 ly, and that’s what we’re like,” he said. “We’re looking forward to Sunday. The lads that did miss out tonight were disappointed to miss out, they actually did want to play. They will be looking to come back in on Sunday now. “We’ll have a juggle. We didn’t know if we’d have three games this week and it turns out we do, so there will be a bit of management of players, as we haven’t got the
biggest squad. We’ll look at bringing some others back in to freshen things up for Sunday. “It’ll be totally different. It won’t be muddy and it’ll be a bit of a faster track which we haven’t really been on this year. It will be a different sort of test for us. We’ve played all our games on mud.” Injury forced Adam Ryder to sit out the second half at Whitehaven and he will be assessed today (Friday) to see whether he can play
at Newcastle. Meanwhile, Dewsbury have announced that their next home fixture against Toulouse on March 22 will have a Mothers’ Day theme. All women and children under the age of 16 will gain free admission to the match at the Tetley’s Stadium. They can also take advantage of discounts on the price of the Rams’ hospitality package, with full details on the club website.
Planes, trains et automobiles for le stranded Lingard... BATLEY BULLDOGS head coach Craig Lingard had a trip to forget in the south of France as a lost passport saw him stranded in the country for two days. His side fought valiantly in a 3414 defeat away at Toulouse in the Championship last Saturday evening. However, Lingard was left unable to board the flight back home the next day as his passport had been left on the plane when the team arrived at Limoges airport last Friday. “It had come out of my bag in the overhead compartment,” he said. “When I came to the terminal I noticed my bag was open and my passport wasn’t there.” However, none of the guards there spoke English and, by the time Lingard was sent to passport control, the plane had already set off again. He was allowed to enter the country with the documentation he still had and tried to do likewise when leaving again on Sunday on the recommendation of the British con-
sulate, after he had been told he would have to wait longer before reporting lost property following lengthy waits on the phone to both airline and airport. When Lingard was refused to board the flight back to Manchester, he had to find a hotel and then take the train to Paris on Monday morning to reach the British embassy. After a further two-hour delay, having arrived three minutes after it closed for lunch, he received the emergency documents he needed. However, he had to find accommodation for another night before the next available flight from the French capital brought him back on Tuesday morning. He reckons all of the hotels and transport set him back around £750, making it a trip to forget after what had been an encouraging performance from his Batley team in Toulouse. They led 8-6 at half-time before falling to defeat in the end against the Championship’s unbeaten leaders, and Lingard was pleased with their efforts.
LOST IN FRANCE: Monsieur Craig Lingard “In the first half, defensively we were the best I’ve seen all season,” he said. “We caused them a few problems with ball in hand. We made errors and maybe didn’t build as much pressure as we could have done but the effort they put in in the first half was fantastic. “We just needed to be as physical and intense in the first 10-15 minutes of the second half, but
Toulouse came out at a different speed and swung that momentum. It was difficult for us to get it back.” Half-back Aiden Ineson made his debut and showed “plenty of potential”, but their other recent addition to the squad, Tom Harrington, will have to wait another month before he is able to wear a Bulldogs jersey. Harrington had a four-match suspension from playing for Dewsbury Moor and Batley thought that it had been served when he signed for Hanging Heaton while on trial at Mount Pleasant in pre-season. However, the sport’s governing body, the RFL, have said that he must begin serving the suspension for Batley, starting from when he signed for the club. That means he will be unavailable for their next three matches, against Whitehaven, Bradford and Dewsbury, and is only eligible from their match at Halifax on April 15. He cannot play for Batley’s dual-registration partners, Leeds Reserves, in that time either. Lingard said: “We’ve had him training with us all pre-season.
Effectively he could have signed a contract and run his ban down then, and he would have been able to play. “We’re now being told he’s got another four games to serve before he can be considered for selection, so it’s a bit frustrating for him and for us as well. For me, he’s being penalised twice.” Batley’s elimination from the Challenge Cup means they have no match this weekend. That is a blessing for the club, having returned from France with a host of injuries. Props Jack Blagbrough and Tom Lillycrop suffered muscular and leg injuries respectively while fellow front-rower Toby Everett had a reaction to the part-synthetic pitch in Toulouse, as did centre George Senior. Winger Johnny Campbell has a swollen ankle while loose-forward Anthony Bowman took a knock to his knee. James Brown (rib) and Luke Hooley (shoulder) were ruled out last week while full-back Dave Scott pulled out just before travelling with illness.