March 2011
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Parents shocked at private school’s sudden closure By Sandie Marshall PARENTS were left high and dry when a small Honley private school went bust with just a few days notice. They are angry they were given no time to adjust their children to the change. Honley Day Care Nursery and Preparatory School on Queens Square Business Park went into administration during February half-term. The official receiver acting on behalf of owners Jones Day Care Nurseries sold the business almost immediately. New owners, Carlin Nurseries, are keeping the day care centre open saving all 20 jobs that were under threat. The preparatory school, however, was closed straightaway. At the time of the closure there were just seven pupils enrolled there. Shocked parents received a
phone call from the official receiver on the Friday telling them not to bring their youngsters to school on the following Monday. Sean English, whose sevenyear-old daughter Molly was a pupil, is angry the school was not allowed to stay open for at least a week to help the children cope with the change. “There seems to be no rule book for this situation. Surely there should be a moral code which allows a school to carry on for a short time to allow everyone to adjust and to allow parents to find new schools. That would help protect the kids from the shock. This just didn’t happen and the speed left everyone stunned,” he said. Sean had already paid £850 in school fees for March – money he is doubtful he will get back. With
Villagers urged to use local services
the help of Kirklees Council, Molly has been transferred to Holme Junior and Infant School. Local business owner Alison Ashurst was also left to find a new school for her six-year-old daughter. She too was disappointed by the lack of systems in place to help parents. She says: “I asked the official receiver how we were to go about finding a new school but was told they could give us no advice or help. Basically we were on our own.” Alison is so angry she has contacted the office of Education Minister Michael Grove and local MP Jason McCartney to lobby for more protection in such cases. “There should be something in place to protect the children. I know there are rules when a business goes bust but in these rare cases, the children’s emotional welfare should always come first.”
Organiser Stephen Dorill is confident this year's Holmfirth Film Festival will be a box office smash. For a special feature see next month’s edition.
HONLEY Village Trust has launched Stop and Think Honley! a campaign to encourage everyone to source all their goods and services from the town and surrounding area. As part of the campaign, the trust has updated its free local business directory and has made it available onwww.honleyvillagetrust.org.uk Trust secretary John Murray said: “The headline ‘Stop and Think’ relates to the fact that in our busy lives we often go to the main suppliers for our needs and habits without considering a local option.”
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02 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 3
Quiz tickets go on sale
Police getting tough to deter stone thieves By Sandie Marshall POLICE are getting smart in a new bid to protect valuable stonework from thieves. They have started to spray dry stone walls in the Holme Valley with a permanent liquid called Smartwater which is invisible until viewed under Ultra Violet light. This will help them to identify stone which turns up on the black market or in stone merchants. What’s more, Smartwater can also be traced on skin and clothing, providing useful evidence in the battle to catch the culprits. Stone theft has become a huge problem in all rural areas with walls, churches and even pavements being stripped down, usually under cover of darkness. Once the stone has been sold on, either into private hands or through merchants, it has been near-impossible for police to identify it as stolen and trace it back to its original location. Each batch of Smartwater, however, is unique which means all stolen stone can be identified easily and returned.
As well as routinely scanning all people arrested for Smartwater, police are also carrying out checks of vehicles in the area to see which have been used to transport stone marked with the liquid. Mark Wall, Crime Reduction Officer for Kirklees police said: “We have joined up with the Huddersfield Rural Crime Prevention Panel to launch this campaign and hopefully reduce stone theft in these areas. “Stone theft is something that we take very seriously as it damages communities and costs considerable sums to repair. “We will display signs in some areas in a bid to ward off potential thieves, but will also be keeping some locations to ourselves so that we might catch offenders. “Thieves who think about selling on stolen stone should also be aware that, as part of the campaign, we will be visiting local stone merchants, builders merchants and checking all new stone builds in the area. “We will be making them aware about the campaign and asking them to raise any suspicious activity to the police.”
THE Committee of Holmfirth Arts Festival has joined forces with Cafe@Penny Lane to hold a quiz night on Friday April 15. Teams or individuals are invited to enter. Tickets are priced at £16 including a twocourse supper, and there will be a prize for the winning table and booby prizes for the losers. Tickets are available from the Cafe or from Imagine toy shop in Norridge Bottom.
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4 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Jason McCartney MP joined local students Blythe Beresford from Holme village, Susie Handley from Greenhead College and John Travis from Meltham on a Holocaust Educational Trust trip to Auschwitz-Bikenau in Poland. Over 1.1 million Jews were murdered in these Nazi death camps. Holme Valley-based students from Greenhead College were on the harrowing trip so they could tell fellow students about the horrors on their return. Jason said: “With hundreds of anti-semitic crimes in the UK last year and other recent genocides we must never forget.”
Holme Valley Parish Council Notice is hereby given that the
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING will be held in the
Council Chamber, Council Offices, Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth HD9 3JP on MONDAY, 28 MARCH 2011 at 8 pm or at the close of the Publications and Communications Meeting All members of the public are welcome to attend and all local electors are entitled to speak.
COUNCILLOR RHONA BRATT CHAIRMAN - HOLME VALLEY PARISH COUNCIL
Exhibition tells town’s sale story By Sandie Marshall THE story of how Huddersfield bought itself in 1920 is being told in a new exhibition panel which is now on display in the Town Hall. The panel tells how two men from Berry Brow, Councillor Wilfrid Dawson and Samuel Copley managed to buy the whole town from the Ramsden family who had owned Huddersfield for the previous three hundred years. Councillor Dawson was a stockbroker and on one of his regular business trips to London had a chance meeting with the man acting as the Ramsden family’s agent for the sale of their estate. He started negotiations to buy the town on behalf of the Huddersfield Corporation - the forerunner of Kirklees council. However, there was a problem. An act of parliament was needed to give Huddersfield Corporation the power to buy the estate – that would take time and jeopardise the deal. Councillor Dawson turned to business acquaintance Samuel
Copley, the self-made son of a barber from Berry Brow who had made his fortune in Australia in insurance and forming Copley’s Bank which had branches in Perth and London. Samuel Copley agreed to act as middleman and bought the town that he loved so much that he had given the name Berry Brow to a housing development he had built in Australia. Samuel Copley paid £1.3M for the town. Then, nine months later and following the required Act of Parliament on 29th September 1920, he sold it on to Huddersfield Corporation, now Kirklees Council, for the same price. Seventeen members of Samuel Copley's family, including his grandson Martin Copley who travelled specially from Perth, Australia, attended a celebration to unveil the panel at the Town Hall. Copies of some of the archives associated with the purchase are also on view courtesy of West Yorkshire Archives and Huddersfield Local Studies Library.
Upper Holme Valley church-goers prepare to enjoy the Church Trail.
Churchgoers warned to expect the unexpected CHURCH visitors can expect the unexpected in the run-up to Easter with special events to mark Holy Week as part of the third annual Upper Holme Valley Church Trail. The theme for this year’s Trail is Tales of the Unexpected. Throughout Holy Week, April 18-22, each of the Upper Holme Valley’s eight Anglican Churches plus Holmfirth Methodist Church, will host an interactive display centred on a specific story told by Jesus in the Gospels, and offers them the chance to explore the hidden depths of each. To encourage people to drop in and take part, all of the churches will be open every day between 11am-4pm and from 7pm-9pm. Specifically for families there will be daily story-tellings at 11am in Holmfirth Parish Church when a child-friendly version of one of the stories will be read each day, before people are invited to go out
and explore the displays within the different churches. Some of the stories will be very familiar such as The Prodigal Son at All Saints in Netherthong and The Good Samaritan at St Thomas’ in Thurstonland. Others, such as The Workers in the Vinyard, being told at St David’s in Holmbridge, may be less well known. All Saints church in Netherthong will be hosting daily light lunches between 12 and 2.00pm. Light lunches will also be available to all visitors at St David’s, Holmbridge, on Wednesday. Good Friday morning will also see children’s workshops being staged at Holmfirth Parish Church and St John’s Church, Upperthong. The Trail will be brought to a close on Good Friday with The Hopeful Grave, a performance in words and music, at Christ Church New Mill, to which all are welcome.
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 5
Fawlty Towers 2 begins season BASIL Fawlty, the world’s rudest hotel manager, returns to Holmfirth in May as Turn Again Theatre Group kicks off its 2011-12 season with more episodes from the muchloved sitcom. Their original 2007 production of Fawlty Towers is still one of the most successful in the Holmfirth group’s 24-year history. Reprising their roles from four years ago are Neil Stacey as Basil, Loretta Skelton as his long suffering wife Sybil, Richard Skelton as hopeless Spanish waiter Manuel and Gwen Parr as sassy waitress Polly. Beryl Dunnill will once again direct and the show will be written by local author Jack Dunnill. Beryl, who also directed the highly-successful Bouncers and Shakers last year, said: “We have had so many requests to stage Fawlty Towers again that we finally gave in, provided the original team were willing. They certainly were.” Fawlty Towers 2 will be at Holmfirth Civic Hall from May 18-21. Tickets priced £6 for adults and £4 for concessions are now available from Holmfirth Information Office, Huddersfield Road, tel: 01484 222444 or via email at turnagaintheatre@yahoo.co.uk Following the success of Turn Again Theatre’s recent pantomime The King’s New Clothes, it has been announced that director Lisa Kendall will again take the helm for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs which will be staged January 25-28 next year. Before that, Daren Wild will direct the group’s October production, the details of which have yet to be announced.
The cast of Fawlty Towers 2: (From left): Gwen Parr (Polly), Neil Stacey (Basil), Loretta Skelton (Sybil). (Front): Richard Skelton (Manuel).
6 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Fortnightly sessions begin HOLME Valley South Children’s Centre has started a fortnightly One Stop Shop at Holmfirth Methodist Church. Part of the government’s SureStart initiative and aimed at families with children under five, the it will be open from 9.1511.15am. The sessions will offer
activities including crafts, storytime and stay and play. There will also be refreshments and a variety of information about services such as health, benefits, job-seeking and legal advice. The next two One Stop Shops will take place on March 21 and April 4th.
Club in mourning after player’s death By Sandie Marshall HEPWORTH United Football Club is in mourning after the tragic death of 15-year-old player Huw Thatcher. Talented sportsman Huw collapsed during a match at Brighouse and died later in Huddersfield Royal Infirmary. His dad, Nick Thatcher is the manager of the Under 15 team. He ran onto the pitch and tried in vain to revive his son with the kiss of life. It was initially feared that Huw had received a fatal blow to the head during a tackle but a post mortem showed the cause to be natural causes – he had suffered a massive brain aneurysm, or burst blood vessel, which could have happened at any time. Club Chairman John Field said: “His mum, dad and sister are devastated but they want it stressed that this was not the fault of anyone playing in the match.” John, who had known Huw for many years continued: “He was a fantastic lad. He’d played football for Hepworth since he was six and was a popular and important member of his team. He also played cricket for Upperthong and tennis at Thongsbridge Tennis Club. Huw was also captain of his football team at Holmfirth High School where he was a pupil. As news of his death became
Flowers, shirts and footballs have been laid to remember Huw Thatcher (right). known, his Hepworth team mates and friends from school began to gather at the football pitch at Sands Recreation Ground in Holmfirth where Huw was often seen kicking a football in his spare time. At one point around 200 people were there, laying a sea of flowers, shirts and footballs. John Field said: “It began with his dad and the players gathering as a way of dealing with their grief but it just grew and grew. I think it says a lot about the lad that so many people wanted to be there to share their feelings.”
The club, which runs junior football teams for all ages from six upwards, has temporarily suspended weekend matches for ages 12 and above as a mark of respect for Huw. Messages of sympathy have flooded in from football clubs across Yorkshire and as far afield as Manchester and Cheshire.
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 7
Nicola takes action after comments at school By Sandie Marshall
Nicola knew she had a problem when her weight topped 19stone.
Nicola now, with one of the size 22 tops she wore at her heaviest.
NEW MILL mum Nicola Ellery is quite literally half the woman she used to be after losing almost 10 stones over two years. She achieved the weighty feat through changing her diet and increasing her exercise, and says she feels “totally fantastic.” Nicola, 40, knew she had a serious weight problem when her blood pressure and cholesterol were too high. It was, however, comments made to her young daughter at school which finally gave her the motivation to do something about it. She says: “It was a mixture of stress because my daughter had been ill, comfort eating and lack of exercise. I was huge – wearing size 22 and 24 clothes and feeling very low. “A friend offered to take me to a Slimming World class in Holmfirth and I went even though I was dreading it because I thought everyone would stare at me because I was so big.” At her first weigh-in, Nicola could not look at the scales and asked not to be told her starting weight. In fact, she didn’t find out how heavy she had been until she lost seven and a half stone. “Even then I was shocked. I had
Mum’s the boss at Balance Accountants Balance Accountants of Holmfirth have teamed up with new business networking group “Mum’s the Boss”. The accountancy firm have become members and sponsors of the South Yorkshire branch of the group which was established in November 2010. Mum’s the Boss was founded to celebrate the twin achievements of motherhood and business with the express purpose of providing support through a network of like minded people, inspirational and informative speakers and a warm and welcoming environment. They currently have 5 groups around the country that meet regularly—with many more planned. Ashley Barrowclough, proprietor of Balance Accountants, says “It was a natural choice for us to link up with Mum’s the Boss because we both have similar principles, being modern, forward thinking business organisations. It’s particularly relevant to us at the moment as we currently have 3 senior members of staff on maternity leave”.
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started at 19 stone and 6 and a half pounds – no wonder I felt so bad.” She started to eat more vegetables and fruit, cut out the regular take-aways and gave up her beloved chocolate altogether. “The weight was coming off slowly but then I started a walking club and then I found I was losing three and four pounds each week. “I found it best to set little targets along the way, like how much I wanted to lose for Christmas, how much before my school reunion and so on. Each time I managed to meet and beat the targets I set myself.” Now she is a very trim nine stone 11 and feels her life has completely changed. “People don’t recognise me. I’m fitter, I can run and walk without being out of breath and my blood pressure and cholesterol are completely normal. “I’ve also got a new-found confidence which means I can shop for clothes and look at myself in a fulllength mirror without feeling ashamed.” Nicola is now keen to encourage others to follow her lead. “I’d tell anyone to give it a try – don’t be afraid to get help. You’re never too big and it’s never too late to do something about it.”
08 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 9
Modern Jive classes begin
School to build story garden in memory of former headteacher By Sandie Marshall STAFF and pupils at Nabb School have plans to build a story garden to honour their headteacher who died last year. It is hoped that a hand-carved wooden bench will be in place by April 27, the anniversary of his death. David Murgett, headteacher of Holmfirth Junior, Infant and Nursery School died suddenly after a short battle with skin cancer at the age of 48. The school has been raising money for a memorial to him and has created plans for the story garden after asking pupils for their designs. Situated at the back of the school near the existing adventure playground, the garden will be a quiet, all-weather place for children to read and work on art and science. It is hoped the garden will evolve and grow over time, making it a long-term project for the school. Local woodcarver Alan Lake has designed the bench which will sit at the centre of the garden. His ideas of incorporating wings across the back of the bench hit an
David Murgett immediate chord with Christine Cocker, acting headteacher at Nabb. She said: “Anyone who knew David recognised him as a freethinker who tried to give the children wings in everything they did.
A NEW weekly session of Modern Jive has started at Holmfirth Civic Hall. VibeJive is the latest offering from Essentially Dance, the joint Kirklees Council and NHS initiative to encourage people to become more physically active. Modern Jive is an accessible form of dance, loosely based on a fusion of Latin, ballroom and other dances. It is easier and faster to learn, with simpler footwork than most other dances. VibeJive offers
Also, when he knew he was ill, he developed a belief in angels watching over us. I think wings are very appropriate.” As well as the bench, the garden will feature a tree carved from stone and donated by local sculptor Mike Disley, and flowers, shrubs and trees donated by Kirklees Council and the community. The school also received a £250 contribution towards the garden from Holmfirth Rotary Club with the rest of the money needed raised by the Friends of Nabb School group. Building the garden will be a family event, with children, mums and dads invited to school during the Easter holidays to lend a hand. Once the first stage is completed the school plans to hold an event to celebrate David’s life and contribution to the school. As well as being headteacher at Nabb, David was also a recognised local sportsman who excelled in many activities, notably running and tennis. In his honour, his children will be presenting a memorial trophy for sports excellence to one pupil from the school.
adult dance classes at beginner and intermediate level and welcomes dancers and potential dancers of all ages. No partner is necessary. The VibeJive session involves a dance class, followed by a social dance with a DJ when you can have fun and enjoy dancing to a range of music. VibeJive takes places every Wednesday from 7.30-10.30pm and costs £6 payable on the door.
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10 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Mr O'Kane reading with Alice Dalton, Dylan O'Kane, Martha Taylor-Williams and Ben Lambert-Wilson.
Pupils celebrate annual Book Day as school library reopens By Sandie Marshall
Mr Crooke, reading with Harry Crooke, Lucy Sykes and Newt Marchant.
PUPILS at Hade Edge Junior and Infant School celebrated World Book Day with the reopening of their school library. As a way of encouraging the boys in the school to read more, dads and grandfathers visited to read stories and talk about the types of books they enjoy. Mums, friends and other members of the community were also invited into school to hear the children read and share their enjoyment of books. The school library has
been updated, redecorated and restocked with books which are catalogued and issued electronically – in just the same way as the main libraries in Kirklees, thanks to the support from Linda Williams of Holmfirth Library. Each pupil has their own library card with their photograph and a barcode. This allows pupils to scan their own books and record the ones they have read. Mrs Palmer, Senior Education Teaching Assistant, said: “Our pupils are very excited about using our new library system. We have
three enthusiastic librarians, Louis Garrard, Kieran Taylor and Kane WrightBedford. They will help younger pupils to use the new library.” Headteacher Jeff Kilner added: “The library was badly in need of updating and modernising. It’s great that the pupils can learn in school how to use our library so that when they visit any other library they will be able to find and borrow books easily. They can also make recommendations for other young readers using an online feature.” In all 15 parents and
friends of the school were invited into school to hear the children read in small groups. One parent said: “Hade Edge School is very much a part of the community and it is really good to be able to spend an afternoon hearing the children read. Some children don’t enjoy reading or find it difficult so if by being involved we can help inspire or encourage them to read then it has been worthwhile.” Each pupil also received a £1 World Book Day Book token to buy a book of their choice.
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 –11
12 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Parliamentary Corner IT’S A busy time in Parliament with the Budget coming up. As I write this I’m hoping that there will be measures to tackle the soaring cost of fuel as well as further moves to boost enterprise and entrepreneurship. The ever increasing cost of petrol keeps cropping up when I’m out and about in the Holme Valley and I’ve personally raised this issue with the Chancellor. As the weather improves I’m enjoying being out and about although I got soaked the other weekend helping the Colne Valley Tree Society plant
saplings over at Scammonden reservoir. After a morning with young trees I had a lovely afternoon with the young people at the Cafe 100 youth club behind the church in the centre of Holmfirth. The media are all too ready sometimes to demonise young people but it’s great to meet up with so many wonderful local youngsters. The Cafe 100 project is open three times a week and gives young people a safe and engaging environment. They have all the latest technology and, after a training session with Two Valleys Radio,
with Jason McCartney MP some of the youth clubbers interviewed me for a radio broadcast. I’ve been championing the cause to save Yorkshire’s children’s heart surgery unit. A consultation is underway to reconfigure the units in the North which could see the unit at the Leeds General Infirmary close leaving children and parents from here with a long trek to Liverpool or Newcastle. I visited the unit at the Leeds General Infirmary last year where I met the wonderful staff and parents. The LGI unit serves our area and 5.5 million people across Yorkshire.
For me the arguments and consultation process has echoes of the maternity services downgrading at the Huddersfield Royal Infirmary. Clinicians favouring centralisation whilst parents and patients favour good quality local services as close to home as possible. If you need my help please get in touch: my Holmfirth office is at Upperbridge House, 24 Huddersfield Rd, Holmfirth, HD9 2JS – opposite Ashley Jackson’s gallery. Tel: 01484 688364 or 688378. Email: jason.mccartney.mp@parliament.uk
Sharlands Butchers struck gold in a recent regional quality event. Five of their pork products reached the Gold standard in the North West BPEX Product Evaluation Event, with a further three narrowly missing out and achieving Silver. The Sharland’s team (pictured left to right) Ian Sharland, Richard Ogden, Karen Sharpe, Keith Sharland, Nigel Sykes were delighted with their most recent awards.
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 13
‘Least fit’runner sets 12-marathon charity target THE man who calls himself the least fit marathon runner in the country has set himself a target of completing 12 marathons over six months. David Elliott, owner of Wellhouse Leisure the Shepley-based motorhome company, has just completed a marathon in Brighton – the first of his magic dozen runs. In April, his programme will see him compete in the London Marathon and later in the season he hopes to run in Osaka, Japan. You would imagine someone taking on such a challenge would be a leanmean running machine, but David is quick to deny the charge. “I’m still basically unfit and out of shape,” he laughs. “I try to run a marathon in under five hours which is hardly world-record time. Sometimes I do it and sometimes I don’t but the
One down...11 to go! David tackling the first leg of his challenge. feeling when you cross the finishing line is unbelievable and I always have a tear in my eyes.” David is putting himself through his challenge to raise £20,000 for the children’s charity, Dreams Come True which fulfils wishes for terminally ill children. He started to work with the charity after he ran his first London Marathon in 2007. “I was keen to develop a long-term relationship
with a charity, rather than just run in their name and then forget about them until next time. “I got on really well with the people who work there and they came to see me at the business. They do amazing things to help some very sick children.” As well gaining sponsorship for running the 12 marathons, he is planning a charity ball and auction for this summer. He has already secured some impressive auction lots including tickets to an Arsenal football game, a day with the Aston Martin Racing Team and other memorabilia from bands and football and rugby clubs. For more information about Dreams Come True, go to www.dctc.org.uk. To make a donation and help David achieve his £20,000 target, go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Astonchap.
14 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
The hills are alive with the sound of Two Valley's Radio By Sandie Marshal IN THESE days of hi-tech chatter, Facebook blogging and constant Tweeting, doesn’t community radio seem just a little bit old fashioned? Not one bit of it – especially when you combine it with internet technology and use it to broadcast from some of the hottest entertainment events that are happening locally. Just ask the small army of teenage volunteers who are the backbone of Two Valleys Radio, the community broadcaster now providing on-line entertainment and interviews to the Holme and Colne Valleys from live events and a new home in Meltham. Greg Shuttleworth, 14 and from Wooldale, is one of them. He said: “I got involved after I saw them
broadcasting from Hade Edge band room. I phoned them up and a couple of weeks later I’m there interviewing the Mayor of Kirklees. It was amazing really.” Two Valleys is a real local success story. It has grown out of a pilot project called Colne Valley Radio which first broadcast as part of the Slaithwaite Moonraking Festival two years ago. It was created by the community arts organisation Heads Together Productions who already ran a similar internet-based radio station in Leeds. It was an instant hit and so, six months later, it was officially launched as Two Valleys Radio, expanded geographically to cover the thriving arts scene in the Holme as well as Colne Valley.
Frances Vevers and Greg Shuttleworth get to grips with the broadcasting technology at the new Meltham headquarters.
In its first year, the Two Valleys caravan and tent became a familiar sight at many big local events including Honley Show, Holmfirth Folk Festival and Upperthong Gala. In all, 60 volunteers interviewed 603 guests and an amazing 10,982 people either tuned in live or listened later on-line. It is that facility to access the broadcasts at anytime via the internet which makes this kind of community radio so rewarding, according to Adrian Sinclair of Heads Again Productions. He said: “We can’t be broadcasting all the time because that wouldn’t be practical, neither would we have enough to say! We chose to broadcast when there’s something going on. “Being internet-based means our
Two Valley's volunteers span all age ranges. Clive Waind (left) broadcasts with Bel Flexen, 12
issue and so the help provided by listeners don’t have to be near a Kirklees Council to make the move radio at a particular time, they can to Meltham happen was much click and listen any time they want appreciated. to.” Financial help has also been Not all the volunteers are younggiven by Kirklees through its Arts sters – there’s a real spread of ages in the Neighbourhood programme, and backgrounds. Clive Waind the Arts Council and Leader fundfrom Honley is their most senior ing from the European Community regular broadcaster and he for rural projects. describes himself with a chuckle Other local sources are helping as “a more mature teenager”. too – just this month the Part of the joy, for him, has been Crossroads charity shop in working with the kids. “I love that Meltham donated a very welcome part of it” he says. “I like their dif£2,000 towards the costs of equipferent point of view although it’s ping the new studios. true to say that when you are on With such support from its volthe air with someone it doesn’t unteers, funding organisations and really cross your mind what age the community, Two Valleys Radio the person is – you just get on with should be a voice for the commuit.” nity for some time to come. With so many teenagers Their next big date is Friday involved, it has been natural for March 25 when they will broadcast Two Valleys to regularly feature live from the Meltham studio for the three high schools on their the first time. The following day, patch; Honley, Holmfirth and they will be on the road again, covColne Valley. Pupils have enjoyed ering the Shakespeare Festival at interviewing the three headteachHonley High School. ers and broadcasts have taken Says Adrian Sinclair: “We’ve place from special school events. come a long way already but “It’s definitely made me more there’s a lot more we want to do, confident” says 12-year-old Ben such as having more live sessions Flexen of Slaithwaite. “I found it from local musicians and helping difficult to begin with because to develop young musicians and much of it is interviewing and I bands but it’s really down to the hadn’t done that before but now community. We only exist for it’s got easier and I don’t mind talkthem.” ing to all those people.” To hear Two Valleys Radio But even a roving internet probroadcasts, to register as a volunduction needs a home and Two teer or to receive their regular Valleys Radio was delighted to be newsletter, visit offered the Carlile Institute buildtwovalleysradio.co.uk ing in Meltham, left empty when the Connexions youth service moved on, as a permanent base. They moved in at the end of January and are now busy creating professional broadcasting studios, offices and rehearsal rooms. As a community organisation, fund- When out on the road, Two Valleys Radio uses the Caravan of Love, a 1980s caravan cleverly rigged ing is always an out as a mobile broadcasting facility.
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 –15
16 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
High school to host Dubai students for Shakespeare project A blood donor from Holmfirth has been honoured for his dedication in rolling up his sleeves to help save lives at an awards ceremony held by the National Blood Service. David Murdoch received a crystal plate for giving 75 donations at an awards lunch held at Lancashire Cricket Club to recognise the commitment of long-serving blood donors. Presenting the awards was Sarah Mullins from Manchester who suffered a massive haemorrhage following the birth of her son 18 months ago. She had surgery and needed four litres of blood to save her life. Pam Prescott from the
National Blood Service said: “All our donors are special, but it is a pleasure to thank our most dedicated donors in this way. Each blood donation could save the lives of up to three people, so if a donor has given 75 blood donations they have potentially helped save the lives of up to 225 patients in local hospitals through donating blood.” Anyone aged over 17, weighing more than 50 kg (7 stone 12 lbs) and in general good health could become a blood donor. For details of sessions or to book an appointment call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk.
HONLEY High school is part of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s national flagship education project called the Learning and Performance Network. As part of this the school is hosting a Regional Shakespeare Festival on March 25 and 26 in which eight other local primary schools are performing. A school from Dubai will also be making the journey over to attend the event. The school’s partnership with the RSC was secured last year after a successful bid from English teacher Emma Daniels. The school is nationally one of ten ‘Hub’ schools. Each Hub School is responsible for a small cluster of local schools who, through the network, are involved in transforming the teaching of Shakespeare in schools. The aim is to bring about a significant change in the way that young people in primary and secondary schools experience, engage with, and take ownership of the work of Shakespeare. The partnership is initially for three years and involves the RSC working closely with the school by
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providing teacher training and workshops with students which are delivered by professional RSC actors and educators. This year’s Shakespeare Festival is based on King Lear and is called ‘No Fear, King Lear’. Each school has created their own performance inspired by a different element of the King Lear story. After the festival the RSC will invite one school from the cluster to perform at a national festival in Stratford and to see the new Shakespeare theatre. Two designated teachers from Honley have recently trained to become leading teachers of Shakespeare. English teacher Caroline Davenport-Jones and Drama teacher John Cotgrave attended five days of training at the RSC in Stratfordupon-Avon. They also studied for a Post Graduate Certificate which they have now passed with Warwick University. Caroline Davenport-Jones is thrilled to be a part of such a fantastic partnership. “Our partnership with the RSC has really transformed the teaching of Shakespeare. “We have moved on from a text-
bound approach with our pupils and are now engaging with the text dramatically. “This change in approach has really inspired our pupils to develop their own ideas and interpretation. It is such a privilege and honour to be a part of such a big event and we are very excited about this year’s festival. “We as a school have also been selected to perform at The Dell, the RSC’s outdoor stage in Stratford, on July 9 which will be another fantastic experience for our pupils.” Honley High School Head teacher, Chris Sylge, added: “The children, the school and the community are hugely indebted to our English department colleagues and our partners at the RSC for their extraordinary commitment to this exceptional project. “As well as giving our children the chance to showcase their talent and learn in new and meaningful contexts, the continuation and legacy of the work will be long-lived, and will benefit our future learners for many years to come. We are fortunate indeed to have such a wealth of talent and expertise in the heart of our school community.”
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Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 17
Roger helps students with songwriting skills By Sandie Marshall YORKSHIRE-BORN singer and song writer Roger Davies has been working with students at Honley High School to help develop their song writing skills. Pupils enjoyed workshops led by Roger and listened to him perform some of his most well know songs written about his native county. Roger has been a regular visitor to the school for the past three years and works with every year 8 group. Pupils are currently studying a ‘Yorkshire Folk’ project and Rogers’ workshops are designed to help young people think positively about their locality so that they can turn
these feelings into lyrics. Listening attentively to the strumming of his guitar and the serenading of his hometown in ‘Brighouse on a Saturday Night’ and ‘Huddersfield Town’, pupils were gripped by Rogers’ live performances. One pupil involved in the workshop said: “It was great to listen to Roger playing live music. He has inspired me to listen to more folk music.” Leigh Baker, Head of Music, added: “It’s fantastic to see how the pupils respond to a musician of Rogers’ status and there’s been a real buzz in school with plenty of interest (and autograph hunting!).
“Bringing in artists from all walks of life is an important part of Arts Education at Honley and we aim to enrich the pupils’ learning and enjoyment as frequently as possible” Roger enjoys conducting his workshops and inspiring young musicians: “When Leigh Baker asked me back to Honley High School I was really looking forward to it. I had a great time this week. “The kids responded brilliantly and asked lots of interesting questions. I hope I've encouraged them to think positively about where they live when the time comes for them to think up ideas for their own 'Yorkshire' songs.”
Art of flowers PENNINE Borders Flower Club held its monthly meeting at St Bartholomew’s Church Hall, Meltham with a special guest demonstration entitled Magic of the East by Liz Bishop from Sheffield. The club, now in its fifth year, caters for everyone interested in the art of flower arranging from beginners to the more experienced. The club holds its demonstrations and workshops on the second Wednesday of each month and new members are always welcome. For more details please contact Gwynneth 01484 850354 or Lynne 01484 650160. Pictured with Liz (right) is Angela Green, one of the winners of the arrangement Liz donated for the raffle.
Church celebrates 150 years SCHOLES Methodist Church celebrated 150 years of worship with a special weekend which included a display of memorabilia of the life of the church and a firework display for the village. On the Sunday a packed church marked the anniversary with a special service. Worship was led by the Rev Tim Moore, and readings and prayers were given by members of the con-
gregation. Rev Dr Martyn Atkins, General Secretary of the Methodist Church of Great Britain gave the address and special music was sung by the choir. Hymns were accompanied by Julia Noble on the organ and the music group from Holmfirth. The next major event is a flower festival in the church on April 30-May 2.
18 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Buying at auction remains popular in the Holme Valley BUYING a house at auction is still popular in the Holme Valley, as a recent sale held by Wm Sykes & Son showed. The well attended event at the Huntsman Inn saw the hammer fall on all three lots for good prices. First up was 31 Thick Hollins, Meltham, a stone end terraced house with a decent sized garden close to Meltham Golf Club. Bidding was strong on the property and it achieved way in excess of its £130,000 guide price with the winning bid at £177,000. The second lot, 9 Wallnooks, Cumberworth reached £97,000, again over its £90,000 guide. The property was a stone end terraced cottage with views over fields to the front. It had two
bedrooms but no bathroom. The final lot was 114 Church Street, Netherthong. This characterful property was formerly two cottages and had the rare benefit of both a garden and parking in the centre of the popular village. On this one the hammer fell at £207,000. After the sale auctioneer Paul Dixon commented: “This was our first property auction of 2011 and a great way to start the year with all three properties selling for good prices. At the end of the night the vendors of all three houses were delighted with the prices achieved as were the purchasers with the properties that they had acquired.” Wm. Sykes' next property auction sale will be held at The Huntsman Inn on April 5.
Firms invited to apply for grants THE HOLME Valley’s smallest firms are being invited to apply for new Green Business Grants, designed to offer cash to businesses wanting to reduce their environmental impact. Grants of up to £1,000 are being offered through the Green Business Network (GBN), with funding from Kirklees Council and CO2Sense Yorkshire. The initiative is open to all businesses with less than ten employees and will fund the purchase and installation of energy efficient measures at their local premises. Businesses interested in applying need to contact the GBN to organise an initial environmental audit of their premises, resulting in a recommendation of the best
measures to put in place. The grant can then be used to purchase and install these measures. Examples of the type of work that the grants could fund include introducing energy efficient lighting, insulation, controls for heating, and replacing older appliances with energy efficient models. All support and advice offered by the GBN is free to businesses. For more information about the Green Business Grants and other free support from the GBN, including free environmental audits and help with environmental accreditations, visit www.greenbusinessnetwork.org. uk/business-support or email jim.porter@kirklees.gov.uk.
Members of the Yorkshire Mixtures group who performed their play in Holmfirth.
Homophobic bullying play comes to Holmfirth By Sandie Marshall YOUNG PEOPLE in Kirklees who are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender brought their award-winning play about homophobic bullying to Holmfirth. The play is called “I’m Gay, So Get Over It” and features a young gay man driven to suicide by bullies. It was performed at the Phoenix Youth Club by members of the Yorkshire Mixtures Youth Group run by Kirklees Young People’s Service. The play is based on the experiences of members of the group.
Increasingly the group’s focus has turned to tackling homophobic bullying and hate crime. In 2009 the group won a Philip Lawrence Award for their efforts at tackling homophobic bullying and they have continued their work to raise awareness of the issue through 2010 and into 2011. Since winning the award, the Yorkshire Mixtures Youth Group have performed the play at various events across West Yorkshire and have recently been supported by ITV Fixers to make a short film based on the ethos of the play. This film will be avail-
able to schools in Kirklees in the hope that it will assist teachers to discuss the issue of sexuality and homophobic bullying in a creative and dynamic way. Group member Jodie Nicholson said: “We have the play to get our message across that homophobic bullying should not be tolerated.” Kerrie Clark, Area Youth Worker for Kirklees Young People’s Service was pleased with the reaction of the Holmfirth audience. She said: “When the play began, there was a lot of noise and talking, young people weren’t too sure what to expect
but by the end of it, in the scene where Sam dies, you could hear a pin drop. I personally feel that this says a lot about the impact of the play. “After it finished there were a number of questions from the audience which ranged from asking how many young people in the group are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, to how parents reacted when young people ‘came out’ to them. “It obviously caused the young people to think about the subject matter.”
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 19
HoTT news
Ceilidh part of first birthday celebrations By Janet Williams HoTT (Holmfirth Transition Town) celebrated its first birthday with a tremendous Ceilidh at Holmfirth Civic Hall on 19 February. A hundred people came and danced the night away to the strains of Rocks and Reels. The level of enthusiasm means we are likely to celebrate our second birthday in a similar way. A ceilidh regular said, “The band was just great”. The band members enjoyed it too. “So many people wanting to dance is the making of a gig like this”. To more serious stuff: petrol and diesel prices are already rising and, worse still, authoritative sources say that higher prices will become the norm. It is evident that the Government is deeply concerned – as a number of measures have been announced to reduce our dependence on conventional oil. Regrettably, as residents of a semi-rural area, the people of the Holme Valley are particularly vulnerable to rising fuel prices as the 2001 census, though dated, shows. 82% of local
households have access to a car or van compared to only 73% for England as a whole. And valley commuters travel further to work (42% go more than seven miles compared to 29% nationally). Public transport is not that attractive. Recent consultations show that local people are dissatisfied with local bus services and complain about high fares. Loss making services may be cut as subsidies are reduced. This adds up to more awareness of the need to find other ways to travel without depending on conventional fuels. The Go Green Transport Show that HoTT is arranging for Saturday 16th April (2 to 4.30 pm) at Holmfirth Methodist Church, may be able to help here. It will present alternatives to conventional car travel. Entrance is free. Electric cars may come to the rescue. Expensive, you might say; but with the saving they offer on road tax and diesel or petrol is electric driving cheaper than a conventional car? How will they cope with our hills? What
if they need re-charging to get us back up from the shops and services in the valley bottom to our homes on the hillsides? The show will provide answers – two of the new electric cars will be on display. If your journey to work regularly involves the same route why not find out about car sharing while you are there? You could sign up for eco-driving lessons and develop your skill at getting the most out of the fuel used by your current car. There will also be chances to find out more about using the local railways, cycling and walking. Martin Smith, one of the organisers, said: “This is a first for Holmfirth and a real opportunity to explore new travel choices to meet 21st century realities. We are investigating provision of a plug-in point so that electric vehicles can top up their batteries – another first for the town.” In the meantime, March 23 -27 is Climate Week. HoTT will be marking this with a free showing of the film, The Age of Stupid, on 23 March: 7pm at the Gallery Room, Holmfirth Parish Church.
New NHS app helps you find the right service PEOPLE in Kirklees are being helped to find the most appropriate NHS service with a simple touch of a button. A new iPhone app has been introduced which enables people to find the nearest and most appropriate NHS service. The app gives users the names and addresses of their nearest A&E department, GP, NHS Walk in Centre, dentist, 8 to 8 clinic, sexual health service or pharmacy as well as first aid and emergency advice and reminders about health appointments and
medication. The app is based on the NHS Choose Well campaign which has been designed to inform patients of the NHS services available to them in their local area. It also seeks to help relieve pressure on A&E and GP services by reducing unnecessary attendances. Anyone with an Apple iPhone, iPad or iPod touch can download the app from iTunes via the internet. Also a link to the Choose Well app in the app store is available on the NHS Kirklees website at
http://www.kirklees.nhs.uk/y our-health/choose-well/ As a result of the Choose Well campaign which was launched in October 2009, people are getting better at finding the most convenient and appropriate healthcare in their area. A survey, which was conducted to evaluate the impact of the campaign, found that 90% of people learned something about health services from the posters, leaflets and advertisements which were available throughout the Yorkshire and the Humber region.
20 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Hidden treasures on offer at this vibrant Pennine market town AT the heart of the Holme Valley, always buzzing with activity - Holmfirth is a vibrant Pennine market town with many hidden treasures. As you park your car or step off the bus, you are just just a couple of minutes' walk from a close knit central shopping area where friendly, independent local retailers dare to be different and continue to thrive, despite the lure of the larger supermarkets and out-oftown stores. First-time visitors are always impressed by the mouthwatering displays of fresh produce from bread and cakes to fruit and veg,
meat and fish to dairy products, which have all but disappeared in many places. There are shops specialising in outdoor clothing, the latest fashions, books and toys, top-brand, low-price electrical goods, china, glassware and jewellery, cards and confectionery, hand-made chocolates, galleries dedicated to local arts and crafts -
the list goes on. Someone once said that you only fully appreciate the variety of shops and businesses trading in Holmfirth if you look beyond the main through-routes of Huddersfield Road, Victoria Street and Towngate. One such place is Norridge Bottom, slightly tucked away behind the Old Bridge Hotel, but well sign-posted and easily accessible over the river footbridge from the bus station. Once a forgotten backwater, it is now a pleasant haven of retailing, refreshment and relaxation. Continues opposite
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 21
On one side is an attractive terrace of cottage shops, on the other Hervey's Bar with its continental-style al fresco seating and tables, much sought-after on sunny days and summer evenings. A hidden gem in every sense, The Nook is an awardwinning real ale pub, just off Victoria Square, along the short passageway from its sister cafe bar and restaurant Carniceria. Connoisseurs of traditional 'cask' have been seeking out The Nook almost since time began. Now the amazing array of ales includes eight beers brewed on-site in its own micro-brewery. Whether you want a swift pint or quick snack, a 'light
bite' or full meal, fish and chips to eat in or take out, or just a plain and simple pot of tea or cup of coffee, your options are many and varied. Pubs to cafe bars, restaurants to bistros, cafes and tearooms, Holmfirth has got the lot. With several establishments in the town itself and others slightly further afield you will feel seriously spoiled for choice. As an occasional visitor to the area says: “In some towns you would struggle to find even a couple of places that are open during the day, but in Holmfirth there seems to be somewhere new to eat every time I come over.” Hollowgate is another of those streets that was made
for strolling with several small shops which you can almost fall into from the narrow pavement, as well as a much larger, split-level clothing and gifts store and the town's indoor market. Weekly fixtures include the Thursday general market and Saturday craft and food market. On the third Sunday of each month, there is the popular farmers' market, 8am to 2pm. Also worth exploring are the quaint cobbled lanes off Towngate, behind Holmfirth Parish Church and the White Hart pub, an area steeped in history where you'll find a cafe and a book shop. Along the riverside is The Picturedrome, which first opened as a cinema a century ago and now attracts music fans from far and wide to see some of the best known names in rock and pop through the decades, live on stage. Forthcoming attractions include Adrian Edmondson (Vyvian from The Young Ones) with his band The Bad Shepherds and also Fairport Convention - both will be here in May as part of the Holmfirth Festival of Folk, one of the biggest events of the year.
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22 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Double award winners lead Folk Festival line-up By Sandie Marshall
Double award winners Show of Hands will be at the Picturedrome during the festival.
THE finishing touches have been made to the programme for this year’s Holmfirth Festival of Folk which will run on May 6, 7 and 8. One of the biggest events on the national folk scene, as always the festival will welcome leading musicians, dancers and many hundreds of folk enthusiasts to the town. This year’s line up on the main Picturedrome stage opens on Thursday evening with a pre-festival gig staring 2010 Radio 2 Folk Award double winners Show of Hands followed on Friday night by Glastonbury Festival's Emerging Talent competition winners Ellen & the Escapades. The entertainment continues through Saturday with festival favourites Adrian Edmondson & the Bad Shepherds and culminates with 4Square headlining a concert on Sunday afternoon. Folk rock legends Fairport Convention bring the
Visitors to the festival always enjoy the colour and energy of the street entertainers. festival to a close on Sunday night. Elsewhere in the town you can catch performances by Wendy Arrowsmith, Gavin Davenport,
Frank Keenan with Login’s Well, Pete Morton, The Young ‘Uns, Marilyn Middleton Mellor, Pilgrim’s Way, Steve Tilston, Chris Manners, Gerry McNeice, Ray Padgett, Gary Stewart and Ottersgear to name but a few. Festival committee’s Cath Ingham is confident the weekend’s entertainment will be as good – if not better – than ever. “Nearly every hotel, pub, cafe and restaurant in the town is involved and there will be sessions-a-plenty, singarounds and workshops. “We throw in a ceilidh or two for good measure and outside there'll be more morris than you can throw a suitably gnarly stick at, plus some fantastic street entertainment for the kids with Bread and Butter Theatre and Colonel Custard.” Full details of the festival programme and information gig times, venues and tickets can be found at www.holmfirthfestivaloffolk.co.uk
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 23
Town’s clothes shops offer something for all budgets In my 23 years in Holmfirth, I have come across many people who seem to assume that the extent of our fashion knowledge is flat caps and wellingtons... By Becky Sturdy ALTHOUGH festival season is on its way and no doubt some of you are scouting out the latest pair of hunters to take along I’d like to put to bed this rumour that the Holme Valley is more Farmer Giles than current styles. My aim is to try and show you that Holmfirth actually can be a stylish town so here’s a basic guide of where to find this seasons must haves in our very own valley. The seasons are changing why not make your big entrance into spring with bold prints, a gorgeous collection of these can be found in Pipanik Boutique. This particular design is currently a massive trend in mainland europe with heaps of character thrown into your classic cuts, from knee length jackets to mini skirts this trend offers something for everyone. If you don’t feel like making a bold entrance why not head to The Loft where you will find an array of rea-
sonably priced well fitting designs for a classic style, focusing on feminine cuts and lots of choice, my personal favourite is this white dress, proving that classic cuts don’t have to be dull. Add something to an outfit. This season, gold is tipped to be the focus colour for accessories. Gift doesn’t always have to mean for someone else, why not treat yourself to a peek at the Gift Horse’s jewellery collections? Offering everything from top costume jewellery designers Pilgrim to one-off designs, my advice is to think big with charms and jewels set to be big sellers. Hopefully this will all help to dispel the rumour that the Holme Valley catwalk consists of nothing more than flat caps and wellies (although to all the men out there, don’t discard the flat cap just yet as it is set to make a come back this year). For now I’ll get back to scouting the valley for some more nuggets of style gold...
White dress - The Loft £10.19
Patterned dress - Pipanik £70
Designers to showcase talents at market HOLMFIRTH’S third Designers’ Market springs into action on Sunday April 1 from 11am-5pm with many local designers showcasing their talents. Be inspired by high quality products for you and your home, many of which are produced by local businesses. You can choose from a range of eyecatching local landscapes, jewellery, designer clothing, garden furniture, candles, soft furnishings, children’s clothing and accessories, rugs, handbags, hats,
linens and bespoke furniture. There will be an Easter egg hunt for the children and a chance to have your name put on your own egg. Plus live music, food and refreshments. “This is the third time we’ve staged the Designers’ Market and it’s been a huge success” said Andy Leader, one of the organisers. “It’s a great opportunity to see a range of unique designer items under one roof – and raise money for a good cause.”
Admission is £2 which qualifies you for entry into a raffle with prizes donated by the market stall holders. All proceeds go to McMillan Cancer Support and the market has raised over £2,000 for McMillan since it started. The market will be held in Holmfirth Market Hall, Hollowgate, Holmfirth. For further information contact Andy Leader on 01484 683756 or email madeinholmfirth@gmail.com
THE next sacred harp singing day in Holmfirth will be held on Saturday March 26 from 10.30am at Wooldale Community Centre, Robert Lane. No experience is necessary and everyone is invited along to try out this form of group folk singing which has its roots in rural southern America. The sing will last until around 4pm with breaks for lunch and refreshments.
24 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
David Cameron’s vision of the ‘Big Society’ coming together to run things like libraries and post offices is being billed as radical – but is it such a new idea? Haven’t small groups of local people been quietly running important local services for years? To find out, we visited Upperthong Village Hall, one much-valued asset, managed by the community for the community.
People power in Upperthong at community managed village hall BUILT in 1853, Upperthong Village Hall on Wickins Lane began life as the local school – a single classroom complete with a house built onto the side for the school mistress. Eventually when it was no longer needed as a school, the building was bequeathed to the people of the village. It has been held in charitable trust and operated by a small committee ever since. Nowadays it is home each week to many groups and societies including the mums and toddlers group, karate club, Brownies and the WI. A couple of local bands and actors use it for rehearsal space, and a photographer has been known to use it as an occasional studio. In between times it is hired out for kids’ birthday parties and other private functions, not to mention special village celebrations like the annual Upperthong Gala and Christmas party. The hall has a stage, a fully-functioning kitchen and a licensed bar – everything you could need to organise a great night.
Keeping tabs on the bookings and trying to make sure the hall is used as much as possible is the 12-strong committee. Their biggest challenge is keeping the 160-year-old building in good repair. Steve Taylor is the committee chairman. “It takes several thousands of pounds each year just to keep the building ticking over. For example, we’re just about to replace some of the windows and sort out some of the damp but it’s a bit never-ending. There’s always something that needs doing.” The fact the hall is a listed building makes life even more difficult for them. “Our hands are so tied when it comes to making repairs on the outside – hardly anything is allowed. We wanted to extend because that would give us more scope for bigger events and allow us to raise more money for the upkeep...but that wasn’t allowed either. Sometimes it’s frustrating.” That said, the current committee clearly regards the hall as one of the main assets of Upperthong and takes its responsibilities for its care seriously. Most have served for over 10 years. “When
Upperthong Village Hall we took over, the hall was £23,000 in debt. We’ve managed to steadily whittle that away and now it is debt-free” say Gary Wilson who, together with his wife Helen, are long-serving committee members. So with such a financial commitment, would it be better if the hall was in local authority control? The committee disagrees. One advantage of local ownership
is that they can prioritise the needs of the community and make sure they come first. “We’re finalising our plans for a Royal Wedding party for the village,” says Steve. “We’ve applied to the Parish Council for one of their £50 celebration grants and we’re waiting to hear if we’ve got it. Then we’re going to be hosting some films for the Holmfirth Film Festival in May. We did this last
year and it was very successful. We’ve also got new ideas for this year to raise more money – a curry night, wine tasting, music nights and so on.” Then there’s the Upperthong Gala, a huge three-day party for the village organised by the Village Hall Committee with events in the hall and other venues such as the cricket club, Royal Oak pub and church. For this, they call on the services of other willing local volunteers. Gary explains: “The committee is small in numbers but we know there is a pool of other people who don’t necessarily want to be on a committee but who are happy to lend a hand around Gala time. We couldn’t do it without them – that’s why this is part of the community. “What we’re doing here is not new at all – in fact it’s very old fashioned. A microcosm of the Big Society idea.” To enquire about events at the village hall or to make a booking, visit www.upperthong.org.uk This year’s Upperthong Gala will take place on June 24, 25 and 26.
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 25
Award winning modern dental practice with central location AWARD winning Huddersfield Dental Implants & Cosmetics Ltd is a very modern dental practice situated in the centre of Huddersfield, down Albert Yard. The practice deals with all aspects of dentistry including implant and cosmetic dentistry. The practices lead clinician is Robin Warne who qualified in 1985 from Leeds University. He ensures that the practice offers the latest in up to date dentistry by travelling all over doing many hours of post graduate training. His studies so far have
taken him to the United States as well as seven European countries, and he has a postgraduate certificate in sedation and pain management as well as a Masters degree in Implant Dentistry. He is a member of several different societies and has had work published in a mainstream Dental Implant journal. The practice was converted in 2006 by Miller-Brown who used etched glass in the construction to give the maximum amount of light and modern appearance to this state of the art practice. This, in addition to the lat-
est dental equipment, which includes a laser, an operating microscope, air abrasion units and digital radiography as well as other up to date equipment ensuring the treatment you receive is the best Robin and his team can provide. If you would like to see Robin give the practice a call on 01484 53722. Huddersfield Dental Implants & Cosmetics Ltd, Albert Yard, Huddersfield HD1 2BN tel 01484 537222, implants@hdic.co.uk or look at the web site www.hdic.co.uk
Sign up now for online tax filing SMALL businesses across West Yorkshire should sign up now for online Corporation Tax filing ahead of the coming rush, a local tax specialist has warned. Nick Brook who runs TaxAssist Accountants in Huddersfield said that, although the compulsory change to online filing did not come into force until April, small businesses should apply now rather than risk unnecessary fines for filing late. He said: “The changes will affect other organisations that pay corporation tax,
including clubs, societies, associations, co-operatives, charities and other unincorporated bodies. “No doubt there will be a rush to register immediately before April, so rather than risk unnecessary delays; businesses should apply now if they do not use an accountant. “From April 2011, all company tax returns, accounts and payments for accounting periods ending after 31 March 2010 have to be filed online in a specified format. For small businesses with relatively straightforward tax
affairs, HMRC and Companies House offer a free ‘template’ to submit your accounts and corporation tax returns. We’ve been using HMRC approved software for a few years now and are fully prepared for the switch over.” TaxAssist Accountants Huddersfield is a local business itself, operating across Huddersfield and the Holme & Colne Valleys providing tax and accountancy advice and services to more than 350 small businesses.
Quality and satisfaction are key to family owned shoe firm “SELLING shoes that don’t come back to people who do” is more than just a catchy slogan to Huddersfield’s best known footwear outlet, Shaw & Hallas Ltd on Market Walk. For the family owned firm which has been selling, and originally making shoes in Huddersfield since 1864, a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is a business philosophy which has been passed down unchanged through six generations. From buttoned boots to brogues, court shoes to clogs, from winkle pickers and stilettos through to
today’s currently fashionable footwear, the staff at Shaw & Hallas have seen it all. Vicky Devlin, managing director, is fifth generation to the business but says there are no secrets to survival – just the family’s determination to persist. She added: “That persistence involves long hours, hard physical and mental work and often a little worry. The result is not only the means to earn a living but also the satisfaction of a job well done to the best of their ability, a happy family of workers and the smiles, even broad
grins, on the faces of satisfied customers.” Vicky has revolutionalised the control of the buying and selling of shoes, introducing computerised systems without which business today would soon fall behind their competitors. Yet the firm still remains committed to staying small, a policy which enables it to keep everything personal. Training their staff in shoe children’s shoe fitting and offering advice to customers about what shoes would be best for their feet has created massive loyalty with their customers.
Unusual commissions lead to expansion DIGITAL artist Toasted Ghost is expanding through Holmfirth after taking on some unusual art commissions. The company - run by Colin Thornton - specialises in digital art and has featured across the world including at Melbourne and London. A recent collaboration with photographer Roberto Duran will see “The Day of the Dead” piece appear at
the Mexico International Film Festival in May. Colin said: “Holmfirth is steeped in art history though this is mainly traditional artists using traditional mediums, oil, watercolour and film cameras. The digital revolution however is changing the way we view the world and in turn how we react to it. “There is opposition against non-traditional art forms and an opinion that
perceives digital artist as being not a “real” artist. “I can place friends or family anywhere (fantasy or real) in the world. Children can play football on the moon. I am presently engaged on two new commissions, to turn a young woman into Alice peering down the rabbit hole at a disappearing rabbit and another to transform a young woman into a butterfly. I truly can make dreams come true.”
Designers with 30 years’experience SPECTACULAR Driveways UK are a Huddersfield based company with a wealth of experience in beautifully designed pattern imprinted concrete driveways. Backed by over 30 years of industry experience, we are confident that we will meet all expectations and more with its maintenance free
aspects and are committed to providing a high quality and professional service to our customers. Whether you are looking to replace your existing driveway, patio or improve outdoor space, we can make a difference by offering a full range of patterns and designs to give your home or
business that makeover you’ve been dreaming of. Why not visit us at our show site on Albert St, Lockwood and take advantage of our spring saver? For superior quality driveways at very affordable prices, call 08450 4555567 or visit www.spectaculardriveways.co.uk
WESTWOOD YARNS CARPETS DIRECT FROM THE MILL Good quality wool rich carpets at competitive prices Bags of swatch samples along with carpet guide prices and fitters recommendations available from reception or from box outside. 24 hours, 7 days a week Please call or ring for samples Postal service available Ring 01484 685215 office hours Washpit Mills (off Durford Rd) Holmfirth, HD9 2RD
26 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
MP drops in on club LOCAL MP Jason McCartney visited Holmfirth’s Cafe 100 Youth Club to meet the young people, volunteers and trustees. The project gives young people aged 11 to 18 a safe environment to spend time with their friends. The club has all the latest technology with access to
the internet, XBox games and Wii. Cafe 100 is open Monday and Thurs 7-9pm, and Saturdays 12 until 3pm. Cafe 100 is located next to the church in the centre of Holmfirth and is open despite all the scaffolding. www.cafe100.co.uk
Wayne brings FAR to region MULTI-AWARD winning British choreographer, Wayne McGregor will be bringing his latest work, FAR to Huddersfield’s Lawrence Batley Theatre on Tuesday March 22 for its only performance in Yorkshire. Known for his dynamic style and ground-breaking approach in dance, Wayne McGregor works across dance, film, music, visual art, technology and science to create a truly unique and outstanding body of work, and his latest piece, FAR is no exception. With a cast of ten dancers, FAR looks back at the eighteenth century, an age when rationality and science over took traditional values. FAR combines film and live action and is set to a new, haunting score by electronic superstar
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Ben Frost. As well as two world premieres coming up this summer, other recent work includes choreographing the new video to Radiohead’s Lotus Flower, from their latest album The King of Limbs. A prolific dance maker, and the first Resident Choreographer of The Royal Ballet to come from contemporary dance, in the past year alone Wayne McGregor has delivered world premieres for New York City Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet and The Royal Opera. As well as this, he has choreographed films such as Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. He has won numerous awards and was recently awarded a CBE for services to dance in the 2011 New Years Honours List.
Wayne McGregor
Family builder’s merchant celebrates fifth anniversary A HOLME Valley builder’s merchant is celebrating its fifth anniversary. Andrew Skelton and Jon Russell started wholesaling building materials from a modest base in Thongsbridge in 1996 and eventually opened Holme Build Supplies as fully fledged Builders Merchants in 2006 in Queens Square Mills, Honley. With nearly 5000 product lines covering electrical, plumbing, decorating, tools, hardware, chemical products, fixings all instantly available for both trade and DIY customers, Holme Build Supplies feel justified in saying that they have the 'best stocked' and widest ranging trade counter of any builders merchant in the Huddersfield area.
Customers benefit from a friendly team of experienced sales staff who are always on hand to offer advice and pricing assistance. The team also have close contact with all suppliers to provide solutions to technical issues. For customers this avoids the cost of going into town and they can call in, help themselves to a coffee, and have a look around the impressive set-up. The same winning formula has enabled Holme Build Supplies to open new depots in the last two years at Saddleworth and Elland and the word has spread to local MP Jason McCartney visited the Honley depot on Friday. The team is now hosting a two-day extravaganza at the Honley Depot. Director
Andrew Skelton said: “There will be many special offers over the two days especially geared towards hard landscaping products. The offer which stands out from all others is the one for natural stone paving, now available in five different colours starting from the rock bottom price of £14.75 square metre + VAT. This offer should not be missed by anyone looking to improve their garden this year.” Holme Build Supplies is offering a 15 per cent discount (excludes all normal trade terms) on products across the extensive range of tools, chemicals, electrical and plumbing items, timber, plaster, insulation etc. The Holme Build Supplies Spring Extravaganza will be on April 15 and 16th.
Furniture firm combines quality with modern vision IF you’re looking for high end style without the hefty price tag, take a trip to Lindsays Furniture Mill. Established over 30 years, Ashley Lindsay has recognised that his customers want more variety than high street furniture stores provide. He has combined his family’s long experience in sourcing high quality furniture with a modern vision that is evolving this cleverly converted Victorian Mill into a multi-faceted shopping experience. Two spacious floors of furniture offer surprises around every corner Whatever your taste or price range you’re guaranteed to discover the ideal piece. There are ultra modern leather recliners and bucket chairs as well as formal sofas in elegant stripes
or exclusive florals, not to mention seventies retro influences. You’ll see glass and wicker alongside aged oak or sleek blonde wood. A selection of bedroom furniture is available from traditional pine and solid oak to contemporary laminates in black or aubergine. Sumptuous cushions, throws and bed linen, screens, storage, lighting and mirrors all complete the look. If you are short of ideas, Angela Hendy Interiors and Soft Furnishings can offer a complete service from inception to completion with free no obligation quotes. You can choose from an enormous range of luxurious rugs, both traditional and modern, perfect to set off polished floors. In addition there are canvasses, cushions, candlesticks and light fittings. The Fair Trade sec-
tion has a host of colourful ideas to offer too. Yankee Candles make perfect gifts and add subtle atmosphere to your home. New in store are the range of handcrafted toys and family games and one of Ashley’s plans for the future is to install a children’s play area. Soon to come are a special luxury range of Belgian chocolates as well as a selection of quirky greetings cards. Amore welcomes you with the scent of Coopers freshly ground coffee. Here you will find a chic setting for morning coffee, lunch or afternoon tea/coffee, homemade biscuits and cakes from Proper Maid. Cafe Amore is a treat in itself. Homemade soup from locally sourced seasonal ingredients is proving a hit too.
If you’ve got a story for the Review call us on 01484 420800 or 07747 447023
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 – 27
No end in sight to building proposals disagreement By Sandie Marshall THE ROW over the Local Development Plan (LDF), Kirklees Council’s building proposals for the next 18 years, shows no sign of ending. The Holme Valley Business Association, concerned the Council was rushing the plans with insufficient consultation, requested a special meeting with officials to discuss the way the LDF would impact this area. In a formal response to the proposals, the business association gave its thoughts on the key areas of homes, employment and transport. New employment opportunities, they said, should be given high priority with investment in tourism driving the increase. They asked the Council to look at possible new facilities such as additional hotels ,b&bs and campsites, and even a museum, golf course and ski slope.
On homes and house building, the business association disagreed with the Council’s assessment that Holmfirth would require 850 new homes to meet demand between now and 2028, and said the 350 homes for which planning permission has already been granted would be sufficient. What is more, they requested that the Council should ensure these new homes are affordable to allow young families to stay in the Valley. On the future development of Honley, the business association made a plea for more attention to be given to the town centre particularly to meet the need for additional car parking. Their response also identified a number of brownfield sites in the valley which could be earmarked for business and industrial development instead of encroaching onto greenbelt around Honley and
Brockholes as the current plans suggest. Finally, the business association asked for a complete review of the Valley’s existing infrastructure to see what was needed now and in the future in terms of such things like schools, doctors, dentists and water supplies. Greg Christofi, owner of Holmfirth’s Old Bridge Bakery and president of the business association told Holme Valley Review: “Many people would think local business would be in favour of as much development as possible to grow the potential number of customers. “But we’re thinking of what’s best for Holmfirth and Honley in the long-term. “The Holme Valley needs a supportive council and investment for the growth of the ‘current community should come before LDF development.”
Club looks to upgrade facilities HADE EDGE Football Club is busy raising funds to upgrade its club house and pitch. After celebrating their centenary year in 2009, members’ attention has now turned to the club facilities and the need to find the money to buy a portal-framed building which will replace their 50-year-old pre-fab and fit well into the farming landscape. In addition, the floodlights need to be
improved, the pitch needs better drainage and space needs to be found for mini-soccer matches to take place. Certainly any new facilities will be well-used. The club has three senior teams in the Huddersfield and District League, four junior teams (two elevena-side and two mini-soccer) in the Huddersfield Junior League and Under 5’s and 6’s Saturday morning training. Audrey Dalton said:
“While we don’t see ourselves as a Goliath, we are serving needs within the community as our rapid expansion of junior players proves. “We do like to win but the ethos of the club is more towards enabling all who wish, to participate in a healthy, outdoor pursuit.” If you are interested in playing for or supporting the club, contact the chairman on 01484 684924.
Enjoy the views Developer to on Mother’s Day build centre THIS Mother’s Day, on Sunday April 3, there’s an opportunity for children to spend quality time with their mums, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views from Castle Hill in Huddersfield. Castle Hill Ranger Julian Brown will be leading a moderate four-mile walk on and around the Hill, starting at 1.30pm from the top car park. The walk, which will last approximately two hours, is free but places must be booked in advance by contacting Julian on 07968 426312. Good footwear, warm clothing and waterproofs will be needed. No dogs, except assistance dogs, allowed.
PROPERTY developer Conroy Brook of Holmfirth is once again joining forces with Meridian Healthcare to build a new care centre in the Oakes area of Huddersfield. The two companies worked together previously to build the award-winning White Rose House care home in Holmfirth. Work on the new 60-bed care centre starts in March and should be completed by summer 2012. The centre will boast facilities including a hairdressing salon, nail bar and cinema as well as offering free Wi-Fi service for its residents and visitors.
28 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
CLASSIFIED SERVICES MAINTENANCE
What’s On Guide
Review
Friday March 25, Marsden Mechanics Hall, 8pm, New Orleans jazz evening with Tame Valley Stompers, organised by Colne Valley Lions. Tickets £10, including supper, available from the venue. More information: John Daker 01484 653195.
more. Information line: 01484 223730.
Sunday April 17, Hepworth Band spring concert, 7pm, at St Paul's Hall, Huddersfield University, programme will be selected from concert-goers' requests: e-mail secretary@hepworthband.com Tickets £6, available from Kirklees box offices (01484 223200 or 222444), Wm Sykes & Sons Estate Agents, Holmfirth and the White Horse Inn, Jackson Bridge.
Saturday March 26, Hepworth Village Hall, 8pm, HepworthLive presents singer-songwriter Reg Meuross with Bethany Porter playing cello. Tickets £10: phone Paul or Di on 07845 921 527, online at www.WeGotTickets.com
SITUATION VACANT
Saturday March 26 - Sunday March 27, Holmfirth Picturedrome, Sat 26, doors open 7.30pm, live on stage, Sandi Thom (2006 chart debut - I Wish I Was A Punk Rocker); Sun 27, 7pm, film: The Secret In Their Eyes - ingenious, well-acted thriller, showing as part of a new monthly series. Website: holmfirthfilmfestival.co.uk Sunday March 27, Marsden Railway Station, off A62 Manchester Road, 10am, Hail Caesar - follow ancient tracks on a 10-mile walk to the Roman forts at Castleshaw. Comfortable strong boots, waterproofs and warm clothing are strongly advised. The walk is subject to weather conditions on the day. Contact National Trust, Marsden Moor 01484 847016.
COMPUTING
Sunday March 27, Slaithwaite Community Centre, Bankgate, 1pm-3pm, 'Seedy Sunday' Seed Swap: bring along your seeds and seedling, plant pots etc, to swap. 'Grow Your Own' themed stalls, including a seed swapping table, children's quiz and practical demonstrations. Free admission. Monday March 28, Huddersfield Town Hall, 1pm, organ concert by John Kitchen, programme includes pieces by Bach and Mendelssohn, Ketelby's 'In A Persian Market' and Eric Coates' Knightsbridge March. Admission £4, £3 concessions.
REMOVALS
Monday March 28, Reception Room, Huddersfield Town Hall, 7.30pm, Local History Society talk by John Brooke: Cruel lives - from 1832 cholera epidemic to 1932 Denby Dale typhoid outbreak. £1 on the door for non-members. Contact David Griffiths 01484 540309. Wednesday March 30, Hudderfield Library, 10am-12noon, coffee morning and talk on the history of Fox's Biscuits, free admission. More information: Susan McAllister 01484 221951.
CARPET FITTING
Saturday April 2, Marsden Railway Station, off A62 Manchester Road, 10am, join Valerie for 10mile Deer Hill circular walk, including water conduits above Meltham and Wessenden with superb views. Comfortable strong boots, waterproofs and warm clothing are strongly advised. Contact National Trust, Marsden Moor 01484 847016. Saturday April 2, Holmfirth Library, 10.30am-3pm, Mothers' Day card-making craft session, no booking required, drop in, free admission. Contact Pam Riding 01484 222430.
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Sunday April 3 - Wednesday April 13, Hepworth Village Hall events: Sun 3, Table top sale in aid of the playgroup, tables £6, bookings: 01484 680070; Fri 8, film night: Tulpan (2008, cert 12A), £3, doors and bar open from 7pm; Weds 13, 10am, coffee morning for Cystic Fibrosis. Sunday April 3, Castle Hill, Almondbury, 1.30pm - 3.30pm, Walk with Mother Earth, ideal family activity for Mothers' Day, moderate four-mile route. More information: Castle Hill ranger Julian Brown 07968 426 312. Sunday April 3, Huddersfield Town
Holme Valley
Former Fairground Attraction lead singer Eddi Reader will be performing at the Lawrence Batley Theatre from April 15-17. Hall, 2pm, A Choral celebration, 600 singers from 19 local choirs, supporting the Mayor of Kirklees' charity Combat Stress. Tickets £5 - £10: phone 01484 223200/222444.
Sunday April 3, Old Bridge Hotel, Holmfirth, 8pm-10.30pm, New Orleans Wiggle, six-piece jazz band starting their seventh year at the Bridge, playing on the first Sunday of each month. Admission £4. Thursday April 7, Holmfirth Market, 9am-3pm, Book and CD sale. For more details, e-mail pam.riding@kirklees.gov.uk Thursday April 7, Old Courtroom, Huddersfield Town Hall, 9.4510.30am, talk by Geoff Budd: Transpennine Canals. Thursday April 7 - Sunday April 10, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, Thurs 7, 7.30pm, Opera Della Luna presents The Sorcerer; Sat 9 -Sun 10, 2pm and 6.30pm, Katie Philpott School of Dance - Best of the Brits. Box office: 01484 430528, online at www.thelbt.org Thursday April 7, Huddersfield Town Hall, 7.30pm, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, including music by Brahms, Schumann and Mozart. Ticket hotline 01484 223200. Friday April 8 - Saturday April 16, Live music at Holmfirth Picturedrome, Fri 8, Robert Alexander Giles: Michael Jackson Tribute; Sat 9, From The Jam; Weds 13, Joe Elliott's Down 'n' Outz - Def Leppard frontman, backed by The Quireboys, set list featuring songs by Mott The Hoople; Fri 15, Limehouse Lizzy keeping alive the music of Phil Lynott and Thin Lizzy; Sat 16, Beth Orton - date re-scheduled from December, Brit Award winner who blends folk and electronica. For tickets, call in at the box office bar any weekday evening, 7.3010pm, or book online at www.picturedrome.net Saturday April 9, Jackson Bridge, off A616 Sheffield Road, 10am, Barnside and Beyond - meet walk leader Oliver to explore upland countryside, sweeping views but some sections 'tough going'. More information: 07971 192 383.
762004 (24 hours), box office 01226 767532.
Thursday April 14, Rocks of Folly Dolly Falls - 'easy' walk, meet at the car park behind the Carlile Institute, off Huddersfield Road, Meltham, for 6.30pm start, led by Alison Tymon of Huddersfield Geology Group. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult - and wellies are essential! Thursday April 14 - Saturday April 16, Linthwaite Methodist Players present Sand Castles, a gentle comedy by Bob Larbey, whose TV credits include The Good Life, Please Sir and Ever Decreasing Circles. Performances at 7.30pm in the church centre, Stones Lane. Tickets £6, £3 children, £5 concessions Thursday night only. Phone 01484 842014. Friday April 15 - Sunday April 17, Marsden Cuckoo Festival, celebrating a local legend and harbinger of spring, Fri, 7pm, three-mile themed walk, meet at Marsden Mechanics, Peel Street; Sat 16 & Sun 17, range of events around the village, family fun, music, dance, craft fair and duck race. To find out more, phone the National Trust Marsden Moor office 01484 847016. Friday April 15 - Sunday April 17, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, Fri 15, 8pm, Eddi Reader - Scottish singer-songwriter who made the charts in the '90s with Patience of Angels, and was previously lead singer with Fairground Attraction (Perfect, Find My Love); Sat 16, 7.30pm, film: The King's Speech, starring Colin Firth and Helena Bonham Carter, 8pm, live in the Syngenta cellar, jazz pianist Dave Newton leading a trio of British Jazz Awards poll winners. Box office: 01484 430528, online at www.thelbt.org Saturday April 16, Castle Hill car park, Almondbury, 1pm, Stirley Farm walkabout, chance to see the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust's latest project, developing a 200acre site to rear beef cattle and grow local fruit and veg. Booking essential, contact Kim Warren 07557 002 113
Saturday April 9, Blackmoorfoot Turning Circle, Linthwaite, 10.15am, Oh Deer - medium circular walk, eight to nine miles. To find out more, contact Eileen Blakey, Huddersfield CHA Walking & Social Club 01484 534521.
Saturday April 16 - Sunday April 17, Huddersfield Town Hall, Sat, 7.30pm, Slaithwaite Philharmonic Orchestra, programme includes music by Tchaikovsky, Sibelius and Mendelssohn, tickets £10 - £15, £7.50 concessions in the 'area' and gallery; Sun, 7pm, Ken Dodd Happiness Show, for all the family, tickets £17 - £19. Booking line for both events: 01484 223200 or 222444.
Saturday April 9, Penistone Paramount, 2.30pm, Kevin Grunill playing the four-manual, 1937 Compton cinema pipe organ, 11th anniversary concert. Admission £6.50. Events line 01226
Sunday April 17, Holmfirth Farmers' Market, 8am-2pm, in the Market Hall, a monthly array of quality local produce, meats, fresh fruit and veg, breads, cheeses, cakes, jams, honey and much
Sunday April 17 - Good Friday April 22, Live music at Holmfirth Picturedrome, Sun 17, The Saw Doctors, one of Ireland's top bands, celebrating 25 years together; Fri 22, Magnum - classic 70s' metal outfit with vocalist Bob Catley, back on the road with their strongest material for years + support Gwyn Ashton. For tickets, call in at the box office bar any weekday evening, 7.30-10pm, or book online at www.picturedrome.net Monday April 18 - Good Friday April 22, Upper Holme Valley parishes and Holmfirth Methodist Church, Holy Week Trail - each church will be open to visitors, with an interactive, sensory display on a parable theme, daily 11am-4pm + Weds 7pm-9pm. Also: storytelling for children, 11am at Holmfirth Parish Church; light lunches available at All Saints, Netherthong, daily 12-2pm and St David's, Holmbridge (Weds only). Final event on Good Friday The Hopeful Grave, performance in words and music, 7.30pm, at Christ Church, New Mill. Contact Mike Smithers 07742 292 310. Monday April 18 - Thursday April 21, Dragon workshops - library craft activities, looking forward to St George's Day: Mon 18., Honley, 2.30pm-3.30pm; Weds 20, Holmfirth, 10.30-11.30am; Thurs 21, Meltham, 2.30-3.30pm. Prizes for children aged 7 and under and 8-12 years. Book your places from Sat April 2: call in at your nearest library. More information: 01484 226300. Tuesday April 19, Huddersfield Town Hall, 7pm, A Musical Evening for Senior Citizens - featuring New Mill Male Voice Choir and Lindley Band, arranged by Huddersfield Rotary Club. Admission free but by ticket only, a collection will be made during the interval. Tickets available from Thurs March 31 at visitor information offices. Thursday April 21, Holme Valley Civic Society, 7.30pm, at Holmfirth Civic Hall, illustrated talk by Judi Thorpe and Marsden History Group, on the employment of children in local mills during the early Industrial Revolution. Visitors: £2 admission on the door. For more information, contact Margaret Hinchcliffe 01484 683242. Saturday April 23, Holmfirth Market. Coddys Farm will be exhibiting livestock including new born lambs Sunday April 24 and Monday April 25, Coddys Farm, Whitegate Road, Holmfirth HD9 2TH. Lambing time Open Day. Including new born lamb feeding, children’s activities and Hog Roast supporting West Yorkshire Scout Jamboree. Royal Wedding Day, Friday April 29, Honley Ladies Choir, celebrating the marriage of Prince William and Catherine Middleton., 7.30pm at Newsome Scout HQ.
Saturday 30 April, Hepworth Village Hall, 8pm, HepworthLive presents Jez Lowe and The Bad Pennies, renowned for combining acoustic simplicity with electric vitality, supported by Barron Brady. Tickets £12: phone Paul or Di on 07845 921 527, online at www.wegottickets.com
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 –29
• Free Sales Valuation • Property Auction Sales • RICS Homebuyers’ reports • Valuations and Surveys Heathercroft, Cemetery Road, Holmfirth
Toy Barn, 71a Maingate, Hepworth
Holmfield, Bill Lane, Wooldale
5 Butterley Lane, New Mill. Holmfirth
Offers Region £450,000
Offers Region £425,000
Offers Region £375,000
Offers Region £350,000
A beautifully refurbished and extended stone detached property with spacious 4 bedroom accommodation on two floors, occupying a superb elevated position adjoining fields and enjoying panoramic open views over the surrounding countryside. The property has been refurbished to a high standard with new wiring, plumbing, kitchen, bathroom and en-suite fitting, new central heating system, upvc windows and recently constructed conservatory extension. It comprises; entrance hall with galleried landing, large lounge with dining area enjoying the superb views to the rear, breakfast kitchen, cloakroom; wc, two ground floor bedrooms and bathroom, together with a further two first floor bedrooms and en-suite showeroom. There is an attached garage, with store; office above, additional under floor store and delightful gardens and seating areas. A truly delightful property, where viewing is recommended to appreciate the quality of accommodation and magnificent views on offer.
This high quality barn conversion occupies a sought after location in the centre of the village with fine far reaching views. It comprises: entrance hall, lounge, dining kitchen, utility / downstairs wc, landing, 4 good sized bedrooms (en-suite and dressing room to the master bedroom) and bathroom. It is finished to a high standard throughout combining exposed beams and roof trusses alongside attractive modern fixtures and fittings, uPVC woodgrain effect double glazing, gas central heating and underfloor heating downstairs. A tarmac driveway to the front leads to the integral garage and there is a good sized enclosed garden.
This substantial detached property must be viewed to fully appreciate both the size of the living accommodation and gardens on offer. It occupies a tucked away location and enjoys fine views to the rear whilst remaining convenient for the villages many amenities and within close proximity to local schools. The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, lounge, dining / sitting room, breakfast kitchen, large conservatory, downstairs wc, utility, landing, 5 good sized bedrooms, superb en-suite bathroom and family bathroom. There is a good sized parking area to the front of the house leading to the integral double garage. To the rear of the house there is a particularly good sized mature enclosed garden which features an extensive lawn and terrace areas. Photo shows property from the rear.
Occupying a large plot, backing onto fields and enjoying splendid views beyond is this attractive detached bungalow. The property offers excellent further potential for extension. The bungalow has a gas central heating system, mostly Upvc double glazing and burglar alarm system. It comprises open porch, large entrance hall, lounge, breakfast kitchen, 3 bedrooms and bathroom. There is also access to a large loft area with 2 attic rooms and large unused loft area ripe for conversion. The property has a driveway, parking area and extensive gardens with wide frontage to Butterley Lane. Offered for sale with immediate vacant possession No chain involved.
3 Attorney Court, Dunford Road, Holmfirth
Pog Ing Cottage, 30 Townend Road, Wooldale
1 Mill Close, Meltham
10 Lidgett Lane, Skelmanthorpe
Offers Region £295,000 This spacious detached home offers well planned accommodation over 3 floors which must be viewed internally to be fully appreciated. It occupies a pleasant location less than 1 mile from the centre of Holmfirth and enjoys far reaching views to the side and rear. The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, downstairs wc, utility, dining kitchen, landing, large lounge, master bedroom with en-suite, landing and 3 further bedrooms and a bathroom on the second floor. To the side of the house there is a tarmac driveway which leads to an attached garage with terrace over. To the other side of the house there is a levelled garden area and a further uncultivated garden behind.
4 Old Mill Lane, New Mill
Offers Region £275,000
Offers Region £237,500
Offers Region £249,950
This interesting and unique character property occupies a tucked away location inbetween Holmfirth and Wooldale. It is attached to a block of other properties but enjoys good deal of privacy with its own courtyard to the front and gardens to the side and rear. It comprises, on the ground floor: entrance porch, utility, dining kitchen, and on the first floor: landing, large lounge, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, front entrance hall. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazing and some attractive character features but offers the scope for some further modernisation. Externally there is double garage with terrace over, enclosed lawned garden to the rear and a further low maintenance garden area with covered outside dining area across the width of the property.
A beautifully presented stone 4 bedroom detached, situated in a popular residential area, and occupying a pleasant position with open aspect to the front. The house has a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazing, modern fittings and a burglar alarm system. The property has spacious rooms, and comprises; Entrance hall, cloakroom/WC, lounge, large dining kitchen, utility, 4 bedrooms, ensuite shower room and family bathroom. There is a driveway, garage together with garden areas to 3 sides including an enclosed rear garden. Viewing recommended.
This spacious stone built detached property is situated in a popular residential location close to the centre of Skelmanthorpe. It has been tastefully extended and must be viewed internally to fully appreciate the size of accommodation. It comprises entrance hall, cloaks /wc, large lounge, dining kitchen, study / sitting room on the ground floor and landing, three bedrooms, shower room and en-suite bathroom on the first floor. The property has the benefit of a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazed windows and attractive fixtures and fittings. There is a pleasant lawned garden to the front of the house with a block paved parking area. To the rear of the property there is a larger enclosed garden area. Internal viewing is essential to fully appreciate this deceptive family home.
9 Wickleden Gate, Scholes
Offers Region £230,000
Offers Region £220,000
This attractive mid terrace three storey property is situated within a pleasant and popular development. It offers well arranged contemporary living accommodation comprising: entrance hall, downstairs wc, integral garage, large kitchen/sun room, spacious lounge, sitting room / bedroom 4 with external decked balcony, master bedroom with en suite shower room and 2 further first floor bedrooms and family bathroom. The property is well presented throughout, with the benefit of gas central heating, uPVC double glazed windows, intruder alarm system and contemporary fixtures and fittings. To the front of the house there is a block paved driveway leading to the garage and to the rear there is an easy to maintain enclosed garden area with a decked seating and patio. Internal viewing is highly recommended in order to appreciate the standard of accommodation on offer.
This interesting and unique three storey property must be viewed internally to fully appreciate the size of accommodation on offer. It occupies a sought after location in the popular village of Scholes with far reaching views from its upper floors. The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, downstairs WC, utility room, integral garage, first floor landing, lounge, kitchen, breakfast room, conservatory, second floor landing, 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. It has the benefit of a gas central heating, double glazed windows and attractive fixtures and fittings. To the front of the house there is a generous double width driveway and to the rear there is a pleasant enclosed garden.
The Hovel, Yew Tree Lane, Holmbridge
34 Miry Lane, Thongsbridge Offers Region £145,000 This attractive inner terraced house is situated in a quiet location within a popular residential area, offering surprisingly spacious accommodation over 4 floors which must be viewed internally to be fully appreciated. The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, lounge, dining kitchen, two bedrooms, master attic bedroom and bathroom. The property is well presented and features sealed unit double glazed windows, gas central heating and attractive fixtures and fittings throughout. There is a pleasant landscaped garden area to the rear of the property overlooking the river. Internal viewing is highly recommended.
Offers Region £159,950 An attractive cottage of great charm and character situated in a delightful semi rural location approximately 1 ½ miles from the centre of Holmfirth. The cottage comprises entrance porch, entrance hall, living room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms and bathroom. It has Upvc double glazing. There are good sized gardens with several seating areas, greenhouse and shed, together with a parking space.
30 Wildspur Mills, New Mill
129 Woodhead Road, Hinchliffe Mill Offers Region £112,500
Offers Region £129,950 A beautifully appointed ground floor duplex apartment situated within this stunning mill conversion. The mill occupies a stunning location within a picturesque wooded valley and is set within approximately 19 acres of grounds which are jointly owned by the residents of the development. Its accommodation comprises: entrance hall, cloaks / wc, living room with kitchen area, landing, two bedrooms, bathroom and en-suite shower room. The apartment is finished to a high standard throughout with high quality contemporary fixtures and fittings with a full compliment of SMEG appliances and granite worksurfaces in the kitchen and Villeroy and Boch ceramics in the bathrooms.
38 Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth Huddersfield HD9 3JH
Internal viewing is essential to fully appreciate this delightfully presented front terraced cottage. The property occupies a convenient location in the centre of Hinchliffe Mill and offers ideal accommodation for a single person or couple. It comprises: entrance lobby, large lounge, fitted kitchen with vaulted ceiling, landing, 2 bedrooms and a bathroom. The property has been refurbished to a high standard throughout and has the benefit of uPVC double glazed windows, gas central heating and quality modern fittings alongside original character features.
FOR SALE BY AUCTION 16 Bank Buildings, Meltham A spacious grade II listed overdwelling offering great potential for renovation. The property is located within a distinctive block of properties which occupy a pleasant woodland setting on the edge of Meltham. It comprises: entrance hall, kitchen, lounge, cellar, landing, 2 first floor bedrooms, bathroom and a large master bedroom. The property features a number of original features and offers the potential to create a characterful home.
202 Dunford Road, Holmfirth This attractive terraced overdwelling offers surprisingly spacious accommodation with great potential for renovation. It occupies a convenient location approximately half a mile from the centre of Holmfirth and enjoys pleasant views to the rear. It currently comprises: entrance hall, lounge, kitchen, bathroom, cellars, landing, 3 bedrooms and a useful attic room offering further potential. Internal viewing is essential to appreciate the potential on offer. Please note: there are no gardens.
Open to view every Saturday prior to auction 11.00 AM - 11.45 AM
Open to view every Saturday prior to auction 10.00 AM - 10.45 AM
2 Berry Greave, Off Waters Road, Marsden
Land at Hollingreave Bank, Huddersfield Road, New Mill
INVESTMENT PURCHASE. This grade II listed mid terraced cottage is currently let on a regulated tenancy with a current rent of £53.50 per week (registered 26/06/09). The property occupies a stunning elevated rural location in this sought after location with far reaching views over the Colne Valley. It comprises: entrance hall, lounge, kitchen, landing, bathroom and two bedrooms. Externally there is a good sized garden to the front of the property.
Open to view Friday 1st April 3.00 PM - 5.00 PM please contact our office to arrange a time slot.
Offered for sale on behalf of the Holme Valley Land Charity is this former quarry site. The land located just out of the centre of New Mill with frontage to Huddersfield Road. A public footpath runs through part of the site leading up to Hollingreave.
Auction to be held on 5th April at the Huntsman Inn, Greenfield Road, Holmfirth at 7.30 PM
www.wmsykes.co.uk Tel/Fax 01484 683543
30 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
Holme Valley Review, March 2011 –31
32 – Holme Valley Review, March 2011
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