Holme Valley Review September 2013

September 2013

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Energy scheme plan for Valley

By Sandie Marshall THE HOLME Valley could soon have its first community energy scheme, allowing local people to buy-into and benefit from renewable energy.

For the last year, green energy group Holmfirth Transition Town (HoTT) has been working with Longley Farm managing director Jim Dickinson on a scheme to replace the wind turbine at Bowshaw, Hade Edge.

The existing turbine, which was one of the first to be erected in the country, has come to the end of its design life and is ready for replacement with the next generation of modern equipment.

Instead of opting for a straight replacement, Longley Farm has offered the site to HoTT to develop a community scheme.

HoTT plans to set up an energy co-operative to construct and maintain the new wind turbine

on the site.

Much of the work will be done by volunteers, keeping costs as low as possible.

Local people will be able to buy shares in the co-operative and will earn dividends when generated electricity is sold into the National Grid through the Government’s feed-in tariff.

HoTT says the community will also benefit from a dividend which will be used to support other local sustainability projects, while Longley Farm will receive a continuing supply of green energy.

For HoTT, whose mission is to inform on the impacts of climate change and to work together with the community to reduce carbon omissions, the energy scheme will be the biggest single initiative undertaken so far.

Chairman Janet Williams says the next step is a noise and environment survey ahead of a planning application into Kirklees

Council.

She said: “We haven’t completely decided on the specifics of the new turbine yet – we have two in mind.

“I can say neither of them are very different from the existing one, so there shouldn’t be very much difference to the current landscape.

“We have consulted with people living around the site and by-and-large the response was positive.”

This is not the only green energy scheme being planned by HoTT. The group is also working on a local hydro generation project, details of which should be available later this year.

For those who want to know more, the HoTT Bright Green Energy Show, now in its fourth year, will be held in the Civic Hall in Holmfirth on Saturday October 5 from 10.00am.

Check on the full details at www.hott.org.uk

Up and coming golfer Jamie Bower put in the performance of his young life to take the 2013 Midland Amateur Championship by a clear 11 shots. Jamie, 20, who plays at Meltham Golf Club, led the quality field from the start of the prestigious two-day competition and was the only player to finish all of the four rounds under par.

2 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

New festival to put spotlight on role of Holmfirth’s river The children’s library at Meltham has been invaded by a swarm of hot air balloons. The balloons, which have either a space or rainforest theme, are the brainchild of local illustrator Stephen Waterhouse who worked with local school children in conjunction with Meltham Library and Information Centre. Stephen worked with children from Meltham CE and Meltham Moor Primary schools to create themed balloons that showcased what the children would take with them on a long journey. Meltham Library and Information Centre is open as follows: Monday: 9.30am to 12.30pm and then 1.30pm to 7pm; Tuesday: 1pm to 5pm; Wednesday: Closed; Thursday and Friday: 9.30am to 12.30pm and then 1.30pm to 5pm; Saturday: 9.30am to 12.30pm.

Pictured are the Meltham youngsters who have created the hot air balloons.

Tom Wroe memorial service planned A MEMORIAL service is being planned to mark the first anniversary of the death of Meltham soldier Tom Wroe.

Tom, 18, died in Afghanistan on September 15 last year, just months

into his first tour of duty with the Yorkshire Regiment. An inquest into his death will open on September 5. Hundreds lined the streets of Meltham for his funeral at St Bart’s and now his family hope

many will join them again for the memorial to say a final farewell. The memorial on September 15 will begin with a march through the town, leaving the Carlile Institute on Huddersfield Road at 2.15pm.

A NEW festival will put the spotlight on Holmfirth’s river and the role it plays in the life of the valley.

Volunteers are needed for the event on September 21, both to help clean the river and organise a family event afterwards.

The River Holme Festival is a new community project being arranged by Holme Valley Vision and Holmfirth Enterprise and Development, with the support of other local groups such as the Rotary, Round Table, Scouts, Thongsbridge Tennis Club and HoTT. They hope local families and businesses will come together to give the river bank and water a good tidy up and to learn more about its environment and wildlife.

The event is in response to the surveys of residents, young people and businesses carried out by Holme Valley Vision. Most respondents placed a clear priority on improving the river environment. They hope the festival

“The river is a key part of Holmfirth and it was clear from the survey that people would like it to look more attractive and to be able to use it more.” will develop, grow and become an annual event.

The day will begin with a team of volunteers walking down the river from Hollowgate to Sands, removing rubbish as they go.

This will be followed by an afternoon of entertainment and celebration at the Sands including a barbecue, bouncy castle and river dipping.

There will be displays, information and activities from organisations such as the Environment Agency and Yorkshire Wildlife Trust plus HEAD and Holme Valley Vision will be asking local people for their ideas on how we can all make more of the river in the future.

HEAD president Ian Gooch said there are many possibilities: “The river is a

key part of Holmfirth and it was clear from the survey that people would like it to look more attractive and to be able to use it more.

“Giving it a clean is a good start but we need ideas on what else we can do.

Perhaps we could create a beach area where kids can play safely in the summer…I’m sure people will have more ideas.

“We want a real community feel to this first festival and so we’re appealing for volunteers who can help with the clean-up itself and also with the stewarding and organising of the afternoon.

“We’d welcome any offers to help by emailing info@holmfirthhead.co.uk or by calling me on 01484 684545.”

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 3

Safety calls after spate of accidents on ‘rat run’road

By Sandie Marshall

THERE ARE renewed calls for increased safety after a series of accidents on a Thongsbridge ‘rat run’ road.

In one particularly nasty accident, local rider Rachel Hamilton was knocked from her horse after colliding with a 4x4. Tragically, her muchloved horse Percy was so badly hurt he had to be destroyed at the scene.

Susan Riley has lived on Springwood Road since 1966 and is a close friend of the rider who narrowly escaped serious injury. She said that Rachel remains too upset to talk about the accident.

“A few weeks on and she’s still utterly devastated,” Susan told The Review.

“Percy was her life and it’s like losing a child. Rachel worked two jobs so she could afford to keep him. It’s going to take a long, long time for her to get over this.”

Although there was no indication that the driver of the 4x4 was going too fast at the time of the accident,

Springwood Road is a clear accident blackspot.

In other August accidents and near misses, a young woman was left with back and leg injuries after a collision with a double-decker bus, a pensioner pedestrian was left badly shaken after narrowly escaping being hit by a car, a white van overturned after hitting a wall and Sue’s own car was scraped by a bus which couldn’t get past another thoughtlessly parked car.

Amazingly, Susan’s house wall has been destroyed five times over the years after vehicles have lost control on the bend.

She said: “I’ve been in touch with Highways many times but they say there’s nothing to be done. We get buses, boy-racers, short-cut drivers going too fast, children running out from the high school playing field and people parking in silly places. The whole area is asking for trouble.

“Ideally we could have a

speed limit that is enforced or even bollards or sleeping policemen to force drivers to slow down and make it impossible for people to park in the wrong place. I’ve been told it will need a fatality before something can be done – and clearly the death of a horse is not enough.”

Fellow Springwood Road resident Margaret Dale echoed Susan’s concerns.

“People just go too fast and are too much in a hurry for the nature of the roads around here. It seems we have higher than average accident rates for children and cyclists and given the number of cyclists is increasing, perhaps we need to unite in a road safety campaign? I don’t blame people – I just think they have forgotten what they were taught.

“Also cars are a lot wider than they used to be. The Highway Code is very explicit about vulnerable road users but in the rush to get around people just don’t think.”

Market’s York plan THE ART Market, the successful venture which showcases craftsmen and artists at a twice-yearly Holmfirth Market, has launched a new venture in York.

The team is organising Make It Up North, two days of art, design and contemporary craft for sale and commission with workshops, artist talks, demonstrations and live music.

Among the many special guests at the event will be Cliff Wright, most famous for his illustrations on the front covers of two Harry Potter books.

He will be running two workshops for adults and children, and giving a talk about his work.

Make It Up North will run on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 October at York Guildhall. Full details of the planned attractions can be found at www.artmarkets.co.uk

Holmfirth artist Ashley Jackson said he was "deeply proud" to receive an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Huddersfield. The university awarded Ashley, 72, with the doctorate for his lifetime campaign to make art accessible for all. Afterwards, he said: “It felt amazing to stand alongside the other graduates and receive this incredible honour. I have to thank the university for this proud day.”

4 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

Organisation breaks even for first time with strong sales

By Sandie Marshall

Mike Wade, director of A Wall of Water with some of the flood eye-witnesses who helped him make the film.

Picture: Simon Morley

1944 flood eye-witnesses gather to see new film EYE-WITNESSES to the great Holmfirth flood of 1944 gathered together to see their stories told in a new film called A Wall of Water.

Made by local documentary maker Mike Wade, the film tells the story of the flood through the memories of 17 survivors who all recall the night of May 29 1944 when the River Holme burst its banks causing massive devastation to the town.

In particular, it looks at dramatic events on Scar Fold

where the vast amount of water caused a houses to collapse and left residents fighting for their lives to escape.

The film also looks back to the earlier Holmfirth flood of 1852 when water from the collapsed Bilberry Reservoir swept 81 people to their deaths.

The stories are beautifully illustrated by original photographs of the 1944 flood taken by Harry Bray and Mike’s own shots of the icon-

ic Summer Wine countryside.

He argues that the picturesque setting which helped make the comedy programme such a success was also responsible for the floods which brought much suffering to the valley.

The survivors were the first to see A Wall of Water at a special premiere at Hepworth Village Hall. DVD copies of the film will soon be available to buy at Holmfirth Tourist Information Centre.

HOLMFIRTH’S Fair Trade Cooperative says it should break even for the first time this year, thanks to strong sales at its gift and clothes shop.

Stephen Sheard, chair of the Fair Trader’s Board, told members at the third annual general meeting that sales had increased by 65 per cent during the first four months of 2013/4 compared with 2012/3.

He said: “The future looks good. I am optimistic that the Co-operative will break even this year for the first time since we started in June 2010.”

Last year he said, had been one of two halves.

Large losses had been seen in the first half of the year due to restructuring the business and refurbishing the Holmfirth shop, while later in the year saw strong sales growth and reduced costs as Fair Trader completed the change to a volunteer-run organisation.

Overall, losses had been reduced to £12,144 compared with £33,225 the previous year.

The Fair Trader aims to partner small and sustainable suppliers, particularly co-operatives, to help families and communities in developing countries.

It does this by selling a range of ethical and contemporary products in its shop and through its on-line business.

Just over £60,000 was spent with some 90 suppliers globally during the year.

Every item stocked is assessed by members to make sure it has a positive impact in economic, social, or environmental terms.

Stephen said: “Our 570 members can be proud of the way in which we are helping communities around the world. This is entirely due to your continued support.”

He invited members to walk round the shop after the AGM to see for them-

selves how shop layout and product range has been dramatically improved, down to the dedication and expertise of a volunteer buyer.

The Co-operative and its website has also been rebranded through the very generous support of a member’s marketing business.

Steve Wagstaff, Vice Chair of the Co-operative Group South Yorkshire and Chesterfield Area Committee, and Barry Wood, Chief Executive of Chelmsford Star Co-operative Society were elected onto the Board and Stephen said that future committee meetings would use video conferencing to encourage more people from beyond the Holme Valley to become involved.

Stephen closed the meeting by describing the plans for the year ahead.

These include increasing the range of Fair Trader branded products on line and promoting them to cooperators nationally.

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 5

The Mardy Monster, shot by last year’s top photographer Stuart Murphy.

Camera club begin new season HOLMFIRTH Camera Club’s new season is now underway with weekly meetings held on Monday evenings at North Light Gallery in Brookes Mill, Armitage Bridge.

The club, which was founded in 1940, has seen a steady growth in membership since its move to its spacious new home three years ago.

A full programme is lined up for the coming months including guest speakers, technical workshops and internal and external competitions. The programme builds towards the club’s annual exhibition at Northlight from April 14 2014 and its awards Evening on April 28 when the winner of the

Photographer of the Year competition will be announced. Last season’s winner, Stuart Murphy, has only been a member since 2011 and was delighted to receive the award.

He said: “Holmfirth Camera Club is a very friendly group and the meetings are a great opportunity to share experience whatever your level of expertise.

“We have members ranging from those who enjoy just ‘pointing and shooting’ with an automatic to SLR users who have or are working towards membership of the Royal Photographic Society.”

The club encourages members to have fun and enjoy photography while

continuing to improve standards. All of the members are now using digital cameras although there is a slow trend among a few to return to also using film.

The never-ending developments in digital photography lead to a continual learning curve and one of the main purposes of the club is to offer advice and assist each other whenever possible. New members are always welcome; whether just starting out in photography with a wish to improve, or more experienced seasoned photographers. If you would like to know more then pop along to any Monday meeting from 7.30pm or visit the website on www.holmfirthcameraclub.co.uk

A daring rider from the Blazing Saddles Stunt Team amazes record crowds at this year’s Emley Show. The event, held in equally blazing August sunshine, attracted an estimated 15,000 visitors to enjoy displays and shows, agricultural classes and traditional family entertainment.

Picture: Sandie Nicholson

6 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

Inspector set to reveal concerns at LDF meeting FOLLOWERS of Kirklees Council’s Local Development Framework saga will be able to attend an ‘exploratory’ meeting with the Planning Inspector on September 18 in Huddersfield.

The council spent years formulating its LDF core strategy which sets out how much new housing and business development there should be, broadly where it should be and policies to ensure that the strategy is delivered in a sustainable way.

The current document was submitted in April 2013 but was rejected by the planning inspector because the council had not complied with the ‘duty to cooperate’ in the way it shared its plan preparation with neighbouring authorities. The inspector also questioned whether there was sufficient provision for housing within the strategy – suggesting the number of new houses should be increased by a third.

At the meeting on September 18, the inspector will outline these concerns and answer questions. It will not be an opportunity to debate previously made representations.

The council says this will take place at subsequent hearing sessions. The exploratory meeting will be held at 10am at the Yorkshire Children’s Centre, Brian Jackson House, New North Parade, Huddersfield HD1 5JP. The agenda for the meeting will be published on the Kirklees website as soon as it is finalised.

Members of the public are able to attend the meeting and should contact Tony Blackburn Examination Programme Officer on 01254 260286 or email tony.blackburn@kirklees.gov.uk.

Volunteer-led food bank helps people in a crisis

By Sandie Marshall AFTER TEN months of quietly meeting a local need, Holme Valley Food Bank is ready to shout out to provide emergency food to people in crisis.

All over the UK, desperate people are turning to Food Banks for instant help. It’s somewhere they can go to receive a shortterm supply of food to tide them over until wages or benefits are available. The Holme Valley Food Bank was set up last November by Dick and Diana Stopford.

They and a small team of volunteers have stood in Holmfirth’s churches five days each week ever since, ready to give a bag of food to anyone who needs it.

“There’s a saying about Food Banks,” says Dick, “It says ‘I’m only a paycheque away from needing a Food Bank’ and it’s true for very many of us.

“When there really is no money for whatever reason and the cupboard is bare, that’s when Food

Bank can help.

“It’s for everyone who has a need, regardless of their age or past.”

Worried about being swamped and unable to meet demand, the Holme Valley group opted to keep a low profile to begin with.

A generous sponsor provided funding for a first 100 bags of dried food, of which 42 have been given out so far.

They are also able to provide fresh bread thanks to donations from Holmfirth’s Old Bridge Bakery.

Now they want to take the Food Bank to the next level and invite more people to become involved. They also want to increase awareness so more people in need will come forward and receive their help.

Dick said: “At the moment we will give a food bag to anyone who turns up and asks for one. This means there is a danger that some people could become dependent on our help

The volunteer team behind Holme Valley Food Bank, from the left: Liz Hodgson, Diana Stopford, Dick Stopford and Mel Armstrong. which is not what Food Bank is for. To avoid this, we’re switching to a voucher system where people will need to be referred to us from a local agency such as a doctor, school or Surestart centre. This will help to identify and reach the people in real crisis.”

There are a number of ways people can support the Food Bank as it grows. The group hopes generous locals will agree to sponsor a £10 bag per

month, or give ad-hoc donations of tinned and dried food. Volunteers will also be needed to staff donation points and give out bags in return for vouchers. Dick would also love to hear from anyone with room to store dried food until it is needed.

The Food Bank’s quarterly meetings are open to all and for every new Food Bank supporter, the group’s sponsor will donate £1.

But even by up-scaling the food donations, Dick knows they are just scratching the surface of the issue. “We do recognise that emergency food bags are just the tip of the iceberg,” he said.

“Doctors are telling us there’s a real need to help people plan their food budget and how to cook inexpensive but healthy meals.

“So we’re looking at running sessions to teach people skills such as baking bread and making lentil soup. We hope we can expand, work with other local voluntary and charity groups and be able to help in more ways.”

If you would like to get involved in Food Bank in the Holme Valley, telephone Dick Stopford on 01484 689196 or pop into see the team at Holmfirth Parish Church on Saturdays between 10am and 1pm or Holmfirth Methodist Church on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 12.15-1.45pm.

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 7

Appeal to fix clock tower launched

By Sandie Marshall IT’S BEEN just after eightthirty in Meltham for almost two years – but now the town has decided it’s time to put that right.

A massive community fund raising drive is underway to fix the clock tower at historic St Bart’s church, which stopped working in 2011.

The problem is not just the timepiece. The structure of the tower itself is too unsafe to allow access to the clock and full restoration work is needed.

English Heritage has pledged £92,000 towards the estimated £127,000 cost, on the understanding that the church and local community find the remaining £35,000.

It’s a cause which seems to have united Meltham, with a fantastic response to the appeal for help. So far, the church community, public donations and charity events have raised £15,000, and the town is buzzing with planned activity to make sure the target is reached.

St Bart’s vicar Rev Maureen Read says she’s been bowled over by the response: “I’ve been personally amazed at the generosity of individuals,” she said.

“People have sent in small or large amounts – whatever they can afford. I had one lady knock on the door with a cheque and say how wonderful it is that we’re asking people for help.

“There are loads more community events planned. I think every pub has done or is doing something. We’ve got cream teas and sponsored walks, beer festivals and harvest festivals and auctions – plus three offers to stage concerts, gigs and entertainment. We’ve just staged a very successful art exhibition.

“I think it’s a bit annoying to local people that at least three faces of the clock never tell the right time and they are clearly prepared to help us put it right.”

Maureen believes the terrific response reflects the church’s place in Meltham’s community. As well as being an Anglican church, St Bart’s is used by the Roman Catholic community for Sunday worship, a valued arrangement has lasted for 40 years.

The church also hosts band and choir concerts, art exhibitions, school events, toddler group and special

services for many local organisations – all free of charge as part of its role in the community.

The present St Bart’s was built in 1788 with the clock tower added in 1835. A date stone, window frame and wooden pulpit piece remain of the town’s original church, one of only two in England to be consecrated in 1651 during the reign of Lord Protector Oliver Cromwell.

In addition to the clock, six change-ringing bells were installed in 1836 and the church has a dedicated team of ringers. There is also a carillon – a chime barrel or music box which plays tunes on church bells and which should play seven different tunes, four times each day.

St Bart’s carillon, believed to be the only one in Kirklees and possibly the country, has not worked for 40 years and is worthy of restoration in its own right.

Anyone wishing to help with the appeal can contact Rev Read at the vicarage on Huddersfield Road, Meltham, call her on 01484 850050 or email Maureen.read09@btinternet.com Progress can be found at www.savemelthamclocktower.co.uk

Celebrations to mark rooms’ £280,000 refurb planned THE communtiy rooms of Holmfirth Methodist Church have been transformed through a £280,000 building project.

With improvement work completed, the church is fully open for business again with a bigger, brighter ground floor community space, a new upstairs floor providing more meeting and store rooms and new toilets, kitchen and lift.

Most importantly, the leaking roof which originally prompted the huge facelift, has been fixed for future generations.

The church is planning a weekend of celebration on October 26 and 27 to mark the project’s successful completion.

On Saturday between 2pm and 4.30pm the church will be open for tea and cakes and an opportunity to look around the new-look community rooms.

This will be followed by a party with entertainment starring local magician Philip Horn, international opera singer Matthew Brook and jazz piano and singing duo Ian Beetlestone and Bee Ororo. There will also be a

Holmfirth Methodist Church Treasurer Michael Tolson and project manager Peter Beetlestone receive the keys to the newly refurbished community rooms from Tony Stead of ADP Architects and David Haywood of main building contractor AE Haywoods & Sons. performance by the National Methodist Youth Band.

Tickets for the evening are available, priced £7 each, from Peter Beetlestone on 01484 684838.

All money raised from the

10-mile Memory Walk raises £890 for hospice TEN members of Honley Conservative Club took part in the 10-mile Kirkwood Hospice Memory Walk 2013 and raised £890. Other fund raising events organised by

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the club have included a raffle and BBQ, together with generous donations from Ossett Brewery, Bradfield Brewery and Clarks, all of which contributed to a final

total of £1,675.50. The Committee would like to thank all those who have contributed this fantastic amount for Kirkwood Hospice.

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8 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

Last year's Food and Drink Festival attracted record numbers of visitors.

Jason McCartney MP signs his pledge before members of Growing Works.

Project to tackle stigma around mental illness VOLUNTEERS are needed to help tackle the stigma that surrounds mental illness.

Growing Works, formerly known as Holme Valley Gardening Network, is recruiting volunteers who have ‘lived experience’ of mental health, or who care for someone with a mental health issue.

They will work on a new project being supported by Time to Change, the mental health antistigma campaign run by the national charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness.

Volunteers will be offered training so that they feel confident about talking to others in the community about their experiences.

They will then be invited to help run growing–activity based market stalls in Holmfirth, with the aim of starting conversations about mental health with other members of the public.

Diane Boustead from Growing Works said: “Just a few small words can make a big difference to someone with a mental health problem and talking about the issue can help to break down the stigma and discrimination.

“With the help of local volunteers we hope we can really make a difference and end mental health discrimination in our local community.”

Growing Works has been inviting local people to visit its stall at Holmfirth Market and make a pledge to help end the wall of silence that can surround mental health issues. Local MP Jason McCartney dropped by and wrote: “We all have mental health – so let’s talk about it – I do in Parliament”.

If you would like more information about getting involved in the project, call Diane Boustead on 07442 490 542 or email growingworks@hvgn.org

Events planned ahead of town’s Food Festival

By Sandie Marshall

FOOD FANS can look forward to a whole month of appetizers ahead of Holmfirth Food and Drink Festival on September 28 and 29.

For the first time, the ever-growing festival is being preceded with a whole series of delicious fringe events throughout September.

Real ale pubs and bars in the town have joined together to create the Holmfirth Real Ale Trail.

Participating pubs and bars are all within a stone’s throw of each other so following the trail couldn’t be easier.

Pick up the details from any pub within the town.

The Nook Brewhouse is also producing a specially brewed beer for the anniversary Farmer’s Market to be held on September 15 from 9am to 2pm. This will mark the 18th year of the award-winning market,

one of the first in the country. As usual, there will be many stalls selling the very best of fresh local produce, local meats, fresh fruit and vegetables, breads, cheeses, cakes, jams, honey, home-baked cakes, pies and much more.

Junior and teen bakers have been showcasing their talent by submitting a sweet or savoury recipe for bread and then producing their baked masterpiece for judging during at the farmers’ market on September 15. The winners from each category will receive their prizes during the main festival weekend when they will take part in a special breakfast demonstration.

Sunday September 22 will see a fairandfunky family food fun day from 10am to 4pm in the market hall to celebrate local and ethical businesses.

There will be over 30

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food and drink stalls, each offering something unique, plus free family workshops from fairtrade business fairandfunky, gardening fun with Growing Works and cupcake decorating with Holme Baked.

Many of Holmfirth’s pubs, bars and restaurants are organising their own events as part of the fringe. Among them, Cellar 88 on Huddersfield Road is hosting a cheese and wine evening on September 25 from 8pm with Two Valleys from Meltham providing the cheese and The Grape Room from Honley providing the wine. Then, just two days later, Cellar 88 will celebrate its first birthday with a live jazz band and a free glass of bubbly for everyone with a ticket. All the fringe events will lead up to the main Holmfirth Food and Drink Festival weekend on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29.

Organised by Kirklees Markets in conjunction with businesses in the town, the festival is now in its eighth year. The main attraction will be 60 local and regional food and drink stalls, complete with an open air bar and food court.

There will be an arts and crafts market where you can pick up local handmade gifts, live cookery demonstrations with tasters, and behind the scenes tours of the Nook Brewhouse.

Completing the festival atmosphere will be street entertainment and live music on both days including the Frumptarn Guggen Band and, for the kids, free activity workshops and entertainment.

Full details of fringe events and the main festival weekend timetable can be found by following the Holmfirth Food and Drink Festival link from the Kirklees website.

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 9

All smiles with their GCSE results are Holmfirth pupils, from left, Heather Crossley, Marnia Goodall, Megan Chamberlain and Rebecca Johnson.

Valley students achieve record GCSE results

By Sandie Marshall

HOLME Valley students have again achieved record GCSE exam results, despite a fall in national pass rates.

Hundreds of youngsters filed into Honley and Holmfirth High Schools on Thursday August 22 to open their brown envelopes with trembling fingers to see if years of hard work had paid off. For many, the news was better than expected.

At Honley, the 260 final year students achieved the best ever set of GCSE results in the school’s 81-year history, with 78 per cent of them achieving five or more A*-C passes including English and maths, with more than a fifth of them achieving five or more A*s and As. It is the fifth year in succession that Honley’s results have improved.

Among the particular high flyers were Harry McCarthy with ten A*s and three As, Jeffrey Brown with eight A*s and five As, Amy Foreman and Zhu Hengwei with eight A*s and four As, and Daniel Williams and Head Boy Tom Hannah both achieving seven A*s and five As. For out-going Honley headteacher Chris Sylge, watching his former pupils

receive their results was one of his final duties before he stepped down for the start of the new school year. He said: “We are particularly delighted that we have continued to buck national trends in English, with yet another fantastic uplift in our children’s results. And in maths, a fifth of the children achieved an A* or A grade with 83 per cent performing at A*-C level.

“But equally there were some exceptional performances across the piece: 60 per cent of the children got at least one A* or A for example, and once again 100% of our students gained an A*-C pass in ICT with 78 per cent of those selecting the subject as an option getting a Distinction (grade A).

“Staff and students are understandably delighted with the results this year and there is much to celebrate before term begins again in earnest in September.”

There were celebrations also at Holmfirth High School where results showed a 12 per cent rise in achievement since last year with 72 per cent of students gaining the landmark five A*-C grades in subjects including English and maths.

Acting headteacher Gail Howe paid tribute to the hard work of teachers and students in their achievements. “We’re really delighted today,” she said. “We have some outstanding results and we’re very proud of everyone.”

Holmfirth high flyers included Lucy Farquhar who achieved 11 A*s and 4 As, Oliver Palmer and Phoebe Pottinger with 10 A*s and three As and Greg Cooke with nine A*s and five As. There were smiles among friends Megan Chamberlain, Heather Crossley, Rebecca Johnson and Marnia Goodall as they opened their results envelopes at Holmfirth High.

Megan was delighted with her seven passes including A*s in English and media studies.

She is now hoping to study A levels in Manchester.

Heather confessed to being “extremely nervous” before opening her envelopes but was “really, really pleased” with her nine passes.

Of her seven passes, Rebecca said: “It’s what I was hoping for, so I’m very pleased”, while Marnia confessed to be “just proud of everything” after discovering she had achieved 11 passes.

Double league success for Thongsbridge teams THONGSBRIDGE Tennis Club has reigned supreme in this season’s Huddersfield and District Tennis League.

Both the Men’s A team

and the Ladies A team were division one champions, while the Ladies F team took top spot in division five. In addition, the Men’s B team were runners up in

division two.

All the team’s successes will be celebrated at the club’s annual presentation evening on Saturday September 22.

10 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 11

Church’s empty field’s use to be discussed at meeting Rev Sean and Elaine in the New Mill field that is waiting to be transformed. would like to do with the derelict field at the back of

By Sandie Marshall space. the Co-op.

WHAT can be done with an He told the Review: “Land Project Manager Elaine empty field in New Mill? of any kind is at a premium Thelier said: “When we That’s the question for in the valley, and space to received the field from the debate at an open-air meetgrow things especially. It Wooldale Co-operative ing on Sunday September 29. would be nice to see someSociety it was completely The two-acre site belongs thing useful done with the derelict. We first consulted to Christ Church and is field and we’d like the comthe community on what they located above the church munity to come together to wanted to do and then we next to the small graveyard discuss ideas. Really, the worked together to get it on Sude Hill. possibilities are endless.” productive. This site in New It’s currently overgrown Transforming a sloping Mill is a similar situation. and unused, and the church piece of land with knee-high “The Wooldale site was a has decided it’s time to allow weeds into a productive huge amount of work but the the community the chance to growing area is a daunting success of the site has unitturn it into something useful. prospect for even the keened the community and proRev Sean Robertshaw of est gardeners. vided a resource for people the Upper Holme Valley minGrowing Works has expewith different needs.” istry team has called the rience of doing just that in The meeting will be held meeting together with the Wooldale where it has at the New Mill field on Holme Valley gardening networked with the village to Sunday September 29 at work Growing Works. He create allotments and a com- 1.30pm and everyone is welwants to know what people munity garden from a come.

Group set to perform Christie’s The Hollow

By Sandie Marshall MURDER is coming to Holmfirth in classic Agatha Christie style as Turn Again Theatre prepare to perform the great crime writer’s mystery The Hollow.

In typical Christie style, a group of guests gather at a country house for the weekend.

Amongst them is Dr John Cristow, his mistress, his exmistress and his wife – and the party is thrown into chaos when John is found shot dead.

Of course, nearly all the guests have a motive and opportunity to murder him and the play twists and turns until the murderer is finally revealed.

The production, which runs from Wednesday 2 to Saturday 5 October, sees a real mix of familiar faces and entirely fresh talent as the local theatre company has recently enjoyed interest from new members.

Four of the 12 cast members have never acted with Turn Again Theatre before.

Jonny Campbell, playing Detective Sergeant Penny, was introduced to the company when he came to see their last production Blackadder – and he loved it

so much he saw it twice!

“I really wanted to have a go myself as I’ve never acted at all before. It’s a challenge, but I’m really enjoying it,” he said.

Penny’s fellow police officer in the show, Inspector Colquhoun, will be played by Lee Puttick, while Amanda Crowther takes on the role of John Cristow’s old flame Hollywood actress Veronica Craye. Jonny, Lee and Amanda are joined in the cast by fellow newcomer Matt Walshaw.

It’s also a first for debut director Veronica Brophy, a regular actor with the company.

She said: “I’ve acted in amateur theatre for many years and have often said that I’d direct someday – so I thought that this year it was about time I actually had a go.

“There’s lots to do, but the cast are so talented and enthusiastic , and the script is fabulous, that they’re making my job easy for me!”

The Hollow will be performed at Holmfirth Civic Hall.

Tickets are available from Holmfirth Tourist Office on 01484 222444 or from turnagaintheatre@yahoo.co.uk

In The Hollow, John Cristow (Steve Baker) is shot dead, but by whom? Could it be his wife Gerda (Lisa Kendall), mistress Henrietta (Kate Piatt) or old flame Veronica (Amanda Crowther)?

12 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

New concept combines luxury living with office premises

By Sandie Marshall

Superstar soprano Lesley Garrett will again perform with Honley MVC.

Star Lesley to sing with choir again HONLEY Male Voice Choir has announced it will again take to the Huddersfield Town Hall stage with superstar soprano Lesley Garrett.

The concert on May 31 next year will be a repeat of the choir’s sell-out 75th anniversary performance in 2011. Full details of the concert, including tickets will be announced in the coming months.

There are opportunities to share the stage with Lesley as the choir is currently looking for around 20 new members to swell its ranks. They would like any potential new members – no singing experience necessary – to join them at a recruitment evening on Tuesday, October 22 at Honley Infants and Nursery School from 7.30pm.

The choir rehearses at the school every Tuesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

The choir’s next Huddersfield Town Hall concert is on Saturday September 21 when its guests will be the Bansley Youth Choir.

It starts at 7pm and tickets are £8 available from the visitor information centre at Huddersfield Library and at the Holmfirth Tourist Information Centre.

A NEW concept which combines luxury living with full office premises has arrived in the Holme Valley.

It offers owners of established businesses the chance to run their company from their own backyard. But forget about putting a desk in the back bedroom – this is working from home, but on a much grander scale. Home Farm is a development of four substantial properties being built on the site of the former Rosewood Turkey Farm in Wilshaw. The two-acre site has been derelict and an eyesore for a long time but because of its status – part brown field, part green field – planning permission for any standard housing development was near impossible to obtain.

After lengthy consultation with Kirklees planners, main contractor Yorkshire County Properties and architectural and interior design company L’Arche Developments

(Yorkshire) Ltd knew they would need to come up with a very special idea to get the planning permission they needed to develop the site.

They approached Holme Valley South Councillors Ken Sims and Donald Firth with the idea of combining highend home and office accommodation within a single, attractive development. It was an idea the councillors were keen to support, especially since Coun. Sims had seen the luxury homes/offices concept during a recent visit to the USA. “Out there they are using it as a way of reducing commuting for business owners and it’s become popular in some areas,” he explained. “I couldn’t see why it couldn’t work here and it could be a way of getting planning permission to turn an eyesore site into a practical development.”

With the councillors on board, a planning application was submitted for four homes, each with an integrated office suite and enough car parking for the residents and

The luxurious Home Farm which offers living and working in one building. house offers the high-end employees. A major conliving and style which dition of the permission successful business ownwas that the attached office suites must be used ers would expect. Emma Hanks of L’Arche to run a business with employees from the site – Developments said: “Everything has been ensuring additional comindividually designed merce and job opportuniwith successful, profesties in the Holme Valley. sional people in mind. We One year later and the are using lots of natural first home is complete materials and have and occupied, and work sourced as much as posis well underway on the sible from local suppliers. second which has been “As well as being beaubought by another small tiful, each house is as business owner. The other two houses are now environmentally sound as possible with its own being offered for sale for ground-source heating offers around £1million. system. We use timber The timber-framed frame construction to homes offer state-of-theart office accommodation ensure we can maximise the amount of insulation for around four employwithin the properties and ees, with separate entrance, board room and meet the increasing standards of Building kitchen/toilet facilities.

Regulations which is The attached main

becoming ever more difficult to achieve using traditional construction.

When building is complete, the whole site will be landscaped to make it blend into the rural surroundings.”

As well as tempting successful local businesses into the valley, Home Farm has already created 10 jobs for local tradespeople through main contractor Yorkshire Country Properties Ltd. The Holme Valley councillors who supported the project are convinced it will be a success, and that it could be the ideal model for other smallscale developments.

Coun. Firth said: “It’s a marvellous project. We all know there has to be a priority on providing new places to work in the valley but not everyone wants an industrial estate on their doorstep.

“This idea combines fantastic houses with offices and gives business owners the opportunity to live in a beautiful location and cut their travelling time to work. It could be the way forward for our rural businesses.”

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 13

Cyclist continues to fight for life after accident A POPULAR local champion of cycling continues to fight for his life following a devastating accident in New Mill.

John Radford from Meltham was riding his bike along Huddersfield Road on July 31 when he was in collision with a Vauxhall Corsa on Huddersfield Road. He suffered serious injuries including a broken neck and was airlifted to Leeds General Hospital.

Two men who were in the Corsa were arrested and released on police bail pending investigations.

John, 69, is the chairman of Huddersfield and District Cyclists Touring Club. He was on a leisurely winddown ride after returning from a marathon 300-mile London-Edinburgh charity bike ride when the accident happened. His wife Pat and daughters Emma and Helen have been at his bedside since the accident.

Four weeks after the

John Radford crash, Helen told the Review how the road to recovery is likely to be a long one: “Dad is still very poorly. He is out of intensive care and in Neurology ward in Leeds.

“He has opened his eyes but we don't know if he can see or hear us. He has a fracture to his neck so is wearing a collar until he is fit enough for another operation. He is breathing on his own but still has support of oxygen. He had a tracheostomy fitted about a week ago to try and reduce infection on his chest. He can't move

the right side of his body at all but can slightly move his left arm. Although he is not in a coma anymore he can't talk or eat. The physiotherapists are trying to work with him to train his body and mind. It’s so very sad but we remain hopeful.”

Ironically, John spent much of the summer spearheading a Cyclists Touring Club campaign to get better justice for cyclists who were victims of road accidents. He spoke of his belief that too often bike riders were treated as the cause of the accident rather than as victims.

Immediately after the accident, John’s family and friends organised a six-mile bike ride from Huddersfield to New Mill as a show of support for him. Joining daughters Emma and Helen and well over 100 cyclists on the ride was Mayor of Kirklees Martyn Bolt, a close friend of John’s, and local MP Jason McCartney.

Cash grants help club reach its goal HADE Edge Football Club’s goal of finishing its new changing rooms is a massive step closer thanks to two large cash grants.

Fundraisers at the club said they were “overwhelmed” by a cheque for £18,000 towards the project from the Free Masons of West Yorkshire.

The donation was instigated by the Mason’s Holme Valley Lodge.

The football club’s building fund coordinator Keith Hollingworth says the money has made a huge different to the project: “We had started the building work thanks to the generosity of club members, locals and other organisations but we were a long way off our target to finish the work.

“The grant from the Masons will allow us to get the roof on and get the building dry within the next few

Holmfirth Masons (l-r) Ken Manning and Worshipful Master J.Michael Coupland deliver the £18,000 cheque to Hade Edge AFC's fundraising manager Keith Hollingworth and chairman David Dalton. weeks. We would like to pass fund. This, says, Keith, will allow the project to be comon our massive thanks for pleted. Once finished, the their generosity.” changing rooms will be used In addition, the club has by the club’s 100-strong junheard it is about to receive a ior section of boys and girls, Heritage Lottery grant of its three senior teams and £32,000 from the Places the wider village community.

People Play Olympic legacy Advertiser’s announcement

An impressive range of blinds and curtains BASED in Holmfirth, Blind Inspirations is a family business with a friendly, cheerful approach, giving you the chance to choose from an impressive array of blinds and curtains in the comfort of your own home.

Proprietor Ian Farnworth was previously co-owner of Mortons of Heckmondwike, established since 1895, initially selling dress fabrics.

In the '70s they branched out into soft furnishings and blinds which were supplied to customers locally and as far afield as Selby, Pocklington and South Yorkshire. More recently Ian started Blind Inspirations to provide a manufacturing, measuring and fitting service to the Holmfirth area, where he lives. You will find there is a fantastic choice of blinds available - roller, vertical, roman, pleated, wood slat, venetian and perfect fit, together with fabrics, voiles, tracks, poles and tie backs

etc, and a variety of curtain styles including pencil, pinch, pleat, goblet, eyelet and tab tops. Blind Inspirations also offer a free measuring and fitting service for your curtains and blinds, as well as a selection of luxury lighting. They have solutions for every room in the home or conservatory including outdoor awnings.

Also available is a printed roller blind service – from a good j-peg image they can reproduce your favourite picture or photo on to certain fabrics, ideal for advertising your business or simply see-

ing your garden in full bloom from your kitchen window 52 weeks a year. There's a large selection of moistureresistant and black-out fabrics, with over 2,000 blind fabrics and hundreds of styles, you will be spoiled for choice.

Blind Inspirations have had plenty of positive feedback from customers, including The Huntsman public house, where they supplied and fitted the restaurant curtains and blinds. Louise at Looby Loos children's nursery praised the “great service from ordering to fitting.”

14 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

Advertiser’s announcement

Parliamentary Corner

The Valley Pharmacy opens with Jason McCartney MP above Co-op in New Mill Parliamentary recess is far from being a long holiday

BASED in the former library above the Co-op store in New Mill, The Valley Pharmacy is now open and offering a full range of services to local residents.

Working closely with the Wooldale Co-op Society, a community led group, the pharmacy is keen to take on a similar role as part of the local community, listening to feedback from patients.

Open six days a week, The Valley Pharmacy is a modern-day pharmacy, offering much more than just prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

It has its own entrance to the side of the Co-op with lift access to the spacious, openplan premises upstairs.

Over the counter, customers can obtain everything they would expect, including all kinds of cold and flu remedies, dental products, skincare, Rimmel products, even pet care products (Frontline etc).

The pharmacy is also fully equipped to dispense NHS and private prescriptions and offers a swift service which includes being open through lunchtimes, and is located ideally for rural hard to reach residents to come for their medicines.

All consultations are private and confidential and the

warm, spacious pharmacy has a comfortable waiting area with refreshments and free wi-fi.

The Valley Pharmacy is also certified to administer NHS healthchecks, diabetes tests, blood pressure and cholesterol tests so no need to wait for a surgery appointment.

They can also provide up to date holiday healthcare advice, for example, which vaccinations and anti-malarial tablets may be required before going abroad.

Electronic prescription services are also offered but perhaps best of all is the free delivery service offered to ANYONE who requires it.

Whether it’s a one-off or

repeat prescription, The Valley Pharmacy will collect it from the surgery so you can then collect direct or have it delivered, free of charge.

The Pharmacy is live and enabled to receive electronic prescriptions from surgeries and a specialist system is also offered to local nursing and residential care homes whereby residents’ medications are pre-packed in store.

For more information on this and any other of The Valley Pharmacy’s services, call today on 01484 766097.

1st Floor, above Co-op, (former library) Holmfirth Road, New Mill HD9 7JY. FREE COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE.

THE SUMMER Parliamentary recess is over for another year.

According to some of the national media MPs have been on holiday for all that time but apart from my annual one-week holiday with my girls, I’ve been working hard throughout the summer in my constituency.

I’ve been holding advice surgeries, meeting constituents, supporting expanding businesses and for the third year in a row I dedicated a whole week to volunteering with local charities and organisations.

I kicked off my week up at Buckstones with volunteers from the Marsden Moor National Trust. There were five of us up on the rainy moors helping to repair fences and erect stiles. We were drenched and worn out by the end of the day but it was well worth it. I’ve done a week of volunteering for the last two summers and I’ve done the same this year to encourage people to get out there and give something back. It also gives me a chance to work with community groups and say a big thank you to the volunteers.

The outdoor work continued on the River Colne with the Greenstreams project, where the team picked up litter on Milnsbridge Weir and walked the riverbank helping to clear vegetation.

The day was organised by Volunteering Kirklees who are based on Lord Street in Huddersfield.

I delivered meals and served drinks with the Meals on Wheels team in Golcar before helping out at the Kirkwood Hospice shop in Milnsbridge. The following day I joined the Holme Valley Gardening Network at

A very muddy Jason after the Honley 10k with the town's own Jedward, James and Edward Broadbent of Honley DIY and Pet Supplies and race sponsors.

Picture: Sandie Nicholson Holmfirth Indoor Market and in Wooldale Allotment.

The Network was running a Time to Change project which provides an opportunity for people with and without mental health problems to come together and have a conversation about mental health issues.

I also volunteered at the Huddersfield Royal Infirmary serving drinks to the patients during meal times, working with the porters to transfer patients between wards and I was interviewed on the Huddersfield Hospital Radio.

I completed my volunteer week with a community litter pick in Lindley Talking of Meals on Wheels, I met with Joanne Firth and Susan Ingham from Wooldale Meals on Wheels to help promote their newly formed group.

Currently the team offer fish and chips and sandwiches but have recently teamed up with Penny Lane Pantry and hope to offer freshly cooked meals from October. For

Flags flew all over Holmfirth for Yorkshire Day.

more information please contact organiser Angela Payne on 01484 685009.

I’ve also been keeping up with my running and cycling this summer. I joined the family and friends of injured cyclist John Radford for a ride from St George’s Square to New Mill. I’ll be continuing to raise the issue of cycling safety in Parliament.

I also took part in the first ever Honley 10km trail run on a very muddy course through Honley Woods. I’m very much looking forward to the Holmfirth Food and Drink Festival and enjoying Huddersfield Town’s promising start to the new Championship season.

As always please get in touch if you need my help.

My constituency office is opposite Ashley Jackson’s gallery on Huddersfield Road in Holmfirth: 24 Huddersfield Rd, Upperbridge House, Holmfirth, HD9 2JS. Tel: 01484 688378. Email: jason.mccartney.mp@parliament.uk

Picture: Sandie Nicholson

Businesses join forces to celebrate Yorkshire Day LOCAL businesses united around the White Rose flag for Holmfirth’s first ever celebration of Yorkshire Day. The town’s traders came together with the help of Holmfirth Enterprise And Development (HEAD, formerly the business associa-

tion) to offer special offers and locally-produced goods.

There was plenty to do over the weekend including a Fair and Funky workshop in the markethall, an ale and cockt-ale trail, local music, and ferret-racing. Youngsters loved the petting zoo and

donkey rides through the Memorial Gardens.

Especially popular was the Yorkshire pudding eating contest, eventually won by Brass Factor founder Alex Bray who downed an amazing 10 puddings in 1.59 minutes.

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 15

Three-year shake down at Outdoormania

Mother and son open new premises NEWLY opened on Victoria Street in Holmfirth, Multicraft Cabin is an established business run by mother and son partnership Gillian and Michael Whaley.

Customers can find all they need for their arts and crafts projects with every-

thing from paper, wool, card, paints and many more.

The store is equipped with stair lifts for easy access to all four floors so customers need not be daunted by the flights of stairs.

Classes will be held where you can learn painting and

Multicraft Cabin are now open At their new Holmfirth store: Pick and mix paper and card and knitting yarns, plus a wide range of art and craft materials

10% OFF ALL CRAFT MATERIALS on presentation of this voucher 24 Victoria Street, Holmfirth HD9 7DE 01484 684050

drawing techniques, make wall art and join card making classes with Gillian herself.

There will also be free demonstrations starting on Sundays in the near future.

The top floor of the store showcases work and products from local artists available to purchase such as handmade cards and jewellery.

With over 12 years’ experience, customers can expect a high quality service where help and advice is always available.

Gillian and Michael, along with the staff at the store, are eager to welcome customers both old and new, so be sure to pay a visit and see for yourself what this fantastic store has to offer.

BIG changes are afoot at Outdoormania with a major reshuffle of brands.

The reorganisation at the 14,000 sq. ft outdoor clothing mill on Dunford Road, Holmfirth, comes after a customer consultation exercise that considered customer expectation against the company’s offerings.

“After 10 months of hard work to completely remodel the interior of the building, the mill opened three years ago in December, originally purely as a showroom for the company’s booming international web sales business,” said marketing director Phil Haynes.

“However, what we didn’t expect was that the retail side of operations would become a standalone business in its own right.

“However, the demands of internet customers and those of the local Holmfirth retail business are completely different. In effect, it’s taken us nearly three years to work out exactly how.”

In response Outdoormania has killed some of its outdoor clothing, skiwear and camping brands and, over the next three months will replace them with new ones that are more in-line with market expectation.

Phil added: “What has

become abundantly clear from the retail business is that the local customer demands high quality and highly technical outdoor clothing and equipment, as well as exceptional value for money.

“As a result, many of the non-brands have been weeded out and will be replaced with top quality and high demand brands from some of the best names in hi-tech outdoor clothing, skiwear, country and equestrian clothing.”

With this in mind, Outdoormania recognises that there is still high demand for ‘bread and butter’ brands such as Regatta, Trespass and Dare2b. As a result, the company will continue to commit to autumn winter and spring summer

buys for these household names.

“There’s no doubt that value brands still represent a considerable part of turnover,” added Haynes.

“However the success of the likes of Berghaus, Salomon, Merrell and Haglofs has surprised us, particularly in store. As a result it is the quality end of the spectrum that we will bolster in the next two seasons. Without giving any names away, they are the cream of the outdoor, camping and skiwear industry; watch this space.”

The company is currently in the throws of setting out its 2,000 sq. ft. Skimania ski retail area in the mill – a facility that will be a contender for the largest dedicated skiwear area in the north of England.

16 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 17

Grappolo raises the bar again A SWELTERING July evening, 27 degrees and we arrive at Grappolo Pizzeria and Ristorante in Lockwood having booked a table for 7.30pm.

It’s busy outside with couples and families sitting at tables but inside the cool airconditioned restaurant the atmosphere is absolutely buzzing.

A great welcome from front of house Gill and we have drinks and are able to study the menu by down-

loading the Grappolo App from their QR code on the bar. We are taken to our table shortly and seated in a terrific atmosphere – on one wall a massive painting looking down the Grand Canal in Venice and the other wall a view into the busy kitchen with their team of chefs.

We discuss the menu with Alphonso over a complimentary plate of thin crust foccacia, all spicy tomato and oregano. Alphonso recommends a bottle of Verdicchio

2012 Monte Shiavo to go with our starter of Inslata Amalfi, a great mixed seafood combination platter of prawns, calamari, anchovies and mussels dressed with lime, garlic, oregano, carrot, celery and olive oil and absolutely delicious – a real taste of Italy.

Gill pops over to remind us that as it is Tuesday their special offer of a starter each and any main course of Pasta, Pizza or Chicken each and a bottle of wine is avail-

able for just £30.

However, my wife chooses a special, Grilled Sea Bass with spring butter, herbs and gambas and a green salad. I have the Grilled Whole Lemon Sole on the bone – Italian fish and chips, as Alphonso calls it, served with a selection of fresh vegetable and fries! Both fish dishes are cooked to perfection with the Verdicchio being the perfect partner.

Scrumptious home-made profiteroles provide a great

climax. The two ladies at the next table are both enjoying Pasta dishes – generous helpings that they describe as delicious.

Other diners include a number of birthday parties creating an infectious festive and fun atmosphere.

Upstairs, is a separate dining area where some 20 ladies are enjoying a private party and adjacent is a partly covered balcony with patio heaters for those who enjoy the night air.

Grappolo is refreshingly different; the delightful staff overseen by owner Hami who makes sure all aspects of the restaurant are top drawer from the selection of locally sourced foods to ensuring all customers are happy with their meal.

The bill for two comes to £58.15, excellent value, we agree, for the quality food and drink provided and the happy atmosphere. All in all, a great experience.

Neil Strachan

18 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

Eastern delight in Honley ON our latest visit to the welcoming Honley restaurant Balooshai we are immediately struck by the change since our last meal there.

Now all cool contemporary colours but retaining an Asian feel with modern Eastern art and artefacts, a very stylish combination.

The restaurant is over half full at 6pm on a Sunday.

We spot a couple of friends who have decided to pop down and leave their home-made Keema for another day.

The likeable waiters remember us from our last visit and enjoying poppadoms with the tasty pickle tray and Cobra Beer we look at the menus.

Instead of choosing from the vast main menu we like the look of The Deal, available Sunday, Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday from 5pm until 7pm for £12.49 per person.

The Deal is a De Luxe Mixed Starter for two including Sesame Chicken Satay, Seekh Kebabs, Fried Fish, Cheese Onion Fritters and Chicken Tikka Puri. For our main courses we choose the Lamb

Balti and Fish Kara Massala from a choice of Bhuna, Balti, Madras, Karhai, Korma, Achari, Makhani and Keema. All include a choice of rice or Naan Bread.

We have one of each which proves to be more than sufficient with an additional side dish of Saag Khumbi, Spinach and Mushrooms. Our food arrives without delay and our choices prove to be spot on.

The generous starters are extremely appetising and both our main courses are delicious and cooked perfectly.

During our meal there is a steady takeaway trade and we overhear a new customer saying that he was recommended Balooshai by his neighbour.

We have a chat with owner Hamid who is delighted to see his regulars back after the summer holidays.

We are unable to choose anything from the ice cream menu as the generous helpings have taken their toll! The bill comes to £33.98, amazing value, we agree, for an excellent evening in delightful surroundings.

Neil Strachan

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 19

Olive Tree Bistro booms

LESS than two years old, the Olive Tree Bistro at Totties Nursery is booming.

Their monthly Bistro Evening in the restaurant becomes a full table service event and is sold out every month.

No doubt due to their team of top restaurant qualified chefs and the fresh handmade dishes that they cook to order. The cost is £23.95 per person and booking is essential. A popular starter is pan seared king scallops, ham hock and parsley salad, with black pudding crisp and Quails egg.

Or you might choose char-

grilled sirloin steak, grain mustard and chive butter, hand cut chips, with garden slaw and confit cherry tomatoes from a choice of five mains.

Your choice to finish from one of the four puddings on offer might be the honey roast fig and almond tart with clotted cream and raspberry compote.

The Bistro is open seven days a week from 9.30am for breakfasts, serving superior sandwiches, homemade salads, delicious meals and indulgent cakes. Its daily fresh fish specials are proving particularly popular;

choose from salmon, scallops and Whitby crab.

Hot food is served until 4.30pm and freshly brewed Lavazza coffee is available all day.

Afternoon teas are served from 2.30pm for the preschool run including sandwiches and cream scones.

The gorgeous valley views from the Bistro complement the fine food on offer and in addition to the bright and airy Bistro Café there is outdoor seating and outdoor undercover seating available, depending on the weather.

The Olive Tree Bistro Café 01484 680227.

20 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

What’s On Guide Thursday September 12, Honley Civic Society meeting 7.30pm, at St Mary's Parish Rooms, Church Street – speaker Alan Pugh: Bomber Command – Dei Goes To War. Free admission for members, £2 visitors.

Saturday September 14 – Sunday 15, Heritage Open Days: several places of interest around the area will be welcoming visitors including Th’Owd Towser, Daisy Lane, Holmfirth (behind the parish church), believed to be the town's oldest building dating from around 1595. In its long history it has served as a jail, fire station, mortuary and ambulance station (10am-4pm); Colne Valley Museum, Golcar – scone baking demonstration in the Victorian kitchen (2-5pm); Victoria Tower, Castle Hill (12-4.30pm); Marsden Parish Church (Sat, 10am-4pm, Sun, 11am-4pm). www.heritageopendays.org.uk Saturday September 14, Penistone Agricultural Show – livestock, crafts, horticulture, poultry, Rotherham Rockets Flyball team, Jive Pony stunt riders and lots more - a great day out for the family.

Find out more at www.penistoneshow.com Saturday September 14, Jackson Bridge conservation day: 10am start, Scar Hole Lane, Hullock Bank, half a mile east of the A616. If you would like to get involved, contact Nigel, Kirklees Countryside Volunteer 07746 973 281.

Saturday September 14, Bog Trotters walk: meet 10am at car park, A635 junction, Wessenden Head Road, Meltham.

Learn how peatland restoration work is helping to restore the moor. Wear suitable sturdy footwear and outdoor clothing, and bring food and drink. Contact National Trust Marsden Moor 01484 847016.

Saturday September 14, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, 11am and 2pm, The Gingerbread Man – children's show with puppetry and foot-tapping soundtrack; 8pm, jazz concert: Alan Barnes With The Andy Cholerton Trio.

Box office: 01484 430528, www.thelbt.org Saturday September 14 – Sunday 15, Huddersfield Open Studio Trail (HOST): over 20 local artists invite you to take a closer look at what they do - exhibition, workshops and fun activities, at

Lawrence Batley Theatre 11am-5pm.

Saturday September 14, Samuel Laycock poetry walk: meet at Marsden Library (Mechanics Hall), 1.30pm, four mile walk to the poet's birthplace, accompanied by Paul Salveson, Yorkshire and Lancashire dialect expert and performance poet Julian Jordan. To book places, phone 01484 222555 or e-mail marsden.lic@kirklees.gov.uk Saturday September 14, Live music at Holmfirth Picturedrome: Manfred Mann's Earth Band – ‘70s hits included Joybringer, Blinded By the Light and Davy's On the Road Again, plus special guests Federal Charm. Doors open 7.30pm. Tickets from the Box Office bar, evenings 7-10pm, online at www.picturedrome.net Saturday September 14, Holmfirth Civic Hall, 7.30pm, Coronation 60th anniversary concert with Honley Ladies Choir, fundraising for Holme Valley Memorial Hospital. The audience will be seated at tables – bring your own picnic and drinks. Tickets £8 from Holmfirth Tourist Information or on the door.

Sunday September 15, Holmfirth Farmers Market, 9am-2pm, in the Market Hall, quality local produce, fresh fruit and veg, meats, cheeses, cakes, jams and much more. Now twice-monthly.

Information line: 01484 223730.

Sunday September 15, Meet The Flintstones – nine-mile walk from Marsden Station with an archaeologist outlining the story of prehistoric man on Marsden Moor, some steep climbs and rough terrain along the way. Contact National Trust 01484 847016.

Sunday September 15, Meet at Trinity Church, Moor Bottom, Honley, 2.15pm, circular walk to Brockholes organised jointly by Honley Civic Society and the church, walk led by Alan Fawcett. Next scheduled events October 22 and November 17.

Monday September 16, Music train: 19:18 from Huddersfield calling at all stations to Sheffield, including Honley and Brockholes. Live band – Fishing for Compliments (alternative/indie); bar on board with real ale supplied by Mallinson Brewery Return from Sheffield 20.41,

arriving in Huddersfield 21.56.

Wednesday September 18, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, 7.30pm, Film: The Great Gatsby (2013), starring Leonardo di Caprio and Carey Mulligan. Box office: 01484 430528, www.thelbt.org Thursday September 19, Huddersfield Town Hall, 7.30pm, Orchestra of Opera North: The Power and the Glory, featuring violinist Francesca Dego, music by Tchaikovsky, Paganini and Shostakovich.

Ticket information 01484 222444 or 223200.

Friday September 20 – Saturday 21, Hepworth Village Hall, Fri, 6.30pm, family evening – fun, magic and food, £10 family ticket from Lorraine Pollitt 01484 682757 or Sheena Blunden 688131; Sat 21, 8pm, performance by Mikron touring theatre.

Saturday September 21 – Sunday 22, Holme Valley Chrysanthemum, Dahlia and Vegetable Society annual show, at Armitages Garden Centre, Shelley, open from 9am, admission free. For more about the society contact the secretary Mr J Jozefow 01226 764094.

Saturday September 21, Over and Under canal boat adventure at Standedge Tunnel, Marsden – five mile guided walk over the moors and a twohour boat trip through the tunnel. Contact National Trust 01484 847016.

Saturday September 21 – Saturday 28, Penistone Paramount, Sat 21, 2.30pm, organ concert by Howard Beaumont; Thurs 26 – Sat 28, Are You Being Served?

– stage version of the hit BBC sitcom presented by Penistone Theatre Group.

Ticket information 01226 767532.

Saturday September 21, Honley Male Voice Choir concert: Generations In Harmony, 7pm, at Huddersfield Town Hall, also featuring Barnsley Youth Choir.

Tickets £8 available from Holmfirth Tourist Information Centre or by phone 01484 222444 or 223200.

Sunday September 22, Deer Hill Circular – Rocks on West Nabb: meet at Marsden Station, 10am, for a 10-mile walk on the water conduits above Meltham and Wessenden, with superb views, steep climb and rough terrain.

Phone 01484 847016.,

Sunday September 22, Holmfirth Market, 10am-4pm, fairandfunky familyfood day – find out about Holme Valley Gardening Network's 'time to change' team and growing your own stuff; decorate your own cupcake with Holme Baked.

Sunday September 22, Trinity Church, Honley, 3.30pm, Songs of Praise with Yorkshire Traction Honley Band. To find out more about the band's activities, contact secretary Liz Illidge 01484 304754 or visit the website www.yorkshiretractionhonleyband.btck.co.uk Wednesday September 25, Holmfirth Library, 7.30pm, talk by Andy Holgate, author of Can’t Swim, Can’t Ride, Can’t Run: My Triathlon Journey from Common Man to Ironman. Tickets £2, including refreshments, available from Kirklees Box Offices 01484 222444 or 223200.

Wednesday September 25 – Saturday 28, Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, presents Habeas Corpus – farcical comedy of ill-manners from local amateur favourites Dick and Lottie.

Performances 7.45pm nightly + 2pm Saturday in the Syngenta Cellar. Box office: 01484 430528, www.thelbt.org Saturday September 28, Dearne to Calder – 11 miles, 'medium' walk, mainly on field paths and lanes, meet 9.45am Denby Dake rail/bus interchange, finish at Mirfield railway station. Contact Susan, Kirklees Countryside volunteer 07979 292 781.

Saturday September 28 – Sunday 29, Holmfirth Food and Drink Festival – now in its eighth year, with over 60 local and regional food and drink stalls offering something for everyone, from gourmet sausage fans to real ale aficionados. Plus: arts and crafts, cookery demonstrations and live entertainment.

Saturday September 28, New Mill Male Voice Choir, concert at St John’s Church, Denby Lane, Upper Denby (HD8 8UN), 7.30pm, with guests LB Brass.

Saturday September 28, HepworthLive – opening the fifth season of live concerts at the village hall, Irish singer songwriter Kieran Goss. Tickets £12. Doors open 7.30pm for 8pm show.

Phone 07845 921 527.

Monday September 30 and October 7, Music trains, 19:18 from Huddersfield calling at all stations to Sheffield, including Honley and Brockholes. Monday 30, The Pathfinders – ‘60s covers band; Monday 7, ‘Abba Train’. Bar on board with real ale supplied by Mallinson Brewery.

Return from Sheffield 20.41, arriving in Huddersfield 21.56.

Monday September 30, Huddersfield Town Hall, 7.30pm, The Search for Martha Stocks: David Cockman of Holmfirth History Group talks about the town’s German connections. Admission £2 for non members.

Tuesday October 1 – Saturday 5, Longwood Amateur Operatic Society presents Oliver! – much-loved Lionel Bart musical with one hit song after another, at Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield, 7.15pm nightly + 2.15pm Saturday. Box office: 01484 430 528, www.thelbt.org Wednesday October 2 – Saturday 5, Honley Players present the classic JB Priestley play An Inspector Calls, at Southgate Theatre. Tickets £7 from Holme Valley News, Westgate, Honley.

Friday October 4 – Saturday 5, Live music at Holmfirth Picturedrome: Fri 4, Mostly Autumn – voted Best Band of 2012 in the Classic Rock Society poll; Sat 5, From The Jam featuring Bruce Foxton and Russell Hastings – All Mod Cons 35th anniversary tour. Tickets from the Box Office bar, evenings 7-10pm, online at www.picturedrome.net Saturday October 5, A Thousand Feet above the Holme Valley – 6.25 miles ‘medium’ walk, meet 11am at Holmfirth Road car park, New Mill. Contact Susan, Kirklees Countryside volunteer 07979 292 781.

Saturday October 5 – Sunday 6, Colne Valley Museum, Golcar, 12.30pm to 5pm, Traditional Crafts Weekend – demonstrations including bread-making, spinning, weaving, clog-making, lace-making and many more. Home made cakes served in the cafe. Website www.colnevalleymuseum.org.uk Saturday October 12, St Bartholomew's Church, Meltham, 7.30pm, Meltham and Meltham Mills Band performing their 10th annual ‘Last Night of the Proms’.

Fine weather allows us to get ahead with work THE fine summer weather has allowed us to get ahead with our farm work.

All our sheep were clipped and dipped and our first cut of silage was baled before the school holidays started.

So, we have taken the opportunity to give our farm a general health check. We have had our soil and livestock tested to determine if any of the nutrients vital for healthy growth are missing or low. Soil tests have shown our land is high in magnesium compared to calcium.

The correct balance of calcium to magnesium is important for good soil structure.

Magnesium causes the soil to hold water and clump together becoming wet and muddy when it rains and prone to cracking when it is dry. To solve the problem we are adding lime to our land.

Lime contains calcium which separates the soil particles providing better drainage.

Well drained soil has a better structure enabling the plants to absorb more nutrients. Plants which absorb more nutrients grow better

Blood tests have shown the cattle are healthy. and provide better food for our grazing animals.

As our sheep and cattle graze the fields for most of the year we don't really know how much nutrition they are getting from the grass. We can guess they are healthy from their appearance and by observing their behaviour but a more scientific approach is to test the nutrient levels in their blood, this allows us to only feed mineral supplements when they are needed.

Fortunately blood tests have shown our cattle and sheep to be healthy and receiving a balanced diet, so no major changes to our livestock management are required, for now anyway.

The good weather has given our grassland a boost and we intend to get a second cut of silage early in September. Silage will be fed

to our cattle and sheep through the winter when they can no longer graze.

The turnips, which were sown earlier in the summer, have also grown well and will provide grazing for our livestock later in the year when the grass growth slows. We have also had a busy summer selling our produce at a number of local shows and festivals.

Emley show and the Huddersfield Food and Drink Festival were both a huge success with fine weather drawing the crowds. We are now busy preparing for the Holmfirth Food and Drink festival, which is throughout Holmfirth town centre on September 28 and 29.

Visit our stalls on Hollowgate and downstairs in the market hall for a chat to Andrew and Brian, Coddy's Farm farmers.

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 21

Wm.. Sykess and d Son are Holmfirth's longest established

independent estate agents and auctioneers. Established in 1866 we have provided over 140 years of continued service to property owners and purchasers.

We specialise in the sale of residential and agricultural properties in and around the towns of Huddersfield, Holmfirth and Penistone. We offer a full estate agency service with competitive selling fees. Our experienced and caring staff are always on hand to assist in the sale or purchase of your property.

• FREE SALES VALUATIONS • AUCTION • RICS HOMEBUYERS’ REPORTS • RENTALS 8 Parkhead Lane, Holmfirth

Westside Barn, 27 Midway, South Crosland

AUCTION PROPERTIES Auction to be held on Tuesday 17th September at the Huntsman Inn, Greenfield Road, Holmfirth at 7.30pm

Offers Region £415,000

Offers Region £339,950

Occupying a magnificent near south facing position with delightful open views over the picturesque Holme Valley is this unique, individually designed stone built detached property. Offering attractively laid out accommodation on 2 levels, the property features a splendid covered balcony leading from the lounge which spans its whole frontage from which to enjoy the far reaching views. The house comprises entrance hall, cloakroom/w.c., large lounge with covered balcony, dining room, inner hall, breakfast kitchen, rear hall, utility room, master bedroom with en-suite shower room and study/bedroom 5 on the upper floor and 3 double bedrooms and bathroom on the lower floor.

There is an attached double garage, driveway and garden areas. The property is enhanced by a gas central heating system, Upvc double glazing, a burglar alarm system and attractive fittings. It is situated in a popular residential area, well placed for local schools and within easy commuting distance of Oldham and Manchester.

Viewing is recommended to appreciate the size of accommodation on offer and the impressive wide ranging views.

Located in a sought after village location this surprisingly spacious converted Grade II listed barn. Offers characterful well presented accommodation with a large garden and views over fields to the rear. It comprises: entrance porch, downstairs wc, dining kitchen, large lounge, 3 bedrooms, en-suite shower room and family bathroom. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system, double glazed windows and quality modern fittings throughout.

There is a single garage located within a block in front of the row, brick paved parking area and lawned garden to the front with a further extensive enclosed garden area to the rear which is sure to surprise viewers.

17 New Mill Road, Holmfirth

3 Pavillion Way, Meltham

Offers Region £285,000

Offers Region £249,950

A large and beautifully presented 4 bedroom stone semi detached house with gardens and large parking area in this popular residential area. The property forms part of the former Sycamore public house which was tastefully converted in recent years. The house offers spacious accommodation including lounge, sitting room, dining room, breakfast kitchen, utility, cloakroom and w.c. on the ground floor and 4 bedrooms, en-suite shower room and family bathroom on the first floor. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system, timber framed double glazing and quality modern fittings throughout. There are beautifully laid out gardens with lawn and various seating/patio areas together with an extensive parking area to the side. The property is situated in the popular area between Holmfirth and New Mill, easily accessible to the Holmfirth High School.

Internal viewing is recommended to appreciate the size and quality of accommodation on offer.

This attractive modern detached house occupies a choice position on this popular development with an attractive open outlook to the front. It offers spacious well planned accommodation which has been much improved by the present owners. It comprises entrance hall, cloaks / wc, lounge, stunning dining kitchen, landing, 4 good sized bedrooms (en-suite to master) and a house bathroom. It has the benefit of an intruder alarm, gas central heating, sealed unit double glazed windows and attractive fixtures and fittings throughout. There is a garden to the front and side with a driveway leading to the integral garage. To the rear there is a larger enclosed garden.

West Garth, Huddersfield Road, New Mill

Northdean, Uppergate, Hepworth

Offers Region £249,950

Offers Region £249,950

This exceptional detached true bungalow is immaculately presented both inside and outside offering easy to maintain accommodation in a convenient location in New Mill village centre. The flexible accommodation comprises: entrance hall, lounge, sitting room, kitchen, dining room, two bedrooms, utility and entrance porch. It is presented to a high standard throughout with modern kitchen and bathroom fittings, gas central heating and double glazed windows. In front of the house there is a generous brick paved courtyard parking area with gates and fencing providing privacy from the road. To the rear is an attractively landscaped garden area with lawn, 2 sitting areas and a useful shed. Internal viewing is essential.

An exciting opportunity arises to purchase this attractive detached house situated in a much sought after village location and enjoying panoramic views over the surrounding area and hills beyond. The house requires modernisation and re-fitting but offers great potential to the astute buyer. It comprises entrance hall, large through lounge, dining room, kitchen, utility, separate w.c., rear hall, 3 bedrooms, study/nursery bedroom 4, and bathroom.

There is a gas central heating system. There are gardens to 3 sides and driveway/parking area to the rear. Viewing is recommended to appreciate the magnificent views from the house and the excellent potential on offer.

16 Bayfield Close, Hade Edge

61 Totties, Holmfirth

Offers Region £199,950

Offers Region £159,950

Occupying a pleasant location on this ever popular street and enjoying views to the rear, this attractive detached property must be viewed to be appreciated.

The accommodation comprises: entrance hall, downstairs wc, lounge, dining kitchen, utility, landing, 3 bedrooms and bathroom. It has the benefit of a gas central heating system, sealed unit double glazing and attractive fixtures and fittings. There is a garden area and driveway to the front leading to the attached single garage. To the rear there is a further enclosed garden area which enjoys views over the village playing fields and to the moors beyond.

Packed full of original features both internally and externally this grade II listed cottage is a must for those who are looking for a characterful home in a semi-rural location. The cottage features heavy oak exposed beams and framework, stonework and mullioned windows alongside more modern fittings and a gas central heating system. The accommodation comprises: large lounge / dining area, kitchen, landing, 2 bedrooms and bathroom. There is an attractive low maintenance garden to the front of the house which has a stone outbuilding and wooden summerhouse. Internal viewing is essential.

1 Birks, Tyas Lane, Slaithwaite

8 Banks, Honley

OPEN TO VIEW EVERY SATURDAY PRIOR TO AUCTION 1.30PM – 2.30PM. Offering excellent potential to restore and renovate this characterful grade II listed detached farmhouse which occupies a sought after rural location with delightful views and must be viewed to be fully appreciated. It comprises of a 2 bedroom cottage with a stone built barn (31 x 20 approx.) attached to one side and a cruck framed former cottage and garage to the other side. The property has a driveway and garden to the side with a further garden to the front. There is also a timber stable block and other outbuildings within the grounds. The successful purchaser will also have the opportunity to rent adjoining land amounting to approximately 7 acres.

OPEN TO VIEW EVERY SATURDAY PRIOR TO AUCTION 11.45 AM - 12.15PM. This small but characterful cottage is situated in a popular location within walking distance of the center of Honley. It would benefit from a scheme of modernisation and updating of fixtures and fittings and offers excellent potential extend to the rear. The accommodation currently comprises: entrance lobby, lounge, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. There is a yard area to the rear.

309 & 311 Meltham Road, Netherton

Building at Berry Green House, Ryecroft Lane, Scholes

OPEN TO VIEW EVERY SATURDAY PRIOR TO AUCTION 12.30 PM - 1.00 PM. An interesting opportunity arises to purchase a part let investment property occupying a prominent main road position in this popular village location.

The ground floor sales shop with large workshop to the rear is currently let whilst the upper floor a former hairdressing salon is vacant. There is a forecourt to the front and yard area to the rear. Of interest to speculators and investors.

Offering excellent potential for a builder, developer or private individual this detached brick outbuilding has planning permission for change of use to a single dwelling. The overall internal dimensions of the building are approximately 52 x 19. The property will be accessed by a shared driveway with the next door property and will feature a generous mature garden to the front and a further small paddock to the rear. It is located in a sought after semi rural location and opportunities of this type are rare to the market.

Land at House Carr Lane, Silkstone Common

Land to the East of Haddingley Lane, Cumberworth

Located between the villages of Silkstone Common and Hood Green this is a large block of productive agricultural land amounting to approximately 26.74 acres and offered for sale with vacant possession as one lot. It enjoys a long roadside frontage to House Carr Lane. Opportunities to purchase land in this location are rare to the open market.

A large block of productive agricultural land amounting to approximately 20.45 acres (8.28 hectares). The land enjoys a long road frontage to Haddingley Lane.

The property is located in a sought after rural location where there is traditionally a strong demand for land for agricultural and equestrian uses

Land to the West of Haddingley Lane, Cumberworth

Random Cottage, Well Hill Road, Underbank, Holmfirth

An opportunity to purchase a substantial block of productive agricultural land amounting to approximately 20.83 acres (8.43 hectares). The property is located in a sought after rural location where there is traditionally a strong demand for land for agricultural and equestrian uses. The land is made up of a single field with frontage to Haddingley lane with a larger block beyond.

OPEN TO VIEW EVERY SATURDAY PRIOR TO AUCTION 11.00 AM - 11.30 AM. Offering great potential is this stone detached house with garden. The property requires modernisation and refitting. It is situated in a well established and popular residential area close to the centre of Holmfirth. The property enjoys views to the front which are particularly attractive from the upper floor and rear garden. The accommodation comprises entrance hall, lounge, breakfast kitchen, two bedrooms and shower room/w.c.

There is a small yard to the front and terraced garden to the rear.

The cottage has Upvc double glazed windows.

Tel/Fax 01484 683543

www.wmsykes.co.uk

38 HUDDERSFIELD ROAD, HOLMFIRTH, HUDDERSFIELD HD9 3JH

22 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

The large local firm with decades of experience selling homes in and around The Holme Valley with three out of our six branches in Kirklees offering unrivalled coverage.

Offices at: Holmfirth,Kirkburton,Huddersfield, Penistone, Barnsley and Wakefield.

Lettings & Management available at all offices

Fairfield House, Hollowgate, Holmfirth 01484 689689

Local, regional, exceptional

Six bedroom, high quality property has wow factor A HOME which certainly has the wow factor is on the market with Simon Blyth.

High Meadows in New Mill near Holmfirth boasts high quality materials and craftmanship with stylish fittings throughout.

It features a stunning double height sitting room with glazing and beams, five/six bedrooms and four en-suites.

The home has a large amount of living space with balconies taking advantage of the beautiful views, large interesting gardens and feeling of light and bright open space.

Entrance to High Meadows is via twin arch topped oak doors and the hallway area takes full advantage of the oak

construction on this part of the home.

The dining kitchen enjoys a tremendous amount of natural light courtesy of various windows and twin glazed doors that open out onto the second balcony.

The kitchen itself boasts high quality wall cupboards and base units with granite work surfaces over an island unit with breakfast area. There is also an integrated American style fridge freezer, dishwasher, wine chiller, coffee machine and Rangemaster oven.

This room leads through to a secondary entrance hall, which sets the scene for the rest of the home as it is finished to a particularly high standard.

The flexible lounge

diner also has glazed doors leading out to a balcony. The lounge has an antique brick-style fireplace with a raised stone flagged hearth and heavy timber mantel, all is home to a cast iron solid fuel burning stove.

The imposing feature of the sitting room is its height, which stretches up to the apex of the oak timbers. The room is finished with high quality oak flooring, beamed ceiling with inset spot lighting and provision for a wall mounted TV. There is a stylish polished stone gas and log burning effect fire.

High Meadows also boasts five large double bedrooms, four with ensuites, and a sixth bedroom which would

make a perfect office.

There is also a house bathroom.

You enter High Meadows through automatic gates, and outdoor space includes a large driveway

www.simonblyth.co.uk

and well tended gardens.

The four patios are complemented by an array of mature shrubbery and trees, manicured large lawns and well established boundaries and borders.

The property is enclosed by a combination of stone walling and timber fencing.

High Meadows is available for offers around ÂŁ895,000.

Open 7 days a week

Holme Valley Review, September 2013 – 23

"The large local firm with decades of experience selling homes in and around The Holme Valley with three out of our six branches in Kirklees offering unriveled coverage. Offices At: Holmfirth, Kirkburton, Huddersfield, Penistone, Barnsley and Wakefield Lettings & Management available at all offices

Fairfield House, Hollowgate, Holmfirth 01484 689689

Local, regional, e xc e p t i o n a l IVY COTTAGE FARM, WINDMILL LANE, CUMBERWORTH O/A £495,000

MARSH PLATT HONLEY, HOLMFIRTH

A SUPERB RURAL PROPERTY SET IN APPROXIMATELY 2 ACRES WITH YARD, LARGE DETACHED BARN AND 5 STABLES IN A FURTHER DETACHED BLOCK AND GARDENS. WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO RENT A FURTHER 8 ACRES. All the above is married perfectly with a detached four bedroom cottage style home which has been tastefully extended and upgraded Ivy cottage provides a family home inside and out; and can only be considered as excellent value for money.The fantastic holding briefly comprises of: Entrance porch, lounge, farm house style dining kitchen, formal dining room, guest W/C, inner lobby and utility.To the first floor there are 4 excellent sized bedrooms and house bathroom. Outside is a yard/large driveway, barn (30'0" x 20'0"), stables and land.All set in beautiful rural surroundings but only a 4 minute drive to New Mill and Ingbirchworth and only 15 minutes away from major motorway networks. EPC D

A HIGH QUALITY DETACHED STONE BUILT FAMILY HOME WITH FOUR DOUBLE BEDROOMS AND A HIGH SPECIFICATION THROUGHOUT. Enjoying a superb outlook across playing fields opposite this four bedroom executive home is presented to a very high standard throughout. Ideally placed for local schooling and amenities the accommodation is set over three levels comprising: entrance hallway, W/C, study, lounge, fabulous dining kitchen and utility room. To the first floor are three excellent size double bedrooms (two with en-suites) and house bathroom. To the top floor is a fourth double bedroom. There is a block paved driveway leading too a large integral garage, gardens to the front side and rear. This well positioned and well presented home must be viewed to be fully appreciated. EPC C

HUDDERSFIELD ROAD HOLMFIRTH

LIME COTTAGE 2 CRODINGLEY FARM COURT THONGSBRIDGE O/A £265,000

O/A £295,000

O/A £395,000

A SUPERB FOUR STOREY, FOUR BEDROOM GRADE TWO LISTED TERRACE BLENDING A CHARACTERFUL AND CONTEMPORARY INTERIOR ONLY A SHORT WALK FROM HOLMFIRTH CENTRE WITH PARKING AND ENCLOSED GARDEN. Internal inspection is essential! Not only to appreciate the quality of the refurbishment but the amount of accommodation on offer. The interior retains the character one would hope for in a property of this age and has been seamlessly fused with modern decor and high quality fittings throughout.The accommodation itself comprises: entrance hallway with utility area, guest W/C, dining/sitting room and home office on the lower ground floor.To the ground floor is a large dining kitchen with Aga, spacious lounge, hallway and guest W/C.To the first floor are two double bedrooms (master with en-suite and dressing room), house bathroom and utility room.There are two further double bedrooms to the top floor.

Located a stones throw away from Holmfirth and having garden parking and a immaculate interior this property is not to be missed.

THIS MOST CHARACTERFUL PERIOD THREE BEDROOM COTTAGE WITH AN ENVIABLE OUTLOOK AND LOCATION. WITH DOUBLE GARAGE, PARKING AND GARDENS. Finished to a particularly high standard throughout Lime Cottage enjoys a superb setting with an open aspect to the front yet conveniently located for the surrounding amenities. Having the advantage of double width driveway, double garage, enclosed gardens and superb characterful interior that comprises: entrance hallway, lounge with exposed stonework and feature fireplace, dining room, kitchen and guest W/C.To the first floor are two bedrooms and the house bathroom with bedroom three being on the top floor.All well finished and particularly characterful this fine example of a period cottage with modern appointments.The gardens are very well presented with stone flagged eating areas and shaped lawns. Perfectly located in this hamlet style setting. EPC C

SHEARDALE HONLEY, HOLMFIRTH

THE GREEN THURSTONLAND, HUDDERSFIELD

O/A £259,950

O/A £249,950

PRESENTED TO A VERY HIGH STANDARD THROUGHOUT IS THIS SUPERBLY APPOINTED STONE BUILT THREE BEDROOM SEMI-DETACHED HOME WITH A STYLISH AND CONTEMPORARY HIGH QUALITY INTERIOR, GARAGE AND GARDENS. Forming part of this well regarded and high quality development the property has undergone a program of updating and enhancement in recent times with superb kitchen and bathrooms all with under floor heating. The accommodation itself comprises: entrance hallway, fitted kitchen with numerous integrated appliances and granite working surface, dining room and lounge.To the first floor are three good size bedrooms (master with en-suite) and house bathroom.The property has an integral garage with utility area and enclosed gardens.All set in this wonderful location, close to amenities. EPC D

BEAUTIFULLY POSITIONED BETWIXT HOLMFIRTH AND FARNLEY TYAS WITHIN THE HEART OF THIS MUCH LOVED VILLAGE AND ENJOYING VIEWS TO THE FRONT OVER THE GREEN AND FAR REACHING RURAL VIEWS TO THE REAR. This three bedroom semi detached home has been upgraded in recent times to a particularly high standard and features a superb dining kitchen, large conservatory, utility room and downstairs W/C. with a driveway for two and wonderful gardens to the front and rear this room should be viewed without delay.With all the usual modern appointments the home briefly comprises: entrance hallway, lounge, dining kitchen, conservatory, utility and cloakroom.To the first floor are three bedrooms and superb house bathroom.The wonderful gardens, setting and high quality interior make this fabulous home well worthy of an early inspection. EPC C

EDEN HOUSE, BEAUMONT PARK

HARDEN MOSS FARM HOLMFIRTH

RENT:£1675 pcm

FABULOUS SUBSTANTIAL FOUR/FIVE BEDROOMED FAMILY HOME WITH MATURE GARDENS AND DOUBLE GARAGE. Built in 2000, this immaculate property with high quality fittings is located in a well regarded area of Huddersfield. The spacious, flexible accommodation comp:Ent vestibule; cloaks & downstairs w/c; magnificent galleried inner hall; sitting room with period style fireplace; lounge with period style fireplace; formal dining room with French doors to the garden; study; breakfast kitchen with granite worktops & all appliances; utility room; 4 bedrooms, the master with stunning ensuite & dressing room; nursery room; & luxurious house bathroom with white 4-pce suite with large double ended bath & American style shower cubicle. Unfurnished with luxury carpets & curtains. No pets or smokers FULLY MANAGED BY SIMON BLYTH LETTINGS

RENT: £2950 pcm

SIMON BLYTH ARE DELIGHTED TO PRESENT THIS LUXURIOUS FARM HOUSE IN A CLOSE TO PERFECT LOCATION. Located above Holmfirth at the end of a private driveway, this character farmhouse sits hidden amongst tree lines with stunning views.The property includes `L` shaped entrance hall; spacious dining room with French doors overlooking the gardens; Beamed ceiling; Snug with cast iron stove and bay windows; Dining kitchen with stone flagged floor, oak units, double electric oven, large gas hob and range cooker; Large lounge with open views over dramatic countryside and French doors; Recreation suite; Shower room; Six double bedrooms overlooking the gardens, courtyard and countryside views; Fully tiled bathroom with built in storage; Swedish sauna. Outside has mature gardens, courtyards, and double garage and further lands and buildings available. No smokers. No pets. FULLY MANAGED BY SIMON BLYTH LETTINGS.

www.simonblyth.co.uk

Open 7 days a week

24 – Holme Valley Review, September 2013

Firm’s move to bigger and better premises to benefit customers FENTON & Fenton has moved to bigger and better premises to benefit its growing customer base.

The new premises is the fourth move for the roofing company in the past five years as owner Craig Fenton continues his mission to drive down prices for his customers, without compromising on quality.

As the business continues to expand, both in terms of its staff and customer numbers, Craig says the firm required larger premises to enable it to buy in bulk and cut out the middle man.

“Year on year for the past five years we have been committed to cutting costs, where possible, and making savings that we can pass onto our customers because we understand that times are tough,” says Craig.

“Despite the economic downturn our customer base has continued to grow.

“A higher volume of customers means we can buy materials in bulk direct from the manufacturers and can therefore negotiate a better deal. The

new premises gives us the room to store such materials while cutting out the middle man, which means we can slash prices even further for our customers, so they too benefit from the business growth.

“The move to larger premises will also enable us to introduce in-house training facilities, again reducing costs. Training our employees on site will ensure consistency in the high level of professionalism that Fenton & Fenton employees deliver to customers.

“It will also mean all staff are trained in-line with the expectations of trade organisations which ensure firms operate to Government endorsed standards.

“The Federation of Master Builders, Confederation of Roofing Contractors, Fair Trades Association, Home Pro, The Guild of Master Craftsmen and the European Builders Federation accredit all Fenton & Fenton tradesmen and our ongoing training programme ensures all employees are fully aware and stay abreast of health and

safety issues.”

Over the past ten months, Fenton & Fenton has increased its fleet of vehicles and taken on an additional 11 roofers in order to meet demand as the Fenton & Fenton name continues to spread throughout the Holmfirth and Huddersfield area.

Craig believes the ongoing success of the family-run firm is simply down to customers taking the time to find a company they can trust.

He added: “During the recession people have become much more careful about spending their hard-earned money, and where previously they would pick up the book and ring any roofing firm, they are now taking the time to research companies and are asking family, friends and colleagues for recommendations.

“We have become a well established business with an excellent reputation and as such more than 95 per cent of our business comes through word of mouth recommendations from highly satisfied customers.

“Furthermore we have numer-

ous testimonials on file from previous customers as well as examples of work that we have carried out, giving people total peace of mind that we are the right firm for the job.

“As a fully insured, fully qualified and fully recommended firm we are so confident in our work that we put our money where our mouth is and don't expect our customers to pay a single penny until 28 days after the work is complete to ensure they are 100 per cent satisfied.

“Better still, our customer service does not end when we

finish the job – if there are any future problems or queries customers know they are welcome to call us on their local number 01484 885309.”

Fenton & Fenton provides a full range of roofing services to meet customer requirements, specialising in domestic and commercial repair and renewal.

With the majority of work in the domestic market, the team has helped thousands of homeowners improve their homes with new roofs, repairs to existing roofs or with stylish additions such as new UPVC fascias

and guttering.

Other services include Firestone EPDM, fibreglass and traditional flat roof systems.

According to Craig the summer months are an ideal time to carry out regular maintenance work to ensure roofs are in good condition before the bad weather returns.

The warmer weather also provides the perfect opportunity to tackle larger jobs such as reroofing and new fascias.

For further enquiries contact Fenton & Fenton on 01484 885309.

Just a few of our satisfied customers...

“Your service is unbelievable definitely second to none, three workmen did an excellent job and were clean and tidy at all times but we were amazed when Tony followed on cleaning windows, sills, fascias and gutters leaving everything looking like brand new – unbelievable. Already recommended you.”

Copley

“Your team were very polite and helpful, totally professional and trustworthy. The progress of work was very continuous, we now have total peace of mind with our roof and feel confident in your workmanship, also everyone was so kind and really went the extra mile for us. Thank you we will recommend.”

Elliott

“An exceptional team of workmen – extremely hard working, very courteous and very considerate towards the property and neighbours. They kept the area scrupulously clean and informed me at all times what was happening. A workforce to be proud of and will highly recommend to everyone. A pleasure to have on the premises.”

Herbert